The One Where I Review SIEGE AND STORM

Siege and Storm (The Grisha #2)
by Leigh Bardugo
Source: Bought
Format: Hardback
Pages: 432
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Goodreads Synopsis:

Darkness never dies.

Hunted across the True Sea, haunted by the lives she took on the Fold, Alina must try to make a life with Mal in an unfamiliar land. She finds starting new is not easy while keeping her identity as the Sun Summoner a secret. She can’t outrun her past or her destiny for long.

The Darkling has emerged from the Shadow Fold with a terrifying new power and a dangerous plan that will test the very boundaries of the natural world. With the help of a notorious privateer, Alina returns to the country she abandoned, determined to fight the forces gathering against Ravka. But as her power grows, Alina slips deeper into the Darkling’s game of forbidden magic, and farther away from Mal. Somehow, she will have to choose between her country, her power, and the love she always thought would guide her--or risk losing everything to the oncoming storm.

My review:

One word:

Sturmhond.

Well, that's my review! 

What.....you guys actually need more than that?

Fine.....

So, since I'm supposed to do a "real" book review, here it is.

This was part of my series re-read in preparation for the third and final book of this trilogy. And, just like the first book, I was blown away yet again. It's the mark of a strong series when reading the book again brings back the same strong emotions as when you first read them. All the heart-ache and emotions came flooding back to me and kept my heart racing. Kudos to you Bardugo.

Siege and Storm starts off a bit slow, but don't let that fool you. It doesn't take long for this book to kick into high gear yet again and take you on one heck of a ride. At the end of the last book you have Mal and Alina fleeing the Darkling after that craziness that was the ending of Shadow and Bone. Alina and Mal think time is on their side. HA! It isn't long before the Darkling shows up in all his evil gloriousness like "you thought you could DEFEAT ME?! PUNY HUMANS!" and all hell breaks loose yet again. And that's just the first couple chapters. Add in questing, political intrigue, fighting, courting, Sun Summoning, new Darkling psycho powers, and you have the plot line of Siege and Storm. While I thought the first part of their journey (questing) would be the entire book and become boring, I was easily proven wrong. This book doesn't contain just one part of their journey, but multiple parts, all flowing seamlessly together to create a story that is full of humor, heartache, blood, and magic. 

But the plot isn't the only part of this book that is phenomenal. Oh, no. The characters are definitely worthy of their own paragraphs of gushing praise.

Alina. Oh, honey. I feel for you. I really do because life is not easy. You always just wanted to blend in, but life threw you for a sucker punch and laughed in your face. But it's okay! Because you can do it! You've grown so much, through the first book and this book. I have faith in you! You're still sometimes insecure and even afraid, but that's okay because it's understandable. Though life isn't exactly on your side at the moment, you hold your own, and for that I salute you. You keep being you girl. Just remember, you're not alone. Some people may not be able to sympathize with you, there are those you can empathize with you and just want to help. Let them.

Mal. My dear, sweet Mal. Though the Darkling is my guilty pleasure, you should be the winner. You're a ridiculously sexy soldier who knows how to take care of himself and those you love. You're honorable, kind-hearted, sexy and truly care about Alina. I know that many people felt you were lacking in this book, but I completely understand you. You were a renowned soldier. You were good at what you did and, most importantly, enjoyed it. You liked what being a soldier entailed. But you gave it all up to save Alina. How can I fault you for that? And every day you continue to do so. But both of your paths are so different. And you gave up everything for her. Everything that made you who you were and it feels as if she isn't giving up anything for you. I totally feel your insecurities in having to be in a situation in which you are the odd ball out. Both of you are part of different worlds now. But never forget, you both also came from the same world. Though people hated the way your relationship was portrayed in this book, I applaud it's realism. Though your paths are different, and it makes staying together that much harder, I know you will prevail. I have faith in you. 

The Darkling. What more can I say about you? I know I shouldn't like you what with you being evil having different plans than our heroes, but I do. So dark and mysterious. You're alluring and delectable, delicious enticing. Though you are not in this book NEARLY as much as you should be, every scene with you in it made me fan myself. Job well done. 

But let's be honest here, the real reason this book is as phenomenal as it is is because of 

STURMHOND

Oh, Sturmhond. You sexy beast you. How you made me swoon with your priceless wit, amazing charm, cocky swagger, and brilliant, strategic mind. I was so smitten by you that I chose you as my date for my first ever YA Prom. Your rakish demeanor and sarcastic nature won be over from the very beginning. I looked forward to every scene you were in and what witty rapport would be uttered from you glorious mouth next. Though Alina is clear in who she chooses take me instead, that doesn't stop you from swaggering into the scene to steal the show. And, though your sarcasm and wit make you absolutely swoon worthy, I must admit that I was smitten by your intelligence. Yes, I love a good 'ol intelligent man. While good looks and sarcasm are always pluses in my book, intelligence tips the balance from gloriously sexy to WOEIFJWOEFIJWIOEFJ. You just keep being the sexy, swoony, cunning pirate you are Sturmhond. Oh, sorry. I mean privateer ;)

And though these are the main characters, I can't forget about the secondary characters. New additions include fighting family duo consisting of the tough-as-nails Tamar and stoic, mountain of a boy, Tolya. Oblivious, yet sweet, David and sharp-tongued Zoya are just a few of the Grisha that return to this story. 

The world that Bardugo has created is phenomenal. So lush and beautiful and full of mythology. I found myself so interested in learning more about the Saints and the political systems of Ravka. Everything was just beautifully done and flowed smoothly together. But this book still sucker punches you in the gut. 

I wasn't ready for the ending when it came. You think everything is fine and dandy them BAM! CHAOS! And I'm over here screaming (in my head, of course) and saying NO NO NO! All sorts of crazy stuff just starts happening! And it's brilliant! Heart-breaking! INSANE! After finishing this book, I was so glad I had Ruin and Rising on hand because there was no way I couldn't know what happens next. 

Overall:

Amazing. Though this is the 2nd time I've read it, it feels like the first time. The magic is still there. While it took a bit to get into it, it blew me away. I will warn you that some people didn't like Mal, and I understand where they are coming from, but I'm totally on Mal's side. His reactions and their development as a couple is realistic, which makes it readable. 
And Sturmhond. 
See gushing paragraph above. 

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The One Where I Review SHADOW AND BONE (for the 2nd time)

Shadow and Bone (The Grisha, #1)
by Leigh Bardugo
Source: Bought
Format: Hardback
Pages: 356

Goodreads Synopsis:

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.

Bardugo is a goddess amongst men. Normally when I re-read, I still love the book, but I already know what's happening so part of the spark is gone. However, you know it's a BEYOND amazing book when those same emotions felt the first time around come rushing back. And that is precisely what happened. Reading this a second time felt like I was reading for the first time. All the feelings came back. My heart was racing, my pulse pounding, trying not to make unintelligible sounds while at work because we know that I would be given side-eye curious looks.

Since this is indeed a re-read and I've already reviewed it once, I'll make this (relatively) short and sweet. If you want to see my rather awesome (if I do say so myself) GIF filled review full of gushing completely coherent sentences, then check it out here.

So, the short of it?

Beautiful. Lush. Brilliant. Perfect.

First off, the world building is A++. Seriously phenomenal stuff here. Lush and gorgeous, Bardugo does a beautiful job of bringing in Russian influence into this unique fantasy world. And the Grisha? So cool! Not gonna lie, I totally wish I was one of them. AND THERE'S A MAP!! I love maps because it means the author really took the time to flesh out their fantasy world. That takes love and dedication. 

Second, the characters. Oh, the characters.

Alina, my heart goes out to you girl. Her growth throughout just this book alone is beyond amazing. She's not necessarily strong at first, but neither is she weak. She's a girl who just wants to belong and is suddenly thrust into this world that may prove to be more than she asked for. While oftentimes her desire to fit in clouds her judgement, she more than comes into her own.

And Mal. Oh, Mal. You're the good guy I should want. He's likable from the beginning even though he doesn't have much page time until the end. He's brave and encouraging and charming. And that speech at towards the end? *Swoon* But, while this is the guy that you know is the best for you and that you should be pining after, there's one guy who's just.....delectable. 

The Darkling

MmMmmMmmmmmm. Mal is the good guy you should end up with. The Darkling is the irresistible one you want to end up with. Don't worry, it's not necessarily a love triangle seeing as Alina knows who she truly wants, but she definitely feels the pull, as you will too. Mysterious, powerful, and seductive. *faints*

He's just so sincere that it's hard not to fall for him. 

And, for a slight spoiler (still vague but check at your own risk):

In the beginning it's so easy to think he is good and not greedy, that he has Ravka's best interests at heart. He's just so sincere. I totally understand how Alina could've been duped. I certainly didn't expect the turn of events. Bardugo does a great job of making you think the Darkling is truly good. Props to that! 

Finally, the plot. The storyline is a delectable story wrapped in gorgeously described mythology with beautiful cultural inspirations thrown in. This brilliant plot line is brimming with Grisha, political intrigue, war and deception. Oh, and questing. Can't forget questing. 

Okay, so I know I said I'd keep this short, but I lied I thought it would be, until I actually started writing. And it's shorter than my original review, so there's that. However, in short, all you need to know is: read it. 

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Shadow and Bone (The Grisha Trilogy #1) by Leigh Bardugo

Shadow and Bone (The Grisha Trilogy #1)
by Leigh Bardugo
Pages: 358
Source: Bought from B&N
Format: Hardback


Rating: Absolutely Amazing! (just look at all the gifs!)


Goodreads Synopsis:


Surrounded by enemies, the once-great nation of Ravka has been torn in two by the Shadow Fold, a swath of near impenetrable darkness crawling with monsters who feast on human flesh. Now its fate may rest on the shoulders of one lonely refugee.

Alina Starkov has never been good at anything. But when her regiment is attacked on the Fold and her best friend is brutally injured, Alina reveals a dormant power that saves his life—a power that could be the key to setting her war-ravaged country free. Wrenched from everything she knows, Alina is whisked away to the royal court to be trained as a member of the Grisha, the magical elite led by the mysterious Darkling.

