Alina Starkov is an ordinary girl; she has plain looks and mediocre map-making skills. Alina’s life takes a turn when it is discovered she is a Sun Summoner. She alone has the ability to create a safe path through the Fold, a barren wasteland filled with monsters. This dark, treacherous void divides and weakens Alina’s country, Ravka. If Alina could create a safe path through the Fold, Ravka could recieve supplies that would immensely aid the wars on its borders. As Ravka looks to Alina for salvation and hope, will she live up to their expectations or crack under pressure?
I rate Shadow and Bone 3 stars. It is an OK read. I like the plot twist in the middle of the book, and I appreciate the straightforward plot. The world building is good. My favorite character is the Darkling. Honestly, I think he is more interesting than the main character, Alina.
I only have one dislike: the story is more telling than showing. I am told about the dialogue but don’t see it. I am told about Alina’s actions but don’t see them.
I don’t dislike Alina’s character, but I don’t like her either. She’s not a bad character, but she’s just dry and flat. In the beginning of the book, she’s portrayed as feisty. This is deceiving because, for the rest of the book, she is bland and one dimensional. Compared to characters in other Leigh Bardugo books, who have rich backstories and complicated motivations, Alina doesn’t even come close. Alina does have a backstory, but not enough is done with it. Alina literally has no motivation during the first half of the book. In fact, she struggles from day to day with her training. Her lack of motivation is not relatable, but uninspiring and boring.
I would recommend this book to readers who like superheroes, fantasy, and the good-versus-evil plot.