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A review by books_and_cream_cheese
A Magic Steeped in Poison by Judy I. Lin
adventurous
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
This was surprisingly addicting 😅 if you love fantasy with magical elements, a tournament setting and plot- rather than emotion-driven stories, this might be perfect for you! However, I have 2x2 things to say...
Firstly, 2 things that weakened the overall story: The main character was annoyingly perfect at everything, first try. I noticed that the plot needed to repeatedly throw obstacles at her in order to "fix" that, but it doesn't allow much room for character growth. Secondly, there was too much happening overall, so there was no time to really develop other characters and friendships. I wanted to read more about the side characters, especially the other competitors.
Also, 2 things I personally didn't like (that don't influence my rating):
Too much royal aristocratic politics. I was there for the magic and the world building, that part bored me so much. Furthermore, I absolutely didn't vibe with the protagonist's character. She's a Katniss-Everdeen-kind of girl: more physical than emotional, headstrong, reserved. Just not my thing.
That being said... this was still great!
The unique magic system was so much fun, the pacing was great and THE FOOD DESCRIPTIONS omg... mouth watering.
Will definitely read the second book.
Firstly, 2 things that weakened the overall story: The main character was annoyingly perfect at everything, first try. I noticed that the plot needed to repeatedly throw obstacles at her in order to "fix" that, but it doesn't allow much room for character growth. Secondly, there was too much happening overall, so there was no time to really develop other characters and friendships. I wanted to read more about the side characters, especially the other competitors.
Also, 2 things I personally didn't like (that don't influence my rating):
Too much royal aristocratic politics. I was there for the magic and the world building, that part bored me so much. Furthermore, I absolutely didn't vibe with the protagonist's character. She's a Katniss-Everdeen-kind of girl: more physical than emotional, headstrong, reserved. Just not my thing.
That being said... this was still great!
The unique magic system was so much fun, the pacing was great and THE FOOD DESCRIPTIONS omg... mouth watering.
Will definitely read the second book.