Scan barcode
A review by alilbitofmonica
The Study of Poisons by Maria V. Snyder
adventurous
emotional
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.5
This companion novel is a wonderful addition to the Soulfinder world. I found myself not wanting to put the book down - even though I already knew what would happen, I already knew the outcome and resolution. But hearing from Valek’s perspective and being privy to insider information that we originally didn’t know was a special experience.
Finding out the background/details of the change in successor plot point was fascinating, and I really felt that it added an extra element of intrigue. And just in general being able to see the various conversations and missions that went on outside of Yelena’s original perspective was so fun and really shows how the world worked in so many ways.
Every single scene between Valek and Ambrose was wonderful and I found myself wanting more of their back and forth. As well as the private conversations between Valek and Ari (and sometimes Janco).
My one point of contention (and thus 4.5 instead of 5 stars) is that I was surprised by HOW infatuated with Yelena Valek was from the beginning. It was not how I had imagined him from the many times I’ve read Poison Study (and the rest). I had imagined his own feelings being more subtle, but he was fully in love right from the beginning. And there was very little explanation as to WHY other than Yelena just being the badass queen that she is.
Finding out the background/details of the change in successor plot point was fascinating, and I really felt that it added an extra element of intrigue. And just in general being able to see the various conversations and missions that went on outside of Yelena’s original perspective was so fun and really shows how the world worked in so many ways.
Every single scene between Valek and Ambrose was wonderful and I found myself wanting more of their back and forth. As well as the private conversations between Valek and Ari (and sometimes Janco).
My one point of contention (and thus 4.5 instead of 5 stars) is that I was surprised by HOW infatuated with Yelena Valek was from the beginning. It was not how I had imagined him from the many times I’ve read Poison Study (and the rest). I had imagined his own feelings being more subtle, but he was fully in love right from the beginning. And there was very little explanation as to WHY other than Yelena just being the badass queen that she is.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence
Minor: Rape