Netflix’s ‘Shadow and Bone’ Has Been the #1 Show for Days, But Is It Worth the Hype? Here’s My Honest Review

Our series is lead by the willful Alina Starkov, an orphan cartographer living in the nation of Ravka. In this world ravaged by war, there are a group of magical beings called the Grisha, who have the ability to transform the earth's elements into unique weapons. But, in a fateful turn of events, one of these Grisha created the Fold, a swath of darkness filled with killer creatures that separates the east and west sides of Ravka.

When Alina's lifelong friend, Mal, is charged with crossing the Fold, she finds a way to go with him on the dangerous journey. But in the process, she will discover that she might be the most powerful Grisha the world has ever known.

The role of Alina is played by Jessie Mei Li while Archie Renaux plays her best friend, Mal. Other main characters are played by Freddy Carter (Free Rein), Amita Suman (The Outpost), Christopher "Kit" Young (A Midsummer Night's Dream), Ben Barnes (Westworld) and Zoë Wanamaker (Britannia).

So I know you're wondering, is this series that's getting so much buzz actually worth all the hype? The answer is yes. Shadow and Bone offers plenty of romance, action and mystery to keep you entertained for all eight episodes, and the tense ending of the first episode alone was enough to have me sold.

One of the best parts of Shadow and Bone is that you can see hints of other popular movies and shows within Bardugo's storytelling. When Mal's name gets called to cross the Fold and Alina finds a way to join him, I was reminded of other heroines like Mulan and Katniss Everdeen, who throw themselves into treacherous situations to protect those they care about. Meanwhile, the powers of the Grisha evoke qualities of beings like those in Avatar: The Last Airbender.

Don't get it twisted, though. Shadow and Bone is not merely copying from its predecessors. The series offers originality in droves, with a complex universe (that admittedly, takes a bit of time to fully understand) of creatures, languages and politics.

Meanwhile, the cast is strong, with Jessie Mei Li offering an electrifying performance in the lead role of Alina, and her co-stars matching her contagious energy. (For fans of love triangles, there will certainly be something to offer in these episodes as well).

4 out of 5 stars. Shadow and Bone is worth the hype. This series can sometimes move a little quick (because there's so much going on), but it's a compelling, action-packed adventure that is sure to become everyone's latest fantasy obsession. Now that I've already binged the first season, I'm on my way to go read the books.

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