Posted by Lauren in Book Reviews, Fantasy, Featured | 5 Comments
Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
Throne of Glass by S.J. Maas
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Release date: August 7, 2012
Pages: 416
Summary: World-famous assassin Celaena Sardothien has spent a year in prison, forced to slave away in the salt mines of Endovier. Suddenly, the crown prince shows up with an offer she can’t refuse: if she agrees to compete for the title of the King’s Assassin, she will be allowed to go free (after serving the King for a few years, of course). Celaena accepts, eager to be free from slavery. But she needs to re-hone her skills quickly, because the competition begins immediately. And if she loses, she goes back to the salt mines for life.
My thoughts: Throne of Glass is one of those books that occupies your thoughts whenever you aren’t reading. It begs you to come back and read more. This might be a personal preference, since fantasy is one of my absolute favorite genres, but I think other readers might feel similarly. I didn’t find Throne of Glass to be a perfect book, but it never failed to keep my attention, and for that I applaud Sarah J. Maas. She crafted a world that I couldn’t wait to be a part of every evening before bed (the time I dedicate to reading).
Something unique about Throne of Glass is that there are a few accompanying novellas (four, I believe) that can be read before starting the novel. I did not read these novellas, which was fine, but there were moments in the story that were clearly placed so as to alert readers (and non-readers) of the novellas. If you didn’t read the novellas, you don’t have the back-story, and so the obscure reference doesn’t make sense. These moments were out of place and they interrupted the flow of the story; I was generally unimpressed by these not-so-subtle hints to go read the novellas (because, honestly, I just wanted to read Throne of Glass. Not four other stories). That being said, one will only be slightly annoyed if she chooses not to read the novellas: she will not miss any major plot points.
Moving on! The characters are what truly shine in Sarah J. Maas’ story—not for who they are, necessarily, but for how they interact with each other. In this single novel, one can read about the forming of three great friendships, one smoldering romance, and a few rivalries. Each of these relationships is given special care, and because of this is outstanding. The interactions between Celaena and the other characters is authentic, and usually hilarious to boot. Celaena is a firecracker of a girl; one whom many readers will easily find themselves drawn to. I loved her spirit, but most of all her humanity despite being a killer.
Fantasy fans, Throne of Glass delivers. Take a chance on Celaena’s story, because once you start it, you won’t be able to stop.
4/5 stars
For those who like: fantasy, assassins, competitions
Yay! I’m so glad you enjoyed this one! I’m currently reading it right now and while I’m not loving it as much as you are, I agree that Celaena really is a wonderful character! Brilliant review! :D
~Keertana
Ivy Book Bindings
Keertana @ Ivy Book Bindings recently posted..ARC Review: Origin by Jessica Khoury
I’m sad you felt that way about the backstory. For me, I got excited to know there were four novellas I could pick up to read MORE. I loved the story so, so much. Having more to read is definitely a bonus. I didn’t feel like I was ever out of the loop in Throne of Glass though – I thought maybe we were being set up for more in the upcoming stories. I didn’t feel like the novellas were a pre-requisite to reading ToG.
Despite that, I’m glad we both loved it! Can’t wait for more!
Magan @ Rather Be Reading recently posted..The Best Night of Your Pathetic Life by Tara Altebrando
At first I wasn’t really super interested in this book, but the more reviews I read, the more I think I might have to get it. It sounds great. It’s too bad that it seems to kind of advertise for you to read the novella’s and doesn’t give you the back story without them though. I enjoy novella’s but I don’t like to feel that I have to read them to really get everything out of a book. Great review!!
Amy @ Book Loving Mom recently posted..Review: Never Say Never by Kailin Gow
You really nailed it by saying ToG is the type of book that “occupies your mind”. I couldn’t stop thinking about it days after reading it…
Sarah did a great job with everything, fantasy isn’t one that I normally read and I couldn’t get enough. I’m dying for the next one.
Great review!
I think it’s an interesting point you made about the novellas. I didn’t really think about the hints in the novel but when I read the summaries, I was like “oh, I see!” I enjoyed this book SO MUCH but don’t really have a desire to read the novellas. I thought the characters were a strong point too! Celaena put me off slightly but I grew to love her.
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