Review: Shadow Study by Maria V. Snyder

Once, only her own life hung in the balance…

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.

Let me cry. I promise they are only happy tears of complete joy.

Let me tell you something, when anyone asks me what my favorite books are, the Poison Study series by Maria V. Snyder is the first thing to jump to my mind. I have always loved Yelena's story and Valek is my number one swoonworthy man and Ari and Janco are just amazing. As a book blogger I generally don't have time to reread books, but Poison Study, Magic Study and Fire Study are the three books that will always be an exception to that rule. Add Shadow Study to that now.

I couldn't believe my eyes when I heard that Maria V. Snyder was releasing three more books in the Study series. Seriously, I was so happy with where Fire Study left it but I yearned for more about Valek and Yelena (heart mates 4 lyf!!!!!). This book did not disappoint me, at all. I fell back in with the crew like I had never left it.

I love you, Maria V. Snyder. You are my heroine.

The center of the first three books was Yelena learning about her past and her magic and so when she loses her magic in the first chapter of this book I was sceptical - could I enjoy it without that aspect? Yes. Yes I could. I loved Yelena being a little more helpless but still brave and strong. Another massive plus to this book was reading from Valek's point of view and learning about his past. I have always been curious about what makes Valek tick (aside from Yelena) and we got to learn this time! I have always hated the way that they are always apart but my heart ached less when I got to follow Valek's journey as well.

And that ending - WOW! I'm not saying I never saw it coming, but I'm so happy but worried and ugh! I NEED THE NEXT ONE.

Also, the very welcome appearance of characters like Mara and Opal and Devlin made me very happy. I was disappointed with Opal's decision in Spy Glass (Kade was my bae...) but he redeemed himself in this book. REEMA!

I feel like I am now in a book slump for life (or until the next one comes out). I blame you, Mrs Snyder. 

Book released 12th March 2015 by Mira Ink

Book received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review