The Poison Plot

by Grace Argento

She ran from marriage into the arms of an adventure.

In a kingdom torn between dueling factions, Marguerite Bonheur finds herself battling her mother's shadow while searching for her destiny's call.

Training in secret with the Crown’s Spymaster, Marguerite discovers that her gifts may just be the key to keeping the Kingdom of Caeledon from tearing itself apart. With the academy's hallowed halls echoing of old rivalries and the threat of dark magic's resurgence, Marguerite's unparalleled intellect becomes her only lifeline.

The King's mistress, a figure from her mother's past, and the enigmatic Prince Armel pull her into a labyrinth of power plays and courtly intrigues. Yet, as she gets closer to the heart of power, an unexpected crisis looms, threatening everything she has come to cherish.

With the fate of the royal family at stake, Marguerite faces a challenge that could reshape the very fabric of her world. For those who love tales of epic fantasy filled with powerful legacies, twisty politics, forbidden romances, and choices that echo through time, embark on The Poison Plot today.

Genres: Fantasy

317 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 27, 2023

Reviews

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

it starts off with going to a finishing school, but it's a lot deeper than that. Though the story itself starts off with a common trope, the well written characters, and writing style help to pave the plot so nothing feels rushed. Along with a compelling storytelling voice, we have a variety of characters with different personalities who have developed throughout the story, and a protagonist who has a tendency to engage in snarky banter to put a smile on your face.

Though this is a school setting, it's different than the common academia tropes and settings nowadays, firstly with an older protagonist. Yes, our heroine is in her mid twenties, but regardless, it still makes for a great YA novel with the writing style. Secondly, yes, we have a school setting, but it's not what is commonly presented. think smaller classes and specialized courses for noble girls. Third, it's not romance based; although I believe that there will be a stronger aspect of it in the subplot of the next installments, but it's a clean read, one definitely suitable for young adults and teens of all ages. This automatically is a bonus in my opinion. And fourth, the world building is fascinating. I mean, to have not only a map but an entirely new construct of time is absolutely creative and really helps build the setting.

Overall, it was an enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to seeing how the series continues.

[Anna (Crochetsavetheday) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was cracking me up. The FMC had all of the wonderful qualities one wants in a main character but she had quirks too. I loved the way the author took her from her home situation and placed her into the school. Romances were subtly introduced and enemies brought in abruptly. I found myself intrigued by the depth of politics and history created for this fictional world. The FMC had an unfortunate tendency of falling prey to strange tendencies that had me cringing but it was what made her a relatable character. Being perfect is impossible. Her cousin was a fun and sweet addition. I like that the book had a resolution to the problem presented and yet left a cliffhanger for the next in the series.

[Hannah Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this series starter! If you enjoy courtly intrigue, Kingsman-like spy training, smart heroines, stabby women, and occasional glances with a handsome prince, then The Poison Plot is definitely the book for you. I am whole-heartedly in for the entire series and will definitely be reading the next book. I hope we get even more magic in the next installment to really kick things up a notch.

Full review of the book on Back Shelf Books

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is off to a fantastic start in this epic fantasy series! With strong heroines, enigmatic Princes, power plays, legacies, politics and forbidden romance, this epic read pulls you in and holds your attention from start to finish. Marguerite’s kingdom is in danger and so she must step up and do her part. Training in secret, there’s darkness, there’s drama, there’s twists and turns and there is descriptive and incredible world building. This has my attention and I am eager for more!

[May Haym · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really good read. I loved how the author made up the world instead of just straight diving into the politics and complexities. Also loved how Maggie wasn't portrayed as a badass bitch but rather a lady with ladylike habits but also a mission to be more than just a wife or mother. Soo good work Hannah on this book. Now I'm going to go read the second one in this series.
Best of luck on your future works!

[Deanna Nielson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this book was a lot of fun, and I enjoyed seeing Marguerite develop as she found her purpose. I enjoyed the world building the author did, especially as it was written in a natural way and shared throughout the story. I don't like when chargers think they're superior for being less stylish than others, but otherwise I liked the main characters.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book: it offered a charming blend of politics, court drama, and intriguing secrets that kept me engaged. However, I was hoping for a more prominent role for magic within the story, which unfortunately wasn't the case.

Nevertheless, I found the worldbuilding fascinating, particularly the cultural differences that made innocent comments seem remarkably risqué. It added a layer of humor and charm to the narrative, making it a funny and endearing read.

Among the characters, I particularly loved getting to know Marguerite, Etienna, and Crispan. Overall, this book was a cute and enjoyable read that I'd recommend to anyone looking for a lighthearted yet engaging story.

[Jean]

Loved it

In a world where many books are retellings or at least follow a formulaic recipe, this story is refreshingly unique. The characters are engaging and I found the story to be both novel and spellbinding.

I look forward to reading the next book in the series.

[Chris B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why is this book not more popular?

I have read traditionally published books that did not have half the heart and soul that this book does. The characters are wonderful, the plot is captivating, and pacing is great. Do yourself a favor and pick this one up.

[Ro · Rating 3 out of 5]

Had the potential to be great, but the way the narrator describes things pulled me out of the book too many times. The main character felt very kitschy.

[Carol · Rating 2 out of 5]

*3.5/5 Stars

I’m sorry but I had to roll my eyes a little when Marguerite said her mother “wasn’t a good person” because she told the headmistress of what she saw. Like girl…that is absolutely something that needs to be reported.

Anyways, this book was alright. Nothing really happened other than the last two chapters. It was just Marguerite finding her own path in the academy and learning to let in people into her heart before she heads off to court. Basically exposition embodied in a single book.