
Facing execution for murder in a strict military regime, Yelena accepts a perilous role as the Commander's poison taster to survive.
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Facing execution for murder in a strict military regime, Yelena accepts a perilous role as the Commander's poison taster to survive.
Acclaimed New York Times bestselling author Maria V. Snyder's Study novels are unforgettable, emotional, powerful and compelling. Don't miss how it all began… Choose: a quick death…or slow poison… About to be executed for murder, Yelena is offered an extraordinary reprieve. She'll live to eat the best meals in the palace—and risk death from those trying to kill the Commander of Ixia. But after Yelena becomes a food taster, the chief of security, leaving nothing to chance, feeds her Butterfly's D...
will contain mild spoilers
Moderate romantic tension with some implied intimacy; fade-to-black scenes. Past sexual threats or coercion; not central to the story.
Frequent violence including torture, murders, injuries with blood and vomit; graphic depictions of fights and poison effects.
Moderate use of cursing and strong language throughout.
Minor alcohol consumption; poisons central to plot but not portrayed as recreational drugs.
Brief anti-trans storyline involving a character's identity.
No religious themes present.
Central fantasy magic system with spellcasting, poisons, and supernatural abilities.
No evidence found in available sources.
Heavy focus on political intrigue, conspiracies, and positive portrayal of military dictatorship over monarchy.
Minor mentions of self-harm ideation.
Themes of systemic cruelty, imprisonment, and past trauma; central to protagonist's arc. Past sexual threats or coercion; not central to the story.
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