The Winner's Curse - Marie Rutkoski

Began reading: 14.12.2015
Completed reading: 17.12.2015
Overall rating: 4.1 stars

WINNING WHAT YOU WANT

MAY COST YOU EVERYTHING

YOU LOVE

As a general's daughter in a vast empire that revels in war and enslaves those it conquers, Kestrel has two choices: she can join the military or get married. Kestrel has other ideas.

One day, she is startled to find a kindred spirit in Arin, a young slave up for auction. Following her instinct, Kestrel buys him - and for a sensational price that sets the society gossips talking. It's not long before she has to hide her growing love for Arin. But he, too, has a secret and Kestrel quickly learns that the price she has paid is much higher than she ever could have imagined.

The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkoski is tale of forbidden love and choices that have the power to change society. This young adult book combines fantasy, romance and dystopian themes to create a story about how one’s beliefs and actions have the power to impact those around you and change the way society operates. I was reading some reviews on Goodreads recently, and I didn’t understand why there were so many negative reviews. I LOVED THIS BOOK!

Firstly, the book was well-written, as it contained a lot of literary techniques and no errors. I especially enjoyed some of the quotes, including:

‘Isn't that what stories do, make real things fake, and fake things real?’ (p. 6).

Her arm went limp when Arin gripped it. She remembered the auctioneer in the pit, in the full heat of summer. This lad can sing, he had said. She remembered the man’s boot on her hand. The fact that the whole city knew her weakness for music. As Arin pulled her from the room, Kestrel thought about how this might be what hurt the most.

That they had used something she loved against her (p. 218).

More quotes from the book can be found here.

While I was reading, I felt that the story was slow-paced, as there was little happening; however, as I read the second half of the novel, I thought that everything that occurred in the first half was a lead-up to or explanation for what would happen in the second half. After I realised this, I began to enjoy the story more. I’m grateful that I stayed focused and interested through the first half; otherwise I wouldn’t have enjoyed the second half at all.

                  

I’m not sure why, but before I purchased this book, I thought it was an adult romance novel, similar to E. L. James’ Fifty Shades of Grey. I was pleasantly surprised, as it was not raunchy in the least. I would have liked a little bit more romance though. In the novel, Kestrel and Arin share a kiss, and suddenly she’s in love. It seemed a bit unrealistic… I’m not a fan of books with a lot of romance, but in this case, a little more wouldn’t have hurt.

Each character had their unique personalities, which was great! I read on Goodreads that the characters seemed bland, distant and foreign. I think this may have been avoided by describing the characters in more detail. The appearances of characters, for example, were hardly described — only their hair colour, and maybe their eyes or shape of their nose were mentioned. It would have been better to give readers a better idea of the characters’ behaviours and so on. I think this lack of detail may have affected many of the reviews for this novel.

                    

I liked how the story was told from both sides — the aristocracy and those in servitude. This provided readers with an insight into what everyone in the hierarchy thought — what the Herrani thought of the Valorians and vice-versa. It also strengthened the theme of forbidden love, as it emphasised how the social classes reacted to the rumours of Kestrel and Arin.

I wouldn’t say that Kestrel was my favourite character; however, I did find her to be most likeable. She was strategic, compassionate and confidant. In spite of this, I didn’t understand how she could betray her Valorians the way she did. Why help the Herrani, after everything they did to upend her lifestyle and almost kill her friends? On the other hand, I was pleased to read that she came up with a bargain with the emperor, making the social classes slightly more equal.

As I mentioned previously, I would have loved to have known more about the characters, especially Lirah, Jess, Ronan and Sarsine. Also, I wonder if Kestrel and Sarsine become close friends… I doubt it, as Kestrel would be increasing her social standing in the next book.

                   

*WARNING: POSSIBLE SPOILER* My favourite parts of the book were Kestrel’s duel with Irex, and her engagement to the emperor’s son. I liked Kestrel’s duel because it reminded me of Celaena in Sarah J. Maas’ Throne of Glass series. It also demonstrated Kestrel’s relationship with her father. I enjoyed the engagement section of the novel, as it emphasised how Kestrel valued her fellow Valorians, and strived to improve the lifestyle of the Herrani rebels.

