Siege and Storm (Bardugo) - Book Reviews

Book Reviews
After narrowly escaping the Darkling at the end of Shadow and Bone, Alina and Mal are still on the run.... World-building and character development are top-notch, and relationships and motives are complex; Alina hungers for more power just as much as the Darkling does.... An action-packed, heartbreaking ending (Gr 8 & up). —Leigh Collazo, Ed Willkie Middle School, Fort Worth, TX
School Library Journal


Darkness is not easy to escape, even as the “Sun Summoner.” Alina finds herself trapped in a web of forbidden magic as she tries to start a new life in unfamiliar territory. Even with Mal by her side, the tempestuous Darkling’s game is putting a wedge between them....she cannot seem to trust anything as she did (Ages 12 & up). —Lisette Baez
Children's Literature


This second installment...takes off where Book 1, Shadow And Bone (Henry Holt/Macmillan, 2012/VOYA August 2012), left off: Mal and Alina escaped the King's palace and are fleeing another Grisha.... This action-packed, suspenseful grand tale of war, adventure and love, with a maritime setting, colorful battles, and female warriors, will appeal to a broad readership and is an enticing prelude to the anticipated Book 3. —Christina Miller
VOYA


Bardugo populates her fully realized world with appealing three-dimensional characters and an involving plot that keeps a steady pace. But she doesn’t skimp on the introspective moments that will bond readers to the main characters and have them tapping their feet impatiently for the concluding volume.... The buzz will be big (Grades 7-12). —Cindy Welch
Booklist


The Grisha Trilogy turns from bildungsroman to political thriller in its second installment.... Bardugo's sophomore effort smooths out many of the rookie wrinkles that marred Shadow and Bone...keeping readers immersed in the plot. Characters are rich and complex.... Scheming and action carry readers at a breathless pace to an end that may surprise them. (13 & up ).
Kirkus Reviews