A review by lphreads
Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

adventurous fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.75

Overall, really enjoyed this! I do think it was lacking in descriptions/world building opportunities at times, but it was quick and fast-paced, which I like. The rules of the “magic” are interesting and provide a great level of limitations for the characters.

Currently, I feel like this could have been read as a stand-alone (with a slightly ambiguous ending), so I’m interested to see how the trilogy continues. My copies of Siege and Storm and Ruin and Rising should arrive tomorrow evening so I’ll be anxiously awaiting them.

While reading, I kept being reminded of The Selection by Kiera Cass and Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard, both of which I loved. I mean, a slight love triangle
(where one of the love interests turns out to be the villain)
, court intrigue, special abilities that the narrator didn’t know about, and a best friend from home that shows up at the Palace?! C’mon.

So, if you’re a fan of those series, I’d definitely recommend giving Shadow and Bone a try! Otherwise, any fan of YA fantasy should enjoy this one too.
Expand filter menu Content Warnings