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Shadow and Bone #1-3
Grisha Trilogy
This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN B0176VPIFW
In a lavish world where darkness reigns and science collides with superstition, Alina Starkov has the power to save her country…but it comes with a price in The Grisha Trilogy by New York Times-bestselling author Leigh Bardugo.
Included in this bundle are Shadow and Bone, Siege and Storm, and Ruin and Rising.
In a lavish world where darkness reigns and science collides with superstition, Alina Starkov has the power to save her country…but it comes with a price in The Grisha Trilogy by New York Times-bestselling author Leigh Bardugo.
Included in this bundle are Shadow and Bone, Siege and Storm, and Ruin and Rising.
791 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 17, 2015
3618 people are currently reading
16215 people want to read
About the author
Leigh Bardugo
94 books187k followersLeigh Bardugo is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Ninth House and the creator of the Grishaverse (now a Netflix original series) which spans the Shadow and Bone trilogy, the Six of Crows duology, the King of Scars duology—and much more. Her short fiction has appeared in multiple anthologies including The Best American Science Fiction and Fantasy. She lives in Los Angeles and is an associate fellow of Pauli Murray College at Yale University. For information on new releases and appearances, sign up for her newsletter.
She would be delighted if you visited her at LeighBardugo.com and fairly giddy if you liked her selfies on Instagram.
She would be delighted if you visited her at LeighBardugo.com and fairly giddy if you liked her selfies on Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 736 reviews
July 31, 2017
This was a Good story wrapped in a shite load of brain dead romantic drivel. Such a shame. It feels like an editor said '...fantasy has a limited audience, what this needs is dry-humpin in order to sell! make it more like Twilight and you'll be laughing...stupid people love that shit and you'll be rolling in money, you and Meyers both!'
The world has great potential - and Bardugo is genuinely talented and has a great imagination. I respect her for creating this mythology... her shorts in particular are amazing. The Six of Crows books are a big step up from this poop.
Leigh, in future, please just please listen less to your editor about what people want, and write more of what you want!
The world has great potential - and Bardugo is genuinely talented and has a great imagination. I respect her for creating this mythology... her shorts in particular are amazing. The Six of Crows books are a big step up from this poop.
Leigh, in future, please just please listen less to your editor about what people want, and write more of what you want!
May 8, 2021
Average! Period.
January 29, 2018
5 🌟
Overall, I thought the series as a whole was very good. Wish that there was a Darkling prequel series. Hope to see the characters again. Also hope Nikolai will do well as king. RIP everyone that died.
Overall, I thought the series as a whole was very good. Wish that there was a Darkling prequel series. Hope to see the characters again. Also hope Nikolai will do well as king. RIP everyone that died.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2016
Copied from my Amazon Review:
Book one is awesome. YA troupes abound: there is a plain, insecure, yet plucky heroine named Alina, who it just so happens, is The Chosen One. There is a love triangle. The love interests have perfect jaws and lean muscles and piercing eyes.
But it’s fun. The characters are compelling, if a bit one-dimensional. It’s the type of book where you can predict the characters personalities by their hair color (Mal has brown hair and green eyes. He is earthy and honest. The Darkling has black hair and grey eyes. He is mysterious and dangerous…). An interesting background cast, particularly Genya and Baghra, help flesh out the story. Some tropes are later explained in believable and imaginative ways. The theme of safely and belonging vs. responsibility and individuality ties it all together. Great start!
But the rest of the series…?
Non-spoiler blurb:
While many trilogies suffer from a saggy middle book, this really took the cake. The plot wobbles about in a repeating loop. I wanted to grab all the characters by both ears and shake them, as they settled into an angsty holding pattern. In a trilogy spanning nearly 2000 pages, the characters and theme set out in the first book were too flat to sustain growth.
SPOILER-FILLED BREAKDOWN:
Bardugo can write. I got though the second and third even if I threw it down a few times in frustration. But this series would have benefitted GREATLY by being a two-book series. Then again…I am 27. Angsty teen me might have loved all the insubstantial fluff.
Ultimately, the conclusion was satisfying and fitting. I did care for the characters I met in the first book…or at least the characteristics they portrayed. It just took a long, grinding time to get there. If you want an soap-ish YA romance with a solid fantasy setting and plot, this is a great series. If you want a fast-paced fantasy epic with a likable heroine and believable characterization…. this may leave you wanting. I fully intend to give her new series a try, as reviews lead me to believe there is less angst and better character development.
Book one is awesome. YA troupes abound: there is a plain, insecure, yet plucky heroine named Alina, who it just so happens, is The Chosen One. There is a love triangle. The love interests have perfect jaws and lean muscles and piercing eyes.
But it’s fun. The characters are compelling, if a bit one-dimensional. It’s the type of book where you can predict the characters personalities by their hair color (Mal has brown hair and green eyes. He is earthy and honest. The Darkling has black hair and grey eyes. He is mysterious and dangerous…). An interesting background cast, particularly Genya and Baghra, help flesh out the story. Some tropes are later explained in believable and imaginative ways. The theme of safely and belonging vs. responsibility and individuality ties it all together. Great start!
But the rest of the series…?
Non-spoiler blurb:
While many trilogies suffer from a saggy middle book, this really took the cake. The plot wobbles about in a repeating loop. I wanted to grab all the characters by both ears and shake them, as they settled into an angsty holding pattern. In a trilogy spanning nearly 2000 pages, the characters and theme set out in the first book were too flat to sustain growth.
SPOILER-FILLED BREAKDOWN:
Bardugo can write. I got though the second and third even if I threw it down a few times in frustration. But this series would have benefitted GREATLY by being a two-book series. Then again…I am 27. Angsty teen me might have loved all the insubstantial fluff.
Ultimately, the conclusion was satisfying and fitting. I did care for the characters I met in the first book…or at least the characteristics they portrayed. It just took a long, grinding time to get there. If you want an soap-ish YA romance with a solid fantasy setting and plot, this is a great series. If you want a fast-paced fantasy epic with a likable heroine and believable characterization…. this may leave you wanting. I fully intend to give her new series a try, as reviews lead me to believe there is less angst and better character development.
January 18, 2020
Klappentext (Band 1):
Alina ist einfache Kartografin in der Ersten Armee des Zaren. Dass sie heimlich in Maljen verliebt ist, ihren besten Freund seit Kindertagen, darf niemand wissen. Schon gar nicht Maljen selbst, der erfolgreiche Fährtenleser und Frauenschwarm.
Bei einem Überfall rettet Alina Maljen auf unbegreifliche Weise das Leben. Doch was sie da genau getan hat, kann sie selbst nicht sagen. Plötzlich steht sie im Mittelpunkt der Aufmerksamkeit und wird zum mächtigsten Grischa in die Lehre geschickt. Geheimnisvoll und undurchschaubar, wird er von allen der Dunkle genannt. Aber wieso fühlt sie sich von ihm so unwiderstehlich angezogen?
Und warum warnt Maljen sie so nachdrücklich vor dem Einfluss des Dunklen?
Dies ist der erste Band der Grischa-Trilogie von Leigh Bardugo.
Meine Meinung:
Ich muss sagen ich habe mich sehr gefreut, als ich erfahren habe, dass die berühmt berüchtigte Grisha Reihe als Schuber erscheinen wird. Ich wollte unbedingt erfahren, ob die Reihe den Hype wirklich wert ist und was es mit der allgemeinen Begeisterung auf sich hat.
Ich kann auf jeden Fall schon sagen, dass ich froh bin meiner Neugier gefolgt zu sein.
Kommen wir erstmal zu äußerlichen Gestaltung des Schubers. Ich war schon auf den Bildern super begeistert und habe mich sehr gefreut, dass sie den englischen Covern entsprechen. Die Aufmachung des Schubers ist auch wunderschön, erst recht mit den goldenen Details von Außen. Es sieht wirklich hochwertig aus und ist ein absoluter Eyecatcher. Ich bin wirklich begeistert und ich gebe auch zu, dass das Design mich teilweise wirklich dazu motiviert die Reihe zu lesen.
Jetzt kommen wir natürlich zum spannendsten Teil der Rezension! Nämlich, wie mir die Geschichte bzw. das inhaltliche Gefallen hat.
Wie ich in meiner Rezension zu Band 1 schon erwähnte, ist der Schreibstil der Autorin etwas anspruchsvoll. Es ist nichts was man so nebenbei lesen kann und man muss sich wirklich beim lesen konzentrieren damit der wundervolle Schreibstil der Autorin auch seine Wirkung entfaltet! Denn dann wird man in eine Welt hineingerissen, die einen gefangen nimmt und verzaubert. Ich konnte mir fast alles bildlich vorstellen, denn die Autorin schafft es mit ihren detailreichen Beschreibungen, diese Bilder entstehen zu lassen.
Alina mochte ich von Beginn an, mit ihrer starken Persönlichkeit. Der Dunkle konnte mich auch wirklich faszinieren und im Laufe der Trilogie habe ich immer mehr Charaktere ins Herz geschlossen und sogar Charaktere, die ich zu hassen glaubte, lieben gelernt!
Die Handlung aller drei Bände war voller fesselnder, mitreißender und eindrucksvoller Momente, die mich die Bücher nicht haben aus der Hand legen lassen. Es gab überraschende Wendungen, Rätsel, dessen Lösung auf komplizierte Weise zusammengefügt wurden und jede Menge Action!
Ich bin absolut begeistert von der Reihe und kann dem Hype auf jeden Fall nachvollziehen. Von mir gibt es eine klare Leseempfehlung für alle Fantasyfans!
Fazit:
Eine epische Reihe, die einen in ihren Bann zieht, von dem man sich gar nicht befreien möchte. Eine Trilogie voller Spannung, tollen Charakteren und wunderbaren Lesestunden, die wirklich süchtig macht.
Read
April 3, 2018I just bought this version of the series and I couldn’t be happier!!!! It looks so beautiful 😍
January 20, 2020
German Review: 3 Stars
Anmerkung: Ich habe die Trilogie im Schuber als Rezensionsexemplare vom Verlag bekommen. Danke dafür. Die volle Videorezension findet ihr auf meinem YouTube Kanal namens schokigirl oder weiter unten.
