Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor
Karou is a mystery, even to herself. She was raised by monstrous-looking creatures called Chimaera, but has been kept in the dark about most of their dealings. Karou juggles art school and a normal life with doing dark and dangerous errands for her family of Chimaera. But when a beautiful angelic Akiva arrives, Karou learns of an ages-long war that has been kept hidden from her as well. And Karou feels an undeniable connection to this creature fated to be her enemy.
Karou is a mysterious girl, who is kept grounded by her witty art school friend. She begins to feel divided between her two lives, until she is cut off from her Chimaera family. Akiva is a tortured, winged Seraphim who feels torn between duty to his race and love for this puzzling girl. This dark fantasy is unique and inspired. Taylor’s world of the monstrous Chimaera and beautiful Seraphim laced with a tragic love story is both moving and spellbinding. Many secrets will be revealed by the climactic ending. But a poignant, cliffhanger ending will leave readers eager for the next installment.
This sounds good. Thanks for the review, I have this book on my wish list.
I enjoyed this one hugely to start with, but felt it lost something towards the end. I don’t read a lot of YA fiction though so I suspect it’s just me!