Book Two of the Grisha TrilogyBy Leigh Bardugo
Available now from Henry Holt BFYR (Macmillan)
Review copy
Read my review of Shadow and Bone
Leigh Bardugo's debut SHADOW AND BONE made a big splash. The sequel, SIEGE AND STORM, had a lot to live up to. And it did. In my opinion, SIEGE AND STORM is even better than its predecessor.
Alina and Mal escaped Ravka. It came at a cost, however. And now, if Alina uses her power, they might be found. But not using her power is making her sick. Unfortunately, the two cannot hide forever. Alina and Mal must use all their wit and skill if they want to survive and stay together.
The new additions to SIEGE AND STORM were wonderful. Sturmhond is my favorite type of character - changeable, enigmatic, and too clever by half. The twins are bloodthirsty delights. But I love even more that all the old characters are back, although I hate when bad things happen to them. Bardugo has the trick of making me care for characters who don't even show up that often. I also liked that Alina's past in cartography is remembered and important.
Those who are fans of the Darkling will find plenty of scenes to read and re-read. I prefer Mal (and Sturmhond, obvs), and there's definitely lots of drama and romance on that front. Although Alina and Mal grew up together, she's perceived as more high class now. It causes difficulties for them, as does Alina's rise in power - and her development of a lust for power.
The only thing I'm unhappy about is that I don't have the final book of the trilogy right now. I cannot wait to find out how it all ends. I'll just keep my fingers crossed for my favorites until next year and hope that Bardugo doesn't torture her loyal readers too much.
