Review: Six of Crows (Six of Crows #1) by Leigh Bardugo

This is actually another reread for me, but I never reviewed this the first time I read it. 

Title: Six of Crows
Series: Six of Crows #1

Author: Leigh Bardugo
Publisher: Henry Holt and Company
Published: September 29, 2015
Pages: 480
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy
Source: Hardcover

Ketterdam: a bustling hub of international trade where anything can be had for the right price–and no one knows that better than criminal prodigy Kaz Brekker. Kaz is offered a chance at a deadly heist that could make him rich beyond his wildest dreams. But he can’t pull it off alone…

A convict with a thirst for revenge.

A sharpshooter who can’t walk away from a wager.

A runaway with a privileged past.

A spy known as the Wraith.

A Heartrender using her magic to survive the slums.

A thief with a gift for unlikely escapes.

Six dangerous outcasts. One impossible heist. Kaz’s crew is the only thing that might stand between the world and destruction—if they don’t kill each other first. 

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MY REVIEW

Disclaimer: This review MAY contain SPOILERS.

Well, what can I say about this transcendental book that hasn't already been voiced? Not much I know, but allow me to unload the mountain of feels that I have garnered from this book. This is my second time reading this book and the effect on me is not much changed from the first time. I first read this book a few months after it was first released and fell head over heels in love with everything about this book. Rereading the book has only strengthened my obsession with this amazing story. This book slammed into me full force, knocked me off my axis, and gut-kicked me for good measure. An assault I loved every moment of. 

I fell in love with Bardugo's Grishaverse when I read the Shadow and Bone series. Then I read this and was so in awe of this world. I loved being able to see another part of this incredible world that she has created. There are many elements from the Shadow and Bone trilogy included in Six of Crows but we see a different view, a different way of life, and a few different countries within the Grishaverse. Bardugo is so skilled in differentiating each culture and creating a perfect image of them in the readers' heads. She accounts for political viewpoints, weather, traditions, day to day life, dress, and how these different cultures view the rest of the world. The world building is truly brilliant. 

You can tell how much Bardugo has grown as an author with the plot of this story. Simply put, it is damn incredible. Each plot point is intricately woven into the overall story to create a masterpiece that is truly grand. The way that the pieces of the story fit so immaculately makes my little fangirl heart cheer like mad. It's just so impressive. The twists and reveals in the story are ones that you won't expect and they all have such a big impact. 

Equally impressive are the characters. Never in my life have I read about a more deliciously malicious yet morally gray set of characters, and I love each and every one! I really loved the progression of each character's backstory throughout the novel and how it affects their actions in the present. I love how fierce each of these characters is, yet vulnerable at the same time. What makes them vulnerable also makes them fierce. These characters all have tragic pasts that haunt them and/or addictions and inner demons to fight. They haven't had the best hand dealt to them, but they have used this to make them stronger. To make them survivors. While I love each personal journey, I also love the camaraderie and relationships that are formed. 

The romantic aspects of this book are very subtle. There are definite feelings between certain characters but it isn't told so much in a physical way. It is told in the concise words of the characters and their actions. I really found the budding romance between certain characters incredibly beautiful. I certainly have a soft spot for tortured souls finding love and this book is a menagerie for that trope. 

Overall, this is a book that I will always cherish. I will come back to this story again and again for these characters that have imprinted on my soul, this harsh world that is displayed so vividly, and a story that will always stick with me. If you have not experienced Bardugo's Grishaverse then you are missing out on a truly exceptional world. These stories are soul-shattering and it is a hurt that you will beg for more of.

THIS BOOK CONTRIBUTED TO THESE 2018 READING CHALLENGES

- Stellar Series Challenge
- Beat the Backlist Challenge

Check out my 2019 Challenge Page to see my progress!

Leigh Bardugo is one of my all-time favorite authors. Which authors are you complete trash for?

Review: Ruin and Rising (The Shadow and Bone Trilogy #3) by Leigh Bardugo

This is actually a reread for me, but I never reviewed this the first time I read it. No clue why since it's one of my all-time favorite books series! When I read this series the first time it was still called the Grisha Trilogy but it has since been changed to The Shadow and Bone Trilogy because of Leigh Bardugo's expanding Grishaverse.

