DEMON IN THE WOOD: A Shadow and Bone Graphic Novel by Leigh Bardugo & Dani Pendergast

 

The Darkling's origin story comes alive in this exquisitely illustrated prequel to Shadow and Bone.

Before he led Ravka's Second Army, before he created the Fold, and long before he became the Darkling, he was just a lonely boy burdened by an extraordinary power. Eryk and his mother, Lena, have spent their lives on the run. But they will never find a safe haven. They are not only Grisha - they are the deadliest and rarest of their kind. Feared by those who wish to destroy them and hunted by those who would exploit their gifts, they must hide their true abilities wherever they go. But sometimes deadly secrets have a way of revealing themselves . . . 

I really enjoyed the Grisha Trilogy, so of course I was interested in reading the Darkling's origin story.

Being Grisha means that Eryk and his mother Lena are constantly on the run. They need to hide from those who fear and want to kill them. But Eryk's power is different even amongst the Grisha, so they have to be extra careful...

This story might be short, but packs quite a punch. It's so strange to see the Darkling as such a timid young man who listens to everything his mother tells him, even though he dreams of living in one place where his kind can be safe. It was also bizarre to watch others trying to take advantage of him.

I mean, I know what he's capable of and everything he does afterwards. So yeah, it was nice to see he wasn't always an arrogant tyrant.

This is a graphic novel, and I need to mention how beautiful it is. Every illustration adds so much to the words, enhancing Eryk's tale while giving a visual peek into this dark and dangerous world. Not to mention, his power.

Demon in the Wood is another brilliant addition to the Grishaverse. It not only provides insight into a young man who simply wants a home, but is also chilling when you remember what comes next.

It's a keeper!

Thank you Hachette Australia for sending me a copy.

Demon in the Wood: A Shadow and Bone Graphic Novel, September 2022, ISBN 9781510111141, Orion Children's Books