Poison Study is a 2005 fantasy novel written by Maria V. Snyder, and the first book of a three-part series.
The first book "Poison Study" - introduces us to our heroine Yelena whose life is taking an unexpected turn. (Trying not to be spoilery here.) The books follow her as she discovers who she is as she comes into her powers. Yelena lives in a land where magic exists but is outlawed because the previous rulers were overthrown by a military leader who feels that magic by it's nature corrupts. The abut a country which is ruled by a council of master magicians. The second book in the series follows Yelena into that other country as she learns to use and control magic. ("Magic Study") In the 3rd book both countries are involved in a battle against a joint enemy as Yelena tries to reconcile her allegiances to both places.
Man, I think I've managed to make these books seem very dry - but they are not. I really enjoyed them. Snyder has invented an interesting world and filled it with characters that I really enjoyed following. Perhaps this is why I felt a bit sad at the end. I know, I may see these characters again in her current "Glass" series but they will never be as central as they were here.
(I have ordered the first book in the Glass series - I believe that all three are out now.)
Maria V. Snyder's website:
http://www.mariavsnyder.com/
This sounds interesting! Thanks for introducing me to it. I love the new layout of your blog by the way!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next one.
ReplyDeleteHey,Thanks for stopping by and commenting on Sumiko's Reads. I think her reviews and comments are a great addition to my blog.
ReplyDeleteAnd thank you for letting me know how you like things here, that makes a difference too!