Shadow and Bone (The Grisha #1) by Leigh Bardugo

Shadow and Bone  (The Grisha #1) by Leigh Bardugo

 

This is a New Adult/Young Adult paranormal romance novel (Rated R)

 

♥♥♥1/2
(Three and Half Hearts) 

 

Book Summary

 

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?

My Review

The problem with this story is that the underlying story is one that has been told a million times. Girl has a guy friend that she loves more than she believes loves her. He of course is the hot guy all the girls want and she has to sit back and wish she was his one and only. Guy of course is oblivious to this all. He’s in his own world and doesn’t know her affections. Another boy comes along and his eyes are opened.

Add to that a dash of elementals. And know, they aren’t called that. But that is basically what they are. In fact, these Geisha are really "fey" in disguise (in mind at least). Overall beautiful to perfection and rather snotty. Sounds a lot like fey to me.

So what we have is a story prettied up with different naming conventions for the world building, but all the same story. Therefore, I found nothing unique. I also found Alina far too trusting for someone who grew up in her circumstances. She should be wearier, yet she isn’t. So it takes the believability down several notches. Still, it was an engaging. And I will read on at some point. But I’m not rushing out to get the next book.

Audio Review

I love Lauren Fortgang. I think the problem is with this one, the story doesn’t really add to her uniqueness. Still she does a wonderful job.

My book boyfriend Mal

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