by Maria V. Snyder
I was drawn to the title and cover of the book. Then I was intrigued by the description. And the book did not disappoint!
Yelena was taken from the dungeons and her pending execution in order become the Commander's next food taster. The Commander's trusted advisor and friend, Valek, becomes her teacher and protector. She must learn the smell, taste, and effects of all known poisons. While at the same time she must find her place in the castle life, avoid murder by an enemy, and learn about the mysterious powers she has.
I don't know many books where I truly like all of the main characters but this is one of them.
Yelena is weak. And helpless. But she doesn't stay that way. Throughout the book we see her gradually becoming more confident and skilled. She makes mistakes but they are relatable. She is smart and determined.
Valek is confident, seemingly unbeatable in all matters of fighting and weaponry, immune to magic, and all around awesome. He's smart, likable, and quite dreamy.
Ari and Janco are two scouts in the army. They are like quibbling brothers... or maybe a bit like an old married couple. Their camaraderie and exchanges are cute and entertaining. They are quickly impressed by Yelena's intelligence and determination and act like her older brothers.
While there is a love story in the book, it isnt the entire story and it isnt insta-love. The characters still have their own lives and stories to tell.
This book is a quick, easy read but extremely enjoyable. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a bit of intrigue, magic and love.
I was drawn to the title and cover of the book. Then I was intrigued by the description. And the book did not disappoint!Yelena was taken from the dungeons and her pending execution in order become the Commander's next food taster. The Commander's trusted advisor and friend, Valek, becomes her teacher and protector. She must learn the smell, taste, and effects of all known poisons. While at the same time she must find her place in the castle life, avoid murder by an enemy, and learn about the mysterious powers she has.
I don't know many books where I truly like all of the main characters but this is one of them.
Yelena is weak. And helpless. But she doesn't stay that way. Throughout the book we see her gradually becoming more confident and skilled. She makes mistakes but they are relatable. She is smart and determined.
Valek is confident, seemingly unbeatable in all matters of fighting and weaponry, immune to magic, and all around awesome. He's smart, likable, and quite dreamy.
Ari and Janco are two scouts in the army. They are like quibbling brothers... or maybe a bit like an old married couple. Their camaraderie and exchanges are cute and entertaining. They are quickly impressed by Yelena's intelligence and determination and act like her older brothers.
While there is a love story in the book, it isnt the entire story and it isnt insta-love. The characters still have their own lives and stories to tell.
This book is a quick, easy read but extremely enjoyable. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a bit of intrigue, magic and love.
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