A charming, atmospheric story that sweeps you away to a world of tea and poison. The author draws on the tradition of teahouses, but in this world, practiced shennong-shi, masters of the art of tea making, imbue the ingredients with magical powers.
Ning is desperate to save her family, after a poisoned brick of tea she brewed killed her mother and severely injured her sister. She travels to compete in a competition to become the Princess's shennong-shi, as that person is promised one favor from the Princess. Ning plans to use that favor to try to save her sister.
Along the way, Ning meets a charming boy with secrets of his own. Their connection and trust in each other despite all the turmoil around them is sweet to witness. I love Ning's friendship with her roommate at the palace as well. Together, they're the outsiders to the court who find each other.
I love how the author incorporated Chinese mythology into this story, making it shine with her mesmerizing, lyrical prose.
This book ends on a cliffhanger, but the good news is the second book comes out this year, so I won't have to wait long! I cannot wait to spend more time with these characters and find out what happens next!
Ning is desperate to save her family, after a poisoned brick of tea she brewed killed her mother and severely injured her sister. She travels to compete in a competition to become the Princess's shennong-shi, as that person is promised one favor from the Princess. Ning plans to use that favor to try to save her sister.
Along the way, Ning meets a charming boy with secrets of his own. Their connection and trust in each other despite all the turmoil around them is sweet to witness. I love Ning's friendship with her roommate at the palace as well. Together, they're the outsiders to the court who find each other.
I love how the author incorporated Chinese mythology into this story, making it shine with her mesmerizing, lyrical prose.
This book ends on a cliffhanger, but the good news is the second book comes out this year, so I won't have to wait long! I cannot wait to spend more time with these characters and find out what happens next!