“Graceling”

Author: Kristin Cashore

I have read this book three times! I am a huge fan of Cashores writing, especially this particular story line. There is no fantasy within its pages, but there is definitely a cool mystery plot with neat concepts from the characters and plenty of action violence. :) I could never be bored with the thrilling mystery and all the twists that were thrown at me. I know I might sound confusing, but I also disliked “Graceling”. There were a few things that the story could have definitely done without. 

A graceling is a person born with two different colored eyes. Although they are greatly feared; these strange colored eyes represent extreme talents. Talents that  range from being a: water swimmer, tree climber, mind reader, sword fighter, horse rider or anything else you can possibly imagine. In this story, Katsa, is our main character who battles a “grace” of her own. The “grace” of a deadly killer! Since her uncle is the king of the Middluns, he uses her to punish his subjects cruelly when they offend or upset him. But here is the thing, Katsa absolutely hates killing, especially when her victims are innocent. Meanwhile, working with her secret council they uncover the kidnapping of the Lienid grandfather and decide to keep him hidden until they find out more information. Also seeking information is the youngest Lienid Prince named Po, who unexpectedly encounters Katsa during his own investigations.  (He also possesses the “grace” of combat.) Soon, the two “graced” fighters embark on an epic journey together hoping to uncover the reason behind the elderly Lined kidnapping. Along the way, you might be surprised what you uncover as both of their “graces” are explored.

There is definitely some romance between Katsa and Po, but unfortunately I felt it came on a little too strong at the beginning. And then I was a little unsatisfied with the ending. The reason I liked it so much was because I absolutely loved reading about the strong willed, dangerous, Katsa.  All the unique characters that fill the printed pages are so much fun to imagine. Plus, it’s a decently long book of 470 pages, and I never get tired of the grueling journey through the forest, mountains, oceans, and kingdoms. Don’t you think it would be cool if you could have a terribly extreme talent in something, which also comes with the amazing two colored eyes?