I've got to begin by saying that this cover is such a bummer. I think that the cover of book one, Midnight Thief, is absolutely gorgeous and this is just so...not. I understand that this book isn't really published by Disney, but I wish they matched and were on the same level of beauty.With that in mind, I'm actually a little thankful that I read this free novella after I read book one. I'm really bad like that. I have a habit of reading novellas after the book they're meant to come before. It's technically because I don't like paying for really short stories so I never seek them out and partly because, at times, novellas make me really anxious for the book and waiting for it becomes even harder and more agonizing. However, I would venture to say that if I read this book prior to book one, it would certainly whet my appetite and make me want to read more.This is the back-story of James, one of the prominent characters in book one. It takes place during a time where the leader of the Assassin's Guild was murdered, so the new leader, Gerred, is taking over and doing things his way. Because James is such a great assassin, he poses a huge threat to Gerred and Gerred refuses to trust him. James can't trust Gerred in turn despite his lack of desire to attempt to take control of the Guild and a huge silent power struggle ensues. This is the story of how the leader of the Assassin's Guild in book one comes to be.In the end, this book serves its purpose. It makes readers curious and it gives you back-story to an otherwise mysterious character. Does it change my original opinion on James? No, but it makes me understand why he is the way he is and why has done what he has done. The writing is very fast paced and there's not a ton of detail, so it's hard to really connect with the characters and become invested in their stories. But, hey, that's what the novel is for.If you're questioning whether it is worth picking up Midnight Thief or not, I would give this novella a chance. Not only is it free, it explains the mysterious and illegal workings of Forge, so you get to know the world and a few of the characters you will encounter in book one. It'll help make your decision easier and hopefully whet your appetite for more. After I finished reading Midnight Thief, I really wasn't ready to let go of the world that Livia Blackburne created. I was so excited when I learned that there was a prequel novella about James. I really never read novellas but I couldn't pass this one up. I had mixed feelings about James in MT, so this was exactly what I was hoping for. I think it was good that I read this after MT, so that I had a deeper connection to the characters and I knew where the story was headed, but it can definitely be read first, though you may not feel as connected to them, I'm not sure. Overall this was fantastic. Learning about his past, and how he became who he was in MT was awesome. I can't wait for more in this world.
What do You think about Poison Dance (2013)?
It was an interesting story. I wish it had been drawn out more, I would have kept reading.
—Kirstyn
I've latched on to James. Now you've made me want Midnight Thief more.
—amsmifsud
