Review: A great start to a new series
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 07 5, 2012
ASSASSIN AND THE PIRATE LORD  (YA novella #1) by Sarah J MaasASSASSIN AND THE PIRATE LORD (Jan 13, 2012) is the first novella of four, introducing Celaena  Sardothien, a 16year old trained assassin and member of the elite Assassin's Guild. Sarah J Maas, by way of some earlier novellas guides the reader through the early adventures of Celaena leading to her new YA fantasy novel Throne of Glass in August 2012.Celaena found it difficult to learn that fellow Guild Assassin and second to Arobynn Hamel -Ben was missing and presumed dead. But when his death was confirmed as well as the death of 3 other members, Celaena and Sam Cortland are sent on a mission to Skull's Bay (by Arobynn Hamel-King of the Assassins)  to retrieve some merchandise from the Pirate Lord.  But the merchandise was not what they expected and neither was the mission.  To add to their troubles, Celaena must keep her identity a secret and therefore is required to wear protective cloak and mask at all times.  As the only 16year old female assassin, Celaena knows she would be targeted if her identity were ever to be known.Sam and Celaena have trained together most of their lives, but when the cargo they were seeking forces the pair to make a life and death decision, it is Celaena's reaction that surprises both herself and Sam.  Failing the assignment would bring punishment upon their return home.Assassin and The Pirate Lord is a quick read.  The story introduces a few of the characters as well as builds a base for the upcoming YA series.  4 short stories leading to a full-length novel that will be released later this summer, the Throne of Glass novellas are a necessary read allowing the reader a glimpse into the personality and premise of a new YA series.see all of my reviews at: thereadingcafe.com