Reviewing this book is harder than I would have imagined. Let's start with the positive: First person narrative is everywhere these days, some authors can pull it off, others can't. I was pleasantly surprised how well it was done in this book. Also the characters and their relationships were created beautifully and most importantly realistically. I felt drawn to them and submerged, slowly discovering more and more. Even though it's a first person narrative I didn't feel as if there was too much left out that simply went unseen - the way she observes her surroundings gives a fairly good picture of it all without it appearing as if she knows and sees all.The struggles, downfalls and problems the characters go through here are real. This book has the typical characters; the heroine with a tragic past, a bitchy female counterpart, the mysterious teacher and the evil puppetmaster/Duke but still somehow it's different from other YA fantasy novels and I was immersed in the story. But as it went on I often noticed I began skipping parts. Once they were at court I found myself being bored several times because even though its beautifully written, there really wasn't that much happening. Intrigues and threats of the courts were always sort of present, but more like a looming shadow or a far away cloud - I was aware of them, they were mentioned often but nothing ever really happened. It was just there, that's it. It picked up a little towards the end but especially the middle part just became too boring at times. For too much time it was just the same over and over and over again. First - I received this book in return for my reviewSecond - it is a good book. The characters are well developed and you do get a good sense on the time and place. Also - it is SUPER easy to read! Ok - so I overall liked this book. Slow in parts, but I think it is just leading up to something big. I know it goes over 3 books, but I just hope she doesn't drag it out. That being said - I am usually a real good judge at seeing where story lines will go.... At this point I have NO idea where this story will lead. SO I am excited to read the next book. SO far I am placing this in the OK book area for me in hopes that the next book speeds up and really starts developing a story
What do You think about Shadowborn (2013)?
I luv how she saved miriel life at the end ad she stud up for her wen she fàced her uncle
—traci_brown
