Review: Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

The Shadow Fold, a swathe of impenetrable darkness, crawling with monsters that feast on human flesh, is slowly destroying the once-great nation of Ravka.

Alina, a pale, lonely orphan, discovers a unique power that thrusts her into the lavish world of the kingdom’s magical elite—the Grisha. Could she be the key to unravelling the dark fabric of the Shadow Fold and setting Ravka free?

The Darkling, a creature of seductive charm and terrifying power, leader of the Grisha. If Alina is to fulfill her destiny, she must discover how to unlock her gift and face up to her dangerous attraction to him.

But what of Mal, Alina’s childhood best friend? As Alina contemplates her dazzling new future, why can’t she ever quite forget him?

Glorious. Epic. Irresistible. Romance.

I read this book over a year ago and just reread it to finish the series and it was equally as amazing the second time around.

Alina is an interesting heroine. I like her strength, although she is a bit naïve. She has never had any place that she belongs or that she can call home, so I can’t really fault her for her naivety. She’s really loyal and I like that she makes decisions for herself and for the good of humanity. I am glad she is the one with the power to save everyone.

Mallll! I love him! I know so many people are #TeamDarkling but that is not me! He is Alina’s best friend and so funny and adorable and always has Alina’s back no matter what. I love his fierce dedication. He’s on the top of my list of favorite ‘good boy’ book boyfriends. Mal will always find Alina. :)r

The Darkling is as mysterious and, well, dark as his name suggests. I can’t help but be drawn to him just like Alina is. I wonder if some readers compare him to Warner from the Shatter Me series but they are so different to me. Warner was redeemable; The Darkling – not so much.

I have to say I have so much love for the setting of this book. I adore the tsarist Russian-esque vibe to everything, since it is my favorite place/time period. The writing is magical and so descriptive and addicting. The romance is slightly a love triangle to me, but I definitely have my frontrunner!

I’ve already read Siege and Storm and I’m in the middle of Ruin and Rising and I’m afraid it is going to ruin me!

Favorite Swoon-worthy Quote: He was very close now, and my heart was suddenly hammering in my chest. “I’m sorry it took me so long to see you, Alina. But I see you now.” He lowered his head, and I felt his lips on mine. The world seemed to go silent and all I knew was the feel of his hand in mine as he drew me closer, and the warm press of his mouth.

Rating: 5/5 Tar Heels!