I read this book for the first time eight or so years ago, but I am reading through the series again now so that I can eventually read the fourth installment, Winterkeep. It’s very difficult for me to believe that this is an author’s debut novel, as it doesn’t read like one. Cashore’s writing style is quite compatible with me as a reader; sophisticated and polished, while not being so impersonal that I’m unable to form attachment to her characters. And what lovely characters they are! There are times when the story progresses slowly, but then sharp twists and new revelations drag the reader right back into the action. I have been struggling with my reading lately, going months without having the energy to progress through books, but Graceling was so enjoyable to me that I finished it in less than a month. I am very much looking forward to continuing with the rest of the series.