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Poison Study #1.5, 3.5, 3.6
The Study Chronicles: Tales of Ixia & Sitia
“Then what were you waiting for?”
He turned to her. “You.”
New York Times bestselling author, Maria V. Snyder, presents a complete collection of short stories and novellas from the dynamic and complex world of Ixia & Sitia. These stories delve into and expand the critically acclaimed Chronicles of Ixia series, featuring readers’ favorite Yelena, Valek, Opal, Ari, Janco, and Commander Ambrose.
This comprehensive collection includes familiar Assassin Study, Power Study, Ice Study, Shattered Glass , and Diaper Study , along with three exciting and never before seen Diamond Study, Wedding Study, and After Study . Readers will also find bonus content with introductions to all the stories, detailed maps, character timelines, and amazing artwork by talented fans. For Snyder’s fans and Soulfinders, this is a must have compilation and guide for all things Ixia & Sitia.
He turned to her. “You.”
New York Times bestselling author, Maria V. Snyder, presents a complete collection of short stories and novellas from the dynamic and complex world of Ixia & Sitia. These stories delve into and expand the critically acclaimed Chronicles of Ixia series, featuring readers’ favorite Yelena, Valek, Opal, Ari, Janco, and Commander Ambrose.
This comprehensive collection includes familiar Assassin Study, Power Study, Ice Study, Shattered Glass , and Diaper Study , along with three exciting and never before seen Diamond Study, Wedding Study, and After Study . Readers will also find bonus content with introductions to all the stories, detailed maps, character timelines, and amazing artwork by talented fans. For Snyder’s fans and Soulfinders, this is a must have compilation and guide for all things Ixia & Sitia.
360 pages, Paperback
First published November 10, 2023
178 people are currently reading
516 people want to read
About the author
Maria V. Snyder
75 books17.4k followersWhen Maria V. Snyder was younger, she aspired to be a storm chaser in the American Midwest so she attended Pennsylvania State University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Meteorology. Much to her chagrin, forecasting the weather wasn’t in her skill set so she spent a number of years as an environmental meteorologist, which is not exciting...at all. Bored at work and needing a creative outlet, she started writing fantasy and science fiction stories. Over twenty four novels and two short story collections later, Maria’s learned a thing or three about writing. She’s been on the New York Times bestseller list, won a dozen awards, and has earned her Masters of Arts degree in Writing from Seton Hill University, where she is now a faculty member.
Her favorite color is red. She loves dogs, but is allergic, instead she has a big black tom cat named…Kitty (apparently naming cats isn’t in her skill set either). Maria also has a husband and two children who are an inspiration for her writing when they aren't being a distraction. Note: She mentions her cat before her family.
When she's not writing she's either playing pickleball, traveling, or taking pictures. Being a writer, though is a ton of fun. Where else can you take fencing lessons, learn how to ride a horse, study marital arts, learn how to pick a lock, take glass blowing classes and attend Astronomy Camp and call it research? Maria will be the first one to tell you it's not working as a meteorologist.
Readers are welcome to check out her website for book excerpts, free short stories, maps, blog, and her schedule at http://www.MariaVSnyder.com.
Her favorite color is red. She loves dogs, but is allergic, instead she has a big black tom cat named…Kitty (apparently naming cats isn’t in her skill set either). Maria also has a husband and two children who are an inspiration for her writing when they aren't being a distraction. Note: She mentions her cat before her family.
When she's not writing she's either playing pickleball, traveling, or taking pictures. Being a writer, though is a ton of fun. Where else can you take fencing lessons, learn how to ride a horse, study marital arts, learn how to pick a lock, take glass blowing classes and attend Astronomy Camp and call it research? Maria will be the first one to tell you it's not working as a meteorologist.
Readers are welcome to check out her website for book excerpts, free short stories, maps, blog, and her schedule at http://www.MariaVSnyder.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
December 3, 2023
This book, aside from including all the previous short stories plus three brand new ones, is also super useful, as right off the bat it includes a straightforward chart of character ages in all stories.