Recommendation time! If you like the Luxe series by Anna Godbersen, the Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas, Matched series by Ally Condie, and The Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer, you will love this book. Also, I recommend this book to anyone who likes Countdown by Michelle Rowan, Carnival of Souls by Melissa Marr, and Naughts and Crosses by Mallorie Blackman.

I will also be reviewing the rest of the books from The Winner’s Trilogy, including The Winner’s Crime. Keep an eye out for those!

Happy reading!

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I am Juliet - Jackie French

Began reading: 12.12.2015
Completed reading: 13.12.2015
Overall rating: 3.8 stars

Everyone knows the story of Juliet Capulet and her love for Romeo. The star-crossed lovers from the warring Capulet and Montague families of Verona whose love was doomed. But who was this girl Juliet?

Who am I? Only a daughter?

A Capulet, wed to my father's choice?

No! I am the girl who chose her destiny,

whose love outlasts the sun.

I am Juliet.

I am Juliet by Jackie French is a re-telling of the classic Romeo and Juliet, according to Juliet Capulet. This book combines history and romance to create a historical fiction suitable for individuals from the age of ten and up. Personally, I was excited to learn about Juliet’s thoughts on falling for Romeo and his exile; however, I felt that the plot was slightly dull. Jackie French is a renowned author in Australia, and I studied two of her other texts in high school: Hitler’s Daughter and Macbeth and Son — which I really liked.

                    

As I expected, I am Juliet was well-written. Everything was explained in great detail, and a fair amount of literary techniques. There were some great quotes that I have to share, including:

…this book was more valuable than gold. All gold can do is shine. This book of stories took us to a hundred places and a thousand hearts (p. 17).

What was love, except the duty one owed one’s parents and one’s husband? Dreams were just that: shadows of the night (p. 42).

I was not the daughter they had tried to make, like the sugar cups my mother had made for the feast. The sugar cups had dissolved. I had dissolved too. The good daughter had vanished, leaving only me (p. 66).

If this should be the only night of love I had, I would cram a lifetime into every hour (p. 98).

I lifted up Romeo’s dagger. It was warm from his body, the only warmth left of him for me to know. I pressed it to my heart. Romeo, my love, I am the sheath for your dagger now (pp. 164-165).

Each one of you [will weep]. Even you men, sitting straight as broomsticks so your neighbours don’t see your tears. Every day till you are dust, you will remember how you watched a young girl die in front of you, for love (p. 169).

I really enjoyed how the classic story was told from a different point of view, allowing us to see into Juliet’s mind. The book contains the perspectives of two characters: Rob, the young actor who is asked to perform as Juliet for the play’s debut, and that of Juliet Capulet. Juliet’s perspective repeatedly emphasises the traditional gender expectations of that period — daughters were expected to marry, while sons were given freedom to do what they wanted. This continued emphasis through the book quickly became unnecessary — I understand that it was a significant influence in everyday life, but saying it once or twice would have been gotten the message across just as effectively.

                     

Amongst the drama and tension, there was some humour. My favourite part was at Juliet’s betrothal feast to Paris. The couple were given some sugar ornaments, including a knight that resembled Paris, and Paris gave Juliet the ornament. This funny quote accompanied the scene, and made me laugh:

Juliet: ‘I thank you, sir. I will indeed accept your knight.’

Paris: ‘Which part will you eat first?’

I flushed with anger. I hoped he would take it modesty. ‘Why, sir, he is too fine. I will keep him to admire.’

My mother nodded almost imperceptibly at my answer.

‘By your bed?’ He looked around the table, expecting everyone to applaud his wit.

‘Nay, sir, I would not keep him so confined. By the window, so he can look down upon the town.’

And where, hopefully, a sparrow would eat  him before breakfast tomorrow (p. 49).

As there were only two characters, I would have to say that Juliet was the most relatable — headstrong, yet obedient, compassionate and considerate. I also liked Joanette, the youngest of Juliet’s maids (also known as the Joans).