Title: Ruin and Rising
Series: The Shadow and Bone Trilogy #3

Author: Leigh Bardugo
Publisher: Henry Holt and Company
Published: June 17, 2014
Pages: 422
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy
Source: Hardcover

The capital has fallen.

The Darkling rules Ravka from his shadow throne.

Now the nation's fate rests with a broken Sun Summoner, a disgraced tracker, and the shattered remnants of a once-great magical army.

Deep in an ancient network of tunnels and caverns, a weakened Alina must submit to the dubious protection of the Apparat and the zealots who worship her as a Saint. Yet her plans lie elsewhere, with the hunt for the elusive firebird and the hope that an outlaw prince still survives.

Alina will have to forge new alliances and put aside old rivalries as she and Mal race to find the last of Morozova's amplifiers. But as she begins to unravel the Darkling's secrets, she reveals a past that will forever alter her understanding of the bond they share and the power she wields. The firebird is the one thing that stands between Ravka and destruction—and claiming it could cost Alina the very future she’s fighting for.

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MY REVIEW

Disclaimer: This review MAY contain SPOILERS.

The ending of this series is beyond perfect. Beyond anything that I could have conjured in my mind. It is an absolute piece of artwork. I only wish that I could use merzost so that I could create something tangible with this feeling so that I can display it on my wall and look back on it to feel the hurricane of emotions that I am feeling now. This ending feels so bittersweet to me. There are so many concluding thoughts that are difficult to sort out.

First and foremost, The Darkling. This beautiful, twisted, power hungry, lonely boy that only ever wanted to belong somewhere. His differences cast him as other and he was bitter towards all those that made him suffer in his darkness alone. The Darkling makes for such a compelling and believable villain because most of what he says and believes is actually true. He did want a safe place for Grisha, somewhere for them to belong. So he made the Second Army. This stems from his own struggles throughout his life being hunted and different. Of course, this isn't enough for the Darkling. I hate to say it, but Bhagra pretty much poisoned his mind with ideals of power and strength. Sure, she wanted her son to have strength and to not be victimized as she had as a child. But I think that the message was lost in translation to the Darkling. <i>What is infinite? The universe and the greed of men.</i> Power became the Darkling's ultimate goal. And then Alina popped into his life and he became all but obsessed with the idea of her with him. He had finally found someone with power akin to his own. Someone that he could live the countless years with and not be alone in his power any longer. I think that his feelings for Alina stem from that young boy who only ever wanted someone to belong with. To not be alone. To be with someone that was an equal. But by this point, the Darkling's heart has already been corrupted by greed and power so his love for Alina became twisted and turned to the point of obsession. This is my second time reading this book and I still have convoluted feelings towards the Darkling. I love him, I hate him, I feel sorry for him, and I mourn him. I understand where he was coming from and why he did the things he did while still not forgiving him for all the people that he killed and the horrific things that he did. He is definitely my all-time favorite villain.

The Darkling

"You might make me a better man."

Alina

"You might make me a monster."

Alina, Mal, and Nikolai had so much character progression in this book. We get to see them at their lowest and then we get to see them determined to fight on. I loved Mal's self-sacrifice. His love for Alina is evident in all that he does for her. It's truly beautiful. I also loved the friendship that formed between Alina, Mal, and their group of Grisha. Even Zoya was among them so it was incredible to see her and Alina become begrudging friends by the end of the book. Their little group had a lovely camaraderie. 

Now, the plot. Leigh Bardugo can wield a plot like a weapon and slay you with details shrouded in mystery. The turn of events that takes place in this book is absolutely brilliant. The way that everything from the first two books comes together is so clever and riveting. There is definite foreshadowing in the first two books, but Bardugo is so good at constructing her story that the reader doesn't see the big reveal until the exact moment it happens. It's incredible! Not only this, but the way she ties up all the loose ends at the end of the book is storytelling perfection. That ending took so much out of my heart, but it was absolutely perfect for this story. 

