While I found this book enjoyable, it didn't captivate me. I love classics, especially those that captivate me from the first word to the last because even if there's so much description I almost forget the plot, I still want to read on because I'm lost in the book. Sadly, as much as I wanted to love it, this one didn't. During parts of the novel, I had my attention held, but this novel lost it as soon as the descriptions started when the plot started getting slightly slower.

I loved the writing style but not the plot.

Okay wow. When even the short stories blow me away I know I'm a gonner. I'll read anything by here now in utter fear that I won't like it because it would be such a let down if it wasn't five stars.

Leigh Bardugo knows how to write one of these. Instead of trying to establish something new, like a side meal to a meal, she works on enhancing what is already there. Cherries always make ice cream better when they are on top instead of at the side. She added just a little bit more o help explain the events in the series as well as give a little insight to one of my favourite characters, Genya. This was beautifully written and masterfully thought out.

4.5

The beginning threw me off a bit and I actually went back to read it once I finished the story. Other than that, this was great. The transformation from child to Darkling was timed perfectly, just when I found myself itching for it to happen. I loved the feeling of this book. It felt like a Grishaverse book and tsarpunk book which was great.

5

Unfurtunatly I am in the group who thinks Celaena is anoying and stuck up and a horrible example of a progressive character.

So, as a high fantasy novel, this one was up there. It had a rich world with interesting characters and unique creatures. They had their own customs and belief. There was a small, but not overwhelming presence of magic and the fantastical that made the world feel so real and down to earth. Even the MC's lack of belief that the world he was in really gave this book a nice atmosphere and made it so immersive. And the leprosy was a unique aspect.

But, that same quality about Covenant was also what made me give this book three stars. In his constant disbelief that the world around him was real, he became more of the anti-hero as he did not believe there would be any consequence for his actions. He even raped a sixteen-year-old girl who had done nothing but try and help him since he arrived in the world, then figured it was okay because no one came after him. Sure, he felt guilty and it stayed with him throughout the book, but after that, I can't see Thomas in a good light anymore. Nor can I give this book a better rating, even ifI did start to enjoy myself later on, after I pushed the event to the back of my mind.