When I started this book, I had only one goal: to get through it so I could get to SoC and KoS. I had very little expectations going in and I’m sort of glad.

I originally rated this book a 4 star, but while writing out this review I cut one star down because it just didn’t awe me. Like it didn’t get me more excited for Ruin and Rising, just more excited to finish this series?!?

Not only does Alina now have two amplifiers, something Grisha’s are NOT allowed to do but she also is a bit of a jackass about it? I see where people could lose their patience with her. She seems to be very “thoughtful” and “wordy” and I found myself skimming across the page for dialogue and action.

Mal tried to get better but he just came off as entitled and whiny. I mean I love a good guy, I really do. But he has absolutely no charisma.

I did like Nikolai. Except for the fact that he kissed Alina when she explicitly said no. Why oh why do authors still find that as an attractive trait and not super rapey?? Other than that, I enjoyed his character and will only continue because of him and his approach to running a country, being a prince and most of all his cockiness.

I, again, had zero feelings for The Darkling. He has great potential, but comes off as a “bad guy” just because. I wish we could have a book written about him that provides a bit more into his past and why he is the way he is.

In short, skimmed a lot and not an exciting read. Will be reading R&R, but only because I want to get to the duologies.

My favorite quote:

« I like to have powerful enemies. Makes me feel important. »