Siege and Storm

I don't know what to think of this book as it brought me both joy and frustration.

I was absolutely mesmerised by the story and the lore. So many secrets and lovely magic and small science. The book had a great pacing, which wasn't a surprise - the first book in the series also did. Every time I sat to read, I wanted to read more and more, and now that I read it all - I still want to read more. I can't wait to pick the next one.

The problem is that I cannot stand the main characters. Alina is outright stupid most of the time. Mal's insecurity and constant tantrums are exhausting and annoying. The Darkling... he is properly evil, and for the life of me, I couldn't tell why anyone would find him hot. Ever. The one saving grace for the characters was Nicolay, whose wit and general character were like a breath of fresh air. May he live forever.

Oh, and let's not forget the ridiculous use of Russian language in this series. I know it's nitpicky, but I am cursed with speaking the language and therefore can't avoid the cringing when reading this.

I give this book 3,5 stars.