Sentenced to death for the crime of murder Yelena Zaltana is offered an 11th hour reprieve on the condition of becoming food taster to the Commander of Ixia.

The choice between a swift execution and a possible lingering death from poison throws her into the intrigue and danger of life in the palace. This is the first in a new series that mixes magic, mystery and elements of thriller writing to good effect. Yelena is a resourceful and quick-witted heroine who must learn the tastes, textures and smells of the many poisons that can are in use in her land as well as fend off her many enemies both known and unknown as well as learn who her friends and allies are. Maria Snyder has written a novel that shoots along at a rapid pace but never flags.

The land of Ixia has an interesting history that is only partly revealed through the novel and the neighbouring countries promise high adventure, but the main draw of the novel is the characters and the their interactions and ambitions.

Poison Study is an intriguing and eminently readable book that will appeal to older teens and adults. I give it an 8 out of possible 10 marks!

Reviewer: M. Imrie