A review by in_dire_read
A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik

adventurous fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

I loved seeing Orion and El find common ground, with their dynamic made even more interesting by Orion’s endearing obliviousness to everyone but her, not realizing the other students think they’re dating. The monster battles and rich world-building added to the excitement, especially when they saved the school from the graduation horde of mals. However, I found El’s constant scheming about how Orion’s friendship could benefit her frustrating; I wished she realized sooner that it’s okay to want a friend. The ending was also a bit disappointing, as, despite their mutual feelings, El still pushes Orion away, which felt unnecessary by that point.