Alina Starkov is an orphan of the border wars and, along with her best friend Mal, is a member of the first army. When they're attacked trying to cross the dangerous Fold, Alina discovers a dormant power in her that makes the once easy-to-overlook mapmaker sought after by The Darkling, a powerful Grisha who leads the magical elite. I really enjoyed this book. Alina had raised herself into my top ten favourite female characters by the halfway point of the book and, by the end, she was firmly in my top five. She grows a lot in the book, going from a shy, quiet, kind of insecure girl to a strong and determined young woman while remaining a realistic character even in a world completely different from ours. There's no suddenly-a-badass syndrome with her, she earns her bumps and bruises from her teachers. The plot and world that was created was amazing. I was completely sucked in to the point that I didn't realize how late it got while I was reading. This is the kind of book I need to set an alarm for while I'm reading to bring me back to reality so I can go to bed at a decent hour. Even though there wasn't always a lot of action, it never felt too slow or unnecessary. I also really enoyed Alina's relationships with people. Her best friend Mal, even when they were separated when she was taken to be trained as a Grisha, she still thought about him and he has a huge effect on her. Her wanting to be friends with Genya even though Grishas' with Alina's status don't really associate with someone like Genya. The way her teachers kept pushing her and never coddled her. I enjoyed them all. I can't wait to see what happens in the sequel.

Excellent start, slows somewhat in the middle and ends strongly. I look forward to reading more.

It completely makes my day when I discover that there are new fantasy YA books coming out - and then I heard everyone one raving about how amazing Shadow and Bone is, so I had extraordinarily high expectations when I read Leigh Bardugo's debut, Shadow and Bone. And here's the thing: I didn't think it was as awesome as I had hoped, but I think I was also expecting the second coming. While it's not that, it is an particularly noteworthy new release and one of the strongest debuts I've read in a long time. Plus, it features a strikingly rich and incredible fantasy setting unlike other books I've read within the genre. Reasons to Read: 1.A GREAT fantasy setting: You can kinda pick this up from the cover, but Shadow and Bone features a distinctly Russian influence for its setting - which is pretty sweet, if I do say so myself. You can really tell that Leigh drew some of her inspiration from it, which lends to this sort of magical setting that already exists within the book. And it keeps the characters and place just unfamiliar enough for those of us who aren't familiar with Russian language or names. 2.Dark, sexy villainry: I really love it when an author can come up with a really GREAT villain; someone that you both sort of admire and despise, in a twisted sort of way. It's a complex relationship, and I think that's why it's so hard to do. So I treasure these rarities whenever I can find them- but I love it when a villain never seems quite ALL bad or totally evil (kinda like Darth Vader. Completely evil, but we still love him for some reason). Leigh is a master at this. And this is the kind of villain that you can develop a book crush on, easily. 3.Childhood best friends: I'm a sucker for these relationships; I love it when two friends grow up together, and then something happens that tries to keep them apart. It's agonizing! But I always find that I feel such a deeper, stronger connection to the characters and I typically end up more emotionally invested in their story, because of their shared history. Mal and Alina are just too adorable; they fight like an old married couple (which sounds better than brother and sister). 4.A plot to care about: I love that the plot has clear direction and totally owns the story- the plot keeps the story moving along and we don't lose ourselves in side stories or minor characters. Yes, other things are happening- but the focus stays on the Fold and what can be done about that. And the volcra? Yeah, those are FREAKY. I got really excited about this story and it kinda sucks that I'm now twiddling my thumbs waiting for the next book ALREADY. Like I hinted at in the beginning of my review, my only complaint about this one is I think it may be a bit overhyped- yes, I definitely think this is a must-read YA of the year and one of the best books released in 2012. But I still felt like I was expecting TOO much from this one. Perhaps because I love and appreciate a good fantasy so much, I tend to put it up on a pedastal and I'm not sure this one is quite as exciting as I had hoped it would be. But it is utterly magical, with kissing scenes to make you swoon, lovely writing that easily showcases Leigh's talent - why can't we have more books like this one? E-galley received from publisher for my honest review; no other compensation was received.

Overall Rating: 5/5 stars! NOTE: this review MAY contain spoilers. Take caution as you read. Review: Leigh Bardugo will go places with her skill to write so vividly and creatively to weave a beautiful story plot such as Shadow and Bone. Leigh Bardugo starts the story right into the world of Shadow and Bone, letting the reader absorb as much information of the story as possible. The world of Grisha is unique in all its way: the setting, wardrobe, language and naming of characters (how can one not love its originality?) Alina Starkvov, the heroine of Shadow and Bone. However, Alina isn’t your typical heroine in a fantasy novel such as this. It is easy to relate to Alina because she has so much emotions that the readers could feel into. The feeling that she does not belong anywhere because she grew up as an orphan and even with her best friend right next to her, she still felt alone because growing up, she would feel that they would sometimes drift apart. “I hesitated by the door. This was the hardest part of being around him—other than the way he made my heart do clumsy acrobatics. I hated hiding how much the stupid things he did hurt me, but I hated the idea of him finding out even more” -Shadow and Bone, pg. 22 This quotation is an example of the many relatable things I could feel with Alina. Sure, almost every young adult novel has this unrequited love thing going on but the way Leigh Bardugo wrote this statement and built this friendship, is another aspect that stands out from the novel. “I’ll meet you in the meadow” -Shadow and Bone, pg. 33’ Just wanted to fan-girl a bit and express how much reading that one short sentence truly tugged at my heartstrings. I think right at this moment, Malyen Oretsev owned by heart… except, well after I’ve met the Darkling. The Darkling’s character was very, very intriguing. I truly love this part of the book the most. The way Leigh Bardugo made the Darkling as suspicious as possible, however, giving enough information so that we could understand what’s going on. Also, making him so “loveable” but giving us all the reason and making it impossible for us readers to suddenly hate him. “Why can a Grisha possess but one amplifier? I will answer this question instead: what is infinite? The universe and the greed of men” -Shadow and Bone, pg. 173 Gah! That line was such a beautiful foreshadowing. And I think the most twisted part about this whole thing is that, even after everything that the Darkling did, it seems as if it is truly impossible to hate him. Last but not the least, Malyen Oretsev. Alina Starkov’s best friend. It is impossible not to love this guy as much as it is impossible to hate the Darkling. He is charming and every girl will truly fall in love with him. Their backstory of growing up together is something that I’ve rarely seen occurring in young adult novels these days. “It’s probably for the best. I told myself, how would I have said goodbye to Mal anyway? Thanks for being my best friend and making my life bearable. Oh and sorry I fell in love with you for a while there. Make sure you write!” Hahahaha, I would STILL laugh each time I read that. Shadow and Bone may appear to be just a historical, fantasy, warrior-like novel but at its heart it is a novel of love and growing up, as she comes to understand things of herself and everyone around her. Finally, Leigh Bardugo’s style of writing, the character progression, plot progression, the plot itself, the world of Grisha, just every aspect of the novel truly calls out for a 5/5 stars! It is unlike anything young adult book that I’ve read. Just make sure that you are ready to have your mind blasted will all the unexpected events to come and take good care of your heart as you read through because I think mine is beyond repair after finishing the book—I must, must read the sequel! Happy Reading Everybody! Originally posted at litupmyworld.tumblr.com Litupmyworld’s Twitter: twitter.com/litupmyworld Shadow and Bone Fansite: http://otkazatsya.tumblr.com/

FTC Disclaimer: I received this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. When the galley for Shadow and Bone came out, I was very intrigued. The premise sounded awesome and everyone was raving about it. Naturally, I requested the book from NetGalley and dove right in! I admit that I loved this book the minute I started reading it — the pace moved very quickly and I was turning it page by page, eager to find out what was going to happen next. I really loved the main characters, Alina and Mal, and was quite interested to see how things would turn out for each of them. Leigh Bardugo does know how to write an exciting book — I didn’t want to put this one down! I was a little confused about why Alina’s power is such a great power, but it was a unique kind of power to have. Things were a little predictable and parts of the story had just a little too much focus on fashion and makeup (and strange theatricals that just seemed a little weird?). That being said, the world that Bardugo created was quite fascinating and exciting — I just felt that while the excitement was there, the plot was just a little too predictable. I wouldn’t say that there was a love triangle per se … it was a little predictable what was going to happen. I found myself swooning over one character in particular and was happy that things worked out how I wanted them to. While I really did enjoy reading this book, I found myself feeling on the fence when it ended. There was so much action and I was turning the pages as fast I could, but when I finished I didn’t find myself overly excited to get to the next book in the series. Keep in mind that I’m not too into series books these days, so it might just be me, so I’ll have to see when the next book comes out how intrigued I am. Now, that being said, Bardugo tied most things up at the end of the book, which was nice — rather than making the first book a stepping stone to the rest of the series, leaving too many things open. If you really enjoy fantasy YA books, you should like this one. It’s very much like Maria V. Snyder’s Study series, but with a little less focus on the training.