Yet nothing in this lavish world is what it seems. With darkness looming and an entire kingdom depending on her untamed power, Alina will have to confront the secrets of the Grisha…and the secrets of her heart


My review:


This, this, is high fantasy. Words cannot describe my love for this book!! I feel like how the cookie monster would if he just found out he won a GIGANTIC COOKIE!

Yes, my eyes were probably cross-eyed with giddiness after finishing this book XD

  Shadow and Bone is high fantasy at its best. The world is beautiful and breathtaking. The characters are fantastically written and engaging and you can't help but love them. The plot is unique and intriguing and simply fantastic. 

Alina: 


 *hug* You, are a what strong character should be. Alina's growth throughout this book is just phenomenal! She's not a strong character instantly. In fact, she's very lonely and quiet and an outcast. She's very reserved, but attentive. She's never been the prettiest girl or the toughest girl or the funniest girl. She was an orphan and never really felt loved. The only friend she had was Mal *refrains from fainting*. But you know what? She's brave and selfless and I couldn't help but respect her for that. In order to save the life of a friend, she is willing to risk her own, in the process learning about a dormant power. And here's where I really come to love her. She's not like other YA heroines who start to think they are "all that" because they have special powers, nor does she deny them vehemently from start to finish. Nope. She accepts it and wants to be the best she can be. 

Yes, I wanted to give her lots of hugs throughout the book. Don't judge. She knew she wasn't going to be perfect the first try and she knew she had to work hard at it, but at least she did. Did she sometimes get frustrated? Sure did. Who wouldn't? But even then she kept trying and working hard. Throughout this book she has to learn to accept who she is. She has to overcome some barriers in her past to do it but she does and I rooted for her because of it.

Darkling:

   Yes, there is a love triangle. Sort of. Alina knows which one she wants but OMG! I couldn't not talk about the Darkling. Okay, he's not really the guy you want to end up with, but more along the bad boy you know you shouldn't want but goodness is he delicious ; )

 He's mister tall, dark and handsome. Mysterious, powerful, dark, secretive, dangerous, enigmatic and most of all alluring. Oh, he makes me feel special *faints* 

You thinks I'm special *giggles* XD

You just can't help but be drawn to him. Sure he's kind of psycho and most definitely evil, but goodness, you can't help but be addicted to his mysterious and dangerous personality. And the scene with him and Alina?! *faints*

But I'm most intrigued with his backstory (and I sure as heck didn't see that coming). Yes, I know he probably is most likely evil in every sense of the word, but I can't wait to see what made him like that. It's part of his allure. What can I say, I like swooning over the bad boy. Sue me. 

Mal:

  So Mal isn't in this book very much, but the parts that he is in (especially in the end) are just swoonworthy. There is this one quote that I know has been used in other reviews but it is just so swoonworthy I have to include it! It ecompasses the awesomeness that is Mal:


"I missed you every hour. And you know what the worst part was? It caught me completely by surprise. I'd catch myself just walking around to find you, not for any reason , just out of habit, because I'd seen something that I wanted to tell you about or because I wanted to hear your voice. And then I'd realize that you weren't there anymore, and every time, every single time, it was like having the wind knocked out of me. I've risked my life for you. I've walked half the length of Ravka for you, and I'd do it again and again and again just to be with you, just to starve with you and freeze with you and hear you complain about hard cheese every day. So don't tell me why we don't belong together," he said fiercely.

                                

Really, need I say more? Okay, I will because I can't stop gushing XD He's so incredibly sweet with the perfect amount of protectiveness thrown in. He knows Alina can be the best she can be and he wants to help her become that. He's always believed in her and would literally walk to the ends of the earth for her!! Just....GAH! He's fantastic. That's all there is to it!


The World:


  I was instantly drawn into this complex and beautifully breathtaking world. She did a fantastic job of creating the Fold and giving it the creepy and scary atmosphere it deserved. Seriously. The Fold is freaking terrifying. Sure, I'd put on the facade of being all tough and whatnot, while on the inside I'd be screaming like a little girl. Scratch that, I'd probably actually be screaming like a little girl. But its fantastic! She doesn't just tell you it's scary, she shows it and makes you feel it. Kudos! 


Plot:


   Yes, the plot is as equally amazing as the characters and world! She just got the whole package right!!! Its incredibly unique and intriguing. Monsters? Grisha? Powers? The freaking FOLD?! Holy, moly. It's some intense stuff. The action starts off from the very beginning. You get to see monsters and the Fold and fighting. Then you get your court setting and court intrigue and never knowing who to trust and whats going on and its AMAZING! I could go on and on but you must read this book to find out all the awesomeness that is the plot for yourself. 


Overall:

My review does not do this book justice in the slightest. This is high fantasy at its best. I adored all the characters. I loved Alina's imperfections and the fact that she grows so much throughout the book. While I may be coveting after the alluring Darkling, I'm simply swooning over the perfection that is Mal. The world is incredibly unique and beautiful in its own terrifying way and the plot is simply addicting. If this review doesn't get to you buy this book, I honestly have no idea what will. 

All the best ♥

Mackenzie

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