Welcome to our 10-part literary analysis of Sarah J. Maas’s debut fantasy novel, Throne of Glass. In this episode, we explore chapters 1–6 and begin our deep dive into Celaena Sardothien’s story. From slave in Endovier to contender for the King’s Champion.

Each week, best friends Jac and Amy bring 13 years of combined academic literary training to their analysis of modern fantasy, romance, and romantasy. In Part 1 of this week’s episode, we examine how Throne of Glass introduces themes of agency, identity, and survival in a brutal empire—and how Celaena’s history as Adarlan’s most feared assassin shapes her every step toward freedom.

This episode is Part 1 of 2. Stick around for Part 2, airing Thursday, where we continue the conversation and expand on character dynamics, worldbuilding, and narrative technique.

Spoiler Note: This discussion includes spoilers for Throne of Glass, Crown of Midnight, and Heir of Fire. Any larger series spoilers (including Empire of Storms, Kingdom of Ash, Tower of Dawn, or House of Earth and Blood) are reserved for Part 2 of the episode.

If you’re new to our podcast, we also recommend checking out our full literary breakdowns of Sarah J. Maas’s A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series and Crescent City (House of Earth and Blood) for even more in-depth SJM discussion.

Chapter Summary:

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