Juliet’s parents were aloof and cruel. The Nurse was irritating. Friar Lawrence was a coward. Paris was a douche. So, it was difficult to really like a particular character.

                                                             

I came to like Rob’s character, or more specifically, his performance at the end of the book. It felt like a great way to add closure to Juliet’s character. It was really sweet! It was definitely loved the ending, so I would say it was my favourite part of the book.

Recommendation time! If you like Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, Prince of Shadows by Rachel Caine and Still Star-Crossed by Melinda Taub, you will love this book. Also, I recommend this book to anyone who likes Romeo + Juliet, Romeo and Juliet (2013), The Borgias, and Reign.

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Queen of Shadows - Sarah J. Maas

Began reading: 25.11.2015
Completed reading: 11.12.2015
Overall rating: 4 stars

No masters. No limits. No regrets.

Celaena Sardothien is cloaked in her assassin’s hood once more. She is back in Rifthold, but this time she is no one’s slave. She must delve into her more painful memories and fight for her survival, while resisting a smouldering passion that might very well consume her heart. And she will face her former master, the King of Assassins, again — to wreak revenge for a decade of pain…

Queen of Shadows by Sarah J. Maas is the fourth instalment of the Throne of Glass series. Queen of Shadows combines genres such as fantasy, romance, paranormal and adventure to create an enthralling novel suitable for young adults. Personally, I believe that this series gets better and better with the book, and I don’t think that Sarah J. Maas’ writing will ever disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, and I can’t wait until the fifth book is released!

As always, Sarah J. Maas has included some great quotes, amazing dialogue and detailed descriptions. Some of my favourite quotes from the novel include:

‘You bring my court into this, Chaol,’ Aelin said with lethal softness, ‘and I don’t care what you were to me, or what you have done to help me. You betray them, you hurt them, and I don’t care how long it takes, or how far you go: I’ll burn you and your gods-damned kingdom to ash. Then you’ll learn just how much of a monster I can be’ (pp. 122-123).

‘You’re here — and you’re perfect. You always were, and you always will be’ (p. 187).

My absolute favourite quote was from when Aelin played the piano forte for Rowan in the theatre. The quote is:

It was not the sorrowful, lovely piece she had once played for Dorian, and it was not the light, dancing melodies she’d played for sport; it was not the complex and clever pieces she had played for Nehemia and Chaol. This piece was a celebration — a reaffirmation of life, of glory, of the pain and beauty in breathing (p. 295).

The reason why I loved it so much was because it described the type of relationship that Aelin had with the characters mentioned.

                    

*WARNING: POSSIBLE SPOILER* I’m not sure if this is an error, but I just have to bring it up. In the novel, Arobynn’s bodyguard, Wesley, revealed that Arobynn ordered Sam’s death and how Farran was to torture him. It was similar to how Lysandra had to endure Arobynn, knowing that he killed her lover. So, when I read this quote from Aelin’s thoughts, I was confused:

She wondered what it was like to have to endure the man who had slaughtered your lover (p. 191).

*WARNING: POSSIBLE SPOILER* This book also had a few interesting ideas that I thought were pretty genius. For example, using stones to decorate a grave instead of flowers: “Stones were eternal — flowers were not (p. 199), was brilliant. The entire scene where Aelin visits Sam’s grave was so sad, and brought back the feels. However, I’m glad that it brought closure to his character. Well done!

Finally, there was some humour, which I appreciated! For example, when Rowan got a haircut:

‘Your hair was so pretty. I was hoping you’d let me braid it one day. I suppose I’ll have to buy a pony instead.’ She cocked her head. ‘When you shift, will your hawk be plucked, then?’

His nostrils flared, and she clamped her lips together to keep from laughing (p. 237).

I was hoping Mort would make an appearance in the book, but sadly, he was only mentioned in passing. The way in which he was mentioned seemed to mean that he wouldn’t be returning in the upcoming novels, which I’m disappointed about.

