A fantasy book by an AUSTRALIAN author!! Honestly I was so unbelievably excited when Penguin told us about Sam and her latest book getting released next month, which is actually being released next week, and we just knew we had to get our hands on the first book! I really enjoyed the setting, a family of poison tasters to the ruler/ chancellor. I do love a good rebellion and normally our protagonists are on the rebellion side so it was interesting to be on the side of the monarchy for once! Kalina was definitely one of my favourite characters and I loved An Hadrea too. Jovans’ character seemed a little naive at times but I think this was part of his character so it didn’t bother me too much. The book started off very fast paced then slowed in the middle slightly but then picked up again and wow that ending was intense!! It was a fantastic fantasy whodunit book that kept me guessing and I would love it for more Aussies to support their local fantasy authors because this book is great and I can’t wait to read the next instalment ( I’m starting it today)!!