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A review by bookworm2991
The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J. Maas
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I’d just like to add that The Assassin's Blade is a great introduction to the world of Throne of Glass, especially if you're curious about Celaena's past and what shaped her into the character she becomes. The novellas also do a fantastic job of building relationships, particularly the bond between Celaena and Sam, which adds a layer of emotional depth to the action and suspense.
Even though it’s a prequel, the stakes feel high, and the book sets the tone for the rest of the series, giving readers a glimpse of what’s to come in terms of both character growth and the larger conflicts that will unfold. It’s a must-read for fans of the series, but also an enjoyable read for anyone who loves strong, complex female protagonists and fast-paced fantasy.
Even though it’s a prequel, the stakes feel high, and the book sets the tone for the rest of the series, giving readers a glimpse of what’s to come in terms of both character growth and the larger conflicts that will unfold. It’s a must-read for fans of the series, but also an enjoyable read for anyone who loves strong, complex female protagonists and fast-paced fantasy.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Torture, Violence, and Blood
Moderate: Emotional abuse
The Assassin's Blade delves deeply into Celaena Sardothien's past, revealing her complex relationships, particularly with Sam, which is central to her character development. Their romance is tender yet tragic, adding emotional weight to the narrative. Sam's fate is a pivotal moment that shapes Celaena’s future decisions and her path toward becoming the assassin readers know in the Throne of Glass series. This loss plays a crucial role in her transformation, highlighting the themes of revenge and emotional scars. The novellas also explore Celaena’s internal conflict about her identity and the morality of the assassin life she leads, setting the stage for the personal growth that follows in the series.
The book is an excellent mix of action, personal reflection, and emotional stakes, with darker themes around loss and morality running through it. The relationships in the book, particularly the bonds forged under extreme circumstances, add depth and complexity to the overall story.