                 

As I mentioned in my review for Heir of Fire, Manon Blackbeak was quickly overtaking Celaena in becoming my favourite character. I can now say that Manon and Celaena/Aelin are equal in being my favourite characters. Manon and Aelin are so alike, and I was so glad that they FINALLY came face-to-face in this book.

Speaking of, their argument and fight was one of my favourite parts of the novel. Both characters were badass, yet compassionate towards each other. Two leaders facing off against each other — it was both exciting and tense. I loved it! I also enjoyed reading about Asterin’s story and how it inspired her to become Manon’s Second.

I really like the idea of Dorian and Manon together. I don’t think that they really suit each other, but I think that their interactions in this book were so cute, especially when Manon visited him at his castle!

                     

*WARNING: POSSIBLE SPOILERS* I’m glad that Lysandra and Kaltain contributed to helping the ‘good’ characters. I was especially happy that Lysandra and Aelin became such close friends. Also, I enjoyed reading about Evangeline. I hope she makes an appearance in the next book!

To be honest, I thought that Chaol acted like such a d*ckhead in this novel, so I don’t know how I feel about him anymore. I’m just glad that he was helpful and assisted Aelin with her missions.

Recommendation time! If you like The Assassin, Hanna, Reign, Kill Bill and Kill Bill 2, you will love this book. Also, I recommend this book to anyone who likes The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis, The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare, the Blue Bloods series by Melissa de la Cruz, and the Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling.

My reviews for The Assassins Blade, Throne of Glass, Crown of Midnight, and Heir ofFire can be found by clicking on the titles.

I will also be reviewing the rest of the Throne of Glass series when the books are available. Keep an eye for those!

Happy reading!

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Heir of Fire - Sarah J. Maas

Began reading: 13.11.2015
Completed reading: 24.11.2015
Overall rating: 3.9 stars

Consumed by guilt and rage, Celaena can't bring herself to spill blood for the King of Adarlan. She must fight back...

The Immortal Queen will help her destroy the king - for a price. But as Celaena battles with her darkest memories and her heart breaks for a love that could never last, can she fulfil the bargain and head the almighty court of Terrasen? And who will stand with her?

Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas is the third novel in the Throne of Glass series, which combines fantasy and romance to create a fascinating, action-packed young adult book. Overall, I think that this series just gets better and better!

The story was well-written and told in great detail; however, there were a few spelling and grammatical errors. Aside from that, there were some great quotes. Here are some examples:

‘The people you love are just weapons that will be used against you’ (p. 162).

He ripped his cold magic from the air and turned it inward, wrapping it around his heart (p. 195).

Maybe there could be no future, no hope of anything more, but just looking at him standing there, in this moment, she wanted to be selfish and stupid and wild.

It could all go to hell tomorrow, but she had to know what it was like, just for a little while, to belong to someone, to be wanted and cherished (p. 249).

‘You are the keeper of your own fate’ (p. 286).

                   

I absolutely loved the plot, especially the various relationships that develop. For example, I loved that Dorian had begun to move on from Celaena. I enjoyed how he opened up to another person (I won’t reveal who!), but it was sad that he had to keep it a secret. It was tragic, especially since the relationship didn’t last very long, but I still enjoyed reading about it. I should’ve accepted the fact that he and Celaena would never be together before I started this book, but oh well… I hope Dorian finds love and happiness in the final book!

                 

Speaking of Dorian’s relationship with another character, the plot twists towards the end were just so tragic! I like how staggering plot twists are part of Sarah J. Maas’ work. I’m still reeling from the major plot twist in The Assassin’s Blade! These plot twists are always effective, and assist with adding a certain depth to the narrative. I wonder what plot twists will be present in Queen of Shadows!

I felt that the story was a bit slow-paced. I’m not sure why, but it felt as though all the dramatic events and interesting details occurred towards the end of the book. To be honest, you could read the first few chapters then skip to the last few, and you wouldn’t be missing much. Similarly, I felt that it was a bit dull. As much as I loved reading about Celaena’s adventures, the matter of the Wyrdkeys felt as though it was dragged out and dull. Aside from this, I enjoyed the novel immensely.

As always, Celaena remains as my favourite character in the series; however, Manon Blackbeak is slowly starting to replace her. Manon is very similar to Celaena — independent, badass and somewhat considerate. I can’t wait to see if Manon and Celaena will interact and if they will get along!

I enjoy reading about the relationship between Celaena and Rowan; however, this whole ‘tough love’ thing ruins it a bit. There is one part of the book where Rowan and Celaena have an argument, and what he says is really hurtful.

Rowan paused his stalking. ‘You’re worthless.’

‘Tell me something I don’t know.’

He went on, ‘You would probably have been more useful to the world if you’d actually died ten years ago’ (p. 163).

I understand that hurtful things are said during an argument, but this seemed uncalled for. I felt really bad for Celaena, and thoroughly disappointed with Rowan.

                     

My favourite parts of the book include Celaena’s flashbacks, as well as her training with Rowan. I really enjoyed having an insight into Celaena’s childhood, and knowing how close she was to Aedion. The story of why she fled and ended up in Rifthold was so emotional. I also enjoyed reading about Manon, her coven and her wyvern, Abraxos.

The highlight of the book is the comebacks from Aedion and Celaena. For example, Aedion’s conversation with Ren:

Aedion swung his legs back onto the roof and stood. ‘All I want,’ he snarled, ‘is for my people to be free and my queen restored to her throne.’

‘They burned the antler throne, Aedion. There is no throne for her.’

‘Then I’ll build one myself from the bones of our enemies.’ (p. 312).

Also, Celaena’s conversation with Queen Maeve:

‘One thought from me, and your city will burn.’

‘It is stone,’ Maeve snapped.

Celaena smiled. ‘Your people aren’t’ (p. 509).

                                       

Recommendation time! If you like Hanna, The Assassin, The Last Airbender, Kill Bill and Kill Bill 2, you will love this book. Also, I recommend this book to anyone who likes The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis, The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare, and the Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling.

My reviews for The Assassins Blade, Throne of Glass, and Crown of Midnight can be found by clicking on the titles.

I will also be reviewing the final book of the Throne of Glass series: Queen of Shadows. Keep an eye out for that!

Happy reading!

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Crown of Midnight - Sarah J. Maas

Began reading: 14.10.2015
Completed reading: 4.11.2015
Overall rating: 4 stars

Celaena Sardothien, royal assassin, is the King of Adarlan's deadliest weapon. She must win her freedom through his enemies' blood - but she cannot bear to kill for the crown. And every death Celaena fakes, every lie she tells, put those she loves at risk.

Torn between her two protectors - a captain and a prince - and battling a dark force far greater than the king, Celaena must decide what she will fight for: her liberty, her heart or the fate of a kingdom...

Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas is a combination of fantasy, romance and adventure in a young adult fiction novel. I just really LOVE this series! This plot continues two months after Celaena was named the king’s Champion.

As expected, the novel was well-written — everything was described in detail, characters were portrayed in a realistic way, and there were some great quotes. For example:

The best lies were always mixed with truth (p. 14).

It was a freedom that she was still working for, because even though she’d tasted it only for a heartbeat, it had been the most exquisite heartbeat she’d ever experienced (p. 83).

It was war upon them all. Let them tremble in fear at what they had awoken (p. 256).

Now… Now, she didn’t particularly care.

It was hard to care, she realised as she started the trek back to the castle. Incredibly hard to care, when you didn’t have anyone left to care about (p. 297).

                         

I also enjoyed the humour, especially between Celaena and Mort. At first, Celaena and Mort obviously disliked each other, but as they interacted more, they started to get along. I think these two make a great team, as Mort has connections to the gods. I hope Mort is in Heir of Fire! Anyway, here are some examples of the humour (keep in mind, I have a horrible sense of humour):

Mort hissed when she appeared at the door of the tomb. ‘Plan on desecrating any other sacred objects tonight?’

Carrying a satchel full of papers and books that she’d grabbed from her rooms, Celaena merely patted his head as she walked by. His bronze teeth clanked against each other as he sought to bite her (p. 279).

Mort: ‘You’d better clean up that mess you brought down here, or I’ll ask the gods to send some wicked beastie after you’ (p. 281).

                                            

Again, Maas knows exactly how to pull at your heartstrings. Yet another beloved character was killed off in this novel, and I love how this death triggered various reactions from other characters. However, I didn’t like how this character was furious when Celaena contacted them through the portal. Like, yes, I know it’s dangerous, but seriously? Celaena had so many unanswered questions.

*WARNING: SPOILER* I can’t believe Celaena ended up with Chaol! They make a great team, and I think they’re great together! It’s just sad that he broke Celaena’s trust. I liked the idea of Celaena’s nail scars on his cheek as a permanent reminder of his betrayal…

I really enjoyed seeing the dark side of Celaena again — full of rage and badassness. That being said, my opinion of her as my favourite character hasn’t changed. Although, Dorian is beginning to sway my opinion. Will he and Celaena ever have a chance together? What would they be like together? I NEED TO KNOW!

                 

*WARNING: POSSIBLE SPOILER* My absolute favourite parts of this novel were when Celaena was sent to Davis’ party and ended up killing him, and when she destroyed Archer. Here is my utterly favourite scene:

‘I knew you were a good woman,’ he said.

Celaena halted. Turned.

There was a hint of triumph in his eyes. He thought he’d won. Manipulated her again. One foot after another, she walked back toward him with predatory calmness.

She stopped, close enough to kiss him. He gave her a wary smile. ‘No, I’m not,’ she said. Then she moved, too fast for him to stand a chance.

Archer’s eyes went wide as she slid the dagger home, jamming it up into his heart.

He sagged in her arms. She brought her mouth to his ear, holding him upright with one hand and twisting the dagger with the other as she whispered, ‘But Nehemia was’ (p. 389).

*WARNING: POSSIBLE SPOILER* As I mentioned above, I really enjoyed seeing Celaena with Chaol. I especially enjoyed their flirting and banter. Here are some examples:

Chaol: ‘I’d like to debrief you.’

She raised an eyebrow. ‘Aren’t you at least going to take me to dinner first?’ (p. 12).

Celaena: ‘…Leave the talking to me and the charming to me.’

Chaol raised his brows. ‘So I’m just here for decoration?’

‘Be grateful I consider you a worthy accessory’ (p. 56).

Recommendation time! If you like The Assassin, Kill Bill and Kill Bill 2, you will love this book. Also, I recommend this book to anyone who likes Countdown by Michelle Rowen, Carnival of Souls by Melissa Marr, The Hunger Games series by Suzanna Collins and The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare.

My reviews for TheAssassins Blade and Throne of Glass can be found by clicking on the titles.

I will also be reviewing the rest of the Throne of Glass series: Heir of Fire and Queen of Shadows. Keep an eye out for those!

Happy reading!

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Throne of Glass - Sarah J. Maas

Began reading: 1.10.2015
Completed reading: 13.10.2015
Overall rating: 4 stars

Celaena Sardothien has spent a year in the salt mines of Endovier, serving a life sentence for being caught in an assassination attempt. Captain Chaol Westfall and Crown Prince Dorian Havilliard have journeyed to Endovier to offer Celaena an opportunity for freedom — to represent Dorian in a competition, where she must endure harsh tests to become the king’s Champion and serve four years as his “right-hand”. After the four years of service, Celaena will be free to begin a new life as a whole new person. But first, she must remain true to herself and refine her abilities in order to survive court life and the cruelty of the king. In doing so, she will make strong friendships with Prince Dorian, Princess Nehemia and Captain Westfall.

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas is a fictional young adult novel that incorporates a mixture of fantasy, romance, adventure and mystery to create a great follow-on from The Assassin’s Blade. I loved this novel, as it provided a new perspective on Celaena post-sentence. By the way, have you heard that there are plans to create a television adaptation of the Throne of Glass series?! I CANNOT WAIT!