Meinung:
Ich habe die Trilogie bereits vor ein paar Jahren gelesen und fand es relativ durchschnittlich. Seitdem habe ich aber die Krähen Dilogie geliebt und allgemein die Welt lieben gelernt. Deswegen wollte ich dieser Trilogie noch eine Chance geben.
Die Idee an sich fasziniert mich, da nicht viele Geschichten in einem ähnlichem Land wie Russland spielen. Der Schreibstil und die Atmosphäre gefallen mir sehr gut. Auch hier haben sie mir das Lesen angenehm gemacht. Das gilt für die gesamte Trilogie.
Band 1: 3,5 Sterne
Das ist der beste Band der Reihe, da alles neu und faszinierend ist. Vom Plot her beginnt es aber wie jede ander Fantasy Jugendbuchgeschichte auch. Die Welt macht es zu was besonderem. Allerdings gibt es in diesem Band zu wenig Worldbuilding. Besonders die Schule wird kaum erklärt. Es stellen sich so viele Fragen, die nicht beantwortet werden, da Alina sowieso nicht lange dort bleibt. Es schien alles so schnell abzulaufen, obwohl angeblich einiges an Zeit vergangen sein soll.
Die Bücher werden aus Alinas Sichtweise erzählt und trotzdem war mir zu viel Nacherzählung und zu wenig zeigen drin (show, don't tell). „Ich hab das damals gefühlt etc.“ Wovon sie damals aber nichts gesagt, geschweige denn daran gedacht hat. Es wirkte manchmal wie eine Idee, die die Autorin erst zu spät hatte.
Die männlichen Charaktere (Mal & der Dunkle) hatten mir zu wenig Charakter. Alina war eine typische zurückhaltende Jugendbuchprotagonistin, aber ich konnte sie zumindest verstehen. Aber die männlichen Charas schienen nichts besonderes zu haben. Mal war der nette beste Freund in den sie verliebt ist. Und der Dunkle war einfach der mysteriöse Bad Boy, vielleicht böse, vielleicht auch nur missverstanden.
Man merkt hier, dass das der Debütroman (eigentlich Debüttrilogie, da man es in allen Bänden merkt) der Autorin ist. Manches war recht unbeholfen oder einfach ein Klischee. Ich hatte das Gefühl, dass einiges nur drin war, weil es zu der Zeit eben in allen Jugendbüchern war.
Band 2: 3 Sterne
Den Anfang dieses Bandes habe ich wirklich gemocht. Es war spannend, hat Spaß gemacht und man hat interessante neue Charaktere kennen gelernt. Aber nach ca. 100 Seiten war das vorbei und der langweilige Teil begann. Das ist ein zweiter Band, also ein Überbrückungsband, weshalb ich auch eigentlich nichts anderes erwartet habe. Allerdings war es etwas enttäuschend nach dem guten Start. Dort kam dann endlich auch das Worldbuilding und vor allem die Erklärung zu der Schule. Es ist gut, dass man es doch noch bekommt, aber es hätte definitiv in den ersten Band gehört.
Das Ende war dann wieder gut, wenn auch etwas zu schnell. Außerdem wurde echt wenig kommuniziert was jetzt eigentlich geplant wird und wie das ablaufen soll etc. Dementsprechend kam das Ende aus heiterem Himmel. Es wurde also nicht wirklich viel für den letzten Band aufgebaut, was doch eigentlich der Sinn eines zweiten Bandes ist oder nicht?
Ich fand das Liebesdrama zwischen Alina und Mal relativ unnötig und irgendwann nur noch nervig. Wie gesagt, es war da, weil es halt in ein Jugendbuch gehört, aber ich fand die Charaktere einfach egoistisch und unkommunikativ.
Die Nebencharaktere sind leider zu sehr in den Hintergrund geraten, sodass ich mir sie weder merken konnte, noch wusste warum viele von ihnen eigentlich da sind, weil sie zu nichts beigetragen haben. Ich mag Nikolai (neuer Charakter) wirklich gern. Er ist einer der Charaktere, die am meisten Charakter haben. Aber er hat so viel Platz eingenommen, dass keine Zeit für die anderen übrig blieb. Außerdem war sein und auch ein paar andere Charaktere etwas zu übertrieben.
Alles in allem war dieser Band nicht unbedingt nötig. Es wurde nichts vorbereitet, sondern fast nur aufgeholt was eigentlich in den ersten Band gemusst hätte, daher hätte man es da auch einfach einbauen müssen und diesen Band sein lassen sollen. Aber während des Lesens habe ich es trotzdem nicht ungern gelesen.
Band 3: 3 Sterne
Beim Lesen fand ich es abwechslungsreich und auch durchaus interessant. Erst am Ende habe ich bemerkt, dass kaum was davon tatsächlich wichtig für den Plot war. Es war nett zu lesen, brachte einen aber kein Stück weiter. 100 Seiten vor Schluss hatten sie eigentlich immer noch keinen Plan, außer das sind unbedingt dieses eine Ding besorgen mussten. Das war wirklich enttäuschend. Sie hatten über 2 Bände lang Zeit und habe keinen Plan entwickelt.
Und der große Kampf lief dann ohne wirkliche Vorbereitung nur innerhalb eines Kapitels ab. Gefühlte Zeit war 5 min und schon war das Ende einer ganzen Trilogie da. Viel zu einfach und einfach nur enttäuschend. Das Ende war dann wenigstens etwas nostalgisch und schön.
Es war zwar etwas seltsam, dass Mal als einziger nicht Magier überall dabei war, aber er war halt der Loveinterest. Eine weitere Erklärung habe ich nicht gebraucht, aber die Autorin sah es scheinbar anders. Jedenfalls wirkte die Entwicklung mit ihm für mich eher wie eine Ausrede, etwas woran man in letzter Minute gedacht hat. Es wurde zwar okay erklärt, aber die Auflösung dessen wurde im Gegensatz gar nicht erklärt. Insgesamt bleiben noch einige Fragen offen.
Allgemein mochte ich Mal nicht sonderlich gern. Für den Loveinterest, den man mögen soll, hat er aber selten wirklich sympathisch auf mich gewirkt. Er war oft einfach egoistisch und hat Sachen nur gemacht, weil er rebellisch sein wollte oder nicht nachgedacht hat.
Alles in allem habe ich es während des Lesens gut gefunden, war aber am Ende enttäuscht, wie unnötig das meiste für den Plot war. Es war alles nicht schlecht, aber man hätte die Zeit auch mit mehr Plot füllen können oder es sein lassen und die gesamte Trilogie auf einen 600 bis 700 Seiten Band beschränken können.
Fazit:
Alles in allem habe ich die Trilogie nicht ungern gelesen. Während ich es las, war es auch interessant und es hat teilweise Spaß gemacht. Aber im Nachhinein war es schon etwas ärgerlich wie viel irrelevantes in den Bänden war und wie lang die Geschichte unnötig gezogen wurde. Wenn ich so drüber nachdenke, hätte die gesamte Geschichte sicherlich in einen etwas längeren Band gepasst. Daher habe ich für die volle Trilogie 3 Sterne vergeben.
Anmerkung: Ich habe die Trilogie im Schuber als Rezensionsexemplare vom Verlag bekommen. Danke dafür. Die volle Videorezension findet ihr auf meinem YouTube Kanal namens schokigirl oder weiter unten.
Meinung:
Ich habe die Trilogie bereits vor ein paar Jahren gelesen und fand es relativ durchschnittlich. Seitdem habe ich aber die Krähen Dilogie geliebt und allgemein die Welt lieben gelernt. Deswegen wollte ich dieser Trilogie noch eine Chance geben.
Die Idee an sich fasziniert mich, da nicht viele Geschichten in einem ähnlichem Land wie Russland spielen. Der Schreibstil und die Atmosphäre gefallen mir sehr gut. Auch hier haben sie mir das Lesen angenehm gemacht. Das gilt für die gesamte Trilogie.
Band 1: 3,5 Sterne
Das ist der beste Band der Reihe, da alles neu und faszinierend ist. Vom Plot her beginnt es aber wie jede ander Fantasy Jugendbuchgeschichte auch. Die Welt macht es zu was besonderem. Allerdings gibt es in diesem Band zu wenig Worldbuilding. Besonders die Schule wird kaum erklärt. Es stellen sich so viele Fragen, die nicht beantwortet werden, da Alina sowieso nicht lange dort bleibt. Es schien alles so schnell abzulaufen, obwohl angeblich einiges an Zeit vergangen sein soll.
Die Bücher werden aus Alinas Sichtweise erzählt und trotzdem war mir zu viel Nacherzählung und zu wenig zeigen drin (show, don't tell). „Ich hab das damals gefühlt etc.“ Wovon sie damals aber nichts gesagt, geschweige denn daran gedacht hat. Es wirkte manchmal wie eine Idee, die die Autorin erst zu spät hatte.
Die männlichen Charaktere (Mal & der Dunkle) hatten mir zu wenig Charakter. Alina war eine typische zurückhaltende Jugendbuchprotagonistin, aber ich konnte sie zumindest verstehen. Aber die männlichen Charas schienen nichts besonderes zu haben. Mal war der nette beste Freund in den sie verliebt ist. Und der Dunkle war einfach der mysteriöse Bad Boy, vielleicht böse, vielleicht auch nur missverstanden.
Man merkt hier, dass das der Debütroman (eigentlich Debüttrilogie, da man es in allen Bänden merkt) der Autorin ist. Manches war recht unbeholfen oder einfach ein Klischee. Ich hatte das Gefühl, dass einiges nur drin war, weil es zu der Zeit eben in allen Jugendbüchern war.
Band 2: 3 Sterne
Den Anfang dieses Bandes habe ich wirklich gemocht. Es war spannend, hat Spaß gemacht und man hat interessante neue Charaktere kennen gelernt. Aber nach ca. 100 Seiten war das vorbei und der langweilige Teil begann. Das ist ein zweiter Band, also ein Überbrückungsband, weshalb ich auch eigentlich nichts anderes erwartet habe. Allerdings war es etwas enttäuschend nach dem guten Start. Dort kam dann endlich auch das Worldbuilding und vor allem die Erklärung zu der Schule. Es ist gut, dass man es doch noch bekommt, aber es hätte definitiv in den ersten Band gehört.
