A review by evemlacey
Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

adventurous emotional lighthearted tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.25

I'm usually someone who reads a lot of classics, so I was unsure about the rating I was going to give this book. I can admit, I enjoyed it, so I will be giving it 3.25 stars. That's still a great score according to me.

This book did have me gasping, giggling, and scowling as a reaction to the plot.
I wasn't sure if she was going to end up with Mal or The Darkling, for a brief point I shipped them. I feel like Mal could be more fleshed out because, in all honesty, The Darkling was more interesting. Alina and Mal are not a great couple. There's little chemistry between them and in all honesty, I'm hoping a new love interest will be introduced in the sequel. Let's just say I'll be busy reading The Darkling x Alina fanfiction on AO3 this next week.


I enjoyed this book. I had just finished reading a heavy novel and this acted as a palate cleanser for me. If you're a fan of romantasy and YA, you'd enjoy this. Go give this book a read. It's a light and easy read. The pacing was a little off, but I didn't mind. 

Fortunately, I own the next two books, so I'll settle in with Siege and Storm, chocolate, and a cup of tea for the night. Can't wait!

Expand filter menu Content Warnings