Originally I was just going to read the new stories and skipped the ones I've already read (one only has so much time), but it couldn't be helped... I still read the whole thing. It just has that magic and made me almost want to revisit the entire series (but I really don't have time lmao). It's a lovely treat for sure!
Originally I was just going to read the new stories and skipped the ones I've already read (one only has so much time), but it couldn't be helped... I still read the whole thing. It just has that magic and made me almost want to revisit the entire series (but I really don't have time lmao). It's a lovely treat for sure!
Want to read
November 13, 2023A collection of all the written short stories in The Chronicles of Ixia (Poison Study series by Maria V Snyder) as well as 3 new stories in the universe??? YES!!
Also, I'm really excited about (maybe?) retelling of Magic Study from Valek's POV, as there's potential for so much new stuff story wife for large part of the second book (for spoiler reasons)!
Also, I'm really excited about (maybe?) retelling of Magic Study from Valek's POV, as there's potential for so much new stuff story wife for large part of the second book (for spoiler reasons)!
March 3, 2025
An interesting collection of short stories and novellas (novellae?)
The quality of these is mixed. Some were good, others not so great.
Altogether the collection provided interesting extras to the main novels.
The quality of these is mixed. Some were good, others not so great.
Altogether the collection provided interesting extras to the main novels.
December 5, 2023
Oh, loved this collection of stories, new and old, and the intros that we got! I was just beaming those last two stories! I'm so excited for the future of the series, the next two from Valek's perspective, and the next generation!
November 17, 2023
I feel like Maria has wrapped up this amazing world she created in a big beautiful bow. I loved every story. Could not put it down
September 16, 2025
Finally finished the entire series and I’m feeling some kind of way. I loved that after the final novel, Maria V Snyder still wrote three more short stories. Diaper study was cute, Wedding Study was great closure, and After Study felt like the book equivalent of staying after the credits for some bonus scenes.
Now that it’s all said and done, I still love this series. The first three books are the best though and I loved this collection of short stories that act as bridges between the different books.
Now that it’s all said and done, I still love this series. The first three books are the best though and I loved this collection of short stories that act as bridges between the different books.
January 27, 2025
Love it. Especially the last stories. Took me a minute to read it because there isn't an audible version hahaha but l think I also didn't want it to end.
September 4, 2025
This is more realistically a 3.5 as the quality of the novellas varies.
Having said that, 4 stars alone to Maria for giving us Valek and Yelena’s wedding 🤍
Having said that, 4 stars alone to Maria for giving us Valek and Yelena’s wedding 🤍
December 29, 2023
4.5 stars 🌟
It was great to jump back in and get a couple of small snippets of life in this world again :)
It was great to jump back in and get a couple of small snippets of life in this world again :)
May 24, 2025
This collection is a treat for the fans (I'm one of them), featuring fun facts, beautiful art and insightful introductions to each story.
Here are my thoughts about each story:
★ Diamond Study (2/5 stars)
This is the Commander's origin story, and while Ambrose is a clever and morally intriguing character, the story feels rushed and lacks emotional depth, leaving me uninterested.
★ Assassin Study (2/5 stars)
First read: 15 August 2024
Although Valek is a compelling character, this story reduces him to uncharacteristic recklessness. The simple plot and underdeveloped elements make it feel shallow, though it’s mildly entertaining.
★ Power Study (2,5/5 stars)
First read: 21 August 2024
A great premise with a magical weapon and the classic Ari and Janco friendship dynamic. However, it needs more substance and complexity to truly shine.
★ Ice Study (4/5 stars)
First read: 21 August 2024
“He was getting too old for this nonsense.”
Amazing story with a great balance of elements. The characters are at their best here. Yelena and Valek's adventures are always a joy to read, and Janco adds his usual humour. The banter between Valek and Leif is great, and I never realised how cool Leif's magic could be. The clever resolution is my favourite part of the story. My only issue is with the ending. I would have preferred the story to conclude earlier. Overall, a fantastic short story that deepens world-building and showcases beloved characters in a new light.
★ Shattered Glass (3/5 stars)
Readable and interesting, with a solid premise and execution, though not particularly memorable.