Das Ende war dann wieder gut, wenn auch etwas zu schnell. Außerdem wurde echt wenig kommuniziert was jetzt eigentlich geplant wird und wie das ablaufen soll etc. Dementsprechend kam das Ende aus heiterem Himmel. Es wurde also nicht wirklich viel für den letzten Band aufgebaut, was doch eigentlich der Sinn eines zweiten Bandes ist oder nicht?
Ich fand das Liebesdrama zwischen Alina und Mal relativ unnötig und irgendwann nur noch nervig. Wie gesagt, es war da, weil es halt in ein Jugendbuch gehört, aber ich fand die Charaktere einfach egoistisch und unkommunikativ.
Die Nebencharaktere sind leider zu sehr in den Hintergrund geraten, sodass ich mir sie weder merken konnte, noch wusste warum viele von ihnen eigentlich da sind, weil sie zu nichts beigetragen haben. Ich mag Nikolai (neuer Charakter) wirklich gern. Er ist einer der Charaktere, die am meisten Charakter haben. Aber er hat so viel Platz eingenommen, dass keine Zeit für die anderen übrig blieb. Außerdem war sein und auch ein paar andere Charaktere etwas zu übertrieben.
Alles in allem war dieser Band nicht unbedingt nötig. Es wurde nichts vorbereitet, sondern fast nur aufgeholt was eigentlich in den ersten Band gemusst hätte, daher hätte man es da auch einfach einbauen müssen und diesen Band sein lassen sollen. Aber während des Lesens habe ich es trotzdem nicht ungern gelesen.
Band 3: 3 Sterne
Beim Lesen fand ich es abwechslungsreich und auch durchaus interessant. Erst am Ende habe ich bemerkt, dass kaum was davon tatsächlich wichtig für den Plot war. Es war nett zu lesen, brachte einen aber kein Stück weiter. 100 Seiten vor Schluss hatten sie eigentlich immer noch keinen Plan, außer das sind unbedingt dieses eine Ding besorgen mussten. Das war wirklich enttäuschend. Sie hatten über 2 Bände lang Zeit und habe keinen Plan entwickelt.
Und der große Kampf lief dann ohne wirkliche Vorbereitung nur innerhalb eines Kapitels ab. Gefühlte Zeit war 5 min und schon war das Ende einer ganzen Trilogie da. Viel zu einfach und einfach nur enttäuschend. Das Ende war dann wenigstens etwas nostalgisch und schön.
Es war zwar etwas seltsam, dass Mal als einziger nicht Magier überall dabei war, aber er war halt der Loveinterest. Eine weitere Erklärung habe ich nicht gebraucht, aber die Autorin sah es scheinbar anders. Jedenfalls wirkte die Entwicklung mit ihm für mich eher wie eine Ausrede, etwas woran man in letzter Minute gedacht hat. Es wurde zwar okay erklärt, aber die Auflösung dessen wurde im Gegensatz gar nicht erklärt. Insgesamt bleiben noch einige Fragen offen.
Allgemein mochte ich Mal nicht sonderlich gern. Für den Loveinterest, den man mögen soll, hat er aber selten wirklich sympathisch auf mich gewirkt. Er war oft einfach egoistisch und hat Sachen nur gemacht, weil er rebellisch sein wollte oder nicht nachgedacht hat.
Alles in allem habe ich es während des Lesens gut gefunden, war aber am Ende enttäuscht, wie unnötig das meiste für den Plot war. Es war alles nicht schlecht, aber man hätte die Zeit auch mit mehr Plot füllen können oder es sein lassen und die gesamte Trilogie auf einen 600 bis 700 Seiten Band beschränken können.
Fazit:
Alles in allem habe ich die Trilogie nicht ungern gelesen. Während ich es las, war es auch interessant und es hat teilweise Spaß gemacht. Aber im Nachhinein war es schon etwas ärgerlich wie viel irrelevantes in den Bänden war und wie lang die Geschichte unnötig gezogen wurde. Wenn ich so drüber nachdenke, hätte die gesamte Geschichte sicherlich in einen etwas längeren Band gepasst. Daher habe ich für die volle Trilogie 3 Sterne vergeben.
May 22, 2021
4.5 Stars
I really enjoyed reading this after watching the first season of the show on Netflix. Of the various popular YA fiction I’ve read over the years, this was probably my favorite. I really liked most of the characters, particularly Nikolai, so I can’t wait to (hopefully) see the rest of it come to life in more seasons of the show. I wasn’t sure how it was all going to end, but I found it very satisfying.
I really enjoyed reading this after watching the first season of the show on Netflix. Of the various popular YA fiction I’ve read over the years, this was probably my favorite. I really liked most of the characters, particularly Nikolai, so I can’t wait to (hopefully) see the rest of it come to life in more seasons of the show. I wasn’t sure how it was all going to end, but I found it very satisfying.
May 23, 2021
Very underwhelming. The focus was too much on the romantic aspects which was annoying to me. There wasn't a lot of story building and I would have liked more information on the Grisha world and how they came into existence.
July 17, 2016
4.5 Stars for this magnificent trilogy! <3 I've read all three books in 2015 and I enjoyed them. The whole series was fantasy at its finest. Hats off to Leigh Bardugo.
March 7, 2026
I HAVE FOUND A NEW EDWARD CULLEN, EVERYBODY. He’s tall, dark, handsome, morally grey and is like a hundred and fifty years old. Oh, he’s also magical. Isn’t he a catch?
(btw, that was sarcastic. i don’t want anybody questioning my sanity)
This review is for the whole trilogy cause I had the complete edition, or collection edition or whatever on kindle. I can’t really get into it without giving up some main things of the plot, so there are spoilers.
I must admit I was really stumped with this review, because I partly loved these books, and partly hated them. I’m still kind of confused myself, so it’s probably going to be a really weird review.
So. Here goes.
CHARACTERS
Alina
First things first. It should be STARKOVA. It’s supposed to be Russia, so the surnames are supposed to be feminine for girls. That’s all I’ll say about that, but please know I have ranted about the language inaccuracies for hours. And I’m not even Russian, I’m Spanish. So I can’t imagine what actual Russians are feeling right now.
But her, as a character? I didn’t like her. Honestly. She has her moments, I’ll admit, but for the most part I couldn’t stand her. She’s constantly complaining about how pathetic, and ugly, and petite she is. Yes, petite. If you had your hopes up, expecting a fresh fantasy protagonist, keep hoping. Maybe one day there’ll be one. She’s also so whiny. I know it doesn’t really seem like enough to dislike a character, but I kept feeling like we wouldn’t get along too great if we actually met. I get some people won’t agree but hey, free will, right?
And a tip if you’re trying to make a character: you can make her insecure, but you can’t make that her whole personality. I will, however, begrudgingly admit she has some development from the first book. Yay her, I guess. I really couldn’t care less.
Also, her powers made no sense. Think about it for a second. Apart from dissolving the Fold, what good were they against people? She wasn’t supposed to be a good fighter, she was a mapmaker, but put some mirror gloves on her and suddenly she’s a badass in hand to hand combat? I doubt it. And don’t get me started on the Cut. Three pages before you couldn’t light a corridor and now you can cut people in half? And then MOUNTAINS? Yeah, no.
Mal
I’m torn. I hated him for half of the book, and wanted to hug him the other half. I couldn’t stand the way he let Alina walk over him, so I guess I cared about him? Mostly I wanted them to end up together, because they sort of deserved each other.
He did have a few moments that forced me to stuff my fist in my mouth to stop the giggling. I think waking up my parents at 1 am would not have played too well with them. I don’t know if they will get that reaction out of anybody else, but I did smile on re-reading them, so they just might:
“ “It’s always just you and me, Alina.” For a moment, it seemed like it was true. The world was this step, this circle of lamplight, the two of us suspended in the dark”
“I love you, Alina, even the part of you that loved him.”
“But no matter who or what I was, I would have been yours”
There was also this particular moment when I just felt bad for him, but then he came up with this:
“ “I need you to do something for me.” He snorted. “You mean other than deserting the army, scaling mountains, and freezing my ass off on the cold ground every night?” "
I was like, “you go girl! tell her!”. Because, really. He was so awesome for putting Alina in her place. Or at least for trying.
The Darkling
I think I have a problem. He’s the most manipulative, creepy, evil guy ever but I really liked him. And it’s not the only case. But I don’t believe anyone who says they didn’t like young president Snow in The Hunger Games.
Alexander was a great character. Not much character development but I guess if he has lived for four hundred years it’s understandable that he has a defined character. He was cunning, mean, and willing to do anything. He was well written, even if he wasn’t an extremely original villain.
I still need someone to explain why there are no other grisha that can control the shadows. And while they’re at it, why are there no other sun summoners?
Genya
At first she was sort of a shallow character, but then she got some development, and became quite interesting. What a shame she was then thrust to the background to make place for a lot more of Alina’s ramblings about Mal.
Her friendship with Alina was sort of exaggerated though. I mean, she doesn’t do much apart from giving her a makeover and gossip, but her betrayal is supposed to be total treason? I really didn’t feel like she was a bad person for not sticking with Alina, because if I was her I wouldn’t have, which I guess kinda numbed the whole “traitor” feeling for me.
Nikolai
He is by far my favourite character in this entire trilogy. Let me show you why:
“Ivan scowled. “I don’t think-” “Clearly. Why start now?” ”
“I won’t forget this, Sturmhond,” Ivan spat. The captain rolled his eyes. “That’s the idea.” ”
“ “You betrayed the Darkling for money?” “ ‘Betrayed’ seems a strong word. I hardly know the fellow.” ”
He was so much fun to read about, and I fell really hard for him. And when the Darkling turns him into a creepy flying people-eater? I had to stop myself from throwing the kindle against the wall. I must admit my anger didn’t last long cause I googled how he ends (I know, I’m disappointed at myself too), so I just read the rest of the book waiting for the resolution of his little problem. Maybe if I had found out he stayed that way I would have DNFed the book. I guess I’ll never know.
