Review: Great intro to who Celaena used to be before Throne of Glass
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 07 18, 2012
This is the first of four novellas all featuring Celaena that are leading up to (and take place before) The Throne of Glass.  It's a well done fantasy story that was engaging and easy to read.  It gives the reader a good glimpse into Celaena's past.Celaena Sardothien and Sam have been sent to the pirate lord's island seeking retribution for their master.  The Pirate Lord killed a number of Celaena's master's assassins and she thinks that the retribution will be paid in gold.  She is shocked and appalled to find out that her master is requesting slaves and is determined to foil the deal.I did this a bit backward; I actually read Thorne of Glass already to review it and then came back to read these stories.  The difference between Celaena in this story and Celaena post salt-mines is shocking.  The Celaena in this story is arrogant, obnoxious, and not all that likable.  Yes, she has guts and bravery and she is darn good at what she does, But the Celaena here is sooooo irritating.It was wonderful to read about the "old" Celaena and one of her adventures as an assassin for her guild.  This story was filled with intrigue, action, and some witty quips as well.  Celaena is darn good at what she does and watching her in motion was fantastic.The writing is well done and easy to read.  The story engaging and the plot moves quickly.  All in all an excellent introduction to Celaena.  It was fun to go back and read this after reading Throne of Glass.  If you think Celaena is a bit of an ass in this story, don't give up on Throne of Glass because of that...she changes.Overall definitely recommended.  This is a good introduction to the world and to who Celaena used to be before she was punished in the salt mines.  It also gives a lot of great background about how Celaena got in enough trouble to get sent to the salt mines in the first place.  This is a solid and well written fantasy read.  I definitely recommend this whole series to fantasy fans YA and older.