★ Diaper Study (3/5 stars)
A cute, lighthearted glimpse into the characters’ lives post- Dawn Study . Janco steals the show as always, and any mention of Onora is a delight. While it doesn't make sense to the overarching narrative, it’s an amusing read.
★ Wedding Study (4/5 stars)
This story is pure fan service, and I loved every moment of it. It’s filled with fun, drama, and humor, showcasing the “herd” and their dynamics in heartwarming and hilarious ways. Yelena’s unexpected conversation with the Commander and Valek’s sharp wit stand out, though the ending veers into overly cheesy territory.
★ After Study (1,5/5 stars)
This one feels like fanfiction, with emotions that come out of nowhere and a narrative that doesn’t quite hit the mark.
This collection is clearly written for fans of Snyder’s world, offering delightful glimpses into beloved characters and their lives. While the quality varies between stories, the highlights, particularly Ice Study and Wedding Study, make it worthwhile. It’s a nostalgic and enjoyable read!
Here are my thoughts about each story:
★ Diamond Study (2/5 stars)
This is the Commander's origin story, and while Ambrose is a clever and morally intriguing character, the story feels rushed and lacks emotional depth, leaving me uninterested.
★ Assassin Study (2/5 stars)
First read: 15 August 2024
Although Valek is a compelling character, this story reduces him to uncharacteristic recklessness. The simple plot and underdeveloped elements make it feel shallow, though it’s mildly entertaining.
★ Power Study (2,5/5 stars)
First read: 21 August 2024
A great premise with a magical weapon and the classic Ari and Janco friendship dynamic. However, it needs more substance and complexity to truly shine.
★ Ice Study (4/5 stars)
First read: 21 August 2024
“He was getting too old for this nonsense.”
Amazing story with a great balance of elements. The characters are at their best here. Yelena and Valek's adventures are always a joy to read, and Janco adds his usual humour. The banter between Valek and Leif is great, and I never realised how cool Leif's magic could be. The clever resolution is my favourite part of the story. My only issue is with the ending. I would have preferred the story to conclude earlier. Overall, a fantastic short story that deepens world-building and showcases beloved characters in a new light.
★ Shattered Glass (3/5 stars)
Readable and interesting, with a solid premise and execution, though not particularly memorable.
★ Diaper Study (3/5 stars)
A cute, lighthearted glimpse into the characters’ lives post- Dawn Study . Janco steals the show as always, and any mention of Onora is a delight. While it doesn't make sense to the overarching narrative, it’s an amusing read.
★ Wedding Study (4/5 stars)
This story is pure fan service, and I loved every moment of it. It’s filled with fun, drama, and humor, showcasing the “herd” and their dynamics in heartwarming and hilarious ways. Yelena’s unexpected conversation with the Commander and Valek’s sharp wit stand out, though the ending veers into overly cheesy territory.
★ After Study (1,5/5 stars)
This one feels like fanfiction, with emotions that come out of nowhere and a narrative that doesn’t quite hit the mark.
This collection is clearly written for fans of Snyder’s world, offering delightful glimpses into beloved characters and their lives. While the quality varies between stories, the highlights, particularly Ice Study and Wedding Study, make it worthwhile. It’s a nostalgic and enjoyable read!
October 30, 2024
I am not, and don't think I'll ever be, comfortable about how Ambrose's gender identity is handled. I'm sure the right people gave their approval for her to publish this but I just really don't like it.
And still, his story was better than any of the others I hadn't read yet. (For the record, I only read the ones I didn't read last year because they could only be found in this bundle.) The other ones felt useless, especially Wedding Study and After Study.
Although, to be fair, in hindsight I wouldn't have minded if Maria V Snyder stopped writing in this universe after Fire Study sooo
In conclusion, this is definitely a series I've outgrown, no matter how much I still love Poison Study. I might try rereading Graceling this year, another childhood favorite, because it, too, has sequels I've never read before and I want to see if it still holds up.