                    

The book was incredibly well-written, and was a great follow-on from the previous novel, as I mentioned above. There were so many good quotes that just had to take note of. These include:

Some of the men sniggered, and she clenched her teeth. They’d stop their laughing if they knew her true name, if they knew that this ‘jewel thief’ could skin them alive without a knife (p. 88).

She adjusted the thick leather belt slung low across her hips. It was the kind of belt intended to bear the weight of multiple weapons. Its lightness now only reminded her of what she’d lost — and what she had to gain (pp. 114-115).

We each survive in our own way (p. 122).

While she might be used to the darkness, she wasn’t foolish enough to trust it (p. 173).

Find the evil in the castle… But the only thing truly evil thing in this world is the man ruling it (p. 219).

‘I would sooner cut out my own heart than love a Havilliard…’ (p. 246).

Following the emotional rollercoaster that was The Assassin’s Blade, I was expecting another emotionally-charged plot but there weren’t any real sad moments, which was a good thing — I don’t think my heart could’ve handled more anguish!

                                  

Speaking of emotion, I was expecting Celaena to bring Sam up a lot more than she did. I don’t know if it was a sign of her moving forward but Sam was only brought up a couple of times which surprised me. For someone she felt so strongly about, it was as though Celaena had almost forgotten him.

In comparison to The Assassin’s Blade, there was a lot less action in this novel, which I felt was a bit of a let-down. Apart from the tests, an attack and the final duel, there was next to zero action. The plot mainly focused on Celaena’s relationships with those around her, as well as how she presented herself to the court — in other words, dresses! I thought it contrasted well with The Assassin’s Blade plot, but I still expected more action.

          

*WARNING: POSSIBLE SPOILER* I liked how some of the main characters were made to appear suspicious to the attacks in the castle, but turned out to be innocent. It made you doubt the actions of the characters, only to feel guilty when they turned out to be innocent. Similarly, I felt wary about the friendships that Celaena made, especially after Ansel in the previous novel.

Celaena continues to be my favourite and most relatable character in this series. This novel revealed more about Celaena, especially her love for reading and her hatred for fish, and made her feel a lot more relatable as I love reading and hate fish. She can still be a bit arrogant and badass, but she remains to be strong, caring and compassionate.

I liked the fight between Celaena and Verin, another competitor, as it showed how strong she is with a bit of humour.

‘Mock me again,’ she spat at Verin, ‘and I’ll do that with my sword the next time.’ She turned from him, and found Brullo’s face slack. ‘Here’s a lesson for you, Weapons Master,’ she said, stalking past him. ‘Give me real men to fight. Then maybe I’ll bother trying’ (p. 218).

I loved the banter between Celaena and Chaol — they were so cute! Here are some examples of their interactions:

Celaena: ‘Yes, well, hopefully you’ll read something of quality before I see you again.’

He sniffed the air as he walked out of her room. ‘Hopefully you’ll take a bath before I see you again’ (p. 93).

She didn’t pause her exercising as she smiled at him, panting through her clenched teeth. To her surprise, he smiled back (p. 94).

                                       

Speaking of banter, I also thought her banter with Dorian was cute! I won’t include the quotes here but you can find an example on pages 256 to 258.

Finally, the love triangle between these three was just so tense! It made so indecisive between who would best match Celaena. Although she doesn’t really pick anyone, based on all the fan art I have found online, I’m sure she will in the next book. I’m so excited! But yeah, I was so indecisive throughout the novel about who best suited Celaena. This love triangle got me like:

                     

Recommendation time! If you like Kill Bill and Kill Bill 2, you will love this book. Also, I recommend this book to anyone who likes Countdown by Michelle Rowen, Carnival of Souls by Melissa Marr, The Hunger Games series by Suzanna Collins and The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare. 

You can find my review for The Assassin's Blade by clicking here.

I will also be reviewing the rest of the Throne of Glass series: Crown of Midnight, Heir of Fire and Queen of Shadows. Keep an eye out for those!

Happy reading!

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