READING ORDER RECOMMENDATION: read assassins blade after heir of fire and before queen of shadows. Literally everything that happens to Celaena in AB is referenced in QoS. If you are worried about backtracking, just think of Assassins Blade a fun little flashback episode of your favorite tv show and how it helps you understand the character in present day.

Other thoughts: WONDERFUL. Loved the short stories. Loved seeing Celaena be Celaena.