Uprooted

Enjoyable and classic fantasy tale, that refreshingly does not get bogged down with the descriptive aspects of the magic. Granted, an in-depth explanation of the inner workings of magic can be done well (Sanderson, Hobb are 2 examples), but most of the time it seems out of place and clumsily done.

Novik instead focuses on her central character, Agnieszka. Even though I don't always understand or agree with her actions, I can still relate to her and care about what happens. The Dragon, Sarkan, is kind of a boring or "ho-hum" character who becomes interesting only because of his relationship with the protagonist.

Well-written and worthy of the awards + nominations.