A review by keepcalmblogon
A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik

dark funny tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Unfortunately, I did wait a little too long to write my review and I also read this series in quick succession, so the entirety of the story does run together a bit. What I do know is I really loved these books. I thought A Deadly Education was one of the more unique magical school books I’ve read since the school is basically there to cull the magical herd of children, and that’s pretty dark! Then there’s El, who is a no-fs given girl, which is a pretty uncommon FMC characteristic. She is caustic, stubborn, and dark, and while that might not make her likable or relatable, I loved her!

Watching her be unapologetically herself and find people who accept her the way she is was actually quite charming! Orion was also such a mystery to me in book one, he was quiet, mildly oblivious, and super sweet, but clearly had something going on! He and El’s relationship was one of the more fun YA relationships that I’ve seen because they weren’t quite friends or enemies, but reluctant allies. Four stars!