Fire by Kristin Cashore

Fire by Kristin Cashore 5 of 5 stars.
Prequel to Graceling

It is not a very peaceful time in the Dells. The young King Nash clings to his throne while rebel lords in the north and south build armies to unseat him. The mountains and forests are filled with spies and thieves and lawless men.
This is where Fire lives. With a wild, irresistible appearance and hair the color of flame, Fire is the last remaining human monster. Equally hated and adored, she has the unique ability to control minds, but she guards her power, unwilling to steal the secrets of innocent people. Especially when she has so many of her own.
Then Prince Brigan comes to bring her to King City. The royal family needs her help to uncover the plot against the king. Far away from home, Fire begins to realize there's more to her power than she ever dreamed. Her power could save the kingdom.
If only she weren't afraid of becoming the monster her father was.

Kristin Cashore is an amazing author. The voice she has given to Fire is beautiful and distinguished. The story is able to capture your attention and absolutely refuse to let go. All of the characters are amazingly pieced together and portrayed in a way that doesn't just show the obvious characteristics but the other things boiling under the surface. I enjoyed this book even more than Graceling, which says something right there. There were so many different things going on in the book that I could never tell where the plot was headed. It was full of surprises, laughs, and love but also a cruelty that could make you cringe. An amazing novel!

For fans of: Graceling, Mistwood, Devil's Kiss, Twilight