I'm not going to lie and say that I am not a little broken inside after finishing this book. But I suppose that the best books do take a little piece of your heart in the end. I am ever so grateful to Leigh Bardugo for sharing this exquisite and irresistible world with us. Bardugo has become a Saint in her own right with her esteemed stories that have definitely become holy to me. 

I recommend this book series to everyone! I would shout this from the heavens if I could. I will forever be a lifelong fan of Leigh Bardugo's writing and I shall spread its gospel wherever I shall go. If you enjoy young adult fantasy that is utterly unique, with characters that you will want to embrace (or smack at times), and a plot that will leave your mouth hanging open at the end then you need this series in your life.

THIS BOOK CONTRIBUTED TO THESE 2018 READING CHALLENGES

- Stellar Series Challenge
- Beat the Backlist Challenge

Check out my 2019 Challenge Page to see my progress!

This series has such a bittersweet ending in my opinion, but it is also absolutely perfect in every way. What are some of your favorite books with bittersweet endings that had you on the cusp of happiness and sadness?

Review: Siege and Storm (The Shadow and Bone Trilogy #2) by Leigh Bardugo

This is actually a reread for me, but I never reviewed this the first time I read it. No clue why since it's one of my all-time favorite books series! When I read this series the first time it was still called the Grisha Trilogy but it has since been changed to The Shadow and Bone Trilogy because of Leigh Bardugo's expanding Grishaverse.

Title: Siege and Storm
Series: The Shadow and Bone Trilogy #2

Author: Leigh Bardugo
Publisher: Henry Holt and Company
Published: June 4, 2013
Pages: 435
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy
Source: Hardcover

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.

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MY REVIEW

Disclaimer: This review MAY contain SPOILERS.

It is exceedingly hard to speak to the brilliance that is this series. That is Leigh Bardugo and her magic-touched, clever mind. This is my second time reading this series and I am just as in awe of it as I was the first time around. I finished it for the first time three years ago, and it has ever been on my mind since then. There are ample reasons why.

The first reason is the Russian-inspired fantasy world that Bardugo has created. It is unlike anything that I have read before and I have so much appreciation for its uniqueness. You will truly never read anything like it in young adult literature. Bardugo's Grishaverse is set apart from other fantasy worlds with its magic system, structure, religious aspects, and detailed account of nations. It is a very rich world with endless possibility.

The next reason is that this story is truly exceptional. It without a doubt stands apart from other books in this genre with it's remarkable, original plot. If you are a reader of young adult fantasy, then you will be able to feel the otherness, the wonder, and the genuineness that this series is comprised of. And after you finish this series, you will not be able to think of young adult books in the same way. The plotting in this second book of the series is smart and altogether ingenious. The flow of events from the first book is flawlessly executed. There is a definite build up of the story as the book progresses. Bardugo is a master at writing plot points that are unexpected and unique. You will be surprised and you won't be able to stop reading until you know what is happening. 

The third reason is the exciting cast of characters at the helm of this story. I love the introduction of new characters in this second-in-series. I loved getting to know characters from the first book even better. Getting a closer glimpse into the minds of characters is always a delight. There is always some mystery where characters are considered, but Bardugo has a way of showing her characters completely with a finesse that is unparalleled. She gives you what you need and expands on her characters at the appropriate times to bring the whole picture together in the readers' minds. In this book, in particular, I loved the character development for Alina and Mal. They are both fighting something within themselves and trying to hold on to each other in the process. It is both heartbreaking and encouraging at the same time. Alina's strength and resolve are shown so beautifully in this book. Mal is fighting going down a downward spiral as he feels lost and that he is losing Alina. He finds self-destructive ways to deal with his issues. Nikolai is a character that I have loved from the start. He is always positive and has used his time away from Ravka to learn about the world. It has made him the perfect person for defending his country while his father and brother are nothing but louts.

The romance is another aspect that makes this series so entertaining. The romance is hard to describe if I'm to be honest. It is always like a love triangle, but it isn't really. Alina's heart has always belonged to Mal, and she even tells him so at the end of the book. That said, she can't deny her pull to the Darkling because they really are different from everyone else and like calls to like. The Darkling wants Alina since she is the only one that is like him in all of the world. His desire for her is almost creepy, but it works. Under the Darkling's scary, tough exterior it isn't hard to see that he is very alone and his feelings for Alina are genuine in a sense because he feels that she is the only one that could understand him. As misplaced as his feelings may be though since the Darkling craves power and Alina does not. Alina and Mal are drifting apart throughout this book because of all of the demands placed upon Alina as the new head of the Second Palace. Mal sticks out since he is neither a Grisha, soldier, nor is he a prince or any of the rich people that Alina deals with at the Grand Palace. Their distance creates a rift between them, but Alina wants to salvage it at all costs. Then there is Nikolai. He clearly respects Alina and he clearly has some feelings for her as well. Alina and Nikolai get along well and are becoming friends. He even confesses to her that he wants to kiss her, but tells her that he won't until she is thinking of him and not trying to forget Mal. It was a sad moment, but very true at the time. So, yeah. Lots of things happening on the romance front. And the amazing thing about the romance in this book is that no matter which person Alina chooses, it would work. All of her love interests are believable and have merit. 

In conclusion, if you want to read a book with a fantasy world unlike any that you have ever encountered before then pick up this series. The vividly detailed world with original elements, characters that will get under your skin in all the best ways, and the compelling and original plot will blow you away! Not even kidding. This is one of my all-time favorite book series and I have no doubt that anyone that reads it will conclude the same. Thank you, Leigh Bardugo, for taking me into your brilliant mind and letting me build a little stone house there on the outskirts. I will forever cherish your stories.

THIS BOOK CONTRIBUTED TO THESE 2018 READING CHALLENGES

- Stellar Series Challenge
- Beat the Backlist Challenge

Check out my 2019 Challenge Page to see my progress!

This series draws inspiration from Russian culture. What are some of your favorite fantasy reads that draw inspiration from other cultures? 

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

This is actually a reread for me, but I never reviewed this the first time I read it. No clue why since it's one of my all-time favorite books series! When I read this series the first time it was still called the Grisha Trilogy but it has since been changed to The Shadow and Bone Trilogy because of Leigh Bardugo's expanding Grishaverse.

Title: Shadow and Bone
Series: The Shadow and Bone Trilogy #1

Author: Leigh Bardugo
Publisher: Henry Holt and Company
Published: June 5, 2012
Pages: 358
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy
Source: Hardcover

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. 

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MY REVIEW

Disclaimer: This review MAY contain SPOILERS.

This book will cut into you like the sharpest blade and then pour a little bit of its magic into you. This is my second time reading this book. I realize that I never wrote a review for this book the first time that I read it. This strikes me as strange since this has been one of my all-time favorite book series. Like, ever. If rereading this book has told me anything, it is that my love for this book has definitely not diminished since reading it three years ago.

I have been so overcome with nostalgia while reading this. All the feels are coming back to me in waves. 

The first thing that a person may notice when beginning this book is the rich world building. Bardugo has drawn inspiration for her fantasy world from Russian elements and it leaves this world so utterly breathtaking. It is easy to trip over some of the Russian inspired words in this in the beginning, but it gets easier as the story progresses. It is hard to describe the complexity and originality of this world. It leaves the reader so immersed in the story, so full of wonderment. Bardugo paints a clear picture of the extravagance in this world, the things that are less than extravagant, and everything in between. It is easy to live through the main character's eyes. 

These characters evoke such emotion in me that there are hardly words to describe them, but let me try. First of all, I have to put it out there that The Darkling is my all-time favorite villain. The complexity of his character is staggering. There is so much gray area surrounding him that the reader doesn't truly know how to feel about him. I am a sucker for morally gray villains. Alina is the main protagonist in the story. She is a wonderful character. It is truly easy to slip into her shoes and feel as she does. She is easy to like and easier to root for. At first, she comes off as weak, but there is a strength inside of her that shines through. The side characters in this book are also written extremely well. We get to know the side characters as the story progresses, and it is not hard to see how much depth they add to the story. 

The romance in this book is a mix of a friends-to-lovers trope combined with a love triangle. As far as love triangles go, this one does not disappoint. The build-up of the relationships, between Mal and Alina and Alina and The Darkling, are powerful. They mean something, so the love triangle aspect really works well. It's believable. And the friend to lovers trope is beautiful since Mal and Alina have been best friends since childhood. Alina has been pining after Mal, but he never noticed her in that way before. Then she is whisked away to become a Grisha and he is left to come to terms with her absence. It is hard for him since she has always been at his side. The entire romantic aspects of the book are written beautifully. And the amazing this is that they are written so extremely well that the reader doesn't know whether to root for Mal or The Darkling. I personally root for both!

The plot of this story is utterly clever and so full of originality. The crafting of this story is nothing short of genius, and when you get to the last book it is apparent even more so. The foreshadowing is intricately placed and then things show up later to blow your mind. I am so impressed with Bardugo's storytelling. She is a master of telling stories that will grip you and become a part of you. 

I recommend this series to everyone! Especially if you are a fantasy fan. This is such a unique world with a powerful plot and complex characters. The story will become all that you think about for weeks. But the good news is that there is an entire Grishaverse to explore. Leigh Bardugo will not leave you hanging.

THIS BOOK CONTRIBUTED TO THESE 2018 READING CHALLENGES

- Stellar Series Challenge
- Beat the Backlist Challenge

Check out my 2019 Challenge Page to see my progress!

This book series is one of my all-time favorites! What are some of your "forever love" books? Have you ventured into Leigh Bardugo's Grishaverse unscathed?

Reread Review: Water's Wrath (Air Awakens #4) by Elise Kova

Title: Water's Wrath
Series: Air Awakens #4

Author: Elise Kova
Publisher: Silver Wing Press
Published: April 26, 2016
Pages: 378
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy
Source: Kindle Unlimited

Librarian turned sorcerer. Sorcerer turned hero. Hero turned puppet.

The Solaris Empire found victory in the North and, at the cost of her heart and her innocence, Vhalla Yarl has earned her freedom. But the true fight is only beginning as the secret forces that have been lurking in the shadows, tugging at the strings of Vhalla's fate, finally come to light. Nowhere is safe, and Vhalla must tread carefully or else she'll fall into the waiting arms of her greatest foe. Or former lover.

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MY  REREAD REVIEW

Disclaimer: This review MAY contain SPOILERS.

I would describe this book in the series as the book of major plot twists. Seriously, so many shocking things happen that it almost gives you whiplash. This is one of the great things about reading Elise Kova's books though. You never know what to expect. 

Vhalla's confidence in this book is immeasurable. She puts her best foot forward and dashes on fighting the stakes that are against her and keeping her broken heart close. She has so much courage. You can see how much she has grown from the library girl in the first book. It's very inspiring. 

This book has a huge heap of betrayal and uncertainty. Vhalla navigates through her emotions over Aldrik, her new status as a Lady of the Court, and spending her time helping Victor with the axe. I really loved that this book was a major turning point in the story.

I appeal to everyone that loves young adult fantasy to read this series! It has one of the absolute best romances that I've read, an intriguing magic system, and characters that will win your heart.  

My original review is here.

THIS BOOK CONTRIBUTED TO THESE 2018 READING CHALLENGES

- Stellar Series Challenge
- Beat the Backlist Challenge
- Let's Read Indie Challenge
- Library Love Challenge

Check out my 2019 Challenge Page to see my progress!

This book is one with high stakes. What are some of your favorite books with high stakes? 

Reread Review: Earth's End (Air Awakens #3) by Elise Kova

Title: Earth's End
Series: Air Awakens #3

Author: Elise Kova
Publisher: Silver Wing Press
Published: February 11, 2016
Pages: 350
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy
Source: Kindle Unlimited

A woman awoken in air, a soldier forged by fire, a weapon risen from blood.

Vhalla Yarl has made it to the warfront in the North. Forged by blood and fire, she has steeled her heart for the final battle of the Solaris Empire’s conquest. The choices before Vhalla are no longer servitude or freedom, they are servitude or death. The stakes have never been higher as the Emperor maintains his iron grip on her fate, holding everything Vhalla still has left to lose in the balance.

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Read this for FREE on Kindle Unlimited!

MY  REREAD REVIEW

Disclaimer: This review MAY contain SPOILERS.

