The definition just seems to be getting broader all the times. It used to be just books like Harry Potter and Eragon, which are specifically targeted at a young age group. Now it seems to include anything that isn't graphic in description of violence and sex. In this book there was certainly enough death and violence, but not overly graphic, and I suppose that is how it gets classified as YA, but I do not think that it is written with a young audience in mind. Could be I'm wrong though, it isn't going to change my opinion of the book. One of my favourite reads of the year so far, probably 2nd only to Under Heaven by GGK.