A Magic Steeped in Poison

Ning’s mother was recently killed by poisoned tea, and Ning’s sister Shu is gravely ill. Ning finds out about a competition to become the royal shennong-shi, a master of the ancient and magical art of tea-making. This appointment would mean Ning would have the favour of the princess as well as having access to the best medical minds in the country. She feels this may be the only way to find an antidote and save her sister. However, between Ning and her desired new position is a fierce competition which will put more than her tea-making abilities to the test.

Ning is an interesting protagonist, and the story is told from her point of view. She is, first and foremost, a family person who will do whatever is necessary to save her sister’s life. Added to this sense of responsibility is Ning’s dedication and determination. She will win the difficult competition ahead of her if at all possible. Ning is smart and curious and willing to accept the dangers which constantly are swirling around her.

Author Judy I. Lin creates an interesting new world in her novel and combines elements of fantasy, Chinese mythology and history, adventure and romance all in one book. This complex world is described in detail, and readers learn a great deal about the magical and medicinal properties of the teas Ning uses in the competition. There is also vivid description of much of the food served in the palace, and these details also add to the readers’ understanding of Ning and her world.

The competition is the central impetus of the plot, and, in many ways, it brings out the best in Ning as she struggles to move from one round to the next with the pressures and complexities involved. Within the competition, Ning is shown to be a true healer as well as a shrewd competitor. She is ferocious in her desire to win while, at the same time, forging friendships with another female competitor and even the princess, herself. On the other hand, the competition is rife with politics and in-fighting and brings out the worst aspects of many of the competitors. During the story, loyalties change, and readers question just what side people are on. Backstabbing and political gamesmanship are the norm.

Lin takes time to create her world, and this is both an attraction and a fault within the novel. The many details mean that the pace sometimes feels quite slow, and there are times that the plot isn’t always believable or even logical. While the mythology and magic of the shennong-shi keep readers involved in and entertained by this fantasy world, the romantic aspect of the book is less satisfying. Ning’s relationship with the mysterious boy she meets in the marketplace doesn’t seem credible and only complicates the situation.

A Magic Steeped in Poison leaves readers at a point where many questions are unanswered, and certainly there will be a sequel to finish the story. Hopefully, Lin will continue her look at both medicine and magic and will fill in the details, characters and relationships in the story which need more attention and substance.