Graceling Book Review

Author: Kristin Cashore

Katsa is a Graced killer who works for the King, torturing those who’ve wronged him. But when Katsa meets Po, her life is forever changed. Check out Graceling, Kristin Cashore’s wonderful debut novel.

A Killing Grace

The King’s Dirty Work

Now the teenaged Katsa works for her uncle, King Randa of the Middlums. He uses her Grace to threaten and torture those who’ve disappointed him, as the mere sight of Katsa strikes fear in people’s hearts. But Katsa doesn’t want to be feared. Unfortunately, with a Grace like hers, even she doesn’t believe she’s good for anything but killing.

Prince Po

But Katsa’s outlook on life changes when she meets Po, a prince from the Lienid Kingdom. With one gold eye and one silver eye, Po is also a Graced fighter. His strength and quick reflexes make him the first person to endure a fight with Katsa. The two form an instant friendship. Po teaches her to open her heart, and realize that there’s more to her Grace than killing.

The Bottom Line

They say don’t judge a book by its cover. But with Graceling, you certainly can. The cover art is bold and enchanting, just like the story. For a first novel, Graceling hit the mark. It’s by far one of the most well written teen novels of 2008. The characters are so strong and detailed that they almost feel alive.

Even if you don’t like fantasy novels, you’ll love this book. Kristin Cashore writes with a modern voice, making it very easy to read. If you enjoy quality stories that mix magic and reality, like Twilight and A Great and Terrible Beauty, then you’ll love Graceling.

Graceling Rating:

Related Stories: