Read for: YA Challenge
Although the first in yet another fantasy series billed for young adults, Graceling would certainly appeal to adult readers. I won't say too much about the plot because, lets face it, you've all read the book itself or other reviews, so you probably know everything you need to.
Set in the Seven Kingdoms, where a small number of people are born with a Grace, or special talent, the book revolves around a feisty heroine, Katsa. Born with a killing Grace, Katsa acts as an assassin for her uncle, the King of the Middluns, and as such, is feared by most of her people. Katsa gets close to noone, except her eccentric cousin, that is until she meets Po, a Graced fighter from the kingdom of Lienid. Searching for Po's kidnapped grandfather, Katsa must travel far across the Kingdoms and come to terms with her feelings towards her own Grace.
Graceling is yet another exciting and entertaining fantasy novel with a strong and interesting female leading character. Although nothing particularly original, the story was gripping and the characters flawed but passionate enough for the reader to become engrossed in their journeys. Yet again, I felt myself drawn to the leading male character, Po, and his burgeoning relationship with the somewhat difficult Katsa. His journey felt slightly less predictable to me, and the development of his character and his relationship with his family was somewhat more intriguing.
A very enjoyable read. I shall certainly be reading the sequel, Fire.
Other blog reviews:
Always Dreaming
Becky's Book Reviews
Books and other thoughts
Em's Bookshelf
Gemini Moon
Medieval Bookworm
Stella Matutina
The Written World
6 comments:
I loved this book!
Though not a top read for me this year, this book was still definitely worth reading!!
--Sharry
Bah. This book is on my wish list still. I'll be the last in the known universe to have read it.
Kailana - :) Must.Read.Fire!
Sharry - I agree, not the best, but an entertaining way of spending a few hours!
Clover - And I thought I was last! ;)
This WAS a good book. I was pleased with the characters and the fact we didn't doddle over details. Sometimes, in books, that's enough to make me want to rip out my hair.
I'm glad to see there is a sequel.
cannwin - yet another pleasantly surprising read of last year! glad you enjoyed it, and hope you like the sequel. Thanks for stopping by.
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