This novel is such a promising start to what I'm sure will be a great series. I enjoyed every minute of this novel, and was never bored. While I couldn't give it that last star, if I could, I would have given this book a 4.5. The entire world was set up fabulously; Ms. Maas's writing was very descriptive and vivid. I could really connect to the characters, as they too were very well written. However, the one thing I had trouble with was the names of all the places. I often got confused because the names were very obscure, and not used as often as I would have thought. By the end of the novel, I basically had every place figured out, but I still struggled throughout the book. My other complaint was that there wasn't enough emphasis on the competition itself. Yes, there were scenes dedicated to it, but not enough in my opinion. I just would have liked to see more of it, as well as Celaena's talents. I felt that the only part where you got to see her great abilities was at the end. Granted, I know she held back as Captain Chaol told her to, but still, I would have liked to see more. I haven't yet read the novellas (but plan to), and think there will be more of her ability showcased as they revolve around her time as an assassin. 
 The characters were excellent. Celaena is a great main character, and is an even more amazing role model. She never gave up, despite everything she had been through. I also loved all of Celaena's witty and snarky comments. I loved both Prince Dorian and Captain Chaol. I'm having a tough time deciding between the two, so right now I'm on Team Chaolorian or maybe Team Celaena. Both guys obviously care about her, but in some ways I like Dorian more, simply because he treated her a bit better throughout the story. However, like I said, Captain Chaol cares for her too, and even though he wasn't as nice to her as Dorian, I still think he would be a great choice. 
 I kind of figured out the person behind the attacks, but I had other suspects as well. Overall, while the story was a little predictable, I still enjoyed this novel a great deal, and am eagerly awaiting the next one.