And still, his story was better than any of the others I hadn't read yet. (For the record, I only read the ones I didn't read last year because they could only be found in this bundle.) The other ones felt useless, especially Wedding Study and After Study.
Although, to be fair, in hindsight I wouldn't have minded if Maria V Snyder stopped writing in this universe after Fire Study sooo
In conclusion, this is definitely a series I've outgrown, no matter how much I still love Poison Study. I might try rereading Graceling this year, another childhood favorite, because it, too, has sequels I've never read before and I want to see if it still holds up.
November 14, 2023
When the last story ended with “You”, I actually screamed, “No! You can’t end it like this!” It might sound dramatic, but it had actually happened. 😅😅
As a long time fan of the Study series, I have eagerly waited for this collection of short stories from the amazing world of Ixia and Sitia, and have been blown away by the intensity of my own happiness! To think that my favourite author would include my humble sketch in her book in the Reader’s Art section!!! I am elated and so grateful! The fan art collection in this book is seriously impressive!
The stories may be smaller, but they are all precious and close to my heart because they are about my favourite characters. Getting to know something new about them- from the Commander’s past and Valek’s mind boggling skills to a new adventure of the power twins; from the power of the Ice M. to a certain someone finding himself on babysitting duty; from the wedding of the millennium to a grown up Reema and more about Fisk…. the book was an exhilarating read, and now I want even more!
Call me greedy, but this is one series I wish never to end! ❤️
As a long time fan of the Study series, I have eagerly waited for this collection of short stories from the amazing world of Ixia and Sitia, and have been blown away by the intensity of my own happiness! To think that my favourite author would include my humble sketch in her book in the Reader’s Art section!!! I am elated and so grateful! The fan art collection in this book is seriously impressive!
The stories may be smaller, but they are all precious and close to my heart because they are about my favourite characters. Getting to know something new about them- from the Commander’s past and Valek’s mind boggling skills to a new adventure of the power twins; from the power of the Ice M. to a certain someone finding himself on babysitting duty; from the wedding of the millennium to a grown up Reema and more about Fisk…. the book was an exhilarating read, and now I want even more!
Call me greedy, but this is one series I wish never to end! ❤️
February 15, 2024
I actually just finished my reread of the entire Ixia and Sitia universe (besides study of magic and study of fire since they're not out yet). I'm getting married in April and I NEEDED to know what happened in Wedding Study. 😅 We're actually planning on using part of Yelena and Valek vows in our own.
It was really fulfilling to read the series in order with the short stories. The art throughout the book is amazing. This is definitely my favorite series and a comfort read anytime I'm in between books. Having the short stories all in one place will be nice to be able to relive part of this universe without rereading everything.
I fell in love with all the characters all over again. I enjoyed learning about Ambrose's childhood and how he was able to plan the takeover. I literally couldn't stop grinning during Diaper Study with Janco babyguarding. The short stories filled in so many blanks and references from the books especially later in the series.
I would love to see more stories with the next generation (of course, with some cameos from the original characters).
It was really fulfilling to read the series in order with the short stories. The art throughout the book is amazing. This is definitely my favorite series and a comfort read anytime I'm in between books. Having the short stories all in one place will be nice to be able to relive part of this universe without rereading everything.
I fell in love with all the characters all over again. I enjoyed learning about Ambrose's childhood and how he was able to plan the takeover. I literally couldn't stop grinning during Diaper Study with Janco babyguarding. The short stories filled in so many blanks and references from the books especially later in the series.
I would love to see more stories with the next generation (of course, with some cameos from the original characters).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2024
While this book is technically “only” a collection of short stories and novellas, it’s an essential piece for all fans of the Poison Study series.
At the beginning you have maps of Ixia, Sitia, the Commander’s Castle, Magician’s Keep and the Citadel. Then it includes a table of names, their ages throughout each book, the military districts, Sitian clans etc. It’s highly useful and informative to have everything together in one place.
As for the stories, I read all the old ones already, but I still decided to read them again and I was not disappointed. The new stories were delightful and satisfying, I really enjoyed getting to know what Yelena and Valek’s life ended up like.
