Book Review: Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder

Poison Study (Study #1) by Maria V. Snyder

Published by: Harlequin Teen Australia

Publication date: 2009

Source:  Thanks to Harlequin Teen Australia

Choose: A quick death or slow poison ... 

On the eve of her execution for murder, Yelena Zaltana is offered an incredible reprieve - on the condition that she becomes the food taster for the military leader of Ixia, Commander Ambrose.

Avoiding poison is the least of her troubles, however ... General Brazell, father of the man she killed, has vowed bloody revenge; she's beginning to have feelings for her captor, Valek; and someone is plotting the downfall of the current regime.

In a desperate race against time, Yelena must learn to control the growing magical talent withinn her and master the demons of her past. The Commander's life, the future of Ixia and all those she loves depend on it.

My Review:

Favourite Quote:  "Everyone makes choices in life. Some bad, some Good. It's called living, and if you want to bow out, then go right ahead. But don't do it halfway. Don't linger in whiner's limbo."

Fantasy and me have had our ups and downs.  I have only read a handful as it is one of the genres I struggle with. But I had heard good things about Poison Study from everyone and they were right, it is AMAZING.

I love the world Snyder created.  I wouldn't want to swap places with Yelena with her life at risk every day in but I was completely absorbed in the world.  So much adventure and danger it was hard to let go and walk away from this book when I had to.   And Snyder's writing is addictive.  It is such an unbelievably engaging and satisfying read.

You really get a warm feel for all the characters.  What I love about them is they don't feel ordinary.  They are that something special, characters you will never forgot not even the secondary.  They are all mature, smart and strong.  I admire Yelena's courage especially since everyday held danger for her.  And Valek there is something very sexy about his dark and mysterious ways.  Then you have Ari and Janco who keep you entertained.

While the story does focus on Yelena and Valek building each other's trust and respect their romance is very subtle but it does make your heart melt.

"But you’ve slipped under my skin, invaded my blood and seized my heart.”
“That sounds more like a poison than a person,” was all I could say. His confession had both shocked and thrilled me.
“Exactly,” Valek replied. “You have poisoned me."

Another good thing about Poison Study it will appeal to adults as well, with Yelena in her late teens and Valek in his late twenties-early thirties.

Overall, Poison Study is a spellbinding read.  Definitely recommend to all fantasy lovers (although I am sure most have already read this) and also to readers who like me are a little afraid but very curious about fantasy this is a fantastic book to try.

Overall rating: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Characters: 4.5/5
Romance: 4/5
Cover: 4/5

For more info:  Visit Maria V. Snyder's website.

Don't forget Maria V. Snyder is in Australia on tour now.  For dates and details visit Harlequin Teens Australia Facebook page.