Five Novellas, One Broken Heart
I picked this up back in September as a buddy-read with my best friend Tess. She is a massive fan of Sarah J. Maas, and as I type this, I am actually sitting here listening to the audiobook for the next installment because she finished it instantly and is waiting on me to catch up.
Honestly, I am really enjoying this series so far. I am not sure if that means I will end up diving into all of her other series, but this was a fantastic start. It is such an easy, fluid read, and I loved how seamlessly each section moves into the next. A solid four-star read for September.
Part I: The Assassin and the Pirate Lord
Celaena and Sam head to Skull’s Bay to broker a deal between Arobynn Hamel and Rolfe, the pirate lord. On paper, this had all the ingredients for a favorite—pirates, high-stakes action, and Celaena’s signature scheming. Yet, for some reason, it just did not fully grab me. I know plenty of readers will disagree, but it fell a little flat on my end.
Where this story truly shined, however, was the groundwork for Celaena and Sam. Watching their dynamic shift from mutual hatred to a reluctant alliance, and eventually to something much deeper, was brilliant. Even knowing their romance unfolds much later, this was a wonderful introduction to their connection.
It was entertaining enough, but lacked the depth I was hoping for. Not my favorite of the collection, to be honest.
Part II: The Assassin and the Healer
While staying at a local tavern, Celaena meets Yrene Towers, a barmaid trying to survive. The two form an unexpected bond when Yrene is threatened.
Unpopular opinion again, but I struggled to connect with this one too. The writing is undeniably solid, but the pacing felt a bit too slow, and the climax came and went far too quickly. I know this story is a fan favorite, but it unfortunately missed the mark for me.
Part III: The Assassin and the Desert
As punishment for the events at Skull’s Bay, Arobynn sends Celaena to the Red Desert to train with the Silent Assassins, where she must secure the Master’s approval before returning home.
This is where the collection completely turned around for me. It delivers everything you want in a fantasy novella: a vibrant new setting, memorable secondary characters, constant action, and a genuinely clever twist. The climax was fantastic and completely revitalized my interest after a slow start.
Part IV: The Assassin and the Underworld
Back in Rifthold after her time in the desert, Celaena takes on another assignment from Arobynn. But as the mission progresses, the underlying tension between her and Sam finally boils over.
This one was incredible. Beyond the fast-paced action and surprising plot turns, the absolute highlight was the romantic tension. Their chemistry was electric. If forced to choose between Sam and Rowan, I honestly do not know if I could decide. Sam has my whole heart.
Part V: The Assassin and the Empire
This one completely destroyed me. End of thoughts.
“She would tuck Sam into her heart, a bright light for her to take out whenever things were darkest.”
Final Verdict
The Assassin’s Blade was a wonderful ride overall. While the first two novellas took some time to get into, the final three completely won me over—even if that final story left my heart in pieces. Highly recommended for anyone journeying through the Throne of Glass series.