At the end of the book, there is a lot of art created by readers, which was really creative and beautiful. :)
At the beginning you have maps of Ixia, Sitia, the Commander’s Castle, Magician’s Keep and the Citadel. Then it includes a table of names, their ages throughout each book, the military districts, Sitian clans etc. It’s highly useful and informative to have everything together in one place.
As for the stories, I read all the old ones already, but I still decided to read them again and I was not disappointed. The new stories were delightful and satisfying, I really enjoyed getting to know what Yelena and Valek’s life ended up like.
At the end of the book, there is a lot of art created by readers, which was really creative and beautiful. :)
February 5, 2024
It was great to revisit some of the stories I had already read via Maria's newsletter. But it was even more amazing to read the new stories written for this collection. I must say I felt sad reading the last story. It felt as if this wonderful world had been all wrapped up and finished! But then I remembered that the study of Magic is on the way! Also, can we please talk about Ambrose having a pet snow cat?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2024
This was fun. I remember reading these short stories when they first got published online and I loved them then and I now love having them in a physical book I can have on my shelf.
I will say though, I don’t think these stories really add much to the original series. They do feel a little like fan fiction and I think that makes sense because these were written specifically for fans and were done via their requests.
Either way, I love having it on my shelf.
I will say though, I don’t think these stories really add much to the original series. They do feel a little like fan fiction and I think that makes sense because these were written specifically for fans and were done via their requests.
Either way, I love having it on my shelf.
May 29, 2024
This is what Sarah J Maas drew her inspo from. This book series is very well written and crafted so that you root for the main character no matter what. The only reason it’s not 5 stars is because, as like some of Maria’s other works it often has scenes that have a strong underlying threat of rape or straight up rape.
September 27, 2024
Ugh I know these were supposed to be short stories but I wish they were longer! Now I need more stories about Kade and Helen, Fisk and Reema, Onora, Commander and Ice!
Overall a really great filler to the original stories and so amazing to see how the characters all grew up, got older and how their lives changed.
Overall a really great filler to the original stories and so amazing to see how the characters all grew up, got older and how their lives changed.
November 22, 2024
Enjoyable and exciting short story collection from a series I finished long ago. Some of the stories I may have read previously, but I didn't remember them.
Typos: As usual with this author, poor use of punctuation, several sentence fragments, and a few spelling errors. I especially noticed single words spelled as two words.
Typos: As usual with this author, poor use of punctuation, several sentence fragments, and a few spelling errors. I especially noticed single words spelled as two words.
December 4, 2024
This compilation is an absolute DELIGHT! The Study series is already my favorite, but getting to dive back in with the wider cast of Ixia and Sitia just makes my heart so happy! Plus I loved seeing the through details that Maria put in her short stories for it all to come back around and tie together. I will never not love this world and collection of books!
December 31, 2023
More of my favorite characters from one of my all-time favorite series?! Yes please! Now just hoping for a Volume II with even more Ari & Janco.👍🏻 A fantastic Christmas present from my favorite author. Can’t wait for “Study of Magic” in 2024!!
November 19, 2023
Thank you Maria for still giving us more of Ixia and Sitia and our favorite herd💜
We need Fisk and Reema’s story now 🥰
We need Fisk and Reema’s story now 🥰
November 23, 2023
I loved being able to read all of the stories in one place. The problem is now I want more.
January 10, 2024
Having all the short stories together is amazing. The additional stories are just another sip of the world that leaves you still wanting more.
February 7, 2024
Wow wow wow what a good ending to a 9 book journey. I love this world and all the characters in it. All these bonus stories just made my heart so happy
February 10, 2024
The last half was better than the first half.
July 22, 2024
This is a wonderful collection of short stories. Some of my favorites were Diamond Study and Diaper Study.
September 14, 2024
Don't wanna say goodbye to this world and all the characters :(( I love them all
November 10, 2024
A great return to one of my favorite worlds and characters. Great short stories with wonderful characters.
December 19, 2024
Love the original and sequel series. So this is a great collection of stories that are about more of the side characters that I love.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews