Review: A Magic Steeped in Poison by Judy I. Lin

I just finished A Magic Steeped in Poison and I immediately need the sequel. I can’t just sit and wait until the next one okay? So take it from me and just pre-order the sequel now because I am not okay. Keep reading this book review for my full thoughts and screaming.

Summary

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.

Review

(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)

A Magic Steeped in Poison is one of my most anticipated releases of 2022 period. As a major fan of tea – I drink about a pot of tea a day minimum – I had to read this one. But what I was not expecting was the sheer level of political betrayals and conspiracies. There’s a detailed and gorgeous magic system which is combined with a dangerous competition. Plus the amount of hurdles Ning has to jump over as a girl without a family name is staggering. Talk about some people who are going to have A LOT to learn.

A Magic Steeped in Poison begins with the magic of a cup of tea. Of brewing not only a comforting concoction, but also the way it is used. How a cup of tea can be an apology, a challenge, and a weapon. The tea and magic is seamlessly interwoven in this story that begins with action. Ning is immersed in a viper’s nest of people who never quite say what they mean. Who can she trust? Can she rise to the challenge, to this world of politics and double crossed promises?

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A Magic Steeped in Poison wraps readers in layers of mystery like silk. As the action only continues to intensify, it becomes impossible to stop reading. Ning’s character development is fabulous with twisting loyalties that surround her. That make it a choice or survival or love, of family or honesty. We’ve only begun to glimpse the scope of her situation, of the unrest in the kingdom, and of her own past. If you love the idea of tea magic, competitions, or court politics, you have to read A Magic Steeped in Poison. Find A Magic Steeped in Poison on Goodreads, Amazon, Indiebound, Bookshop.org & The Book Depository.

Discussion

Do you have a favorite tea?

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