Celaena is one of the best female protagonists I have ever read about. She is very kick butt, loyal to the core, strong and independent. However in this book, we get to see Celaena's more vulnerable side as she relives the pain of the death of her parents and the murder of her dear friend. I actually liked to see this side of her because it's served as a reminder that even though she is this deadly assassin, she still has very human feelings. It also allowed us as readers to delve deeper into her mind and understand her as a character more.
As ever, Sarah J. Maas introduces us to some new characters who are equally awesome in their own way. The first is Aedion, whom is loyal, swoon-worthy and adorable. I cannot wait to see himself and Celaena reunited with one another after all of those years of not knowing if they were dead or alive. We also meet Rowan who for some reason, has vastly become one of my favourites. This came as a surprise as when I was first introduced to him, I loathed him. He was mean, insulting, and had a heart as cold as ice and pushed Celaena to her limits. However by the end of part 1 and I got to see his character progress, he grew on me. He reminds me of Celaena in a weird way as he is just as complex as she is. The friendship that they eventually build seems to only grow in strength from day to day and I cannot wait to see what will become of them. We also got a storyline about the witches and their wyverns which was interesting and a whole new dynamic to the world. I know that eventually Celaena and Marion's paths will cross and I can't wait to find out how!
As for some old favourites, Dorian and Chaol, they made their regular appearance on the book. However it was much different from the last two books because of course they don't interact with Celaena. I really want her and Chaol to be reunited with one another. It is obvious that they both miss each other something fierce. I also love the fact that Prince Dorian is finally starting to stand up to his evil father and beginning to start to do his own thing.
And of course Sarah J. Maas's writing was phenomenal and genius from the outset and throughout. What can I say? Sarah J. Maas is amazing and this was easily one of my favourite books of 2014.
• Buy this book at the Guardian Bookshop.
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