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A review by thinde
The Queen's Poisoner by Jeff Wheeler
4.0
I was drawn into the story almost from the first page. The author kept the story wrapped tightly around its protagonist, a young boy named Owen. He is quickly isolated from all familiar landmarks and held hostage to his parents' loyalty to the crown.
The world-building is also kept tight, mainly focused on a single castle. There is much for the reader to discover in the remainder of the series. The same could be said of the magic system which reminded me of Kristin Cashore's "Graceling." The general public seems to think the 'Fountain' blesses a lucky few with abilities in order for them to help the world. Those in power know the abilities are gifted randomly, and must therefore be harnessed, lest they threaten that power.
Sure there are a lot of genre tropes present, but many of them are quickly subverted. In the process, this fantasy takes on a more nuanced tone. It managed to finish at a satisfying point in the story, leaving the reader eager to learn more.
The world-building is also kept tight, mainly focused on a single castle. There is much for the reader to discover in the remainder of the series. The same could be said of the magic system which reminded me of Kristin Cashore's "Graceling." The general public seems to think the 'Fountain' blesses a lucky few with abilities in order for them to help the world. Those in power know the abilities are gifted randomly, and must therefore be harnessed, lest they threaten that power.
Sure there are a lot of genre tropes present, but many of them are quickly subverted. In the process, this fantasy takes on a more nuanced tone. It managed to finish at a satisfying point in the story, leaving the reader eager to learn more.