This book has yet again pulled my heart from my chest. I am a sobbing mess right now. Elise Kova creates a story that will meld with your soul. Just as a sorcerer can feel their power within them, the reader can feel the story within them in the same way. It's very intimate and carefully crafted.

One of my favorite things about reading Elise Kova's book is getting to know the characters. They feel like family. She doesn't just write an amazing main character or a compelling love interest, no. She creates a cast of characters that mingle, and weave, and play off of each other with their different relationships, desires, and attractions. The characters in her books become a force that drives the book forward. You really do fall in love with each and every one of them. 

I have to give Kova props on the development of the plot. The story really is incredible and it pushes on with so much emotion. There are high stakes, there is action, there are political deceptions, there is love, and there is friendship. Everything is played out and orchestrated beautifully. I am truly in awe of her storytelling.

I loved the deeper look into this world and the magic within it. You can tell that there is so much more to come and so much more to learn about this inventive world.

I recommend this series to everyone! Just everyone! It is full of magic, trials, love, friendship, political intrigue, and damn amazing characters. This love story is among one of my favorites and I have no doubt that others would feel the same.

My original review is here.

THIS BOOK CONTRIBUTED TO THESE 2018 READING CHALLENGES

- Stellar Series Challenge
- Beat the Backlist Challenge
- Let's Read Indie Challenge
- Library Love Challenge
- Popsugar 2019 Reading Challenge

Check out my 2019 Challenge Page to see my progress!

This book is one that threw me for an emotional loop at the end. Which book comes to mind that did the same for you? What was the last book that made you cry into your cereal?

Reread Review: Fire Falling (Air Awakens #2) by Elise Kova

Title: Fire Falling
Series: Air Awakens #2

Author: Elise Kova
Publisher: Silver Wing Press
Published: November 19, 2015
Pages: 378
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy
Source: Kindle Unlimited

Soldier… Sorcerer… Savior… Who is Vhalla Yarl?

Vhalla Yarl marches to war as property of the Solaris Empire. The Emperor counts on her to bring victory, the Senate counts on her death, and the only thing Vhalla can count on is the fight of her life. As she grapples with the ghosts of her past, new challenges in the present threaten to shatter the remnants of her fragile sanity. Will she maintain her humanity? Or will she truly become the Empire’s monster?

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Read this for FREE on Kindle Unlimited!

MY  REREAD REVIEW

Disclaimer: This review MAY contain SPOILERS.

Holy Mother, I was unprepared for how much this book affects me. I first read this book in July 2016 and rereading it brought me to my knees. I am such a mess right now, and rightly so. This series is something special. 

The romance, oh my god, the romance!! Elise Kova can write a love story better than Aphrodite herself. She is so gifted in creating relationships in her books. (Not only romantic ones either.) The slow-burn romance in this book is all-consuming. The chemistry, backstory of the characters, and the way the characters come together is so tantalizing that your heart will want to beat out of your chest. And it just might. The romance is so well written that it will stay with you long after you've put the book down. 

I absolutely love the character progression in this book. The characters are figuring things out and trying to find their place. The relationships that are forming and growing between the many characters are so incredible and written masterfully. The reader cares about each relationship created in this story, and for various reasons. The relationships are meaningful and written with purpose. 

I truly love the plot of this book in the series. I love how it progresses the romance in the story and also sets other things in motion for the rest of the story. While the romance is a big part of this series, it does not dominate or control the story. Things are happening outside of the romance, but the romance is blending into the plot seamlessly. 

The world is definitely expanded upon in this book. I love how very real everything in this book feels. Kova is skilled in making the reader feel like they are inside the story living alongside these characters. 

While this is my second time reading this book, I have no doubt that I will read this story again and again. These characters will lodge themselves into your heart and you won't be able to let them go. I recommend this series to all young adult fantasy fans! My excitement for Vortex Visions, the first book in the Air Awakens: Vortex Chronicles series, is palpable. I can't wait to revisit this amazing world with new characters and a new story.

My original review is here.