PLOT
It’s an ok plot. Not really the best I’ve read, but it kept you hooked to its action, even though there were a few times when I had to force myself to read through a particularly stretched out scene that could’ve been omitted altogether. The whole chapters in the white cave with the Apparat? Absolutely unnecessary and dull. Although I guess it was on purpose because Alina was bored too? Idk. It was weird. And even more so when other scenes were rushed, like when they’re hunting the sea whip. Because it takes them months to find the stag but only a week to find the dragon? And they catch him and kill him in what, ten minutes tops?
Apart from these problems, the book could have been improved greatly by making it third person, in my opinion. After a book and a half I couldn’t take any more of Alina’s thoughts on anything, because they were so long, depressing, and repetitive.
LOVE TRIANGLE SQUARE
If someone has read my tsitp review, they know I am NOT a fan of love squares. It’s just weird. Especially if the girl is constantly talking about how UGLY, USELESS, BETRAYING piece of trash she is. Yet, everybody wants her. How realistic.
However, it was quite well woven together. Each of them has a reason to want her, and it's not just her sudden glow up, but actual things. Mal loves her personality, Alexander her power and Nikolai her fame (well not really her fame, but her connection with the subjects).
The actual personal relationships between Alina and each of the guys are really deep and quite sweet sometimes. Mal is awesome most of the time, and I’m really happy they end up together. I wasn’t really invested in their ups and downs though, cause it was obvious they were going to end together. And also because sometimes they were just plain boring.
I love her with the Darkling, and honestly I sometimes secretly wanted them to end up together, mostly because I was really mad at Mal at times (please note I wasn’t mad because he didn’t write. Anyone, except Alina apparently, would have guessed the letters were being intercepted). When he tells her his name, and she whispers it to him before he dies… Actual chills.
Even though I have already stated I ADORE Nikolai, I was repelled by the idea of them together. They are great friends, and I don’t want them to ruin that. Also, my dislike for Alina grew with every book, so no, I didn’t want my favourite character to marry someone I didn’t like. Sorryyyy.
SIMILARITIES
This book is like a patchwork quilt. It looks unique, but it’s really just other pieces fitted together. If it’s not a problem for you, great, go ahead and adore these books. It is, however, an issue for me. Because I know I haven’t exactly read every book ever (in fact, my tbr list is like twice as big as the books I have actually read), and even I could see so many things taken from other books:
* The Hunger Games. The “always” whispered in the dark. Like, hello. It’s taken. It’s been done before. IT’S NOT YOURS. Also, when she makes Mal promise he’ll kill her. I realise it makes a lot of sense, but I will not see reason when it comes to The Hunger Games. AND WHEN THEY ARE IN THE SHIP AND HE HOLDS HER THROUGH HER NIGHTMARES. That did kind of outrage me. Oh, and the Apparat kind of acts like Coin, trying to use her as a face rather than as a leader.
* Harry Potter. People with powers hiding from people without them and the bad guys wanting to take out the powerless ones? Check. A creepy connection with the bad guy that you are only just realising works both ways but kind of makes you evil when you use it? Check. A powerful person mistakenly giving some of his power to someone else, which later means someone doesn’t truly die? CHECK. (Btw, the powerful person is Mozorova and he mistakenly gives power to the daughter, which means Mal doesn’t die, like Voldemort with Harry)
* Dune. I’m sorry. WHAT? Sankta Alina doesn’t kind of remind anybody of SAINT ALYA OF THE KNIFE???? And the Apparat popping up like the Preacher?
* Tinkerbell. I know, lol. Like, if you haven’t read them you’re probably wondering what kind of fairy pixie weirdness is in this, but honestly it’s not anything explicit. Just, ok, a world with people with powers that control elements? And is it just me, or does the Little Palace give a little bit of Pixie Hollow vibes? And the amplifiers kind of resemble the colorful pixie dust? Idk. But when they were going to give a “demonstration”, I just remembered that one scene in the Tinkerbell movies where they have this big acorn thing and they all do stuff like using mirrors to multiply light beams, and I kept laughing like crazy at their seriousness cause like i have seen that scene thousands of times when I was a kid. So, yeah, lol.
* Frozen. Yes, Tinkerbell isn’t the only childhood classic this book has taken from. The white hair? Ok, honey, we’ll pretend that’s original. The whole “no one should get close to me cause they end up hurt”? What are you gonna do, freeze Mal’s heart? Oh, right. You don’t need to, because you stabbed him.
After all, I think the books aren’t amazing, and there are many things that greatly annoyed me, but they are entertaining, and I’m overall glad I read them. I wouldn’t exactly recommend them to a friend, but I would be willing to discuss them for a long time. Oh, and I’m definitely going to watch the show.
Edit: couldn’t finish the show. WHY DID THEY CHANGE THE SIX OF CROWS PLOT!??? No wonder it was cancelled.
Edit #2: I just re-read Six of Crows and how can they be written by the same person?
(btw, that was sarcastic. i don’t want anybody questioning my sanity)
This review is for the whole trilogy cause I had the complete edition, or collection edition or whatever on kindle. I can’t really get into it without giving up some main things of the plot, so there are spoilers.
I must admit I was really stumped with this review, because I partly loved these books, and partly hated them. I’m still kind of confused myself, so it’s probably going to be a really weird review.
So. Here goes.
CHARACTERS
Alina
First things first. It should be STARKOVA. It’s supposed to be Russia, so the surnames are supposed to be feminine for girls. That’s all I’ll say about that, but please know I have ranted about the language inaccuracies for hours. And I’m not even Russian, I’m Spanish. So I can’t imagine what actual Russians are feeling right now.
But her, as a character? I didn’t like her. Honestly. She has her moments, I’ll admit, but for the most part I couldn’t stand her. She’s constantly complaining about how pathetic, and ugly, and petite she is. Yes, petite. If you had your hopes up, expecting a fresh fantasy protagonist, keep hoping. Maybe one day there’ll be one. She’s also so whiny. I know it doesn’t really seem like enough to dislike a character, but I kept feeling like we wouldn’t get along too great if we actually met. I get some people won’t agree but hey, free will, right?
And a tip if you’re trying to make a character: you can make her insecure, but you can’t make that her whole personality. I will, however, begrudgingly admit she has some development from the first book. Yay her, I guess. I really couldn’t care less.
Also, her powers made no sense. Think about it for a second. Apart from dissolving the Fold, what good were they against people? She wasn’t supposed to be a good fighter, she was a mapmaker, but put some mirror gloves on her and suddenly she’s a badass in hand to hand combat? I doubt it. And don’t get me started on the Cut. Three pages before you couldn’t light a corridor and now you can cut people in half? And then MOUNTAINS? Yeah, no.
Mal
I’m torn. I hated him for half of the book, and wanted to hug him the other half. I couldn’t stand the way he let Alina walk over him, so I guess I cared about him? Mostly I wanted them to end up together, because they sort of deserved each other.
He did have a few moments that forced me to stuff my fist in my mouth to stop the giggling. I think waking up my parents at 1 am would not have played too well with them. I don’t know if they will get that reaction out of anybody else, but I did smile on re-reading them, so they just might:
“ “It’s always just you and me, Alina.” For a moment, it seemed like it was true. The world was this step, this circle of lamplight, the two of us suspended in the dark”
“I love you, Alina, even the part of you that loved him.”
“But no matter who or what I was, I would have been yours”
There was also this particular moment when I just felt bad for him, but then he came up with this:
“ “I need you to do something for me.” He snorted. “You mean other than deserting the army, scaling mountains, and freezing my ass off on the cold ground every night?” "
I was like, “you go girl! tell her!”. Because, really. He was so awesome for putting Alina in her place. Or at least for trying.
The Darkling
I think I have a problem. He’s the most manipulative, creepy, evil guy ever but I really liked him. And it’s not the only case. But I don’t believe anyone who says they didn’t like young president Snow in The Hunger Games.
Alexander was a great character. Not much character development but I guess if he has lived for four hundred years it’s understandable that he has a defined character. He was cunning, mean, and willing to do anything. He was well written, even if he wasn’t an extremely original villain.
I still need someone to explain why there are no other grisha that can control the shadows. And while they’re at it, why are there no other sun summoners?
Genya
At first she was sort of a shallow character, but then she got some development, and became quite interesting. What a shame she was then thrust to the background to make place for a lot more of Alina’s ramblings about Mal.
Her friendship with Alina was sort of exaggerated though. I mean, she doesn’t do much apart from giving her a makeover and gossip, but her betrayal is supposed to be total treason? I really didn’t feel like she was a bad person for not sticking with Alina, because if I was her I wouldn’t have, which I guess kinda numbed the whole “traitor” feeling for me.
Nikolai
He is by far my favourite character in this entire trilogy. Let me show you why:
“Ivan scowled. “I don’t think-” “Clearly. Why start now?” ”
“I won’t forget this, Sturmhond,” Ivan spat. The captain rolled his eyes. “That’s the idea.” ”
“ “You betrayed the Darkling for money?” “ ‘Betrayed’ seems a strong word. I hardly know the fellow.” ”
He was so much fun to read about, and I fell really hard for him. And when the Darkling turns him into a creepy flying people-eater? I had to stop myself from throwing the kindle against the wall. I must admit my anger didn’t last long cause I googled how he ends (I know, I’m disappointed at myself too), so I just read the rest of the book waiting for the resolution of his little problem. Maybe if I had found out he stayed that way I would have DNFed the book. I guess I’ll never know.
PLOT
It’s an ok plot. Not really the best I’ve read, but it kept you hooked to its action, even though there were a few times when I had to force myself to read through a particularly stretched out scene that could’ve been omitted altogether. The whole chapters in the white cave with the Apparat? Absolutely unnecessary and dull. Although I guess it was on purpose because Alina was bored too? Idk. It was weird. And even more so when other scenes were rushed, like when they’re hunting the sea whip. Because it takes them months to find the stag but only a week to find the dragon? And they catch him and kill him in what, ten minutes tops?
Apart from these problems, the book could have been improved greatly by making it third person, in my opinion. After a book and a half I couldn’t take any more of Alina’s thoughts on anything, because they were so long, depressing, and repetitive.
LOVE
If someone has read my tsitp review, they know I am NOT a fan of love squares. It’s just weird. Especially if the girl is constantly talking about how UGLY, USELESS, BETRAYING piece of trash she is. Yet, everybody wants her. How realistic.
