I didn't like Shadow and Bone. 
 ***** 
 Two things that made Shadow and Bone reading close to bearable: 
 One. I was conned by the Darkling. I was rooting for him, then well, you know... let's just say Leigh Bardugo has a mean streak in Darkling's character. 
 Two. The action scene in the Fold at the end of the book. I admit it was cool. 
 Other than that, Shadow and Bone is one big disappointment for a fantasy lover. Little and so few action scenes. Such a downer. 
 Alina has self-esteem issues. I cannot understand why almost 2/3 of the book is dedicated to Alina being conscious about her looks! What a useless heroine. She spent half the time swooning over the Darkling when she should've been training rigorously as a Grisha! Alina is annoying, irritating, and always in need of someone to help. Is this the kind of fantasy heroine I want? NO! 
 The plot was unique but it was poorly executed. And while i read some of the not-so-glowing reviews, I agree that the research behind the story was poor, as well. 
 Shadow and Bone = a lot of eyeroll = palpable distaste.