Shadow and Bone

Author:  Leigh Bardugo

Series:  The Grisha, Book 1

Publisher:  Henry Holt & Company

Year:  2012

Pages:  356

Goodreads Description:

The Shadow Fold, a swathe of impenetrable darkness, crawling with monsters that feast on human flesh, is slowly destroying the once-great nation of Ravka.

Alina, a pale, lonely orphan, discovers a unique power that thrusts her into the lavish world of the kingdom’s magical elite—the Grisha. Could she be the key to unravelling the dark fabric of the Shadow Fold and setting Ravka free?

The Darkling, a creature of seductive charm and terrifying power, leader of the Grisha. If Alina is to fulfill her destiny, she must discover how to unlock her gift and face up to her dangerous attraction to him.

But what of Mal, Alina’s childhood best friend? As Alina contemplates her dazzling new future, why can’t she ever quite forget him?

Glorious. Epic. Irresistible. Romance.

What can I say? This book is impossible to put down. It was just really beautiful fantasy. Shadow and Bone has a great heroine, nice world building, terrific use of magic and fast paced action. What more can you ask of a fantasy? Oh, yeah, pronounceable names (although that does seem to be the trademark of good fantasy). I can't believe I left this book sitting on my TBR pile for so long. What's worse is I don't have the second book in my possession!

Oh well, I guess that'll be something to look forward to. In the meantime, I suggest you pick this book up and give it a try.