Slashback discussion

is it necessary to read the 8 books before this one in order to understand it?

no its not but it certainly helps

I love this series, but I do recommend reading it in order, as it helps explain some of the things that pop up later on. These books are on my auto buy list!

I suggest reading in order. Considering how it's almost impossible to put any of the books down after you pick them up, you'll be finished in no time. But try to savor them, they’re that good.