Review: Shadow Study (Soulfinder #1) by Maria V Snyder

Title: Shadow Study (Soulfinder #1)

Author: Maria V Snyder
Published: 1 March 2015
Source: Harlequin Teen Australia in exchange for an honest review
Reviewed: Sapphired Dragon
Rating: *****

My Review:

Oh My Goodness this book was so good! Another awesome instalment in the Study series and Valek and Yelena's story.

From the moment I read the first page, I was pulled right back in Yelena's world and it was great to visit with all the characters again, and a number of the main players from both the Study series and the glass series are back in this book. That being said however, whilst it helps to already know the characters, this tale is its own story and I believe it is just as compelling even if you are visiting the Study world for the first time.

This novel is told from three points of view, Yelena, Valek and Janco, each weaving a different thread in and around each other and in its own direction as needed. Ms Snyder uses it very well to direct the different threads of the story and the balance between the three worked well for me and each thread had its own story and own mystery to be solved and I was just as hooked on all three.

I liked that we learn a lot more about Valek in this novel, we get to see some of his history and how he came to be where he is which gives us a much greater understanding of his character and why he does what he does. We also learn a bit more about certain characters from the previous novels which also helps to propel the story forward.

What Ms Snyder does really well however, is create a story, world and characters that you can't help but love, hate, and be completely immersed in. This is the first book in a new series set in the Study world and I for one, am thankful to Ms Snyder for allowing us to visit with these characters again and share in their newest adventure. I can't wait to see what happens next!

I give this novel 5 stars.

Sapphired Dragon xx

About The Book:

Shadow Study (Soulfinders #1) by Maria V. Snyder

Goodreads | Harlequin Books | Book Depository | Amazon  |

New York Times bestselling author Maria V. Snyder wowed readers with Poison Study, the unforgettable story of poison taster Yelena. Now she's back with a new tale of intrigue.

Once, only her own life hung in the balance.

Oddly enough, when Yelena was a poison taster, her life was simpler. But she'd 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, they are beset on all sides by those vying for power through politics and intrigue. Valek's job - and his life - are in danger. As Yelena tries to uncover the scope of these plots, she faces a new challenge: her magic is blocked. She must keep that a secret - or her enemies will discover just how vulnerable she really is - while searching for who or what is responsible for neutralizing her powers.

Yes, the days of tasting poisons were much simpler. And certainly not as dangerous,