Book: This Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron
Read From: 8th July - 11th July 2021
Rating: 5/5 stars
Summary: Briseis has a gift where she can grow plants with a single touch. When she inherits a dilapidated estate, her family move for the summer and Bri, surrounded by plants and flowers, thinks it’s the perfect opportunity to control her powers. But, there is more to Bri’s inheritance than she could have ever imagined, and she won’t stop until the truth is uncovered.
Okay this book was ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE and I cannot stop thinking about it. Last year I read (and loved) Bayron's debut, Cinderella is Dead. I know the works aren't comparable whatsoever but you can just tell that she has gone from strength to strength in terms of her writing, intricacy and plot since her first book. Not only was the premise extremely intriguing and well done, there was an added element of Greek Mythology interwoven throughout which added so much depth to an already fascinating story.
I found it extremely enjoyable to read about Briseis' journey with her powers and affinity for plants. The magic system was genuinely interesting and I even found myself Googling the names of the different plants that were mentioned so that I could visualise everything which made for such a captivating reading experience. I loved the side characters and thought their love and support for Bri was the most wholesome thing ever and I also appreciated the lack of unnecessary sub-plots that would have drawn attention away from Briseis' self-discovery. Whilst I think the relationships in this book were an amazing touch, it is very much about Bri's own journey and I really loved that.
I don't want to say too much about this because I want everyone to just go and read it... right now! I loved the characters, loved the plot AND the plot twists - I could never have predicted that ending! I'm sad that the next book isn't going to be released until next year, so I will be patiently waiting until then. At least it gives me the perfect excuse to reread this delightful story closer to the sequel's publication day!