Fire, by Kristin Cashore and Guest Review

Fire, by Kristin Cashore
Young Adult, 2009

A companion but really unrelated to Graceling, Kristin's previous book, this story is about Fire, a monster (in this case they're beautiful) who's ability at mind control is enormous, but kept under wraps because of the terror her father created when he was alive. (Sorry for the run-on sentence.) Despite her self-control, she finds the kingdom has need of her skills if they're going to survive and keep a good king on the throne. And while she's at it, she might find her true self - and her true love.
I'm posting this cover instead, because I like it better than the one I have. I believe this is the UK cover. And I was in the middle of this months ago, but we went out of town...I loaned it to my dad....so I finally finished it last night and was pleasantly surprised. A little passive in its writing, it does take a bit to get into. However, it is an intricately woven plot with interesting characters and ideas. Would I change things? Absolutely. But would I read it again? Absolutely.
Graded a B.

My dad (otherwise known as Opa online) read this book and said he liked it - not as much as Graceling, but definitely would give it a B+. Just thought someone else's two cents would be fun to share.