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The Study Chronicles: Valek's Adventures #2
The Study of Magic
Frankly, I think death is the best cure for stupidity.
As Chief of Ixia’s Security, Valek’s work is never done. After rescuing Commander Ambrose with, Yelena, his heartmate’s, help and seeing her off to Sitia, Valek discovers the nefarious scheme to overthrow their country is far more complex and far reaching than anyone could have guessed.
Valek must discover who is continuing with Brazell and Mogkan’s conniving plans, all while dealing with a tense political situation. The Ixian generals are questioning his abilities to keep the Commander safe, and whispers of a possible coup are circulating.
Will Valek be able to survive a plot that seeks to sabotage all he and the Commander have worked for? Also, having opened his heart to love, will Yelena still wish to be with him when all is said and done?
A companion novel to Magic Study, The Study of Magic reveals Valek’s side of the story. Find out what hazards Valek encounters and survives before he and Yelena are reunited once more.
As Chief of Ixia’s Security, Valek’s work is never done. After rescuing Commander Ambrose with, Yelena, his heartmate’s, help and seeing her off to Sitia, Valek discovers the nefarious scheme to overthrow their country is far more complex and far reaching than anyone could have guessed.
Valek must discover who is continuing with Brazell and Mogkan’s conniving plans, all while dealing with a tense political situation. The Ixian generals are questioning his abilities to keep the Commander safe, and whispers of a possible coup are circulating.
Will Valek be able to survive a plot that seeks to sabotage all he and the Commander have worked for? Also, having opened his heart to love, will Yelena still wish to be with him when all is said and done?
A companion novel to Magic Study, The Study of Magic reveals Valek’s side of the story. Find out what hazards Valek encounters and survives before he and Yelena are reunited once more.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 19, 2024
112 people are currently reading
1224 people want to read
About the author
Maria V. Snyder
76 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 91 reviews
February 12, 2025
I love Valek’s POV! The way he thinks about Yelena with so much love and respect is amazing to read.
I also love how we learned what happened in Ixia after Yelena left. There were still consequences that lingered which needed to be resolved.
It was also great Snyder was able to make a really interesting story and make it connect to the already established events.
Some of my favourite parts were when Valek interacted with his corps and how they playfully bantered with him, so unlike how I thought Vs relationship with his crew would be.
And the part where Ari went all ‘overprotective brother’ on Valek. That was sweet!
I have to say, I did notice a lot more grammatical errors in this. And possible spelling mistakes. It did make me pause for a moment but didn’t truly hinder my enjoyment.
I love when there is new dialogue between Valek and Yelena. It helps us spend some more time with the couple. Not to mention, helps fill in gaps for new readers.
Overall, I continue to love these new perspectives of one of my all time favourite series!
I also love how we learned what happened in Ixia after Yelena left. There were still consequences that lingered which needed to be resolved.
It was also great Snyder was able to make a really interesting story and make it connect to the already established events.
Some of my favourite parts were when Valek interacted with his corps and how they playfully bantered with him, so unlike how I thought Vs relationship with his crew would be.
And the part where Ari went all ‘overprotective brother’ on Valek. That was sweet!
I have to say, I did notice a lot more grammatical errors in this. And possible spelling mistakes. It did make me pause for a moment but didn’t truly hinder my enjoyment.
I love when there is new dialogue between Valek and Yelena. It helps us spend some more time with the couple. Not to mention, helps fill in gaps for new readers.
Overall, I continue to love these new perspectives of one of my all time favourite series!
June 6, 2024
to get new content for a character who’s been my favourite for over ten years is such a treat. thank you maria <33
January 26, 2025
Scraping up every last crumb of them that I can get
May 22, 2024
3.5 stars
As with the previous companion novel, it's always great being back in this world with these characters.
I'm not normally a fan of books told from another character's POV as they can become repetitive, however as this covers a time when Valek and Yelena are apart it stands as its own story. There some overlapping plot points but it's not much.
I did find some parts in this one seems a bit underdeveloped or glossed over, if read near to Magic Study then maybe this wouldn't have been the case but it's been a good few years since the last time I read the series so a little more detail would have helped.
As with the previous companion novel, it's always great being back in this world with these characters.
I'm not normally a fan of books told from another character's POV as they can become repetitive, however as this covers a time when Valek and Yelena are apart it stands as its own story. There some overlapping plot points but it's not much.
I did find some parts in this one seems a bit underdeveloped or glossed over, if read near to Magic Study then maybe this wouldn't have been the case but it's been a good few years since the last time I read the series so a little more detail would have helped.
March 28, 2024
This is a spoiler free review.
The Study of Magic (TSOM) is a sequel to The Study of Poisons (TSOP). Both books are companions to Maria V. Snyder’s books Poison Study and Magic Study, except written from the point of view of Valek, the male main character.
TSOP should be read before TSOM, though the duology can be read without having read Poison Study and Magic Study.
MVS has written an excellent second novel from Valek’s point of view. In TSOP we mostly knew what was going to happen because Valek was with Yelena for most of the novel. But with TSOM, we get brand new plot threads because Valek doesn’t reunite with Yelena for months and months!
We start out with Valek in Sitia having successfully saved Yelena from an assassin (seen in the short story Assassin Study). If you’ve read the short stories, you’ll LOVE finally getting an answer as to what favor Valek has to complete for his rescuer. After that, he heads home to aid the Commander.
Ixia is still reeling from Brazell’s attempted takeover and Valek has to help the Commander deal with the fallout, including choosing a new general. We get loads of hijinx from the power twins, Ari and Janco, and some great scenes with Valek and his corps. I was especially excited to read how Valek experienced giving Yelena his strength and resistance to magic.
Once he goes back to Sitia with a delegation, we get to see how Valek maneuvers around the Sitian Council with his disguises. It was great to see this part of Magic Study through Valek’s eyes, especially the part(s) with Goel!
This is very well written (obviously, it’s MVS!) and an incredibly fun read. I can’t wait for the third book, The Study of Fire, to come out!
Thank you to the author for an ARC!
The Study of Magic (TSOM) is a sequel to The Study of Poisons (TSOP). Both books are companions to Maria V. Snyder’s books Poison Study and Magic Study, except written from the point of view of Valek, the male main character.
TSOP should be read before TSOM, though the duology can be read without having read Poison Study and Magic Study.
MVS has written an excellent second novel from Valek’s point of view. In TSOP we mostly knew what was going to happen because Valek was with Yelena for most of the novel. But with TSOM, we get brand new plot threads because Valek doesn’t reunite with Yelena for months and months!
We start out with Valek in Sitia having successfully saved Yelena from an assassin (seen in the short story Assassin Study). If you’ve read the short stories, you’ll LOVE finally getting an answer as to what favor Valek has to complete for his rescuer. After that, he heads home to aid the Commander.
Ixia is still reeling from Brazell’s attempted takeover and Valek has to help the Commander deal with the fallout, including choosing a new general. We get loads of hijinx from the power twins, Ari and Janco, and some great scenes with Valek and his corps. I was especially excited to read how Valek experienced giving Yelena his strength and resistance to magic.
Once he goes back to Sitia with a delegation, we get to see how Valek maneuvers around the Sitian Council with his disguises. It was great to see this part of Magic Study through Valek’s eyes, especially the part(s) with Goel!
This is very well written (obviously, it’s MVS!) and an incredibly fun read. I can’t wait for the third book, The Study of Fire, to come out!
Thank you to the author for an ARC!
August 27, 2024
3,75 stars
“While creeping in the dark is one of my skills, I also stalk prey, set ambushes, work undercover, climb walls, and am a master of disguise.”
In the first half of Magic Study , we don't see Valek, which makes his adventures in The Study of Magic an absolute delight to read about. However, once Valek travels to Sitia, the story begins to lose some of its initial magic.
Valek is one of my favourite characters. He's lived and continues to live a fascinating and diverse life, full of stories and adventure. Witnessing the events in Ixia through his eyes, especially the internal politics, is entertaining and captivating and his sense of humour and inner monologue add an extra layer of enjoyment. Valek has so many epic moments, but the paperwork, forms and evidence gathering grounds his character in realism. That said, Valek is unusually reckless in this instalment. He typically embodies a careful, calculated approach, thinking before he leaps, so this shift feels out of character.
I also appreciated the relationships explored from Valek's PoV. We learn how Ari and Janco first meet, get a glimpse that the Commander can be funny when he wants to be and find out that Kenda runs the show.
The first half of this book is so enjoyable that I breezed through the pages and could easily have read an entire book about Valek's adventures in Ixia. Unfortunately, when the focus shifted to events from Magic Study , it remained interesting, but wasn't as fun.
“Valek, you look like death warmed over. No, I take that back. It would be an insult to those who do look like death warmed over.”
“While creeping in the dark is one of my skills, I also stalk prey, set ambushes, work undercover, climb walls, and am a master of disguise.”
In the first half of Magic Study , we don't see Valek, which makes his adventures in The Study of Magic an absolute delight to read about. However, once Valek travels to Sitia, the story begins to lose some of its initial magic.
Valek is one of my favourite characters. He's lived and continues to live a fascinating and diverse life, full of stories and adventure. Witnessing the events in Ixia through his eyes, especially the internal politics, is entertaining and captivating and his sense of humour and inner monologue add an extra layer of enjoyment. Valek has so many epic moments, but the paperwork, forms and evidence gathering grounds his character in realism. That said, Valek is unusually reckless in this instalment. He typically embodies a careful, calculated approach, thinking before he leaps, so this shift feels out of character.
I also appreciated the relationships explored from Valek's PoV. We learn how Ari and Janco first meet, get a glimpse that the Commander can be funny when he wants to be and find out that Kenda runs the show.
The first half of this book is so enjoyable that I breezed through the pages and could easily have read an entire book about Valek's adventures in Ixia. Unfortunately, when the focus shifted to events from Magic Study , it remained interesting, but wasn't as fun.
“Valek, you look like death warmed over. No, I take that back. It would be an insult to those who do look like death warmed over.”
July 17, 2024
4.5 stars
This book tells the events of Magic Study, book 2 in the original Study series, from Valek’s perspective. It's so good! Valek is my favorite leading man, so I was ecstatic to get this book from his point of view. I hate to say it, but Magic Study was my least favorite book in the original series. Probably because Valek was missing from a good portion of it. Don’t get me wrong, I loved seeing Yelena explore Sitia, her home, but I missed Valek. A lot. In this book, we finally learn what he was doing while Yelena was away. I loved it so much! There was a lot going on in Ixia while Yelena was away!
I loved that there was plenty of Ari and Janco too. I always enjoy their shenanigans. I thought I knew them pretty well, but there were new revelations about them that I really appreciated learning.
This book is not a standalone. I’d recommend at least reading The Study of Poison first, possibly even the original series too. It’s well worth it, though. It’s my all-time favorite fantasy series. I highly, highly recommend it to fans of the genre.
This book tells the events of Magic Study, book 2 in the original Study series, from Valek’s perspective. It's so good! Valek is my favorite leading man, so I was ecstatic to get this book from his point of view. I hate to say it, but Magic Study was my least favorite book in the original series. Probably because Valek was missing from a good portion of it. Don’t get me wrong, I loved seeing Yelena explore Sitia, her home, but I missed Valek. A lot. In this book, we finally learn what he was doing while Yelena was away. I loved it so much! There was a lot going on in Ixia while Yelena was away!
I loved that there was plenty of Ari and Janco too. I always enjoy their shenanigans. I thought I knew them pretty well, but there were new revelations about them that I really appreciated learning.
This book is not a standalone. I’d recommend at least reading The Study of Poison first, possibly even the original series too. It’s well worth it, though. It’s my all-time favorite fantasy series. I highly, highly recommend it to fans of the genre.
April 30, 2024
This was a fantastic dive into Valek's POV. Getting to see how he thinks, feels, and misses Yelena. I really enjoyed getting to see more of Ari & Janco. Their dynamic is so beautiful like they both truly have someone looking out for them. Easy read and as a partner novel to Magic Study, it was so cool to see the other angles of the situation. It's just too easy to fall in love with Valek in each book!
May 7, 2024
overall I really enjoyed it. this book was better than study of poisons just because since valek and yelena were apart for most of the book you really got to learn more about valek and see him get alone more with ari and janco which I really loved. it also wasn't too repetitive compared to magic study which was nice
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2024
This was such a great read, loved seeing this time from Valek's perspective, so much happened while they were apart and I couldn't get enough!
May 2, 2024
Another great Vakek pov. Love seeing what he was doing during the time Yelena was telling the story. I usually do not like the " mmc" retellings, but this have been done well.
January 23, 2025
An enjoyable read, revisiting familiar characters, along with some I didn't remember from the original series.
April 25, 2024
I devoured this book in a weekend.
I normally do this with any addition to The Study Chronicles and this one was no different. I'll admit, I at first feared a book where Yelena and Valek are mostly separated but Maria V. Snyder keeps the story interesting and the action packed. I loved learning more about Ari and Janco, learning about Valek's network. I loved most of all seeing more of Valek's relationship with The Commander plus seeing The Commander firing on all cylinders. Characters and relationships are only further defined and strengthened by this addition to the series - somehow every time that I reenter Sitia and Ixia, things are familiar but somewhat new.
This book is a 100% recommended read whether you've already read The Study Series or whether you're just discovering it.
I normally do this with any addition to The Study Chronicles and this one was no different. I'll admit, I at first feared a book where Yelena and Valek are mostly separated but Maria V. Snyder keeps the story interesting and the action packed. I loved learning more about Ari and Janco, learning about Valek's network. I loved most of all seeing more of Valek's relationship with The Commander plus seeing The Commander firing on all cylinders. Characters and relationships are only further defined and strengthened by this addition to the series - somehow every time that I reenter Sitia and Ixia, things are familiar but somewhat new.
This book is a 100% recommended read whether you've already read The Study Series or whether you're just discovering it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2024
5/5 stars! Maria knocks it out of the park once more. What I really appreciate about this rewrite through the MMC's POV is that the story still feels unique. Too frequently, POV shifts only retell what the reader has already seen from the primary POV. In this book, we get the overlaps to Magic Study, but we also get to dive deeper into the politics around the Commander. I loved getting to know a few new side characters and am eager to watch for some potential love interests for my favorite side kicks. I cannot wait to continue this series.
April 12, 2024
I received this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest and voluntary review. I was in no way compensated for this review.
Journey back to Magic Study through Valek’s eyes with The Study of Magic by Maria V. Snyder. Having read The Study of Poison last year, I was ecstatic to hear Maria would continue the original Study trilogy through Valek’s eyes! The man of mystery finally opens up and all those questions of “Where’s Valek?” are answered! And boy, was Valek busy during these events!
Valek is basically still trying to protect the Commander in this one. After the events with Mogkan and Brazell things are tense through the MD. Many think the Commander might not be quite himself still and could be making hasty decisions such as promoting a woman to be a MD leader.
We basically to get to see Valek in action throughout this one! All the various secret missions, his disguises, his cunning knowledge…it was quite the thing to see in action after only vaguely hearing of some of his exploits. Valek is a force to be reckoned with and it always amazes me when villains think they have the upper hand or can take him on!
I was also thrilled to see more with Ari and Janco, my favorite literary duo ever! I feel like this is almost the origin story of the two. We do get more on their history of who they were before meeting Valek, but seeing what they were up to before interacting with Yelena is just so exciting! Janco never ceases to amaze me! This is a character who can literally making me LOL! Thankfully I was reading at home for this one so laughter isn’t out of the ordinary here.
Valek and Yelena are pretty much separated for the whole novel until the very end. Which I can recall this from Magic Study, but still, it was hard seeing the separation when these two just found each other in Poison Study. But I have to admit, I did like following Valek around.
It’s hard to get into all his missions without getting too close to spoilers but basically there is quite a bit of fallout from Brazell and Mogkan’s plans. Criollo is still an issue as it seems many of the MD leaders have a supply of it that was gifted to them. It also seems that some of the leaders maybe convoluting with one another. Who the driving force is, is not clear, but you can bet Valek will take care of any traitors.
From start to finish, The Study of Magic was a never ending delight! I mean I know sometimes people don’t like going back and rereading the same book from another point of view, but if you loved the original book, chances are you already want to read it again but through another point of view! Valek was a very secretive hero in the series and being able to go back and see what he was thinking and feeling (and doing for that matter!) is a dream come true!
The ending to this one was much the same as it was the first go around, but naturally we’re on the other side of the page with Valek’s point of view. Things end in a relatively happier place you could say, as things don’t seem as heartbreaking! The new idea of rewriting the story from another point of view almost makes me curious about her other trilogies, but honestly I’d be happy either way be it a new story or a story newly retold!
If you’re a fan of fantasy and magical stories with romance than I highly recommend checking out Snyder’s Study series or any of her series! I’d say she is an OG author of Romantasy before we even coined the term as her books fit the criteria in my book. Regardless of the term, you’re getting a romance filled with magic and fantasy’s which are all the makings of a GREAT read from this reader and I cannot recommend her books enough! If you do decide to take this trip, I can honesty say starting with either Valek or Yelena’s points of view should not matter, I just would read them back to back and stay in the overall trilogy order for spoiler reasons of course! But either point of view will tell you the different sides of the same fantastic story!
Overall Rating 5/5 stars
The Study of Magic releases April 19, 2024
Journey back to Magic Study through Valek’s eyes with The Study of Magic by Maria V. Snyder. Having read The Study of Poison last year, I was ecstatic to hear Maria would continue the original Study trilogy through Valek’s eyes! The man of mystery finally opens up and all those questions of “Where’s Valek?” are answered! And boy, was Valek busy during these events!
Valek is basically still trying to protect the Commander in this one. After the events with Mogkan and Brazell things are tense through the MD. Many think the Commander might not be quite himself still and could be making hasty decisions such as promoting a woman to be a MD leader.
We basically to get to see Valek in action throughout this one! All the various secret missions, his disguises, his cunning knowledge…it was quite the thing to see in action after only vaguely hearing of some of his exploits. Valek is a force to be reckoned with and it always amazes me when villains think they have the upper hand or can take him on!
I was also thrilled to see more with Ari and Janco, my favorite literary duo ever! I feel like this is almost the origin story of the two. We do get more on their history of who they were before meeting Valek, but seeing what they were up to before interacting with Yelena is just so exciting! Janco never ceases to amaze me! This is a character who can literally making me LOL! Thankfully I was reading at home for this one so laughter isn’t out of the ordinary here.
Valek and Yelena are pretty much separated for the whole novel until the very end. Which I can recall this from Magic Study, but still, it was hard seeing the separation when these two just found each other in Poison Study. But I have to admit, I did like following Valek around.
It’s hard to get into all his missions without getting too close to spoilers but basically there is quite a bit of fallout from Brazell and Mogkan’s plans. Criollo is still an issue as it seems many of the MD leaders have a supply of it that was gifted to them. It also seems that some of the leaders maybe convoluting with one another. Who the driving force is, is not clear, but you can bet Valek will take care of any traitors.
From start to finish, The Study of Magic was a never ending delight! I mean I know sometimes people don’t like going back and rereading the same book from another point of view, but if you loved the original book, chances are you already want to read it again but through another point of view! Valek was a very secretive hero in the series and being able to go back and see what he was thinking and feeling (and doing for that matter!) is a dream come true!
The ending to this one was much the same as it was the first go around, but naturally we’re on the other side of the page with Valek’s point of view. Things end in a relatively happier place you could say, as things don’t seem as heartbreaking! The new idea of rewriting the story from another point of view almost makes me curious about her other trilogies, but honestly I’d be happy either way be it a new story or a story newly retold!
If you’re a fan of fantasy and magical stories with romance than I highly recommend checking out Snyder’s Study series or any of her series! I’d say she is an OG author of Romantasy before we even coined the term as her books fit the criteria in my book. Regardless of the term, you’re getting a romance filled with magic and fantasy’s which are all the makings of a GREAT read from this reader and I cannot recommend her books enough! If you do decide to take this trip, I can honesty say starting with either Valek or Yelena’s points of view should not matter, I just would read them back to back and stay in the overall trilogy order for spoiler reasons of course! But either point of view will tell you the different sides of the same fantastic story!
Overall Rating 5/5 stars
The Study of Magic releases April 19, 2024
April 18, 2024
In The Study of Magic, a compelling sequel to The Study of Poisons, Maria V. Snyder skillfully weaves a new tapestry around her renowned Poison Study and Magic Study series, this time through the lens of Valek, the enigmatic male lead. Offering a standalone experience that doesn't demand prior knowledge of the original books, this duology opens a fresh door into Valek's world.
With a deft hand, Snyder delivers a riveting second installment in The Study of Magic, diverging from the predictable path of its predecessor. While The Study of Poisons hinted at events due to Valek's proximity to Yelena, this sequel introduces a captivating array of new storylines as Valek finds himself distanced from her for an extended period.
The narrative unfolds with Valek in Sitia, where he thwarts an attempt on Yelena's life, a scene previously glimpsed in the short story Assassin Study. Longtime fans will relish the revelation of the mysterious favor Valek must fulfill for his rescuer before embarking on a mission to assist the Commander.
Set against the backdrop of Ixia's post-coup chaos, Valek grapples with aiding the Commander in navigating the fallout, including the pivotal task of selecting a new general. Amidst the turmoil, the antics of the irrepressible power twins, Ari and Janco, inject moments of levity, while poignant instances shed light on Valek's inner conflicts, particularly when he imparts his strength and magic resistance to Yelena.
As Valek embarks on a diplomatic journey back to Sitia, readers are treated to a masterful portrayal of his intricate dance within the Sitian Council, deftly navigating through various guises. Through Valek's eyes, the narrative offers a fresh perspective on the events of Magic Study, unveiling the complexity of his dealings and challenges in a way that is both engaging and wholly original.
Thank you so much for continuing the story, Maria! I loved it and cannot wait for the next one!!!
With a deft hand, Snyder delivers a riveting second installment in The Study of Magic, diverging from the predictable path of its predecessor. While The Study of Poisons hinted at events due to Valek's proximity to Yelena, this sequel introduces a captivating array of new storylines as Valek finds himself distanced from her for an extended period.
The narrative unfolds with Valek in Sitia, where he thwarts an attempt on Yelena's life, a scene previously glimpsed in the short story Assassin Study. Longtime fans will relish the revelation of the mysterious favor Valek must fulfill for his rescuer before embarking on a mission to assist the Commander.
Set against the backdrop of Ixia's post-coup chaos, Valek grapples with aiding the Commander in navigating the fallout, including the pivotal task of selecting a new general. Amidst the turmoil, the antics of the irrepressible power twins, Ari and Janco, inject moments of levity, while poignant instances shed light on Valek's inner conflicts, particularly when he imparts his strength and magic resistance to Yelena.
As Valek embarks on a diplomatic journey back to Sitia, readers are treated to a masterful portrayal of his intricate dance within the Sitian Council, deftly navigating through various guises. Through Valek's eyes, the narrative offers a fresh perspective on the events of Magic Study, unveiling the complexity of his dealings and challenges in a way that is both engaging and wholly original.
Thank you so much for continuing the story, Maria! I loved it and cannot wait for the next one!!!
January 3, 2026
This is the comforting book. I can read it in any of my moods. It felt nice to revisit the old story of Ixia. The bonus is that it is in Valek's point of view which gives me immense pleasure as in the second book of Magic Study we didn't see much of Valek. We didn't know what happened in Ixia during the time when Yelena was in Sitia learning to control her magic. We get to know now.
The way Valek was described as invincible in the initial books is not the case here. He too gets vulnerable. He thinks that it might be because of his love for Yelena causing a distraction but later realizes that it is not the case. After the event of MD-5, the Commander sets things in order by making Colonel Ute as the General for MD-5. Valek is given the responsibility of getting Ute safely to MD-5 for handover. Valek faces opposition and also discovers the secret plans of Alea to overthrow Commander using his Generals.
I loved the way Valek got the Power Twins on board along with Maren to his corps. Ari and Janco's bikering are the funniest 🤣. Also the contest between the young corps and older corps was fun but not for Valek though.
I liked the way on how Star's secrets are revealed using the Butterfly's dust poison. The only thing I didn't like was absence of a summary of the Magic study which would have enhanced the reading experience. But since Valek was not supposed to know much, it makes sense but as a reader it is a gap in our experience. It has been many years since we read the Magic Study book so it was quite difficult to brush up the memories.
Overall a good read.
The way Valek was described as invincible in the initial books is not the case here. He too gets vulnerable. He thinks that it might be because of his love for Yelena causing a distraction but later realizes that it is not the case. After the event of MD-5, the Commander sets things in order by making Colonel Ute as the General for MD-5. Valek is given the responsibility of getting Ute safely to MD-5 for handover. Valek faces opposition and also discovers the secret plans of Alea to overthrow Commander using his Generals.
I loved the way Valek got the Power Twins on board along with Maren to his corps. Ari and Janco's bikering are the funniest 🤣. Also the contest between the young corps and older corps was fun but not for Valek though.
I liked the way on how Star's secrets are revealed using the Butterfly's dust poison. The only thing I didn't like was absence of a summary of the Magic study which would have enhanced the reading experience. But since Valek was not supposed to know much, it makes sense but as a reader it is a gap in our experience. It has been many years since we read the Magic Study book so it was quite difficult to brush up the memories.
Overall a good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2024
*I received an ARC from the author, but this is my honest opinion*
As you know, The Study of Magic is Valek's POV of Magic Study and if you remember correctly, our two protagonists are apart for the vast majority of Yelena's story. It is now time to discover what Valek has been up to during that time!
In this adventure, Valek is back to his main duties; ensuring the Commander is safe and that Ixia is running smoothly. Of course things can't be easy for him, it appears the situation with Mogkan isn't quite as resolved as he thought.
I was extremely happy to hang out with Valek while he resolved yet another mystery, and even happier that my favorite duo, Ari & Janco, take a very important role in this book. I love them to pieces and it was extremely nice to learn new things about them. Valek is, of course, as amazing as ever and I think my favorite thing about him is that even though he would burn the world down for Yelena, he respects her strength enough to let her fight her own battles, while remaining available should she need him.
Even though this is an alternate POV book, the first 60% or so are basically all new information and we still get some fresh and interesting tidbits from the last 40% as well. You won't feel like you are rereading the same story. Honestly, it is a must read!
I created a tandem read guide if you want to read both books at the same time, I will update this review once I post it online.
As you know, The Study of Magic is Valek's POV of Magic Study and if you remember correctly, our two protagonists are apart for the vast majority of Yelena's story. It is now time to discover what Valek has been up to during that time!
In this adventure, Valek is back to his main duties; ensuring the Commander is safe and that Ixia is running smoothly. Of course things can't be easy for him, it appears the situation with Mogkan isn't quite as resolved as he thought.
I was extremely happy to hang out with Valek while he resolved yet another mystery, and even happier that my favorite duo, Ari & Janco, take a very important role in this book. I love them to pieces and it was extremely nice to learn new things about them. Valek is, of course, as amazing as ever and I think my favorite thing about him is that even though he would burn the world down for Yelena, he respects her strength enough to let her fight her own battles, while remaining available should she need him.
Even though this is an alternate POV book, the first 60% or so are basically all new information and we still get some fresh and interesting tidbits from the last 40% as well. You won't feel like you are rereading the same story. Honestly, it is a must read!
I created a tandem read guide if you want to read both books at the same time, I will update this review once I post it online.
June 15, 2024
I love how much extra content we get reading these stories through Valek’s eyes. It’s not simply a copy paste where they change ‘he said’ to ‘I said’, this is a whole new adventure. Yelena barely appears in here, because like in the original book, she and Valek were separated. Instead we actually get to learn what was happening back in Ixia in the aftermath of the Commander’s magical influencing and the unrest spreading throughout the kingdom.
There’s lots of Janco and Ari too, which you know is a lot of fun. Valek’s seconds are assigned in here, and we learn a bunch about his spy network and techniques.
This one definitely feels like it could be read as a standalone without the original series, because there is so much fresh new content and ideas that were previously left out. It’s very much its own adventure.
There’s lots of Janco and Ari too, which you know is a lot of fun. Valek’s seconds are assigned in here, and we learn a bunch about his spy network and techniques.
This one definitely feels like it could be read as a standalone without the original series, because there is so much fresh new content and ideas that were previously left out. It’s very much its own adventure.
August 24, 2024
I was really surprised by this book, and to be fair I love it more than the Magic Study! And while in my opinion Magic Study was much worse than the Poison Study, I consider the Study of Magic to be almost as good as the Study of Poisons.
- It was amazing to learn a bit more about Valek’s actual job when he’s not training a good taster
- Much more time spent with Ari and Janco and some great humor there as well
- And, c’mon, a whole book spent with Valek, who wouldn’t enjoy a bit more of that
While the book also provided some further insights into what was going on in Ixia when Yelena had her adventures in Sitia, I did find a few small discrepancies with the Fire Study which just slightly annoyed me (probably because I read them after each other in almost one go!)
- It was amazing to learn a bit more about Valek’s actual job when he’s not training a good taster
- Much more time spent with Ari and Janco and some great humor there as well
- And, c’mon, a whole book spent with Valek, who wouldn’t enjoy a bit more of that
While the book also provided some further insights into what was going on in Ixia when Yelena had her adventures in Sitia, I did find a few small discrepancies with the Fire Study which just slightly annoyed me (probably because I read them after each other in almost one go!)
October 6, 2024
Ohhh This one definitely reads more adult than its companion book (Magic Study).
There is a lot of Valek worshipping and missing Yelena. There's also a lot of "Touch her and die." Basically, this is one big proof of why he's many fans' Book Boyfriend. (Me included.)
Aside from the romance appeal, I loved learning what Valek was up to while Yelena was off studying magic. I'm really glad there were a lot of scenes with Ari and Janco, as I absolutely love those two!
It was wonderful to really see all aspects of Valek's stealth-skills and even how he assisted Yelena from a distance. Also, seeing this angle of Commander Ambrose really helps the overall narrative (of the entire Study/Chronicles world).
I'm anxious for a Study of Fire and I hope it gets released soon!
There is a lot of Valek worshipping and missing Yelena. There's also a lot of "Touch her and die." Basically, this is one big proof of why he's many fans' Book Boyfriend. (Me included.)
Aside from the romance appeal, I loved learning what Valek was up to while Yelena was off studying magic. I'm really glad there were a lot of scenes with Ari and Janco, as I absolutely love those two!
It was wonderful to really see all aspects of Valek's stealth-skills and even how he assisted Yelena from a distance. Also, seeing this angle of Commander Ambrose really helps the overall narrative (of the entire Study/Chronicles world).
I'm anxious for a Study of Fire and I hope it gets released soon!
March 10, 2025
4.25 stars. What can I say about the Chronicles of Ixia that I haven’t already. I love this series. I love Valek. I love Yelena. I especially love reading the series from Valek’s point of view. Thank you Maria V. Snyder for these characters and this world.
I don’t have much to say plot wise since we know a lot of what happens going in, but I will say that I enjoyed more of Ari, Janco, and Maren. The training exercise was fun to read about, especially because the banter with that group is top tier.
I’m looking forward to The Study of Fire and the rest of the books in the series, especially since I splurged on the fairyloot exculsive editions 😍.
I don’t have much to say plot wise since we know a lot of what happens going in, but I will say that I enjoyed more of Ari, Janco, and Maren. The training exercise was fun to read about, especially because the banter with that group is top tier.
I’m looking forward to The Study of Fire and the rest of the books in the series, especially since I splurged on the fairyloot exculsive editions 😍.
April 19, 2024
This is Valek’s POV, so obviously it had to be wonderful. But The Study of Magic has turned out to be much more than that- it’s truly magical! It’s a very intriguing and riveting story by a master storyteller. I was shocked, I was elated, I was worried, I was relieved and I had a very good laugh as well. Liked the Commander a lot in this book. And didn’t think it was possible, but now I love Valek and the power twins more than ever before! A lot more! The new characters are quite interesting as well! (Sorry, no spoilers!) Please go ahead and read it- you will enjoy every moment of it!
May 5, 2024
I am loving reading Valek's and Yelena's story again, this time from Valek's perspective. This is the second companion novel to the Study trilogy.
You learn all about what Valek got up to while separated from Yelena for a year while she completes her magic studies in Sitia. You see a softer side to Valek, in relation to his feelings for Yelena, and learn more about their unique bond. I also liked learning more of Janco and Ari's back stories and the camaraderie between them all.
I can't wait until the The Study of Fire comes out to complete the trilogy.
You learn all about what Valek got up to while separated from Yelena for a year while she completes her magic studies in Sitia. You see a softer side to Valek, in relation to his feelings for Yelena, and learn more about their unique bond. I also liked learning more of Janco and Ari's back stories and the camaraderie between them all.
I can't wait until the The Study of Fire comes out to complete the trilogy.
April 25, 2024
After the disappointing thirst tales that was The Study of Poison, this outing of Valek is much less cringe inducing. I would almost say it was better than Magic Study, but I think that's mainly because I enjoyed reading about the loose ends from Poison Study.
My suggested reading order would be Poison Study, Study of Poisons. Half (until Valek heads south) of A Study of Magic, Magic Studies and then the rest.
A worthy addition to the series.
My suggested reading order would be Poison Study, Study of Poisons. Half (until Valek heads south) of A Study of Magic, Magic Studies and then the rest.
A worthy addition to the series.
May 23, 2024
I read The Study of Magic in tandem to Magic Study as per Maria’s recommendation to follow and it was fab. To read the story from both Valek and Yelena’s POV was awesome. With extra insights into the Power Twins and The Commander’s characters, I feel in love with The Chronicles of Ixia all over again.
I’m ready Fire Study again now (I couldn’t leave the adventure there).
Keep them coming Maria ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m ready Fire Study again now (I couldn’t leave the adventure there).
Keep them coming Maria ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 22, 2024
Another fantastic book from Maria V. Snyder. While THE STUDY OF MAGIC takes place at the same time as MAGIC STUDY, there were a whole bunch of exciting things that happened before Valek met up with Yelena again in Magic Study. That means there are more wonderful and exciting tales to tell. Told from Valek's point of view, this book will not disappoint.
Don't forget to check the ceiling for 'spiders' ;)
Don't forget to check the ceiling for 'spiders' ;)
May 7, 2024
Another great book from one of my favorite authors. Like Valek's Adventures #1, this is a fantastic addition to a great series. I love reading Valek's side of the story, and if I didn't know these books so well, I would never have known this was written so long after the others.
Can't wait for the next one.
Can't wait for the next one.
June 8, 2024
Another book from Valek’s perspective. Maybe not as good as The Study of Poisons, but enjoyable nonetheless.
October 25, 2024
Following the problems in the last book the Generals have decided that the commander and Valek are no longer suitable as leaders. So the team have to protect the Commander and teach the Generals a lesson. Then a delegation visits Sitia where Valek meets up with Yelena to find out what she has been doing.
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