Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Graceling

By Kristin Cashore

Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2013

404 pages (hardcover)

Kristin Cashore’s best-selling, award-winning fantasy Graceling tells the story of the vulnerable yet strong Katsa, a smart, beautiful teenager who lives in a world where selected people are given a Grace, a special talent that can be anything from dancing to swimming. Katsa’s is killing. As the king’s niece, she is forced to use her extreme skills as his thug. Along the way, Katsa must learn to decipher the true nature of her Grace . . . and how to put it to good use. A thrilling, action-packed fantasy adventure (and steamy romance!) that will resonate deeply with adolescents trying to find their way in the world. (from barnesandnoble.com)

Why did it take me so long to read this? I had heard it was a good book, but I should have taken those reviews more seriously and picked up the book ASAP.

Graceling is an enchanting tale of a young lady who feels out of place and suffocated by her powers (her Grace), though she does want to do good. Throughout the book the walls around her are slowly broken down as she learns more about her Grace, herself, others who are Graced, and others her Grace can help. Although Graceling has elements of many young adult and fantasy novels, Cashore brings it to life by building a beautiful world with characters we can love (and hate).

An added bonus is that there is a map in the front. I love maps! Cashore also cleverly gave some of the kingdoms names that are similar to the directions they are on the map (ie. the kingdom in the south is Sunder). Thanks for making the book and the places easier to understand!

This is a book for those who want a good young adult novel. You don’t have to be a fan of fantasy or magical powers to become entranced by Cashore’s story.