The story
Yelena is waiting to be executed and she's made peace with that, but then the Commander's right hand (who also happens to be an assassin) approaches her with an offer; she can either be executed as planned or she can become the Commander's new food taster. Yelena naturally picks the latest and she's introduced into a world of politics, schemings and poisons, and she eventually has to face her worst nightmares and find the strength to confront them.
“Trusting is hard. Knowing who to trust, even harder.”
Thoughts
One of the reasons I started reading Poison Study (besides the gorgeous cover and the premise) was the assumption that it resembles Throne of Glass, which I adore. And it's true, both of them are about an incarcerated girl who is given a second chance if she endures a dangerous challenge, but that's where the resemblances end. Poison Study is different. Unique. Marvelous.
Poisons, magic, deception, spies, secrets, assassins, conspiracies, military action, heinous acts and acts of kindness, great main and secondary characters, Maria V. Snyder gives you everything. Yelena is an extremely likable MC, from a scared girl depending on others she evolves into a strong woman who embraces her weakness and turns it into courage. And my precious Valek plays an important part in this transformation.
“But you’ve slipped under my skin, invaded my blood and seized my heart.”
Valek contemplated to kill Yelena twice, he was rude and manipulative and he put his duty above everything else. But yet Yelena found a place in his black heart and held it with a strong grip. Their chemistry was palpable and their love was building slowly and steadily. One of the finest OTPs, ladies and gentlemen!
You haven't read Poison Study yet? Santa will get you no present this year.
