Review of Shadow & Bone-Leigh Bardugo

Two orphans, Alina & Mar, are separated when it is discovered that Alina has magical powers that can save the world from the Fold, bringer of darkness.  Alina is taken under the wing of the Darkling, but he is not what he seems.  Amid court intrigue and luxuries she's never known, she misses Mal and when the Darkling's plan is revealed, Alina escapes to be reunited with Mal.  This novel immediately takes you to a highly imaginative world full of monsters who feed on human flesh and monsters who pretend to be saviors.  I loved the Russian folktale elements of the book and will read the sequel as soon as I can.  4 Elves - Highly recommended for teens