Ok, this is one of the best books I've ever read, no doubt. And that's hard to get. I've read alot of books. (5-7a week). This is such an epic story. To start of, I love the main character, Alina Starkov. The book is told in first person from her point of view and she has a very sarcastic humor, worries over her friends extensively, is loyal, mostly positive and full of hope. It was an amazing experience seeing the world through her eyes. She is rather innocent and a bit naive; once you find out the "big secret," I highly doubt you'll see it coming either. The plot was beautifully created and even though it's something that has been seen before, the way the author has written it and artfully manipulated it to fit her story, makes it an amazing story. As you can see from the description, Alina Starkov is an orphan, along with her best friend Mal. They have their adventures in the first army, Alina as a mapmaker and Mal as a tracker. Alina struggles with slight insecurities as she has developed a bit of a crush on her childhood best friend who is now handsome and brave as well as the object of many girls admiration. Soon though, as their division is travelling through the Fold, they are attacked. Mal is injured trying to protect Alina and when a monster dives for her, the last thing she can remember, is fainting while seeing a bright light. when she wakes, she is informed of her power and taken to train as a grisha. Without her best friend. In the small palace she tries to fit into her new world while struggling through training, but making some friends and also falling for the mysterious Darkling. As for what happens next and all the other juicy details that include the fate of her world, well you'll have to read the book for that. This book is filled with twists and turns that no one will see coming and takes place in a wonderfully new and exciting world where the principals of light over dark and good over evil take on a new meaning, the characters ( who are extremely well developed and likable) take on challenges to save, help or destroy the world, powers, tempers and emotions rage and the writing will have you speechless. I advise you to take the time to read this book. You will remember the story for a long time and will not regret it. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- favourite quotes: (Alexie); "where have you been?" "Nearly getting trampled by the Darkling's coach," I replied..(....) Alexie drew in a sharp breath. "Really?Did you actually see him?" "Actually, I was too busy trying not to die." --- (after Alina arrives at her new home and the maids have to get her ready to meet someone very important) (alina) "What is going on? Who are you? "I don't have ti-" "Make time!" I snapped. "I've covered almost two hundred miles on horseback. I haven't had a good nights sleep in a week, and I've nearly been killed twice. So before I do anything else, you're going to have to tell me who you are and why it's so very important that you get my clothes off." -- there's more but I really don;t have time to look for them all..... but yeah. read the book. you won't regret it. as far as buy or borrow, this is definitively one you'll want on your shelf.

There's no doubt in my mind that this will end up being one of the BEST books of the entire year! Best world, best heroine, best writing, best romance... There are just so many breathtaking things in this book, I can't believe I ever had a doubt! Shadow and Bone is high fantasy at its best. (There's that word again!) The world-building of Ravka is flawless. It makes you believe and fear the terrible Shadow Fold that splits it in two, with its ravenous monsters, but there's never an overwhelming dump of information. It's always showing not telling, captivating not repelling, and kind of perfect — which I don't say for high fantasy very often (or at all)! Alina — smart, strong, vulnerable Alina — is one of my favourite heroines ever! She's not blindingly beautiful or perfect with her new found ability at first; she doesn't always know the right thing to say or the right people to trust. But she's one of the most REAL characters I've ever met, and she grows, learns, and loses so much that I almost wish I didn't care about her like I do so it wouldn't hurt as much. But of course, with Alina, that's impossible! And I loved the rest of the cast too — especially the Darkling, who seriously brings a new definition to the word mysterious, and Mal, for never giving up on Alina and always being the sweetest best friend ever! ♥ The romance is really a spoiler on its own, but I promise it's not your average best-friends-plus-one romance. I adored it so much! Also, I can't even say whether or not I expected the big twist near the end because I was so enamoured by the everything that I didn't pause a second to make any guesses! With some of the best writing and most brilliant worlds ever, Shadow and Bone will undoubtedly be topping people's favourites lists everywhere. I can honestly say that it's my favourite high fantasy book of all time... and that's coming from a fantasy-loving girl. ;) BUY or BORROW?: You will buy this book and love it and be at Leigh Bardugo's feet with me, begging to read the sequel! This is an absolute MUST, and I can't even stress how buy-worthy it is enough! (Want a reminder? Count the number of times I used "best" in this review!)

4.5 maple leaves! I didn't really know what to expect about Shadow and Bone even though the epic premise grabbed my attention from the moment I first read it. Yet, what I found on Leigh Bardugo's debut novel really impressed me and surprised me with a unique story and a wondrous new world. Alina and Mal are orphans who grew up together and were tested by the Grisha (beautiful people with extraordinary abilities) to know if any of them had any kind of special skill that could make them Grisha. However, none of them showed any sign of power. Years later, they enrolled in the army and one day they are sent to cross the Folt, a place reigned by shadow and horrific winged creatures. It is here when the dark horrific creatures attack Alina but Mal, Alina's best friend, saves her life, but not without risking his own. Alina, in the despair to save Mal's life, feels something unchain a power that was long buried inside of her, freeing a unique skill that would change her life forever. Here the story picks up and I was unable to put the book back down. One of the things I love the most about this book was the exquisite and unique imagery. I think Bardugo's creativity is outstanding and definitely 3D movie material. Also,The Grisha concept has highly intrigued me. Grisha are people who, for some reason, are born with an special gift. They also have a hierarchy and a culture in a complex world lead by the mysterious Darkling. I loved Shadow and Bone and everything it has to offer. The story itself was enthralling from beginning to end. Alina is a character whose reaction are very realistic. I am glad how much thought Bardugo put into this character to make her more than just ink on paper, she made her flesh! Also, there is the Leader of the Grish, the Darkling. He is mysterious, alluring and extremely powerful. These three elements are more than enough to confuse Alina (and any reader) between Mal and the Darkling. Mal, in the other hand, is not very present in the story, at least not until the last third of the book. Yet, with what little I could see of him, I confess that I only needed those few pages to fall hard for him! Shadow and Bone is an excellent debut and the only "but" is that when Alina was at the little Palace, I felt that the story slowed down for a while. Besides that, I would dare to say that this book is perfect and 100% a Dazzling Read! Leigh Bardugo's debut novel is definitely a 2012 must-read!