Graceling is a 2008 young adult fantasy novel written by American author Kristin Cashore, her literary debut.

A sequel companion, Bitterblue, which takes place eight years after the events in Graceling,[2] was published on May 1, 2012, by Dial, an imprint of Penguin Young Readers Group.

The two become friends as well as sparring partners, though Katsa feels betrayed when she discovers that Po's Grace is not fighting, but secretly a form of mind reading.

When commanded to dole out an unfair punishment, Katsa defies King Randa and sets out with Po to find the true kidnappers of the old Lienid.

Po confronts Leck, but is severely wounded and has to hide in the woods in Monsea, while Katsa and Bitterblue flee through a dangerous and inaccessible mountain pass.

[3] The book also was awarded: Sue Ellen Beauregard, author of "Top 10 first novels for youth on audio" of the Audiobook review, said that it had "[m]any layered fantasy adventures.

"[10] School Library Journal stated that the characters are "compelling and eminently likeable" and called Cashore's style "exemplary".

"[11] A New York Times review praised Graceling's "rich fantasy world" and deemed it a story of teens' growing into their talents.