I don't want to give this one a five star yet, in the anticipation that the next 1 or even 2 will both be 5 stars. This book made me itch for more and the expectations I had for this read were blown away. Not only was I super excited to read a first person p.o.v fantasy again but having seen the show made me love it even more. Yes, I couldn't help but compare certain aspects of the book to the show but that all disappeared a few chapters in as I was pulled in by Alina's experiences, her challenges and how she grew. I found a new appreciation for Mal's character that I didn't have when watching the show. His persistence is unmatched and his unwavering love for Alina is something that I saw with every interaction between the two.