Which book?
Graceling, by Kristin Cashore
Genre?
YA fantasy
Summary? (From GoodReads)
Katsa has been able to kill a man with her bare hands since she was eight—she’s a Graceling, one of the rare people in her land born with an extreme skill. As niece of the king, she should be able to live a life of privilege, but Graced as she is with killing, she is forced to work as the king’s thug.
When she first meets Prince Po, 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.
When did I first read it?
Two years ago
Why did I first read it?
Umm…I don’t remember for sure. But I’m pretty sure I read a favorable review on someone’s blog that totally sold me.
What did I think about it then?
I really loved how independent the main character, Katsa, is (I'm a total sucker for independent female leads). She can handle everything that life hands her and doesn't really need anyone's help. I especially loved how even though she falls in love, Katsa retains her sense of self and her independence. I really liked Po, as well--I think he's a good match for Katsa. He complements her without taking away from the strength of her character.
What do I think about it now?
I feel like recently a lot of people have been telling me how much they DON’T like Graceling, but I just don’t understand it. It has adventure and romance and fantasy and a kick-A heroine, with great writing to boot. I’m not sure what’s not to like about it. I’ll admit I’ve never been a super big fan of Katsa and Po’s relationship status at the end, but I do think it fits with Katsa’s character, so I like that she doesn’t become totally mushy and lame just because she’s in love.
Have you read Graceling? What did you think?
I read Graceling before I got back into reading a lot of YA, because it was published as an adult novel in the UK. I love 99% of Graceling and I have no problem with Katsa and Po's relationship - I think it's a refreshing change from YA couples who marry at 18. The problem I have with Graceling is Po's injury at the end - I just felt it was a bit much, a bit too melodramatic. But I love the characters and the journey Katsa takes. I can't wait to read Bitterblue.
ReplyDeleteI loved Graceling! I JUST read it because I heard so many people talking about the up and coming Bitterblue so I just had to know what the series was about. I am reading Fire now and though it is good, I definitely like Graceling better. I really loved Katsa and Po and responded better to those characters than in Fire, I think. Can't wait for Bitterblue! :)
ReplyDeleteI don't think I felt much either way about Graceling. Which is probably why I didn't really feel any pressing need to finish reading it. I think I would have enjoyed it but the idea of someone being Graced with killing but such little evidence of that besides some vague description wasn't that appealing to me. I think I'm way too bloodthirsty.
ReplyDeleteI'm still planning on reading this book. I like herions who are brave and can be independent :)
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