A review by abookaddictsbookshelves
A Magic Steeped In Poison by Judy I. Lin

2.5

 *I received an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. My thanks to Titan Books and NetGalley* 

Ning's life was changed forever on the day her mother died from drinking poisoned tea. Tea that Ning herself brewed. 

Now Ning's sister has also been poisoned, and Ning finds herself making her way to the imperial city to compete in the competition that will appoint the new palace shennong-shi (tea master). Ning hopes that by winning she will save her sister's life through a favour from the princess. 

Once in the imperial city, Ning finds herself embroiled in court politics and discovers secrets that threaten the future of the empire. 

Can Ning survive the competition long enough to save her sister? 

The gorgeous cover drew me to this book, as did the concept of magical tea. 

Ning was a likeable protagonist. She wasn't afraid to speak her mind. 

Whilst I liked several of the supporting characters, I didn't have a favourite character overall. 

The setting was interesting, and we are told a little bit of history. 

The concept of tea masters - shennong-shi - and the tea magic was my favourite aspect of the book. I found it really interesting and would have liked to find out more. 

The plot was mixed for me as I preferred the first half and lost interest a little in the second half. I wasn't very invested in what happened and nothing particularly surprised me. 

I am a little disappointed that I didn't enjoy this more. 

Overall, this was a mixed read.