I don’t think I’ve read a fantasy novel in quite a long time. By Fantasy, I mean something that takes place in some imaginary time and place where some fantastical elements exist that can range from mystical creatures to magic to … use your imagination.
This book is actually the 2nd book in a series about Yelena a young woman who was kidnapped as a child and apparently (meaning it happened in the 1st book?) had a very rough life.
In this one, she is traveling with your mentor/master Irys who is a master magician (1 of 4 in the Sitia country/territory.
During this story, we find out Yelena’s talents in magic and what she is truly made of by her efforts in playing detective on a mystery where evil is trying to steal girl’s souls. Of course, that would be interesting enough if we didn’t have to deal with her long lost brother thinking that she is a spy and drips of evil herself.
The character development is full and engaging. The story takes it serious enough but inserts humor and other emotions through out.
It took me about 25 pages to get into this story but after that, I was hooked and it was a quick read from that point onward.
It’s the 2nd book in a series but served well as a stand along story though clearly it would have been even more interesting had I read the first (Poison Study). I’m excited to read the first and the 3rd story (Fire Study) and I recommend you search it out and try it for yourself.