THIS BOOK CONTRIBUTED TO THESE 2018 READING CHALLENGES

- Stellar Series Challenge
- Beat the Backlist Challenge
- Let's Read Indie Challenge
- Library Love Challenge
- Popsugar 2019 Reading Challenge

Check out my 2019 Challenge Page to see my progress!

This book was one of my favorite in this series along with the third book. Do you find yourself liking parts of series more than others? If so, why? Or recommend your most recent favorite read!

Reread Review: Air Awakens (Air Awakens #1) by Elise Kova

Title: Air Awakens
Series: Air Awakens #1

Author: Elise Kova
Publisher: Silver Wing Press
Published: August 27, 2015
Pages: 377
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy
Source: Kindle Unlimited

A library apprentice, a sorcerer prince, and an unbreakable magic bond...

The Solaris Empire is one conquest away from uniting the continent, and the rare elemental magic sleeping in seventeen-year-old library apprentice Vhalla Yarl could shift the tides of war.

Vhalla has always been taught to fear the Tower of Sorcerers, a mysterious magic society, and has been happy in her quiet world of books. But after she unknowingly saves the life of one of the most powerful sorcerers of them all—the Crown Prince Aldrik—she finds herself enticed into his world. Now she must decide her future: Embrace her sorcery and leave the life she’s known, or eradicate her magic and remain as she’s always been. And with powerful forces lurking in the shadows, Vhalla’s indecision could cost her more than she ever imagined.

Goodreads | Amazon

Read this for FREE on Kindle Unlimited!

MY  REREAD REVIEW

Disclaimer: This review MAY contain SPOILERS.

There are hardly words for the amount of joy that this book and this series has brought me. Rereading this book for a second time was glorious. While I certainly never forgot this world for a moment, my reread has only solidified my outright love for this series.

There are so many things to love about this series, but my favorite was always the romance. This is one of the absolute best slow-burn romances (with a mild bit of enemies to lovers trope in the beginning) that I have ever read. Elise Kova has this down to an art. Truly. The chemistry between the two main characters in this series will blow you away. The dialogues that these two characters have is perfect in every way and will keep you reading page after page for more of their banter. The way that the two main characters come together is both beautiful and stimulating. I could ship Vhalla and Aldrik until the end of time. I will be going down with this ship. 

The characters in this series are ones that will stay with you indefinitely. I have never forgotten this cast of characters. They have been dear to my heart since I first read this series. It is books like this one that make a person truly realize what good writing is. Kova makes each character interesting and purposeful. The relationships that are formed and the natural chemistry between characters is so impressive in this series. It definitely makes is hard to put these books down. The reader feels a part of the story and doesn't want to leave these characters behind. 

The plot of this series is really composed beautifully. The foreshadowing is excellent. During my reread I was able to spot so many things that will be important in later books of the series. I love how seamless the plot is. Everything flows wonderfully and you can truly tell how cleverly crafted the story is.

The world within these pages is easy to latch onto because Kova's descriptions are evocative and powerful. The reader truly feels immersed in this world from the start of the story. It is easy to fall into this world because of the careful construction of the magic system, the government, and the religious beliefs of this world. 

If you love young adult fantasy then I can't recommend this series enough! It will thoroughly capture your heart with its creative world, enthralling plot, and unforgettable characters. Do yourself a favor and pick up this book! After rereading this book, I can hardly contain my excitement for Kova's newest series set in this world, Air Awakens: Vortex Chronicles. Vortex Visions is the first book in this new series and it will be released February 4, 2019. Be still my beating heart. 

My original review is here.

THIS BOOK CONTRIBUTED TO THESE 2018 READING CHALLENGES

- Stellar Series Challenge
- Beat the Backlist Challenge
- Let's Read Indie Challenge
- Library Love Challenge
- Popsugar 2019 Reading Challenge

Check out my 2019 Challenge Page to see my progress!

Rereading books that I have loved in the past is something that I started doing in 2018. Prior to that I never reread anything because my mindset was always "so many books, so little time". But I came to realize that the amazing feeling you get when you love a book can be repeated without having to feel guilty about not reading something new or on the TBR. So do you reread any of your favorite books or do you tend to stick to a new book each time? What are some of your favorite rereads or books that you would contemplate rereading?