14+
This collection of novellas is where Celaena’s story starts and it is definitely my favourite book in the series.
There are several different novellas within, and they all outline the day to day things Celaena experienced during the last year or so of her life as Ardalans Assassin. We get to really experience the varied and detailed world that Celaena has travelled so widely, and her relationship with Sam as it grows and develops.
Each Novella builds on the one before and sets up the devastating stage for Throne of Glass – the first full length novel in the series. I cant say much more without spoilers, but this is honestly a great read that creates every emotion as we are swept into a fantasy land where even if Celaena is one of the most feared things in it, danger and intrigue is everywhere in a land where the players are constantly changing, and the rules are changed before you know they exist.
Characters – 5/5 stars – I LOVE THEM – also if you like morally grey main characters then well, the two main characters for most of the novellas are assassins so…
World – 5/5 stars – Its perfect, this entire world has been so well thought out and in this novella collection we really get to see just how diverse and complex her world is.
Romance – 1000/5 stars- Suggestive Romance – Sam and Celaena are the ultimate couple I love them so much
Plot – 5/5 stars – Its complex, and each novella has its own plot as well as an over arching plot of the book and then the huge plot of the entire series. I love series that are multi-faceted and where while everything means something, so much you dont understand or notice until later on.
Things to be aware of: It is quite dark in places, especially at the end, but that is to be expected in a 14+. Personally I read this when I was 13, and adored it so it all depends on what your comfort levels are on violence.
Also on a side note, this book and the rest of the series are all on Borrowbox, so if you are willing to wait a few months then you can read it on there.
Damsel in Delight 