A solid opening for a new trilogy that has Russian flare. We enjoyed reading this one and think you will too. Shadow and Bone is the first book in The Grisha trilogy by Leigh Bardugo.
The great nation of Ravka has been divided by a dark evil known as the Shadow Fold. Legend says that the mysterious Darkling, in an effort to expand his power, created the Shadow Fold by mistake. All those trapped in the area during the creation are believed to have been transformed into monsters who now feast on human flesh. Crossing the Shadow Fold is almost certain death, but in order to reach the coast to gather supplies, it cannot be avoided. The Grishas, powerful individuals with the ability to manipulate the elements, are used as weapons against the monsters of the Fold. Annual searches for such individuals keep the Grisha army strong and provide power to the monarch. But what they really need is a "Sun Summoner." Someone with the power to pierce the Shadow Fold with light, driving away the monsters and protecting all travelers.
Alina Starkov, seems like any other recruit in the regular army, until the day her regiment must cross the Fold. Immediately attacked by the Volcra, Alina emits a powerful ray of light before losing consciousness. Unable to explain her ability, she is taken to the palace to be tested and trained as a Grisha. While there, she becomes a favorite of the current Darkling who hopes to put an end to the Shadow Fold- or at least that is what everyone believes.
We like the world that Bardugo creates and the plot moves along quickly. We don't even mind the romance between Alina and her life-long friend Mal. Fans of Graceling and Tamora Pierce should pick this one up.
Next up: The Unnaturalists- Sept. 21st
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