However, it was quite well woven together. Each of them has a reason to want her, and it's not just her sudden glow up, but actual things. Mal loves her personality, Alexander her power and Nikolai her fame (well not really her fame, but her connection with the subjects).
The actual personal relationships between Alina and each of the guys are really deep and quite sweet sometimes. Mal is awesome most of the time, and I’m really happy they end up together. I wasn’t really invested in their ups and downs though, cause it was obvious they were going to end together. And also because sometimes they were just plain boring.
I love her with the Darkling, and honestly I sometimes secretly wanted them to end up together, mostly because I was really mad at Mal at times (please note I wasn’t mad because he didn’t write. Anyone, except Alina apparently, would have guessed the letters were being intercepted). When he tells her his name, and she whispers it to him before he dies… Actual chills.
Even though I have already stated I ADORE Nikolai, I was repelled by the idea of them together. They are great friends, and I don’t want them to ruin that. Also, my dislike for Alina grew with every book, so no, I didn’t want my favourite character to marry someone I didn’t like. Sorryyyy.
SIMILARITIES
This book is like a patchwork quilt. It looks unique, but it’s really just other pieces fitted together. If it’s not a problem for you, great, go ahead and adore these books. It is, however, an issue for me. Because I know I haven’t exactly read every book ever (in fact, my tbr list is like twice as big as the books I have actually read), and even I could see so many things taken from other books:
* The Hunger Games. The “always” whispered in the dark. Like, hello. It’s taken. It’s been done before. IT’S NOT YOURS. Also, when she makes Mal promise he’ll kill her. I realise it makes a lot of sense, but I will not see reason when it comes to The Hunger Games. AND WHEN THEY ARE IN THE SHIP AND HE HOLDS HER THROUGH HER NIGHTMARES. That did kind of outrage me. Oh, and the Apparat kind of acts like Coin, trying to use her as a face rather than as a leader.
* Harry Potter. People with powers hiding from people without them and the bad guys wanting to take out the powerless ones? Check. A creepy connection with the bad guy that you are only just realising works both ways but kind of makes you evil when you use it? Check. A powerful person mistakenly giving some of his power to someone else, which later means someone doesn’t truly die? CHECK. (Btw, the powerful person is Mozorova and he mistakenly gives power to the daughter, which means Mal doesn’t die, like Voldemort with Harry)
* Dune. I’m sorry. WHAT? Sankta Alina doesn’t kind of remind anybody of SAINT ALYA OF THE KNIFE???? And the Apparat popping up like the Preacher?
* Tinkerbell. I know, lol. Like, if you haven’t read them you’re probably wondering what kind of fairy pixie weirdness is in this, but honestly it’s not anything explicit. Just, ok, a world with people with powers that control elements? And is it just me, or does the Little Palace give a little bit of Pixie Hollow vibes? And the amplifiers kind of resemble the colorful pixie dust? Idk. But when they were going to give a “demonstration”, I just remembered that one scene in the Tinkerbell movies where they have this big acorn thing and they all do stuff like using mirrors to multiply light beams, and I kept laughing like crazy at their seriousness cause like i have seen that scene thousands of times when I was a kid. So, yeah, lol.
* Frozen. Yes, Tinkerbell isn’t the only childhood classic this book has taken from. The white hair? Ok, honey, we’ll pretend that’s original. The whole “no one should get close to me cause they end up hurt”? What are you gonna do, freeze Mal’s heart? Oh, right. You don’t need to, because you stabbed him.
After all, I think the books aren’t amazing, and there are many things that greatly annoyed me, but they are entertaining, and I’m overall glad I read them. I wouldn’t exactly recommend them to a friend, but I would be willing to discuss them for a long time. Oh, and I’m definitely going to watch the show.
Edit: couldn’t finish the show. WHY DID THEY CHANGE THE SIX OF CROWS PLOT!??? No wonder it was cancelled.
Edit #2: I just re-read Six of Crows and how can they be written by the same person?
May 23, 2023
※Updated Rating:
Downgrading my rating on reread due to this trilogy being marketed to teens. (See the last paragraph.)
※Original Review:
Loved it! (But not for teens, in my opinion.)
Super character development with fallible, but likeable characters. Great world building-- a completely fictional setting, but the author seamlessly builds the world so I feel right at home. Good dialogue and exciting plot development. The author kept me guessing, and even when I recognized clues early on for a huge development later, she developed it in a way I did not expect. Great ending....it was sad, but felt both realistic and satisfying.
The author's use of the 1st person through Alina's eyes to tell the story is beautifully done. However, she begins and ends each book in 3rd person, referring repeatedly to "the girl and the boy"-- so poignantly done. If I could give 4.5 stars instead of 5, I would, only knocking it down half a star because I felt a certain element of the book was a bit too "Peter Pan-ish." (A certain mode of transportation and 1 character. I still loved the character, though.)
All in all a great read. I recommend parents read the series before allowing teens to read it, so you can be sure it is appropriate for your family. Dark themes, the blurring of good and evil, and sexual attraction are throughout, but particularly in the last book where there is a barely cloaked sex scene.
Downgrading my rating on reread due to this trilogy being marketed to teens. (See the last paragraph.)
※Original Review:
Loved it! (But not for teens, in my opinion.)
Super character development with fallible, but likeable characters. Great world building-- a completely fictional setting, but the author seamlessly builds the world so I feel right at home. Good dialogue and exciting plot development. The author kept me guessing, and even when I recognized clues early on for a huge development later, she developed it in a way I did not expect. Great ending....it was sad, but felt both realistic and satisfying.
The author's use of the 1st person through Alina's eyes to tell the story is beautifully done. However, she begins and ends each book in 3rd person, referring repeatedly to "the girl and the boy"-- so poignantly done. If I could give 4.5 stars instead of 5, I would, only knocking it down half a star because I felt a certain element of the book was a bit too "Peter Pan-ish." (A certain mode of transportation and 1 character. I still loved the character, though.)
All in all a great read. I recommend parents read the series before allowing teens to read it, so you can be sure it is appropriate for your family. Dark themes, the blurring of good and evil, and sexual attraction are throughout, but particularly in the last book where there is a barely cloaked sex scene.
September 5, 2021
If you're looking for a well-realized fantasy world with believably young adult characters, this trilogy will win you over. If, like us, you are ready to celebrate the moody mentor being treated like the scum he is rather than a romantic hero, then you'll REALLY love this series. 5 stars.
April 19, 2021
Honestly so glad this is over
April 19, 2023
Overall Rate: 3.5/5 Stars
Shadow and Bone, Rate 4.5/5 stars
Do I like this book on its own merits or because I love the show? Who's to say.
Jk. I really did enjoy this book, but watching the show first did me a disservice honestly because I love the show more (oops).
On to the next one!
Siege and Storm, Rate: 3/5 Stars
This book was way more girl boss military than I was expecting lmao.
Ruin and Rising, Rate: 3.5/5 stars
I think this series is truly one of those, it's not you, it's me (I came in too big of a fan of the show to like the original text lol).
For the most part though, I did enjoy this. But also glad I can now move to Six of Crows!
Shadow and Bone, Rate 4.5/5 stars
Do I like this book on its own merits or because I love the show? Who's to say.
Jk. I really did enjoy this book, but watching the show first did me a disservice honestly because I love the show more (oops).
On to the next one!
Siege and Storm, Rate: 3/5 Stars
This book was way more girl boss military than I was expecting lmao.
Ruin and Rising, Rate: 3.5/5 stars
I think this series is truly one of those, it's not you, it's me (I came in too big of a fan of the show to like the original text lol).
For the most part though, I did enjoy this. But also glad I can now move to Six of Crows!
April 13, 2021
I liked " The Shadow and Bone Trilogy". I thought it was entertaining and enjoyable. A different kind of magic is used. It isn't called magic but some kind of science.
I also liked the idea it was influenced by Russia, I think that was kind of cool.
I also liked the idea it was influenced by Russia, I think that was kind of cool.
July 8, 2021
Meine Meinung zur gesamten Trilogie:
Nachdem auch ich als begeisterte Fantasy-Leserin dem Hype um das Krähen-Duo von Leigh Bardugo in der zweiten Jahreshälfte 2018 nicht entgehen konnte und begeistert war, habe ich mich sehr gefreut, als bekannt wurde, dass der Knaur-Verlag auch die Grisha-Trilogie der Autorin in einem schönen Schuber neu auflegen würde. Ein absolutes Schmuckstück für das Bücherregal und zumindest in meinen Augen deutlich schöner anzuschauen, als die alten Cover des Carlsen-Verlags, aber das ist Geschmacksache.
Inhaltlich bin ich leider nicht ganz so euphorisch, wie bei der Gestaltung und den Vergleich zum Krähen-Duo kann die Trilogie nicht standhalten, aber missen möchte ich die Geschichte um Alina und Mal dennoch nicht, schon allein, weil die neue Reihe der Autorin „King of Scars“ auf diese Trilogie aufbaut und wir dort dann sowohl auf alte Bekannte der Krähen als auch der Grisha-Reihe treffen werden – worauf ich mich sehr freue.
Ich habe drei wesentliche Kritikpunkte bei der Grisha-Trilogie, wobei das immer noch Meckern auf hohem Niveau ist und ich schon deutlich schlechtere Fantasy gelesen habe.
Kritikpunkt 1 + 2 gehen quasi nahtlos ineinander über:
die Grisha-Trilogie ist spürbar mehr Jugendbuch als das Krähen-Duo, in dem die Protagonisten zwar ein ähnliches Alter hatten wie Alina und Mal, aber deutlich erwachsener und reifer, komplexer und vielschichtiger auf mich wirkten. Hinzu kommt, dass ich mit den beiden Hauptcharakteren Alina und Mal nicht recht warm wurde, ich fand sie blass und mich ihre wie auch immer geartete Beziehung genervt hat. Dennoch gibt es auch in dieser Reihe tolle, spannende und faszinierende Figuren, bei denen ich mich auf eine Wiederlesen freue … auch wenn nicht alle meine Lieblinge das Ende der Trilogie erleben durften.
