Grave Mercy

Summary


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?
(Summary taken from the book)


Afterthoughts
I could barely put this book down once I had started it. It was captivating and fast-paced and I couldn't wait to see what would happen next.
That said, it was also a bit cliche and stale. LaFevers did a good job of taking an over-used storyline and making it interesting, but there were a few moments when I was rolling my eyes in exasperation.
Despite this, I did enjoy the book and was surprised by many of the plot twists and developments. I loved the historical aspect of the story and I'm very interested to see what happens in the sequel.
Warnings
Would definitely restrict this book for older teens. Part of Ismae's training includes the art of seduction and this results in some PG-13 content. Some mild language and sexual innuendos. One implied sexual encounter, nothing explicit but still present.
Extras
Book Trailer: