Chante JVR

If you enjoyed this post, please consider donating to mine and my husband’s immigration fund and help us get to the UK! Even a small amount would mean the world to us.

“Grief has a taste, bitter and lingering, but so soft it sometimes disguises itself as sweetness.”

“A Magic Steeped in Poison” by Judy I. Lin offers a unique blend of magic and mystery in a richly imagined world. Set against the backdrop of a society plagued with deadly poisons and powerful spells, the novel introduces readers to a cast of intriguing characters and a complex magic system.

Lin’s writing style is descriptive and atmospheric, painting a vivid picture of the tea-filled escapades and the dangers that lurk within. The concept of a world where magic is infused in the tea intertwine is definitely an interesting concept, and Lin’s attention to detail in crafting this setting is commendable.

However, while the premise is promising, the execution falls short in some areas. The pacing of the story can be uneven, with moments of intense action interspersed with slower, more contemplative scenes that disrupt the flow of the narrative. I found myself bored at some points, not really caring about the characters or what was going on.

Furthermore, while the characters are interesting, they lack the depth and complexity needed to fully engage the reader. The protagonist, in particular, feels somewhat one-dimensional, with motivations and conflicts that make sense but also… don’t.

Despite these shortcomings, “A Magic Steeped in Poison” has its moments of brilliance. The world-building is imaginative, and there are glimpses of potential in the story’s premise. With some tightening of the plot and further development of the characters, Lin could truly create a captivating and immersive fantasy tale. I’m hoping she does this in the second book which I do hope to read at some point.

In conclusion, “A Magic Steeped in Poison” is a decent read for fans of fantasy and magic-infused worlds. While it may not reach the heights of some other novels in the genre, it offers an intriguing premise and enough intrigue to keep readers entertained. The cover is also absolutely gorgeous.

Synopsis

For Ning, the only thing worse than losing her mother is knowing that it’s her own fault. She was the one who unknowingly brewed the poison tea that killed her—the poison tea that now threatens to also take her sister, Shu.

When Ning hears of a competition to find the kingdom’s greatest shennong-shi—masters of the ancient and magical art of tea-making—she travels to the imperial city to compete. The winner will receive a favor from the princess, which may be Ning’s only chance to save her sister’s life.

But between the backstabbing competitors, bloody court politics, and a mysterious (and handsome) boy with a shocking secret, Ning might actually be the one in more danger. – Goodreads

If you enjoyed this post, please consider donating to mine and my husband’s immigration fund and help us get to the UK! Even a small amount would mean the world to us.