Ziemlich überrascht und auch enttäuscht war ich von der Übersetzung der Bücher (3. Kritikpunkt), die zwar grundsätzlich nicht schlecht ist, aber für mich irgendwie nicht zu Leigh Bardugos Stimme zu passen scheint. Das war insofern auffallend, da ich Teil 1 „Goldene Flammen“ auf Englisch gelesen und mich damit deutlich wohler gefühlt habe, als mit den übersetzten Teilen 2 und 3. Von daher verwunderte es mich auch nicht, als ich gesehen habe, dass die Grisha-Trilogie von einem anderen Übersetzer als das Krähen-Duo, die Kurzgeschichten in „Die Sprache der Dornen“ und auch „King of Scars“ ins Deutsche umgesetzt wurden. Ich kann nicht genau sagen, was mich gestört hat und ich weiß, dass ich es definitiv nicht besser machen könnte, aber irgendwie wirkte es einfach nicht stimmig und im Leigh-Bardugo-Fluss. Auch der Schriftsatz war vor allem in Dialogen mit viel wörtlicher Rede gewöhnungsbedürftig, denn allein durch den Schriftsatz war nicht immer klar, wer gerade spricht. Da hätten normale Absätze, wenn die wörtliche Rede den „Sprecher“ wechselt die Sache deutlich einfacher gemacht.
Ggf. klingt diese Rezi jetzt kritischer als ich sie wirklich empfinde, denn ich mag die Grisha-Trilogie und ich mag die Welt, die Leigh Bardugo mit den Grisha und Krähen geschaffen hat. Das ist für mich jedes Mal wie „heim kommen.“ Ich fühle mich in dieser Welt wohl, aber sie kann es besser.
Eine Sache ist mir aber sowohl bei der Grisha-Reihe als auch ei der Rabenringe-Trilogie von Siri Petterson (und auch bei der Spiegelreisenden von Christelle Dabos) klar geworden: Ich genieße es extrem, die kompletten/ abgeschlossenen Reihen in kurzen Abständen lesen zu können und nicht mehr lange auf einen nächsten Band warten zu müssen. Das werde und will ich in Zukunft öfter machen und Reihen erst dann starten, wenn (voraussichtlich) alle Teile erschienen sind.
Nachdem auch ich als begeisterte Fantasy-Leserin dem Hype um das Krähen-Duo von Leigh Bardugo in der zweiten Jahreshälfte 2018 nicht entgehen konnte und begeistert war, habe ich mich sehr gefreut, als bekannt wurde, dass der Knaur-Verlag auch die Grisha-Trilogie der Autorin in einem schönen Schuber neu auflegen würde. Ein absolutes Schmuckstück für das Bücherregal und zumindest in meinen Augen deutlich schöner anzuschauen, als die alten Cover des Carlsen-Verlags, aber das ist Geschmacksache.
Inhaltlich bin ich leider nicht ganz so euphorisch, wie bei der Gestaltung und den Vergleich zum Krähen-Duo kann die Trilogie nicht standhalten, aber missen möchte ich die Geschichte um Alina und Mal dennoch nicht, schon allein, weil die neue Reihe der Autorin „King of Scars“ auf diese Trilogie aufbaut und wir dort dann sowohl auf alte Bekannte der Krähen als auch der Grisha-Reihe treffen werden – worauf ich mich sehr freue.
Ich habe drei wesentliche Kritikpunkte bei der Grisha-Trilogie, wobei das immer noch Meckern auf hohem Niveau ist und ich schon deutlich schlechtere Fantasy gelesen habe.
Kritikpunkt 1 + 2 gehen quasi nahtlos ineinander über:
die Grisha-Trilogie ist spürbar mehr Jugendbuch als das Krähen-Duo, in dem die Protagonisten zwar ein ähnliches Alter hatten wie Alina und Mal, aber deutlich erwachsener und reifer, komplexer und vielschichtiger auf mich wirkten. Hinzu kommt, dass ich mit den beiden Hauptcharakteren Alina und Mal nicht recht warm wurde, ich fand sie blass und mich ihre wie auch immer geartete Beziehung genervt hat. Dennoch gibt es auch in dieser Reihe tolle, spannende und faszinierende Figuren, bei denen ich mich auf eine Wiederlesen freue … auch wenn nicht alle meine Lieblinge das Ende der Trilogie erleben durften.
Ziemlich überrascht und auch enttäuscht war ich von der Übersetzung der Bücher (3. Kritikpunkt), die zwar grundsätzlich nicht schlecht ist, aber für mich irgendwie nicht zu Leigh Bardugos Stimme zu passen scheint. Das war insofern auffallend, da ich Teil 1 „Goldene Flammen“ auf Englisch gelesen und mich damit deutlich wohler gefühlt habe, als mit den übersetzten Teilen 2 und 3. Von daher verwunderte es mich auch nicht, als ich gesehen habe, dass die Grisha-Trilogie von einem anderen Übersetzer als das Krähen-Duo, die Kurzgeschichten in „Die Sprache der Dornen“ und auch „King of Scars“ ins Deutsche umgesetzt wurden. Ich kann nicht genau sagen, was mich gestört hat und ich weiß, dass ich es definitiv nicht besser machen könnte, aber irgendwie wirkte es einfach nicht stimmig und im Leigh-Bardugo-Fluss. Auch der Schriftsatz war vor allem in Dialogen mit viel wörtlicher Rede gewöhnungsbedürftig, denn allein durch den Schriftsatz war nicht immer klar, wer gerade spricht. Da hätten normale Absätze, wenn die wörtliche Rede den „Sprecher“ wechselt die Sache deutlich einfacher gemacht.
Ggf. klingt diese Rezi jetzt kritischer als ich sie wirklich empfinde, denn ich mag die Grisha-Trilogie und ich mag die Welt, die Leigh Bardugo mit den Grisha und Krähen geschaffen hat. Das ist für mich jedes Mal wie „heim kommen.“ Ich fühle mich in dieser Welt wohl, aber sie kann es besser.
Eine Sache ist mir aber sowohl bei der Grisha-Reihe als auch ei der Rabenringe-Trilogie von Siri Petterson (und auch bei der Spiegelreisenden von Christelle Dabos) klar geworden: Ich genieße es extrem, die kompletten/ abgeschlossenen Reihen in kurzen Abständen lesen zu können und nicht mehr lange auf einen nächsten Band warten zu müssen. Das werde und will ich in Zukunft öfter machen und Reihen erst dann starten, wenn (voraussichtlich) alle Teile erschienen sind.
November 29, 2015
Intriguing, Dark, Inspiring & Heartfelt! A Thrilling Read! I Loved It!
December 19, 2017
Shadow & Bone (5/5)
Siege & Storm (3.5/5)
Ruin & Rising (5/5)
First Impressions/Pros and Cons:
I was first drawn into this series by the cover art, and before long the synopsis backed up the beauty of the cover. I was really eager to read this Fantasy based in Russia and around Russian culture!
In the first book, Bardugo grabbed me by my hand and pulled me through the book. I was constantly turning pages without even keeping track. I was dying for interaction between Mal and Alina, and then I was dying for more of The Darkling. Each page had another reason that pulled me deeper into the story of the Grisha. I found myself mesmerized by the Grisha and their powers, and was eager to keep track of the different color kefta's, and the different powers of the Grisha. This book really established the world we were in, and the society that we faced.
In the beginning of the second book, I was happy to have more time with Mal and Alina, but the story continued at a very slow pace for me. The thing that pulled me through this novel was the interaction with the characters. I fell in love with Nikolai from very early on, and even Tolya and Tamar. When I got bored by the "details" I would hang on just to catch the banter between characters. After about 250 pages, the book finally grabbed me like a whirlwind and I finished it in one sitting. Book two, though it was slow, was designed mostly to see huge steps in character development, and to deepen the plot with strategy and detail. Bardugo waited until the very end, however, to pull you back into the main focus of the story.
The final book in the trilogy acted as a tornado for me. I was quickly swept up and carried away, just as I had been with book one. I was actually so focused on reading - eager to find out what happens - that I didn't get to take as many notes as I would have liked to. Throughout the entire series I, personally, didn't feel like there were any huge plot holes. Yes, there were some holes in the driving force behind some of the characters, but they were explained away by an unearthly calling, drawn to the forces uncontrollably. I did, however, find myself extremely irked with the fact that the first portion of this book is spent in a damp underground. Realistically, everyone would have gotten violently sick with Pneumonia, and other disease born from wet environments. Though this didn't happen AT ALL, I guess I just have to remember this book is a fantasy, so maybe they don't get sick like normal people?
All in all, Bardugo has well-placed plot twists, keeps you on your toes in the romance department, and creates characters that have realistic emotions and thought processes that I find makes them very relatable.
Characters:
Now it's time to talk about the very creatures who bring a book to life. Our protagonist, Alina Starkov, starts off timid. She is shy, easily emotional, and unsuccessful in life. She, as a person, is mediocre. There is no grandeur about her. She is not fiercely beautiful, incredibly intelligent, or even an above average map-maker. Starting off with someone who is so close to nothing really gives a character TONS of room to grow, and she did. By book two we see her come out of the "timid, woe-is-me, victim mentality" a bit. She begins to stuff her emotions down and swallow the heavy pills as they come. By the end of book two, she begins to accept her "calling." Once we reach book 3, she's forced to face what she is, and what she must be. She steps away from the character she once was, and we begin to see her blossom as a ruthless leader. The question lying beneath that is, is that a good or a bad thing?
Next, we have Mal, who by general consensus is not a favorite of many. In book one Mal starts off blind, and cocky. He was impervious to seeing what was right in front of him, and that was really quite painful to watch. He was your stereotypical "Player." He loved the ladies, he loved his friends, and he loved to drink. By the end of book one, things had taken a shift. Suddenly the blinders came off, and he realized what he was missing. He became less jovial and careless, which is to be expected after a trauma or tragedy. Book two started off with him determined to no longer take life for granted, however, after a series of events he began to revert back to old behaviors. This was painstakingly annoying and made me hate him for a while. At the beginning of book three he was back to living a life of devotion, but before long he'd begun to come to terms with his decision to put the blinders back on. By the end of the series, despite the constant back-and-forth drama, he'd taken his fair share of losses (including finally losing the blinders) and he sets off on a lifetime journey of being worthy of the gift he has.
