This book has been on my TBR list for a long time and for some reason I never got around to. Now I am kicking myself that it took so long for me to read this amazing book. I thought the story was very original (which is hard to find in YA) and kept me guessing until the end.

The story started out somewhat confusing but as I read, I began to understand the world more and more. Because the story was written from Karou’s point of view, the reader learns things as she does which kept the story interesting and the mysteries hidden. I also appreciated that Karou acted like a 17 year old…when she was scared, you believed it. When she was curious, you could understand why. It made a book that is full of fantastical elements seem real.

Akiva would have made my 14 year old heart pitter-patter back in the day. The classic anti-hero, he is a tortured soul with enough redeeming qualities to make it understandable why Karou is drawn to him.

The lead up to the end was a bit drawn out and I was left wondering where the story was heading bu the final few pages were shocking and left me wanting more. (luckily, this is the first in a series!) I would highly recommend this book!

Author: Laini Taylor

Published: 2011

Rating: 4 Stars