When an Assassin Takes a Stand—Celaena Sardothien’s First Mission Stuns

Book 1 of the Assassins Blade Book Novellas

My toxic trait is that I am counting The Assassin’s Blade as 5 books, and no one will be changing my mind about that. 😌📚

In keeping this belief alive, I will be doing FIVE separate reviews for EACH novella covered in The Assassin’s Blade. Do try to keep up with all the fun.

THE ASSASSIN AND THE PIRATE LORD ⚔️🏴‍☠️

The first book begins with Celaena Sardothien, a 16-year-old trained assassin who has been dispatched to a remote island to secure a business deal on behalf of her master, the Assassin King.

Originally told she is there to collect a debt, the tables turn when she comes to understand that it is not a simple transaction of money. Her morals, humanity, and integrity are called to action, and we are introduced to exactly the type of person Celaena Sardothien is and the lengths she will go to for the things she believes to be right.

⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING:

This book does have topics that some may prefer to avoid or not read about altogether, and while I respect someone’s choice to do that, I think reading about these deeper, HUGELY RELEVANT topics—especially in light of current events—is a good way to introduce those who may be unaware or unbothered to maybe… pay attention or even speak up for those who have no voice themselves. 💔🕊️

What I enjoyed: 💖⚜️✨

I enjoyed getting to know Celaena on a soul level. The issues covered are not shallow and carry a depth that holds weight. I think it is important to be given examples of what RIGHT looks like in such a WRONG situation.

I loved the characters and the way they play off each other. The world-building is intense and has several layers that make it feel all-engulfing.

The chemistry within the characters was also well-written and filled with enough energy to make you want more of them. 💕

Personally, this novella was probably my favorite from the book. I think knowing there was a possibility of a happy ending for those who were helped makes it seem hopeful, but the overall world is pretty intense. There is a good balance between good and bad, and that is something to note.

If you are someone who avoids books that touch on real-world struggles—especially things we are seeing happen in other countries right now—this book may bring up things you would rather not think about. BUT if you tend to lean toward the realness of the darkness in life, then I think you would probably really enjoy this book and the characters.

Final Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This book makes you feel something—and that, to me, is the sign of a truly incredible read. 🖤

🎀Have you read The Assassin and the Pirate Lord?🎀

 I’d love to hear your thoughts! Did this novella stand out to you as much as it did for me?

📢 Come chat with me on Threads (@BlondeBookDiaries) or follow my Goodreads, which you can find on the front page of my blog! 📚✨

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