Review: Grave Mercy - R.L. LaFevers

Release Date: April 3, 2012
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Series: His Fair Assassin, Book 1
Rated: YA 14+
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Why be the sheep, when you can be the wolf?

Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others.

Ismae’s most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?

I have read so many good reviews for this that I knew I just had to get my hands on it. I was not lead astray by my fellow bloggers! Once I started this book I had so much trouble putting it down, I was quickly emerged into a time of Lords and Lady's. At one time I would have been put off by the thought of a historical fiction read but now I crave them. There are few things better than Knights, and court intrigue. 

This book did not fail to give me any of that, there was betrayal at every turn. I went through this story questioning everyone. Who could be trusted when it seemed everyone had there own motives and plans. As the story went on and we fall deeper into the court and the political games I was amazed at how well woven the story was. 

Our characters didn't disappoint me either Ismae was wonderful, and I think I loved her from the start. Watching her start out the way she did, and grow at the convent, to end up the woman we end with was a great journey. She never stopped questioning things even when maybe she shouldn't. She also learned how to walk her own path and be happy with herself. The fact that she is a kick butt assassin makes her kinda awesome too! 

The rest of the characters weather they were main or secondary all had a breath of life in them. I was truly enchanted by all of them, and their story. I can't wait to see what the future hold for them, and where the next leg of this journey will take us. I give this one 5 stars and beg any of you who haven't yet read this to go give it a try, I am sure that it won't disappoint!