I have picked up this book several times over the last couple of years due to the name and cover. I would read the synopsis and then decide it wasn't for me. I just didn't really think that a book about a daughter of death and a convent of nuns that do his work sounded all that appealing. However, after reading a review by Rick Riordan, I decided to go ahead and give this book a try and I am really glad that I did. 
 The book is really good. I love the historical setting of the novel. I am fascinated when authors take real events or people and weave them into a wonderful story. It tends to make me want to go and find out more of the real historical events or people. 
 This story is centered around Ismae, who is a daughter of death and has led a tragic life until she is welcomed to the St. Mortain abbey. Ismael is trained as an assassin to help carry out the orders of St. Mortain, the god of death. Once Ismae is sent to court to investigate and stay close to potential enemies of the duchess, Ismae starts to question everything and she becomes more than just an assassin. 
 Although this is the first in a trilogy, which all three books are currently published, each book is centered around other girls that are first introduced in Grave Mercy. I am excited to read the next two books; however, I am sad that Ismae's and Duval's journey is over.