I've been super excited about reading this collection of novellas. Why? Because Celaena's past is so freaking fascinating. You get glimpses when you read the Throne of Glass series, but I want to know MORE! 
 These are all the perfect length for a tea break, but best read one after the other. Rather than a collection of separate short stories, these novellas almost form a whole story in themselves. If you've read and enjoyed any of the Throne of Glass books, then you need to read this. 
 The Assassin and the Pirate Lord 
 Assassins + Pirates = CORA IN LOVE. 
 This was a great start to the series of novellas and a fantastic introduction to Sam. A proper introduction. It starts feeding him slowly to you. 
 And you still get the same kick-ass Celaena, all attitude and brutality, but with that conscience and heart that makes her so damn endearing. 
 And the pacing? Excellent! This is fast paced and exciting and full of action and killer fights. 
 The Assassin and the Healer 
 This story highlights one of my favourite things about Celaena - and that's how she's not just doing it for herself. She wants to share what she can to help others defend themselves and stay free. Yeah, she's a bitch about it, but at this point Celaena is a bit bitter and hating on the world. At least she still does something good. 
 I didn't really understand why Yrene had ended up in Innish for so long, but what Celaena did at the end was a nice touch. 
 The Assassin and the Desert 
 This one was a bit different, and longer than the first two. 
 It explains a lot about Celaena and why she's such a stand-off-ish character, why she's always hesitant when she meets new people and tries never to start relationships of any sort. And it also reveals that big part of her she tries to keep hidden - that loyalty she graces those she cares about with. 
 The Assassin and the Underworld 
 This story. 
 This story is the key to how Celaena ended up in Endovier. It's the turning point in her past, the reason for that betrayal. But not the ultimate betrayal itself. 
 And god, do I hate Arobynn. 
 The Assassin and the Empire