This story would have been better if a little MORE self-contained. instead, it starts without explaining why the bad guys are killing Mara's people. without explaining why they don't like the king, and it kind of ends in a weird spot where Mara looks around and says, guess I better go work in the kitchen ...I think the author should have added a few pages to the beginning and end, making this more a short story than an appendix. The Shattered Mountain is a novella that features Mara and her story before she met Elisa and Cosme's group. After reading of her journey, I have a newfound respect for this woman. This short-story is fast-paced, honorable, and heartbreaking. Note: although it theoretically is a prequel, I would recommend that readers at least read the first book in the series (The Girl of Fire and Thorns) before reading The Shattered Mountain. I think the obstacles Mara and her group face will make much more sense.
What do You think about The Shattered Mountain (2013)?
Excellent little story about Mara. Heartbreaking in spots and oddly uplifting. Very enjoyable!!
—bgsuthers
3.5 stars. I liked Mara as a character in the other books. I enjoyed this novella.
—Sybill
e-book storyprequel to Crown of Embers
—brittxnydxnielle_
