A Magic Steeped in Poison (The Book of Tea #1) by Judy I. Lin
Published: March 29, 2022
Review:
Myth: 5/5
I was immediately captivated by this book, the world, Ning, I couldn’t get enough. From a provincial part of the empire to the city where the emperor resides, Ning would face classic challenges of court politics, backstabbing and a larger threat looming over the empire that she finds herself sucked into. Fueled by her desire to save her sister and her desire for a better life for the people like her family, she is thrust into the spotlight in the magical competition.
Magic: 5/5
I loved the lore of the shennong-shi, masters of the magical art of tea-making. The competition challenges were enthralling, the descriptions of the magic and the tea were so well done. I was swept up in the beautiful and deadly talents of the art as Ning was exploring her gifts.
Overall: 5/5
Ning’s story is a delight, not knowing who to trust within the competition and within the larger politics to which she’s swept up. Add a dash of romance with the mysterious boy in the market with questionable motives and I couldn’t put this book down.
Other books in the series:
