The Poison Season by Mara Rutherford
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of The Poison Season in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Gist
The Poison Season by Mara Rutherford is a captivating blend of fantasy and romance, set in a lush and perilous. Rutherford, known for her ability to weave intricate tales with strong, relatable characters, does not disappoint in this latest offering.
The Details
The story centers on the island of Endla, a place shrouded in enchantment and menace. The island’s inhabitants possess a unique power tied to the poison that permeates their environment, making their lives both fascinating and fraught with peril. The protagonist, Leelo, is a young woman on the cusp of an important rite of passage. Her journey is one of self-discovery and courage as she grapples with the rigid traditions of her people and the emerging truths about her own identity and desires.
Leelo’s character is compelling, marked by a blend of vulnerability and strength that makes her both relatable and admirable. Her internal struggles and evolving relationships, particularly with her family and the mysterious outsider, Jaren, add depth to her character and drive the narrative forward. Jaren, a foreigner who finds himself trapped in Endla, serves as a catalyst for Leelo’s transformation. Their relationship is a delicate dance of trust and mistrust, love and fear, which Rutherford handles with finesse.
The world-building in The Poison Season is exceptional. Rutherford paints a vivid picture of Endla, with its treacherous beauty and the ever-present danger of the poison that flows through its veins. The author’s descriptions are lush and immersive, drawing readers into a world that is both enchanting and deadly.
The Poison Season is also notable for its pacing. The story unfolds with a careful balance of tension and revelation, keeping readers engaged without sacrificing character development or thematic depth. Rutherford’s prose is elegant and accessible, making for a smooth and enjoyable read.
The Verdict
Overall, The Poison Season by Mara Rutherford is a richly imagined and beautifully written novel that will appeal to fans of fantasy and romance alike. Its compelling characters, intricate world-building, and thoughtful exploration of universal themes make it a standout addition to the genre. Whether you are new to Rutherford’s work or a longtime fan, this book is sure to enchant and enthrall from beginning to end.
