Shadow Study - Maria V. Snyder

[goodreads]

Title: Shadow Study (Soulfinder #1)
Author: Maria V. Snyder
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 4/5
# pages: 410
Date read: September, 2016

When Yelena was a poison taster, her life was simpler. She survived to become a vital part of the balance of power between rival countries Ixia and Sitia.

Now she uses her magic to keep the peace in both lands - and protect her relationship with Valek.
Suddenly, though, dissent is rising. And Valek's job - and his life - are in danger.
As Yelena tries to uncover her enemies, she faces a new challenge: her magic is blocked. And now she must find a way to keep not only herself but all that she holds dear alive.


PSA: You'll want to read "Ice Study" before reading this one, as it refers quite heavily to the events of that short story. "Ice Study" is available for free at Maria V. Snyder's webpage.


Plot-wise, I enjoyed this book just as much as the books in the "Study" or "Glass" trilogies. Writing-wise Maria V. Snyder has taken to writing the story from several different POVs instead of sticking to just one. I can understand her reasons - it's easier to show the events of several places at once, if you don't have to stick to just one POV - but as usual it turns out that not all storylines are equally interesting, so some chapters just feel like 'fillers' until we get to the next person.

I did really enjoy it though! And have my guesses as to what's blocking Yelena's magic. It'll be interesting to see if I'm right.