Released: October 1st, 2008
Series: Graceling Realm [Book One]
Publisher: Harcourt
Pages: 471
Source: Purchased
Buy it: Book Depository (free shipping) | Amazon
In a world where people born with an extreme skill - called a Grace - are feared and exploited, Katsa carries the burden of the skill even she despises: the Grace of killing. She lives under the command of her uncle Randa, King of the Middluns, and is expected to execute his dirty work, punishing and torturing anyone who displeases him.
When she first meets Prince Po, who is Graced with combat skills, Katsa has no hint of how her life is about to change.
She never expects to become Po's friend.
She never expects to learn a new truth about her own Grace - or about a terrible secret that lies hidden far away...a secret that could destroy all seven kingdoms with words alone.
The Short
Graceling had a bit of a slow start and it took me a little while to get into the story, but when it did I was completely hooked! I loved the development of the story, the characters, the Graces. I loved the setting and learning about the Kingdoms. I loved Katsa's strength, and I adored Po.
The Long
The Good
Intriguing concept, great characters, development of story.
The Bad
Slow start, Katsa's rants were slightly annoying.