Description

Introduction

 Growing up we all always dreamt of living in our own world. For some people this world maybe full of hope, heroes and happy endings. But for some people it may be something full of adventures, actions and questionable characters. And Leigh Bardugo expanded those dreams of ours by creating Grishaverse which has hope, adventure, action, heroes and even questionable characters too. As far as the happy endings are concerned, maybe give it a read and find out on your own…

About the book 

‘Shadow and Bone’ book is the first book of the Shadow and Bone trilogy and also the first book which introduced the readers to the most loved fantasy world i.e. the Grishaverse. While reading this book you will be awestruck by the world building, the characters development and most importantly the intriguing storyline.

Blurb 

Ravka was once a very powerful nation but is now surrounded by enemies from all the sides. Moreover, it is divided into two parts by The Shadow Fold– an alley of complete darkness where Volcras (human flesh eating monsters) reside.But as the darkness has to end one day or the other, Ravkans find hope in the form of a human- Alina Starkov. Alina was an orphan who grew up believing she had nothing extraordinary. But one day while traveling with her regiment in the fold, her best friend Mal, whom she had known since childhood gets attacked by those volcras and she starts revealing a power which can finally end the darkness of the fold.Alina is taken to the royal court to be trained there with the other Grishas. And with time she not only knows the extent to her powers but also the secrets buried of the Grishas and of the fold as well…..

Themes 

Though we are talking about Fantasy, Fiction book but we all can agree that few themes or instances can help us learn about real life too.

Shadow and bone conveys how people are often torn between choosing to either live in a pressure of constantly trying to just fit in or trying to stand out among the crowd or people.

Other themes highlighted in the book are- betrayal, love, friendship, rejection, self acceptance and most importantly power.

Characters 

• Alina Starkov- a simple girl who never believed she could do something worth appreciating. Though as the story moves forward her character becomes more strong. And torn between choosing her heart or her mind every girl can I think relate to her.
• Mal Oretsev- a perfect example which comes to our mind when we think of a best friend and even a potential love interest. An amazing soldier and moreover an always being there for us friend.
• The Darkling- also known as General Kirigan is shown as somewhat a debatable character. For some people he is a villain but some people love him alot. I guess morally gray is the correct word for him.

 Best Lines 

• What is infinite? The universe and the greed of men.
• “Fine,” he said with a weary shrug. “Make me your villain.”
• And there’s nothing wrong with being a lizard either. Unless you were born to be a hawk.
• “The problem with wanting,” he whispered, his mouth trailing along my jaw until it hovered over my lips, “is that it makes us weak.”

 About the Author

 Leigh Bardugo is an author who is most loved by fantasy readers. Not only did she create the most beautiful fantasy world but also gave the readers a story worth re-reading and characters worth missing.

 Conclusion 

If you’re looking for something which will act as an escape from your problems or even reality, you should definitely dive right into this book. It has all it takes to keep you indulged and makes you want more. Even if you’re new to the fantasy genre, you will be able to read this book easily if you pay enough attention.