littleread1
Written on Aug 23, 2013
Enter the Grishaverse with book one of the Shadow and Bone Trilogy, coming April 23 to Netflix as an original series. This edition features exclusive cover art from the show!
Soldier. Summoner. Saint. Orphaned and expendable, Alina Starkov is a soldier who knows she may not survive her first trek across the Shadow Fold—a swath of unnatural darkness crawling with monsters. But when her regiment is attacked, Alina unleashes dormant magic not even she knew she possessed.
Now Alina will enter a lavish world of royalty and intrigue as she trains with the Grisha, her country’s magical military elite—and falls under the spell of their notorious leader, the Darkling. He believes Alina can summon a force capable of destroying the Shadow Fold and reuniting their war-ravaged country, but only if she can master her untamed gift.
As the threat to the kingdom mounts and Alina unlocks the secrets of her past, she will make a dangerous discovery that could threaten all she loves and the very future of a nation.
Welcome to Ravka . . . a world of science and superstition where nothing is what it seems.
- ISBN10 1250777887
- ISBN13 9781250777881
- Publish Date 20 April 2021 (first published 3 May 2012)
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country US
- Imprint Imprint
- Edition TV Show Tie-In
- Format Paperback (US Trade)
- Pages 416
- Language English
Reviews
inlibrisveritas
Written on Jul 10, 2013
The world in which Alina lives is tense and full of danger. Ravka is split in two by the horrible Shadow Fold, which is a shroud of darkness that many people do not ever leave. It’s filled with these horrific creatures called Volcra and I actually managed to have a nightmare about them. We got a taste of how and what the Shadow Fold is and I’m so ready to see what role it plays in the Siege & Storm. Ravka is also surrounded by those who would invade or declare war. The barrier between these threats lie with the Grisha, people with amazin magical ability. They are varied and powerful, and they have their own social standings and army. I really loved the fresh take on a fantasy magic system and I loved the different ‘jobs’ that everyone holds within the Grisha. We also have The Darkling, who is the dangerous yet charismatic leader of the Grisha. I have already added him to my harem of book boyfriends. He has his issues and he’s clearly not someone to trifle with, but I’m pretty sure I’m love with him.
Alina is a smart and witty with a bit of a stubborn streak. I loved watching her grow from someone who feels invisible and inferior to someone who becomes comfortable in her own skin and more confident in her abilities. The one problem I had with her was her self-depreciation around the other Grisha, who are beauty obsessed. It fades a bit by the end of the book but I really wanted her to buck up and stop caring. Mal is Alina’s really loyal and really sweet best friend. He goes through a lot for her and he doesn’t really expect much in return, and while he took a while to warm up to I really liked him in the end. I would love to see some more depth from him in the next book though. There are quite a few characters that fall into a weird grey area of mortality, which I find to be fantastic! No one wants characters who are constantly good or bad, give me an in between and make me guess!
I’m so glad I listened to everyone who recommended this one to me because it turned out be right up my alley!
Briana @ Pages Unbound
Written on Jun 25, 2013
Shadow and Bone intrigued me with its subtle magic and original atmosphere (a Russian-inspired YA fantasy!). Overall, I enjoyed the concept, the characters, and the atmosphere, but the book did not live up to the hype of the blogosphere. I found it an enjoyable fantasy but am not ready to rate it above my favorites of the genre.
The premise of Bardugo’s magic is interesting: children are tested for magical abilities and, if they possess it, are transported to study at a university for Grisha. Each person controls a different type of magic, and the Grisha have developed their own hierarchy based on the variety of powers. Each group of Grisha wears a different color robe; each is granted a different amount of respect from other Grisha and from outsiders.
Ultimately, however, the magic is not the most captivating or original I have encountered in fantasy. Somehow, everyone’s power besides the Darkling’s and potentially Alina’s is bordering on the mundane. No one does much that is particularly flashy or dangerous and, in fact, readers spend much of the novel becoming acquainted with a girl whose power is used to brighten hair, erase dark circles, and generally make the queen appear more beautiful. Of course, Grisha and their magic are normal in Bardugo’s world, but it seems odd that it would appear equally commonplace and lackluster to a reader living in a world with no magic.
The politics of the novel similarly have a lot of potential that is never fully realized. They appear to be complex but should have been explored more to give readers the full effect of how dangerous and widespread the intrigue is. One character is even introduced and then ominously appears throughout the book, as Bardugo builds the impression he is embroiled in some evil political scheme, only to have practically no bearing on the plot. Perhaps he is more active later in the series, but his unexpected lack of importance in Shadow and Bone is disappointing and, frankly, strange considering how frequently Alina encounters him and comments on his suspicious behavior.
Underwritten plot elements, as one might begin to suspect, are the plague of the book, and the major plot twist is the worst offender. It happens so suddenly and Alina believes all her new information so quickly that I was positive this “twist” was a joke—that Alina would fall for it only to discover she was completely mistaken and silly to have acted so decisively on so little intel. Turns out I was the foolish one during this entire affair and really during the second half of the book. I waited for chapters for the “big reveal” that never came—because Bardugo was completely serious, but I just couldn’t tell. Awkward.
This apparently disparaging review aside however, I truly did enjoy the book. My complaints are not that the book is poorly written, but that it is never as well-written as it clearly has the potential to be. Additionally, the stakes for Alina and her entire country are immense by the conclusion, promising a sequel that will be full of action and personal growth for several characters. Readers can also expect more of the romance that permeates much of Shadow and Bone. I will definitely continue reading the series and recommending it to others.
Amber
Written on Jun 14, 2013
Who wants to hear about that time I was in a major reading slump and I couldn't get out of it? I tried everything, from YA to MG to a Spartacus TV show tie-in, but nothing was working. Then Judith harassed tweeted me once again about how I should be reading Shadow and Bone. Considering I wasn't getting into the Spartacus book, I decided that I might as well at least try this book that Judith has been going on and on and on about. So I did. And to my amazement, my cursed reading slump was broken. All thanks to Judith and Leigh Bardugo's fabulous writing.
I feel like I should start off by declaring my love for Alina. She is such an amazing, badass character. There were several times throughout the novel where she gave me goosebumps because of something she said or did. I adored how much she cared for Mal as well. Her character growth was really interesting to watch as she was sucked in by the Grisha and their world. Alina also got to use her powers and it was AMAAAAAZING. If you follow me on Twitter then you probably saw my fangirling.
Mal and Alina made me tear up near the beginning. That pretty much sets the scene for how I felt about them during the rest of the book. Their friendship is the best. You get to see some flashbacks from when they were younger and still in the orphanage, and those also made me cry a bit. Or a lot.
Mal did piss me off in the middle of the book. His attitude stinks, and I am fiercely protective of Alina, so I was mentally shouting at Mal to grow the fuck up. That doesn't mean I don't like him, though, because I most definitely do. And he eventually got over his judgy, bitter attitude, although I hope that continues to improve during the second book. Otherwise he can suck it.
As for the Darkling... Well, can we talk about this guy for a minute? *takes a deep breath* I'm trying very hard not to fangirl over him right now. The Darkling is so ridiculously charming and compelling. I felt the draw that a lot of the characters felt towards him coming straight off the page. He radiates it. I'm not sorry to say that I totally ship him with both Alina and Mal. OT3 ftw!
I adored Leigh Bardugo's writing. I was completely absorbed by it, and by the world that she has created here. I especially enjoyed her use of symbolism when it came to certain spoilery objects, as well as Alina's scar and how she used symbolism to show Alina becoming engrossed in the Grisha world. I rarely comment on writing techniques when I review books (I save that for the TV fangirling), but this really stood out to me. It's exactly the kind of stuff I would love to write or read about in the form of meta on Tumblr. Or, failing that, Tatum and I would discuss at length at 3AM and cry over it. Yes, we do that a lot. One time I had her sobbing over my thoughts on Gannicus' character growth. *coughs*
Shadow and Bone is a really great book. I'm trying to think of something that would improve it, but I'm mostly coming up blank. Maybe a more intense romantic relationship between Mal and Alina, rather than just the BFFs-to-lovers thing. Maybe they'll have better sexy times in the following books. Or maybe Alina will fall in love with a pirate.
jnikkir
Written on Jun 5, 2013
Sorry for shouting, but I really don't have an answer to that question, and it bothers me. I love high fantasy, but I haven't been reading a lot of it lately because I've been on more of a YA contemporary fantasy/scifi/paranormal kick. Which is no excuse, because I've heard people gushing about this book for ages, and I pretty much knew I'd love it when I read it. All I can say is, I'm finally on board, guys. I read it. And I loved it.
Leigh Bardugo is probably my newest favorite author. In Shadow and Bone, she was able to craft a world that I found to be rich and totally engaging. Ravka is based on Russia. And while I don't know a lot about the country or Russian society in general, I thought Leigh did an amazing job crafting a detailed fantasy-/alternate-history sort of world, without getting bogged down in any overly detailed descriptions or info-dumping about said world. There's just enough detail to get a vibrant and vivid picture. Leigh's writing is accessible and her descriptions are beautiful - just enough to let my imagination run wild with this world, and I loved it.
I also found the characters really compelling. Alina is sort of your typical ordinary-girl-finds-extraordinary-abilities character, but she's written in a way that I really felt connected to her and her struggles. Her story also isn't exactly your typical unknown-finds-powers-and-saves-the-world thing, either. There are tons of twists to who she is and what her mentors want her to become, which I loved. Her powers don't make her life or her decisions any easier, that's for sure.
Mal... I love Mal. I have a serious soft-spot for love stories where the two have been friends for life, and one still hasn't wised up to the fact that the other love-loves them. In this case, Alina has been in love with Mal since they grew up together as orphans. They're best friends, and Alina wishes they could be more. Mal doesn't see this at first, but... well, no spoilers. But honestly, their friendship is amazing, as is pretty much everything about them. Neither are perfect people, but I think they are so good together, and so good for each other... gah. I'm gushing. I'll stop. But I love them.
Now, I couldn't pick this book up without having some expectations about the Darkling. Everyone seems to looooove him, lol. I can't say I'm quite as taken with him as many other fans of the series, but I totally understand the appeal. Usually I'd be all over that, but I can't bring myself to like the Darkling and Alina together. However, I really do find the Darkling to be a complex and completely intriguing character, and even though I'm not head over heels, he's definitely one of my favorites.
In conclusion...
I adored this first installment of the Grisha series. Leigh Bardugo has easily earned another fan thanks to her beautifully realized world, vibrant characters, and engrossing plot.
_________________________________________
{ Find this and other reviews at my blog, There were books involved... }
e_rodz_leb
Written on Mar 22, 2013
Reading with ABC
Just wow. Every time that I read a book that everyone has been raving about and I love it, I feel like I could kick myself for taking me this long to read it. Shadow and Bone was SO GOOD!
Lately I’ve had a great deal of luck with the fantasy genre and Shadow and Bone is no exception. Bardugo was able to create such an amazing setting that is intricately involved with the plot of the story. The setting, although make believe, has the distinct flavor of Russia in the description of the buildings, the mode of dress, the weather and even in the language. Everything is so clearly described that is almost tangible.
The type of magic that the Grisha possess is unique. There are different kinds, some used for destruction and others for useful things, such as healing. The rest of the population is respectful to them, but I think that part of that respect came out of fear and resentment. Fear of the unknown and also of the know evils that they were capable off; and resentment, because although there was poverty all around, the Grisha has every rich imaginable.
Alina and Mel are orphans and childhood friends that decided to enlist in the army together. While there they find themselves crossing the Shadow Fold, a dark place full of awful monsters, but that must be crossed in order to reach the sea. Something unexpected happens there that makes Alina very special to the Grisha and to the kingdom in general.
Alina is loyal to Mal, her only true friend. All of her life she struggled to keep up with others and to hide something special within herself, to the extent that she forgot that it was even there and she did it all for Mal. On the other hand, Mal is like a big brother to her, protecting her from harm. He is smart and more careful to trust. I love their easy relationship, even if that’s not what Alina really wanted. I’m glad that Mal came to his senses, they make such a good couple!
I’m not sure how to describe the Darkling. He is all powerful and the leader of the Grisha. Unexpectedly, I liked him a lot. Not because he was dark and handsome, but because he treated Alina with tenderness and respect. I was waiting for a love triangle between him and Mat, but that never really came to fruition. The Darkling place close attention to Alina and he did something really bad, but (like many ‘bad’ guys) he truly thinks he is doing the right thing for his country.
I don’t want to describe the entire plot because you should experience it all by yourself (and besides, I don’t like spoilers). The pacing is slow; as we are learning about a new world, so please don’t get discouraged. The writing is exquisite, descriptive and eloquent. The story is full of twists and turns and even political undertones.
Shadow and Bone is an Epic Fantasy that I would recommend without reservations. To me, it all falls in the same category of Girl of Fire and Thorns, which is another of my favorities. I cannot wait for Siege and Storm, due to be published on June 14th.
Some quotes for you:
“I'm sorry it took me so long to see you, Alina. But I see you now.” – Mal
You're shaking."
"I'm not used to people trying to kill me."
"Really? I hardly notice anymore.” – Alina to the Darkling
About the cover: I have to say that I was a little put off by the cover. Now I can see the meaning of the darkness and the contrast of the light, the Russian looking buildings, the antlers and even the swirls. I don’t think it will ever be my favorite, but now I get it.
lizarodz
Written on Mar 22, 2013
Reading with ABC
Just wow. Every time that I read a book that everyone has been raving about and I love it, I feel like I could kick myself for taking me this long to read it. Shadow and Bone was SO GOOD!
