Shadow and Bone

This book kept coming in for me at the library. I don't remember ordering it, but it would appear every once in awhile and I would send it back. When it came in again on Thursday, I was like, okay- this book wants me to read it.

It's not a bad book. In fact, it reminded me very much of the “study” books by Maria Synder, which I read years ago and enjoyed. The world building is excellent. I really enjoyed the world of the Grisha and all of its layers. Too bad the whole point of this book is to destroy it.

It's not a great book. I'm not sure why I was surprised to find, in this awesome setting, yet another special snowflake caught in a love triangle. Do they not publish YA books unless they have these elements? But, come on. Alina on her own is awesome. I loved when she focused on herself and her talent and kicked ass. Alina with Mal-nope, didn't buy it. That felt angry brother/sister to me. Mal comes off like an asshat, not even as a caring sibling. Alina with the Darkling went “ew” quick.

This book, like many, many, many others did not need the romance at all. Aline and Genya could have run away together-two best friends, in the wind!

Nope.

I'm probably not going to continue with the series, but maybe someday if there is a prequel series about the founding of the Grisha, I may dip my toe back in.