The Darkling, oh what words I have for him. When we meet him in book one he starts off as very cold and distant. He seems calculated and acts as one might expect a noble to act. Along the way, he becomes this fiercely sexy, kind, and charming being whom I think everyone wanted a piece of. Raise your hand if you wanted to take Alina's place in book one. *Jabs hand in air violently* By the end of book one we begin to see other sides of his character that are cold, and callous. He is goal-oriented and unafraid of taking any actions necessary to meet this goal. In book two I began to question if he had succumbed to the thing that destroys us all - love. He remains cold and callous throughout the rest of book two. After we reach the halfway mark in book two, and most prominently in book three, we see heavy chips in his armor. The facade begins to break and we get a glimpse of the softer sides of the Darkling.
Each character in this book - Nikolai, David, Tolya, Tamar, Sergei, Nadia, Baghra, Zoya, etc - develops beautifully throughout. We see progressions in personality, the revealing of secrets, flaws in them as a person, their strengths, and weaknesses. Personally, I think my favorite character was Nikolai because he was witty, sarcastic, had the spirit animal of a peacock, and the resilience of a born leader.
Conclusion:
This Russian Folk Fantasy has ravaged my heart and made me a home in Ravka. With a battle of self vs. society, good vs. evil, and love conquers all this novel will take you on a journey of light versus the darkness. Personally, I would rate this series 4.5/5, and would most definitely recommend to a friend. I would have been happy to give it a five-star rating had book two not been so slow initially. With some sexual scenes, and vivid depictions of death and war, personally, I wouldn't suggest this series for anyone under the age of 15. I hope you enjoy(ed) this series as much as I did, and I would love to hear your thoughts!
Favorite Quotes:
“The problem with wanting is that it makes us weak.” – The Darkling
“The moment our lips met, I knew with pure and piercing certainty that I would have waited for him forever.” – Alina
“Why can a Grisha possess but one amplifier? I will answer this question instead: What is infinite? The universe and the greed of men.” – The Darkling
“People, particularly big men carrying big rifles, don’t expect lip from a scrawny thing like me. They always look a bit dazed when they get it.” – Alina
“There’s nothing wrong with being a lizard either, unless you were born to be a Hawk.”
– Baghra
“When people say impossible, they usually mean improbable.” - Sturmhond
“The less you say, the more weight your words will carry.” - Nikolai
“What is infinite? The universe and the greed of men.” - Morozova
"I might not be a threat, but I could become one." - Alina
"Saints, Alina. I hope you weren't looking to me to be the voice of reason. I keep to a strict diet of ill-advised enthusiasm and heartfelt regret." - Nikolai
May 12, 2021
Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo - 5 stars
I finished Shadow and Bone - for maybe the 3rd time! - on March 13th after starting it on March 11th. I both read my edition of it and listened to the audiobook! I'm going to increase my rating to the full five stars.
I didn't ever laugh or cry, but I really think I might if I ever reread my edition of it!
I was very glad both Mal and Alina escaped the Darkling in the end. But I find myself wondering how long their freedom will last? So I guess it's very good that I plan to read the next two books in this series this month! ❤
Siege and Storm by Leigh Bardugo - 5 stars
I started Siege and Storm on March 14th. I'm currently 25% through it and loving this story! I finished it on March 17th. It was a fantastic story! I loved it!
I was sad that the Darkling survived, but I suppose something more needs to be left for book three!
Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo - 5 stars
I started this book on March 18th and finished it on March 22nd. It was a wonderful read! I think Alina and Mal
Which was very nice, especially when I think of how Mal pulled back from Alina earlier (although I can't now remember if this happened in S&S or R&R).
I was just as surprised as Alina was when she learned that .
I was glad that the . But sadly, it was not to be.
And after it was all over, we had . So this book was really fantastic. I loved it!
I finished Shadow and Bone - for maybe the 3rd time! - on March 13th after starting it on March 11th. I both read my edition of it and listened to the audiobook! I'm going to increase my rating to the full five stars.
I didn't ever laugh or cry, but I really think I might if I ever reread my edition of it!
I was very glad both Mal and Alina escaped the Darkling in the end. But I find myself wondering how long their freedom will last? So I guess it's very good that I plan to read the next two books in this series this month! ❤
Siege and Storm by Leigh Bardugo - 5 stars
I started Siege and Storm on March 14th. I'm currently 25% through it and loving this story! I finished it on March 17th. It was a fantastic story! I loved it!
I was sad that the Darkling survived, but I suppose something more needs to be left for book three!
Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo - 5 stars
I started this book on March 18th and finished it on March 22nd. It was a wonderful read! I think Alina and Mal
Which was very nice, especially when I think of how Mal pulled back from Alina earlier (although I can't now remember if this happened in S&S or R&R).
I was just as surprised as Alina was when she learned that .
I was glad that the . But sadly, it was not to be.
And after it was all over, we had . So this book was really fantastic. I loved it!
March 4, 2018
The Grisha trilogy was on my radar for far too long before I finally picked it up – in fact, the only reason it was pushed up my to-read list is because of my desire to read Six of Crows. Despite how Six of Crows can be read without having read the Grisha trilogy first, I decided to take the advice of those who promised more enjoyment through reading one then the other.
In truth, I’m annoyed with myself for waiting so long to read the Grisha trilogy. It may not be the best young adult fantasy trilogy out there, but it is one seriously addictive read. After finishing book one, I jumped straight into book two. Once finished with book two, I was devouring book three. It’s a series that leaves you wanting more, a series that sucks you in with the promise of what is to come.
Without a doubt, I’m glad I finally gave in and jumped on the Leigh Bardugo bandwagon.
In truth, I’m annoyed with myself for waiting so long to read the Grisha trilogy. It may not be the best young adult fantasy trilogy out there, but it is one seriously addictive read. After finishing book one, I jumped straight into book two. Once finished with book two, I was devouring book three. It’s a series that leaves you wanting more, a series that sucks you in with the promise of what is to come.
Without a doubt, I’m glad I finally gave in and jumped on the Leigh Bardugo bandwagon.
April 23, 2021
Purée !!!! .... 😭😭😭
Le troisième tome commence en plein chaos. Encore et toujours la même rengaine. Les troupes ont été ébranlées, les ennemis ou les alliés sont éparpillés. Tout fout le camp. Mais la ferveur populaire est plus vibrante que jamais.
L'Invocatrice de Lumière a été élevée au grade de Sainte. Morte ou survivante ? Son nom fait soulever les foules. Pourtant, Alina est brisée. Son pouvoir est en train de la détruire, son avenir lui échappe et une décision grave s'impose.
Concrètement, le Darkling reste une figure envoûtante. Ah, l'Homme en Noir. Celui qu'on doit détester sans s'y résoudre. C'est d'ailleurs tout le talent de Leigh Bardugo : sa propension à créer des personnages forts. Des personnages qui nous touchent et qui nous font rire. Des personnages qu'on aime sans exception.
Eh oui, j'ai également succombé au magnétisme de Nikolai. J'ai succombé à la tendresse de David. J'ai adoré détester Zoya. J'ai pleuré face à l'abnégation de Mal. J'ai douté. J'ai gloussé, j'ai soupiré, j'ai frissonné. Chapeau pour ça.
Question action, ça pêche un peu à force de se lancer dans de longues fuites en avant, des errances dans les bois, les plaines, les montagnes. Par contre, ça crée un vrai esprit de groupe. On s'attache ainsi beaucoup à l'univers et aux protagonistes.
Les tourments romantiques flottent au-dessus des têtes mais ne polluent pas non plus l'atmosphère générale. Les choix vont et viennent. Les goûts s'affirment. Les sacrifices se profilent. Argh. De toute façon, il m'est bien difficile d'accorder ma préférence. Parce que j'aime VRAIMENT tout le monde. Mais j'ai versé ma larme.
Au fond, mon cœur a été broyé à deux reprises au cours du troisième tome. Deux moments clés qui m'ont fait hurler. Concernant le dénouement, je suis à moitié conquise, mais pas déçue, car j'aurais opté pour la première option. Mais je chipote. Puisque j'ai été comblée : cette lecture est vibrante, riche en émotions et captivante. Son monde n'a pas fini de m'éblouir !
Série Netflix en approche. Et lecture de Six of Crows pour parfaire l'aventure.
Le troisième tome commence en plein chaos. Encore et toujours la même rengaine. Les troupes ont été ébranlées, les ennemis ou les alliés sont éparpillés. Tout fout le camp. Mais la ferveur populaire est plus vibrante que jamais.
L'Invocatrice de Lumière a été élevée au grade de Sainte. Morte ou survivante ? Son nom fait soulever les foules. Pourtant, Alina est brisée. Son pouvoir est en train de la détruire, son avenir lui échappe et une décision grave s'impose.
Concrètement, le Darkling reste une figure envoûtante. Ah, l'Homme en Noir. Celui qu'on doit détester sans s'y résoudre. C'est d'ailleurs tout le talent de Leigh Bardugo : sa propension à créer des personnages forts. Des personnages qui nous touchent et qui nous font rire. Des personnages qu'on aime sans exception.
Eh oui, j'ai également succombé au magnétisme de Nikolai. J'ai succombé à la tendresse de David. J'ai adoré détester Zoya. J'ai pleuré face à l'abnégation de Mal. J'ai douté. J'ai gloussé, j'ai soupiré, j'ai frissonné. Chapeau pour ça.
Question action, ça pêche un peu à force de se lancer dans de longues fuites en avant, des errances dans les bois, les plaines, les montagnes. Par contre, ça crée un vrai esprit de groupe. On s'attache ainsi beaucoup à l'univers et aux protagonistes.
Les tourments romantiques flottent au-dessus des têtes mais ne polluent pas non plus l'atmosphère générale. Les choix vont et viennent. Les goûts s'affirment. Les sacrifices se profilent. Argh. De toute façon, il m'est bien difficile d'accorder ma préférence. Parce que j'aime VRAIMENT tout le monde. Mais j'ai versé ma larme.
Au fond, mon cœur a été broyé à deux reprises au cours du troisième tome. Deux moments clés qui m'ont fait hurler. Concernant le dénouement, je suis à moitié conquise, mais pas déçue, car j'aurais opté pour la première option. Mais je chipote. Puisque j'ai été comblée : cette lecture est vibrante, riche en émotions et captivante. Son monde n'a pas fini de m'éblouir !
Série Netflix en approche. Et lecture de Six of Crows pour parfaire l'aventure.
January 8, 2021
Kuna ma alustasin Leigh Üks tibatilluke asi, mis aga mulle täiega pinda käis, olid tema vene keelest tuletatud nimed ja sõnad, mis kohati olid minu jaoks silmakriipivad. Ja ma annan endale täiesti aru, et fantaasiamaailmas keelt luues on autoril vabad käed ja see ei ole tegelikult probleem, aga see häiris. Mind. Olen kindel, et suurem osa lugejaid naudib lugu 100% :)
('Sol koroleva' ... uhh, ma ütlen. Hea vähemalt, et polnud 'korol'. Ilja on Morozova, Zoja on Nazjalenski. Ärge pange tähele, torisen siin omaette :D)
('Sol koroleva' ... uhh, ma ütlen. Hea vähemalt, et polnud 'korol'. Ilja on Morozova, Zoja on Nazjalenski. Ärge pange tähele, torisen siin omaette :D)
March 4, 2022
Ich habe das erste Buch nur gekauft, 10 Minuten vor Ladenschluss, weil hinten darauf stand "bestes magisches Universum seit Harry Potter" und eine Buchreihe die mit Harry Potter verglichen wird, muss was auf dem Kasten haben. Ich habe diese Reihe verschlungen, und wenn einem bekanntlich das erste Buch gefällt muss man die anderen Bücher auch kaufen (zumindest bei mir). Die Reihe hat mit extrem gut gefallen, ganz anderes als Harry Potter, aber genauso mitreißend! Ich fremdel eigentlich mit der Ich-Perspektiv aber in dieser Geschichte absolut passend, da man die Welt und das sein des Protagonisten sehr gut nachvollziehen kann. Das ist eine Buchreihe die ich definitiv noch mehrmals lesen werden. Nur zu empfehlen!!!
November 11, 2019
Leigh Bardugo is certainly an evocative writer who could capture our hearts even with just a few words. I, however, had such high expectations for this trilogy since her other series, Six of Crows, were there in my all time favorite shelf. I guess I should've read this first before that.
The story centered on Alina having the power to summon the light to battle the darkness that divided Ravra for a hundred years. It was a supposed miracle and people dubbed it as such that she eventually became a living Saint and practically shouldering the responsibility of uniting the nation once again by vanishing the darkness. This sounded easy and all but of course it isn't. There is one charming and seductive villain to make everything interesting and to chase Alina and the gang all around Ravka to prolong this epic tale. But before all that, there's this clumsy and scrawny orphaned girl pining for the charming and handsome Mal who was her childhood best friend and love of her life. Mal was a gifted tracker and good shoulder, and bane of women everywhere which made them at total odds with each other in comparison. Then she discovered her power and caught the attention of the Darkling, Grisha's leader, and upended her life on one confusing morning, then whisked away to the capital and The Little Palace to master her power and make friends and enemies along the way. Then she discovered disturbing secrets and then run for her life together with Mal, captured bu the Darkling then escape again, sail across the True Sea then captured again... Hunt for the ancient amplifiers in-between, meet the mysterious Privateer, back to Ravka again, surprise attack by the Darkling, escape, run, escape, run... Generally, this was what compromised the majority of the series. They were always on the run all the while Alina was hungering for more power and being the hero that she was supposed to be. If not for the brilliant storytelling and the care and love Bardugo put into her words, I never would've finished this sooner. And because of the Darkling of course.
I always love characters who are scarred yet triumphant. Those who wear their scars like jewelry. The Darkling didn't do that, certainly. The scars he bore that not many people paid close enough attention to see and yet has always been there driving his ambition further. He carried the name he game to himself well. And yet there was something about his darkness that drew you in. Maybe because I feel like there is always a darker part of ourselves where we seek comfort and found refuge. Alina felt it too, with the Darkling. That feeling of surety that drew her to him. But I felt it was not just because of the he was an amplier; but because they were the same. Unique in the world. I wondered what would've happened if she stayed by his side, if she trusted herself to help him become a better man. I always believed that some of his actions were sincere well hidden in his shadows.
The Darkling did not just drew Alina in, he was drawn to her too. She wasn't just supposed to ber his equal, ruling beside him. He found a companion in her, someone to finally understand the uniqueness of their power; someone to be with him in the dark. Over hundreds of years he waited for someone who was different like him. And that was just sad, really. He was just like some of us. Alone in the world and misunderstood. Wanting to be loved and be remembered. He loved Ravka in his own way. Build a home, a haven, for the Grisha to have a safe place to be. He build the Second Army and made the Grisha important and protected his own country the way he knew how. He wasn't all evil. And whether the like it or not, he certainly left a mark in his world before he was gone.
(this scene just broke my heart! Probably the most unforgettable across the entire series! Followed by that scene where he told Alina her name. The one tattoed to his heart. The name he never told anyone and only his mother knew of.)
Maybe Alina and the Darkling were meant to cross paths to change each other's lives but was never meant to live together. Too much power and all that. I didn't exactly love the ending but I was content with it. I wasn't a fan of Mal for some reason unknown to me, and I would have preferred if Alina stayed with the rest if Grisha but I guess we don't always get what we want. I understood her when she said that Mal was her home, that she belonged with him. I have long learned that home is not a place, but a feeling of belonging. Like a warm hug on a rainy day or the smell of a favorite meal prepared by your father at breakfast. A place that is safe and familiar.
The story centered on Alina having the power to summon the light to battle the darkness that divided Ravra for a hundred years. It was a supposed miracle and people dubbed it as such that she eventually became a living Saint and practically shouldering the responsibility of uniting the nation once again by vanishing the darkness. This sounded easy and all but of course it isn't. There is one charming and seductive villain to make everything interesting and to chase Alina and the gang all around Ravka to prolong this epic tale. But before all that, there's this clumsy and scrawny orphaned girl pining for the charming and handsome Mal who was her childhood best friend and love of her life. Mal was a gifted tracker and good shoulder, and bane of women everywhere which made them at total odds with each other in comparison. Then she discovered her power and caught the attention of the Darkling, Grisha's leader, and upended her life on one confusing morning, then whisked away to the capital and The Little Palace to master her power and make friends and enemies along the way. Then she discovered disturbing secrets and then run for her life together with Mal, captured bu the Darkling then escape again, sail across the True Sea then captured again... Hunt for the ancient amplifiers in-between, meet the mysterious Privateer, back to Ravka again, surprise attack by the Darkling, escape, run, escape, run... Generally, this was what compromised the majority of the series. They were always on the run all the while Alina was hungering for more power and being the hero that she was supposed to be. If not for the brilliant storytelling and the care and love Bardugo put into her words, I never would've finished this sooner. And because of the Darkling of course.
I always love characters who are scarred yet triumphant. Those who wear their scars like jewelry. The Darkling didn't do that, certainly. The scars he bore that not many people paid close enough attention to see and yet has always been there driving his ambition further. He carried the name he game to himself well. And yet there was something about his darkness that drew you in. Maybe because I feel like there is always a darker part of ourselves where we seek comfort and found refuge. Alina felt it too, with the Darkling. That feeling of surety that drew her to him. But I felt it was not just because of the he was an amplier; but because they were the same. Unique in the world. I wondered what would've happened if she stayed by his side, if she trusted herself to help him become a better man. I always believed that some of his actions were sincere well hidden in his shadows.
"You were meant to be my balance"
"There is no one like us"
The Darkling did not just drew Alina in, he was drawn to her too. She wasn't just supposed to ber his equal, ruling beside him. He found a companion in her, someone to finally understand the uniqueness of their power; someone to be with him in the dark. Over hundreds of years he waited for someone who was different like him. And that was just sad, really. He was just like some of us. Alone in the world and misunderstood. Wanting to be loved and be remembered. He loved Ravka in his own way. Build a home, a haven, for the Grisha to have a safe place to be. He build the Second Army and made the Grisha important and protected his own country the way he knew how. He wasn't all evil. And whether the like it or not, he certainly left a mark in his world before he was gone.
"Alina,” the Darkling repeated, his fingers seeking mine. I was surprised to find fresh tears filling my eyes.
He reached up and brushed his knuckles over the wetness on my cheek. The smallest smile touched his bloodstained lips. “Someone to mourn me..."
“Once more,” he said. “Speak my name once more.”
He was ancient, I knew that. But in this moment he was just a boy—brilliant, blessed with too much power, burdened by eternity.
“Aleksander.”
His eyes fluttered shut. “Don’t let me be alone,” he murmured. And then he was gone.
(this scene just broke my heart! Probably the most unforgettable across the entire series! Followed by that scene where he told Alina her name. The one tattoed to his heart. The name he never told anyone and only his mother knew of.)
Maybe Alina and the Darkling were meant to cross paths to change each other's lives but was never meant to live together. Too much power and all that. I didn't exactly love the ending but I was content with it. I wasn't a fan of Mal for some reason unknown to me, and I would have preferred if Alina stayed with the rest if Grisha but I guess we don't always get what we want. I understood her when she said that Mal was her home, that she belonged with him. I have long learned that home is not a place, but a feeling of belonging. Like a warm hug on a rainy day or the smell of a favorite meal prepared by your father at breakfast. A place that is safe and familiar.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2021
Mitigée est le maître mot de ma lecture.
Un très bon premier tome et une suite décevante.
Le troisième remonte un peu le niveau sans être à la hauteur du premier.
Ce qui a péché selon moi : beaucoup trop de longueurs, des dialogues insipides et un manque d’évolution des personnages.
L’univers soviétique y est également pour quelque chose (sentiment tout à fait personnel, je suis pas fan)...
Une lecture en demi-teinte mais qui pose les bases pour SoC.
Un très bon premier tome et une suite décevante.
Le troisième remonte un peu le niveau sans être à la hauteur du premier.
Ce qui a péché selon moi : beaucoup trop de longueurs, des dialogues insipides et un manque d’évolution des personnages.
L’univers soviétique y est également pour quelque chose (sentiment tout à fait personnel, je suis pas fan)...
Une lecture en demi-teinte mais qui pose les bases pour SoC.
October 5, 2021
Ik heb genoten van deze boeken. Wat een prachtig verhaal.
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