Lately I’ve had a great deal of luck with the fantasy genre and Shadow and Bone is no exception. Bardugo was able to create such an amazing setting that is intricately involved with the plot of the story. The setting, although make believe, has the distinct flavor of Russia in the description of the buildings, the mode of dress, the weather and even in the language. Everything is so clearly described that is almost tangible.
The type of magic that the Grisha possess is unique. There are different kinds, some used for destruction and others for useful things, such as healing. The rest of the population is respectful to them, but I think that part of that respect came out of fear and resentment. Fear of the unknown and also of the know evils that they were capable off; and resentment, because although there was poverty all around, the Grisha has every rich imaginable.
Alina and Mel are orphans and childhood friends that decided to enlist in the army together. While there they find themselves crossing the Shadow Fold, a dark place full of awful monsters, but that must be crossed in order to reach the sea. Something unexpected happens there that makes Alina very special to the Grisha and to the kingdom in general.
Alina is loyal to Mal, her only true friend. All of her life she struggled to keep up with others and to hide something special within herself, to the extent that she forgot that it was even there and she did it all for Mal. On the other hand, Mal is like a big brother to her, protecting her from harm. He is smart and more careful to trust. I love their easy relationship, even if that’s not what Alina really wanted. I’m glad that Mal came to his senses, they make such a good couple!
I’m not sure how to describe the Darkling. He is all powerful and the leader of the Grisha. Unexpectedly, I liked him a lot. Not because he was dark and handsome, but because he treated Alina with tenderness and respect. I was waiting for a love triangle between him and Mat, but that never really came to fruition. The Darkling place close attention to Alina and he did something really bad, but (like many ‘bad’ guys) he truly thinks he is doing the right thing for his country.
I don’t want to describe the entire plot because you should experience it all by yourself (and besides, I don’t like spoilers). The pacing is slow; as we are learning about a new world, so please don’t get discouraged. The writing is exquisite, descriptive and eloquent. The story is full of twists and turns and even political undertones.
Shadow and Bone is an Epic Fantasy that I would recommend without reservations. To me, it all falls in the same category of Girl of Fire and Thorns, which is another of my favorities. I cannot wait for Siege and Storm, due to be published on June 14th.
Some quotes for you:
“I'm sorry it took me so long to see you, Alina. But I see you now.” – Mal
You're shaking."
"I'm not used to people trying to kill me."
"Really? I hardly notice anymore.” – Alina to the Darkling
About the cover: I have to say that I was a little put off by the cover. Now I can see the meaning of the darkness and the contrast of the light, the Russian looking buildings, the antlers and even the swirls. I don’t think it will ever be my favorite, but now I get it.
reveriesociety_
Written on Jan 24, 2013
Jordon
Written on Jan 11, 2013
Uh. Whoa.
Shadow and Bone is one of those books that I can not believe I nearly didn’t pick up. I would have missed out on one amazing book!
This book was awesome! I loved it! It was so much fun to read. I loved Alina and how she grew throughout the book.
At the beginning of the book I thought this story was going to go in one direction but then something happened and changed my mind where I was convinced it was going to go in another direction. But then BAM it completely changed again. I was surprised, thrilled and entertained while I read this.
There were some characters in the book that I thought I had figured out but then by the I realised I really had had no idea because they had hidden things from Alina, which in turn meant we didn’t know anything about them either, I like that. I liked that all the characters were very well rounded and believable.
Overall, I really, really liked Shadow and Bone. I thought it was awesome read and I can’t believe this was a book I hadn’t ever thought about reading. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
I recommend this if you like fantasy and a bit of adventure and self discovery! Well, really, I recommend you give this a go even if you’re not too sure about it.
Miss J
x
wyvernfriend
Written on Dec 12, 2012
The Shadow Fold is slowly eating away at Ravka, it's a place of darkness and it changes what it touches. The country works at trying to fight the monsters it unleashes but it's a war of attrition and it's winning.
Alina was working in the mapping section of the army, she's ordinary, uneventful, nothing special, until one day in defence of her life she uses power and it changes everything. Suddenly she goes from orphan cannon fodder to unique magic uses on whom the world will change.
Mal is her friend, they grew up together and now they're seperated, she misses him and wonders if they will be able to reunite.
The Darkling is a man with secrets and power and he has plans, life will never be the same again and he is going to be pivotal in that change.
There were moments when this didn't quite work, but overall I found it a great read and the different culture and worldbuilding was interesting. I occasionally found the language to be a bit of a barrier but as well it was interesting to experience a different cultural source than the usual well trodden western European path.