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Poison Marked
A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2017 Advent Calendar collection [ Stuffers|36583136].
Kill his lover or disobey his king and instigate civil war?
As the feared court poison master, Nikko is sworn to do as his king bids. As the lover of the king’s nephew, Lord Rodas, Nikko must hide his affection or risk being labeled a traitor and punished. A former thief who clawed his way into the palace from the filthy streets, Nikko longs to be deserving of Rodas’s love.
A respected war hero, Rodas is in a delicate political situation. He is not the kingdom’s natural heir, though many support his claim over the wastrel, Prince Fortin. The last thing Rodas wants is war. His highest ambition is for Nikko to openly wear the jewels he’s bestowed on him as a public declaration of their love.
Neither man is prepared for the king to order Nikko to poison Rodas during the solstice feast or for the deadly intrigue they’re plunged into, which exposes their affair and rocks the foundations of the kingdom.
Kill his lover or disobey his king and instigate civil war?
As the feared court poison master, Nikko is sworn to do as his king bids. As the lover of the king’s nephew, Lord Rodas, Nikko must hide his affection or risk being labeled a traitor and punished. A former thief who clawed his way into the palace from the filthy streets, Nikko longs to be deserving of Rodas’s love.
A respected war hero, Rodas is in a delicate political situation. He is not the kingdom’s natural heir, though many support his claim over the wastrel, Prince Fortin. The last thing Rodas wants is war. His highest ambition is for Nikko to openly wear the jewels he’s bestowed on him as a public declaration of their love.
Neither man is prepared for the king to order Nikko to poison Rodas during the solstice feast or for the deadly intrigue they’re plunged into, which exposes their affair and rocks the foundations of the kingdom.
61 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2017
9 people are currently reading
132 people want to read
About the author
T.J. Nichols
89 books343 followersTJ Nichols (they/them) is the author of the Studies in Demonology and Familiar Mates series. They write mostly gay fantasy and paranormal romance, but sometimes gay action/horror as Toby J. Nichols.
After traveling all over the world and Australia, TJ now lives in Perth, Western Australia.
Free gay shifter novella when you join TJ's newsletter: http://tjnichols-author.com/lp/
You can find TJ on
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follow me on Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/tjnichols or Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/tj-ni...
After traveling all over the world and Australia, TJ now lives in Perth, Western Australia.
Free gay shifter novella when you join TJ's newsletter: http://tjnichols-author.com/lp/
You can find TJ on
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TJNichols
Ream: https://reamstories.com/tjnichols
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TJNichols.au...
follow me on Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/tjnichols or Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/tj-ni...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
December 31, 2019
4 Hearts!!
A historical setting is typically not my usual jam these days, but this had just enough nostalgia and certain plot details in the blurb to catch my attention.
Nikko is the Poison Master, there solely to protect the king and carry out his orders. He’s caught between a rock and a hard place since he’s also the secret lover of the people's favorite - Rodas, the king’s nephew - who often shines brightly next to the smarmy prince who’s next in line to inherit the throne. Not only do Nikko and Rodas have a sharp difference in social rank separating them, their relationship can definitely be interpreted as a conflict of interest - or worse, treason - should their affair ever be discovered.
Jealousy, paranoia, honor, and loyalty are strong themes that run throughout this short story that never felt rushed. Poor Nikko must weigh his duty to the king and his love for Rodas. As multiple agendas converge, Nikko only hopes his vast knowledge can prepare for the worst and hope for the best.
This isn’t overtly smexy unfortunately, but the political intrigue and suspense, along with the deep romantic feels, made me one very satisfied reader, especially as these two men get their well deserved happy ending! Yay!
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
For more reviews on this week’s Advent releases, please check out the blog!!
A historical setting is typically not my usual jam these days, but this had just enough nostalgia and certain plot details in the blurb to catch my attention.
Nikko is the Poison Master, there solely to protect the king and carry out his orders. He’s caught between a rock and a hard place since he’s also the secret lover of the people's favorite - Rodas, the king’s nephew - who often shines brightly next to the smarmy prince who’s next in line to inherit the throne. Not only do Nikko and Rodas have a sharp difference in social rank separating them, their relationship can definitely be interpreted as a conflict of interest - or worse, treason - should their affair ever be discovered.
