Finally, I understand why so many people love this series. This book had the right mix of intrigue, deceit, betrayal, murder and romance. I loved all the characters especially Celaena. She is so bad-ass but yet girly and human. Dorian was swoon-worthy and am shipping for him and Celaena. I liked Chaol as well (I felt bad for him through most of the book). Nehemia was the perfect friend and I loved her strong persona. The world building was okay. The story started out a bit slow but then it is the first book. It picked up towards the middle and the end. I would have liked a bit more action throughout the story and preferably peppered throughout the book as I feel the end was a tad bit rushed. But, overall, I enjoyed it and can't wait to read the next book.