Fantasy Book Review: Poison

Poison by Bridget Zinn

About the Author:
Bridget Zinn was a writer, librarian, and teen literature enthusiast who lived with her husband and two feisty cats in Portland, Oregon, until her untimely passing in 2011. Poison was her debut novel.

Synopsis:
Sixteen-year-old Kyra, a highly-skilled potions master, is the only one who knows her kingdom is on the verge of destruction—which means she’s the only one who can save it. Faced with no other choice, Kyra decides to do what she does best: poison the kingdom’s future ruler, who also happens to be her former best friend.

But, for the first time ever, her poisoned dart…misses.

Now a fugitive instead of a hero, Kyra is caught in a game of hide-and-seek with the king’s army and her potioner ex-boyfriend, Hal. At least she’s not alone. She’s armed with her vital potions, a too-cute pig, and Fred, the charming adventurer she can’t stop thinking about. Kyra is determined to get herself a second chance (at murder), but will she be able to find and defeat the princess before Hal and the army find her?

Kyra is not your typical murderer, and she’s certainly no damsel-in-distress—she’s the lovable and quick-witted hero of this romantic novel that has all the right ingredients to make teen girls swoon.

Review:
Kyra is a very likeable character, despite having tried to kill the princess. She’s a brave heroine who risks everything to save the kingdom. She meets a young man along her journey who challenges her and begins to break down the walls she has put up. And Kyra’s personality further developed thanks to her cute, tracking (dog-like) pig. It’s a darling character that gives Kyra a bit more humanity.

This is a charming fantasy with the feel of a fairy tale. I enjoyed every bit of this fantastic adventure for all ages. Full of mystery, suspense, humor, a bit of romance, and several surprises – I didn’t want this story to end. I was sorry to see that the author passed away, especially so young. But she has left behind a beautiful legacy. Poison is an impressive debut by an obviously talented author. I highly recommend this sweet and captivating fantasy, which has made my list of favorites for the year.