Shadow and Bone: Book 1

Alina and Mal are both part of the Ravkan military. They have been apart for quite a bit given that they are part of different regiments and are meeting for a crossing of the Shadow Fold, a massive dark location that splits Ravka right down the middle and is extremely dangerous to cross. They both grew up in the same orphanage and have been close friends. Mal has always been fondly looked after by girls all around him and he does not struggle to make friends. Alina, on the other hand, does not connect as easily with others and would prefer to be hanging out with Mal than anyone else. How will their crossing of the Fold go? Will they all survive?

In some ways, I really enjoyed this book. It is well written and engaging as you are reading it, but I loved the Six of Crows series so much more. This book is much more of a romance and learning about magic powers series than an adventurous book. They just have different target audiences. There are definitely some red flags in this book and questionable interactions. It touches on nonconsensual romantic interactions and can be triggering for some.

If you like this book, the next in the series is Siege and Storm by Leigh Bardugo. Other books that are similar: Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare because of the magic and romance, Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard because of the romance, and Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi because of the chosen one trope and the magic powers.