Jealousy, paranoia, honor, and loyalty are strong themes that run throughout this short story that never felt rushed. Poor Nikko must weigh his duty to the king and his love for Rodas. As multiple agendas converge, Nikko only hopes his vast knowledge can prepare for the worst and hope for the best.
This isn’t overtly smexy unfortunately, but the political intrigue and suspense, along with the deep romantic feels, made me one very satisfied reader, especially as these two men get their well deserved happy ending! Yay!
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
For more reviews on this week’s Advent releases, please check out the blog!!
December 18, 2017
Yay! Christmas time!
4.5 hearts
This was incredible! The type of story I compare all novellas too, there was amazing world building, in depth characters and a relationship that I cared about. I didn't want to put this book down.
This book is set in a historical time of kings, knight's and poison makers. Nikko is a kid from the slums who stumbled across the opportunity to be trained as a poison maker and now finds himself in the king's service. He also happens to be having a secret affair with the king's war-hero nephew, Rodas.
There is so much I could say about this book, but I need to keep this review relatively short. It captivated me from the beginning and kept me glued until the end. The world building was spectacular, even some novels aren't as in depth as this story. I loved the tension and all the forbidden love involved in this secret affair! So yummy!
There's not much ‘Christmas’ here, but when I love the story as much as this, I can let the lack of Jizzmas slide. I'd say this ended on a HFN, but a really good one... like a mix of HEA and HFN. Definitely read this one, even if it's not Christmas!
4.5 hearts
This was incredible! The type of story I compare all novellas too, there was amazing world building, in depth characters and a relationship that I cared about. I didn't want to put this book down.
This book is set in a historical time of kings, knight's and poison makers. Nikko is a kid from the slums who stumbled across the opportunity to be trained as a poison maker and now finds himself in the king's service. He also happens to be having a secret affair with the king's war-hero nephew, Rodas.
There is so much I could say about this book, but I need to keep this review relatively short. It captivated me from the beginning and kept me glued until the end. The world building was spectacular, even some novels aren't as in depth as this story. I loved the tension and all the forbidden love involved in this secret affair! So yummy!
There's not much ‘Christmas’ here, but when I love the story as much as this, I can let the lack of Jizzmas slide. I'd say this ended on a HFN, but a really good one... like a mix of HEA and HFN. Definitely read this one, even if it's not Christmas!
February 1, 2018
2.5 stars
Well written and with an interesting plot. The romance didn’t convince me, though, and the HEA left me with a bitter aftertaste.
That above was going to be my original review, I was going to give this story 3 stars and leave it at that.
Then I went to sleep last night and found myself thinking that ending over and over again. The more I thought about it, the more upset, sad and angry I got and this morning, when I sat down to write my review and move on to the next book, things hadn’t improved one bit.
Since I need to get it out of my system, I’m going to rant a little, or probably a lot. You’ve been warned.
Well written and with an interesting plot. The romance didn’t convince me, though, and the HEA left me with a bitter aftertaste.
That above was going to be my original review, I was going to give this story 3 stars and leave it at that.
Then I went to sleep last night and found myself thinking that ending over and over again. The more I thought about it, the more upset, sad and angry I got and this morning, when I sat down to write my review and move on to the next book, things hadn’t improved one bit.
Since I need to get it out of my system, I’m going to rant a little, or probably a lot. You’ve been warned.
December 12, 2017
Duuuuuuude, this story about chivalry and political shenanigans as the winter solstice was SO good. I loved the world building, the MC's and the intrigue. A different take on holidays was welcome and I am keeping my fingers and whatnot crossed the author will expand on this world and these characters!
Full Unicornian Gangbang reviews every Sunday in celebration of DSP's annual Advent releases posted on the blog and then here.
Week 3 posts December 17th and I'd recommend reading every one of them! Nothing says Merry Jizzmas like DSP's Advent stories and reading them with your besties makes them even sweeter.
**copies of the DSP Advent Calendar were provided in exchange for honest reviews**
Full Unicornian Gangbang reviews every Sunday in celebration of DSP's annual Advent releases posted on the blog and then here.
Week 3 posts December 17th and I'd recommend reading every one of them! Nothing says Merry Jizzmas like DSP's Advent stories and reading them with your besties makes them even sweeter.
**copies of the DSP Advent Calendar were provided in exchange for honest reviews**
January 2, 2018
Star-Crossed Intrigues
I usually measure a short story by whether or not it could translate well to a full-length novel. In other words, did the author manage to flesh out the characters and the world enough that it makes me want more.
In this case, the answer is an emphatic, "Yes!"
I liked the characters even if I vehemently disliked the world they lived in and the pressures it put on their hearts. I believed they had a connection, that they loved each other, and that, given a chance, they'd be together forever. Poor saps.
I had a couple of niggles about the pacing. There was a lot of angst-xiety in the middle of this one that I wouldn't say was unnecessary per se, but given the length, it may have rushed the resolution and the ending a bit.
Stinking short stories. When they're good, I wish there was more. When they're bad, I wanna launch something flammable through a window ... like a Molotov cocktail. Shhh! I get passionate about bad books.
Thankfully, this one didn't turn me into a maniacal pyro-vandal. I really liked it. I was surprised that I liked it—I have a well-documented dislike for short stories—but occasionally one comes along that floats my boat. I enjoyed this one; I really, really did.
Short and sweet, dark and twisted star-crossed intrigue. It was a good read for a cold day. Give it a shot.
4 hearts
More reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be found on Goodreads here.
Images (when present) may be subject to copyright.
An ARC copy of this title was provided for an honest review.
I usually measure a short story by whether or not it could translate well to a full-length novel. In other words, did the author manage to flesh out the characters and the world enough that it makes me want more.
In this case, the answer is an emphatic, "Yes!"
I liked the characters even if I vehemently disliked the world they lived in and the pressures it put on their hearts. I believed they had a connection, that they loved each other, and that, given a chance, they'd be together forever. Poor saps.
I had a couple of niggles about the pacing. There was a lot of angst-xiety in the middle of this one that I wouldn't say was unnecessary per se, but given the length, it may have rushed the resolution and the ending a bit.
Stinking short stories. When they're good, I wish there was more. When they're bad, I wanna launch something flammable through a window ... like a Molotov cocktail. Shhh! I get passionate about bad books.
Thankfully, this one didn't turn me into a maniacal pyro-vandal. I really liked it. I was surprised that I liked it—I have a well-documented dislike for short stories—but occasionally one comes along that floats my boat. I enjoyed this one; I really, really did.
Short and sweet, dark and twisted star-crossed intrigue. It was a good read for a cold day. Give it a shot.
4 hearts
More reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be found on Goodreads here.
Images (when present) may be subject to copyright.
An ARC copy of this title was provided for an honest review.
December 11, 2018
This was a very different kind of holiday story but really good! It’s set in a medieval time and the MCs are the king’s poison master and the king’s nephew. They can never publicly be together because, Nikko, the poison master, is a commoner. It takes place during the Winter Solstice celebrations. The king’s son is lazy but power hungry and he wants his more popular cousin dead so the king demands Nikko take care of things and now Nikko has to poison his lover. 😳 I thought the way things played out was really clever and I devoured the last third of the book because I had to know how they could possibly get to their HEA. It’s a great holiday story if you’re looking for something different and with more death and intrigue than your average holiday romance.
December 26, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Poison Marked is a short and relatively well-written narrative about a man who walks the fine line between love and murder. The pacing is quite strong and this story flows evenly from the first page. There is some purple prose, especially from Nikko, that derails that flow from time to time, but Poison Marked manages to find its footing after these situations. The book pushes forward more than a few stock characters — the evil prince, the heroic warrior, and the clueless king. As a result, none of the characters, including Nikko, feels particular original. They all serve their purpose, but without much depth or heart. Still, there is enough feeling between Nikko and Rodas to make us care about their romance, despite the fact it’s somewhat threadbare on the details.
The plot unfolds almost like a fairy tale, replete with evil plots and happily ever afters. The entire affair feels a bit tired and worn, but the author saves it from feeling too hackneyed by using Nikko as the focus. Court intrigue through a poisoner’s eyes is a more original choice and as readers we experience things differently.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Poison Marked is a short and relatively well-written narrative about a man who walks the fine line between love and murder. The pacing is quite strong and this story flows evenly from the first page. There is some purple prose, especially from Nikko, that derails that flow from time to time, but Poison Marked manages to find its footing after these situations. The book pushes forward more than a few stock characters — the evil prince, the heroic warrior, and the clueless king. As a result, none of the characters, including Nikko, feels particular original. They all serve their purpose, but without much depth or heart. Still, there is enough feeling between Nikko and Rodas to make us care about their romance, despite the fact it’s somewhat threadbare on the details.
The plot unfolds almost like a fairy tale, replete with evil plots and happily ever afters. The entire affair feels a bit tired and worn, but the author saves it from feeling too hackneyed by using Nikko as the focus. Court intrigue through a poisoner’s eyes is a more original choice and as readers we experience things differently.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
December 31, 2017
4.5 stars
December 7, 2017
This is a very different type of holiday story. Taking place in a fantasy world, the characters in this story celebrate the solstice instead of Christmas. This year, Nikko is going to have to make a very serious and life-changing decision that he isn't particularly ready for. Being the feared and highly respected poison master of the castle, Nikko lives his life in service to the king. He fears being returned to the streets where he grew up and he's very proud of how far he's come in life.
Rodas is the nephew of the King. Tensions in the kingdom are high with the current political situation and the King fears that Rodas will take the throne from Prince Fortin, even though he couldn't be farther from the truth. Rodas was born into royalty but he never felt like he fit in with the rest of his family. He seeks solace in Nikko, his lover, and he knows that even though they can't go public with their relationship, his heart belongs to him, and that's what really matters.
Things take a change for the worst when the King orders Nikko to poison and kill Rodas to eliminate the threat to the throne. Now Nikko has to choose between the life that he's worked so hard to craft or the man who has stolen his heart.
There are so many elements of this book that make for a great story, beginning with the plot. No doubt, it took time and creativity to develop this story, but there were pieces that were lacking and that made this story feel more like a draft than a published book. The ending left me wanting more. Actually, it made me want to rewrite the ending so that Nikko could have his HEA, because that boy deserved so much more than Rodas.
This one wasn't my favorite from the Dreamspinner Stocking Stuffers, but I think the author has a lot of potential and I might prefer a full length book by them.
Rodas is the nephew of the King. Tensions in the kingdom are high with the current political situation and the King fears that Rodas will take the throne from Prince Fortin, even though he couldn't be farther from the truth. Rodas was born into royalty but he never felt like he fit in with the rest of his family. He seeks solace in Nikko, his lover, and he knows that even though they can't go public with their relationship, his heart belongs to him, and that's what really matters.
Things take a change for the worst when the King orders Nikko to poison and kill Rodas to eliminate the threat to the throne. Now Nikko has to choose between the life that he's worked so hard to craft or the man who has stolen his heart.
There are so many elements of this book that make for a great story, beginning with the plot. No doubt, it took time and creativity to develop this story, but there were pieces that were lacking and that made this story feel more like a draft than a published book. The ending left me wanting more. Actually, it made me want to rewrite the ending so that Nikko could have his HEA, because that boy deserved so much more than Rodas.
This one wasn't my favorite from the Dreamspinner Stocking Stuffers, but I think the author has a lot of potential and I might prefer a full length book by them.
December 11, 2017
4.5 stars- Not the average holiday short
Poison Marked is not your traditional holiday story. Historical romance with a bit of a magical fantasy element, it’s everything I wouldn’t expect to like, but I really enjoyed this one. There was quite a bit going on in the plot, but somehow it never felt muddled and I was quickly drawn into the story.
The action starts fast, with a major conflict coming into play as the power struggle between the prince and one of the heroes is brought to light. I liked that the connection between Rodas and Nikko also was immediately established, with the hidden signals and stolen glances enhancing the men’s connection. The forbidden romance between Nikko and Rodas certainly lent another exciting component to Poison Marked, and I loved that the author took an unexpected direction making the men’s social statuses the issue rather than their sexuality. While Rodas and Nikko’s relationship existed predominantly in stolen moments, the way it developed and intertwined with the secondary plot relayed the love that had grown between the two without ever feeling forced or unbelievable. The plot progressed swiftly but naturally, included a few unexpected turns that ratcheted up the excitement, and culminated in a surprising ending I really enjoyed.
While Poison Marked is a bit off the beaten path when it comes to what I’d expect from a holiday collection, I enjoyed the writing and story so much I may further delve outside my typical genres and try more from the author. If you’re in search of something different or love a good historical/fantasy romance, I’d certainly recommend this short.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
Poison Marked is not your traditional holiday story. Historical romance with a bit of a magical fantasy element, it’s everything I wouldn’t expect to like, but I really enjoyed this one. There was quite a bit going on in the plot, but somehow it never felt muddled and I was quickly drawn into the story.
The action starts fast, with a major conflict coming into play as the power struggle between the prince and one of the heroes is brought to light. I liked that the connection between Rodas and Nikko also was immediately established, with the hidden signals and stolen glances enhancing the men’s connection. The forbidden romance between Nikko and Rodas certainly lent another exciting component to Poison Marked, and I loved that the author took an unexpected direction making the men’s social statuses the issue rather than their sexuality. While Rodas and Nikko’s relationship existed predominantly in stolen moments, the way it developed and intertwined with the secondary plot relayed the love that had grown between the two without ever feeling forced or unbelievable. The plot progressed swiftly but naturally, included a few unexpected turns that ratcheted up the excitement, and culminated in a surprising ending I really enjoyed.
While Poison Marked is a bit off the beaten path when it comes to what I’d expect from a holiday collection, I enjoyed the writing and story so much I may further delve outside my typical genres and try more from the author. If you’re in search of something different or love a good historical/fantasy romance, I’d certainly recommend this short.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
December 15, 2017
I'm not sure I would have put this little short with the holiday reads in Dreamspinners 2017 Advent Calendar Stocking Stuffers, it's not Christmas-y at all but in its universe there is a Christmas type holiday I guess.
Anyway, I'm thrilled I got to read it and I'm really bummed that's it. I want more of this world and these guys, what a great story!
November 14, 2018
This is a celebration of the winter solstice, but the good food and partying are served with poison and conspiracy. A delightful change from the fluffy, sweet, light-hearted more common Christmas short-stories. It is still a sweet romance with a HEA but it is served with a side dish of treason and murder. Mwahahahahah.
December 3, 2017
Nice story about a poison maker and a knight (more or less) - the ending was a bit too convenient and happy happy for my tastes - but the getting there was enjoyable.
December 9, 2017
4.5 Stars
Wow, I am somewhat in awe of how quickly this story grabbed on to me, and how complete it was despite its shorter length.
Poison Marked wasted no time jumping into the action, sinking its claws into me, until I read the final page. So much happens in such a short amount of time; it is incredible how well Rodas, Nikko, the King, and Prince are developed while still managing to balance the overall plot.
Nikko is in a tough position. He has sworn an oath to the King; as his Poison Master, Nikko is ordered to end Rodas’ life. He loves Rodas, but to defy the King would not only result in Rodas’ death but his own as well. And should he fail to follow the order, the King would ensure his end was not quick and painless. Though not necessarily the King’s biggest fan, he takes his pledge very seriously, but how could he kill the man he loves? Told from Nikko’s perspective, the reader gets to see what an impossible situation he has found himself in, as he tries desperately to think of ways to save his love’s and his own life, without breaking the oath he holds dear.
Rodas is an honorable warrior who truly adores Nikko and understands Nikko’s plight. Their connection is already formed, but the reader gets insight to how wonderfully he treats Nikko, how he cherishes Nikko, and how Nikko, in return, adores him despite their circumstances and stations in life keeping them secret.
The whole story takes place in little more than a day, and a lot happens during that timeframe. It absolutely worked. Having the entire plot take place in little more than twenty-four hours rather than trying to fit in a more intricate plot over a longer period of time allowed for the balance of romance and suspense. The plot was sufficiently complex for the limited pages, and managed to pull off a few whoppers. No worries for those who adore this particular genre; there is still political machinations occurring, lovers in a seemingly unwinnable situation, an extremely unlikeable villain, and an HEA covering all the bases of what I had hoped for.
I really enjoyed the different poisons and remedies as Nikko went through his options. How delicate the balance from being a cure to being fatal, how some are fatal unless used as a cure. It was fascinating and added just that extra touch to make it stand out for me.
I truly enjoyed this story from beginning to end, and gobbled it up in no time at all. It’s a great little read if you are looking for something quick to pass the time, and I totally recommend it if this type of story is your jam.
Reviewed by Lindsey for The Novel Approach
Wow, I am somewhat in awe of how quickly this story grabbed on to me, and how complete it was despite its shorter length.
Poison Marked wasted no time jumping into the action, sinking its claws into me, until I read the final page. So much happens in such a short amount of time; it is incredible how well Rodas, Nikko, the King, and Prince are developed while still managing to balance the overall plot.
Nikko is in a tough position. He has sworn an oath to the King; as his Poison Master, Nikko is ordered to end Rodas’ life. He loves Rodas, but to defy the King would not only result in Rodas’ death but his own as well. And should he fail to follow the order, the King would ensure his end was not quick and painless. Though not necessarily the King’s biggest fan, he takes his pledge very seriously, but how could he kill the man he loves? Told from Nikko’s perspective, the reader gets to see what an impossible situation he has found himself in, as he tries desperately to think of ways to save his love’s and his own life, without breaking the oath he holds dear.
Rodas is an honorable warrior who truly adores Nikko and understands Nikko’s plight. Their connection is already formed, but the reader gets insight to how wonderfully he treats Nikko, how he cherishes Nikko, and how Nikko, in return, adores him despite their circumstances and stations in life keeping them secret.
The whole story takes place in little more than a day, and a lot happens during that timeframe. It absolutely worked. Having the entire plot take place in little more than twenty-four hours rather than trying to fit in a more intricate plot over a longer period of time allowed for the balance of romance and suspense. The plot was sufficiently complex for the limited pages, and managed to pull off a few whoppers. No worries for those who adore this particular genre; there is still political machinations occurring, lovers in a seemingly unwinnable situation, an extremely unlikeable villain, and an HEA covering all the bases of what I had hoped for.
I really enjoyed the different poisons and remedies as Nikko went through his options. How delicate the balance from being a cure to being fatal, how some are fatal unless used as a cure. It was fascinating and added just that extra touch to make it stand out for me.
I truly enjoyed this story from beginning to end, and gobbled it up in no time at all. It’s a great little read if you are looking for something quick to pass the time, and I totally recommend it if this type of story is your jam.
Reviewed by Lindsey for The Novel Approach
January 2, 2018
The way this new-to-me writer availed herself of a very formulaic plot and a whole bunch of stock characters (the do-no-good glutton prince, his heroic cousin, the cruel king, the former street rat turned royal apothecary) to turn this threadbare material into a good, strong story bluffed me. In my opinion, the review by Joyfully Jay is far too harsh ; coming from any big name, such a book would no doubt had attracted the highest marks from "Sue". The world building is not so much threadbare as subdued, so that we are at liberty to deem it historical (mediaeval) or set in a fantasy world, my own guess being the latter given the imaginary (and rather poetic !) names the poisonous flora and various drugs used or mentioned by Nikko go under ; this calculated indetermination I deem rather clever. No character remains cardboard for long : the king opens his eyes to his son's treasonous nature and allows the succession to change for the best, the prince takes matters in his own hands against his father and his cousin, the heroic cousin shows both fortitude in his love for the poison master and an unbending sense of honor that would have him get killed, said poison master puts his fate in the hands of the gods while doing the best he can. The apparent randomness of some of the changes the main cast undergoes strikes me as sleek and entirely situation-derivated, with artificiality for the sake of resolution being kept at a mininum ; I did not feel we are reading a fairy tale, pace "Sue" / Joyfully Jay, nor did the neat ending seem to me to be such a stretch as this reviewer assumes. Finally, the writing, all brisk efficiency adorned from time to time by a beautiful turn of sentence, with nary a mistake or typo to mar the flow or detract from the vigorous storytelling, is nothing to scoff at ; once more, "Sue" is blind to the literary context when she states that "there is some purple prose, especially from Nikko, that derails that flow from time to time" (since the poison master is the narrator, his bleak past and uncertain future condition his vision of the world, Weltanschauung, so his having low self-worth and other personal issues couched in an attempt to emulate period style have little right to be seen as idle ornery writing). Within the compass of a short novella, one would have to be definitely ungenerous to ask for something much better than Poison Marked.
December 17, 2017
Set in a fictional kingdom with medieval characteristics, this is the story of Nikko, a poison master at the king’s court, and Rodas, the king’s nephew who is far more capable than the crown prince. With conflict and potential catastrophe oozing out between the pages from the start, the focus of this novella is Nikko and Rodas’s forbidden relationship and the mortal danger both men are in for loving each other. Add some court intrigue, noblemen who think they “deserve” to rule with absolute control, and a king blinded by his power and you have a solstice tale that is as much action/adventure as romance.
Nikko faces an awful decision: kill his lover or accept that he will be tortured to death. Nikko is in the king’s employment and with his past as an orphan and a thief has nothing to fall back on, no family to support him; he is entirely at the king’s mercy. But Nikko is also clever, and he knows he has to come up with a plan fast.
Rodas is a warrior, an honorable man who is good in a fight, but he also recognizes political motives when he sees them. He trusts Nikko implicitly - and that is the only reason he has a chance to survive. While Rodas does not want war between those who would support him and those who are loyal to the king and the inept crown prince, he is not willing to accept his own death, or Nikko’s, for the sake of peace.
Having their affair exposed is not something Nikko and Rodas are likely to survive, but it turns out that it might be the one thing that can save the kingdom and create a better future for all. Nikko and Rodas have been together for three years, and they need every ounce of knowledge of each other they have gained during that time. And while they have never spoken the words, the love between them is what enables them to hold on and trust that things will end well.
If you like solstice celebrations in a historical setting, if you want to watch two men in love fight for the right to be together, and if you’re looking for a suspenseful read with lots of action and some very passionate loving, then you will probably like this novella.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
Nikko faces an awful decision: kill his lover or accept that he will be tortured to death. Nikko is in the king’s employment and with his past as an orphan and a thief has nothing to fall back on, no family to support him; he is entirely at the king’s mercy. But Nikko is also clever, and he knows he has to come up with a plan fast.
Rodas is a warrior, an honorable man who is good in a fight, but he also recognizes political motives when he sees them. He trusts Nikko implicitly - and that is the only reason he has a chance to survive. While Rodas does not want war between those who would support him and those who are loyal to the king and the inept crown prince, he is not willing to accept his own death, or Nikko’s, for the sake of peace.
Having their affair exposed is not something Nikko and Rodas are likely to survive, but it turns out that it might be the one thing that can save the kingdom and create a better future for all. Nikko and Rodas have been together for three years, and they need every ounce of knowledge of each other they have gained during that time. And while they have never spoken the words, the love between them is what enables them to hold on and trust that things will end well.
If you like solstice celebrations in a historical setting, if you want to watch two men in love fight for the right to be together, and if you’re looking for a suspenseful read with lots of action and some very passionate loving, then you will probably like this novella.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
February 17, 2018
Once a starving street thief, Nikko is now poison master and serving directly the king. Bad luck continues to dodge him, as he finds himself between a rock and hard place: he has to either poison and kill his lover, or he will be signing his own death warrant. Nikko appreciates his new life, but the cost may be too high.
The dialogue is a little bit cheesy, but since this is a historical it does fit into storyline. It manages to convey both the tenderness of two lovers unable to acknowledge each other in public and desperation they feel. The world they live and their circumstances in are depicted well without choking the story.
Several different plots swirl in the court forcing Nikko to act. He enjoys what might be the last night with his lover. They both face choice between honor and death and their reactions to events do a good job of describing what kind of men they are. I waited with baited breath for resolution. I could practically feel the light-bulb over my head turn on as Nikko connected the dots and raced to do everything he could to save his lover. The ending neatly tied all ends.
Overall, this was interesting read and solid choice for lovers of political intrigue in historical setting. My only complaint is that it’s too short: I would have liked to see more of the characters.
I received copy of this book in exchange for review.
The review is also posted on Gay Book Reviews
The dialogue is a little bit cheesy, but since this is a historical it does fit into storyline. It manages to convey both the tenderness of two lovers unable to acknowledge each other in public and desperation they feel. The world they live and their circumstances in are depicted well without choking the story.
Several different plots swirl in the court forcing Nikko to act. He enjoys what might be the last night with his lover. They both face choice between honor and death and their reactions to events do a good job of describing what kind of men they are. I waited with baited breath for resolution. I could practically feel the light-bulb over my head turn on as Nikko connected the dots and raced to do everything he could to save his lover. The ending neatly tied all ends.
Overall, this was interesting read and solid choice for lovers of political intrigue in historical setting. My only complaint is that it’s too short: I would have liked to see more of the characters.
I received copy of this book in exchange for review.
The review is also posted on Gay Book Reviews
December 9, 2017
It wasn’t what I had in mind when I think of a holiday story. Maybe that’s why I liked it so much. I love when I don’t know what to expect and this was just like that.
Rodas and Nikko were really good characters. Perhaps a little bit too perfect, something I usually wouldn’t like, but I loved them anyway. The story was great, especially the last pages that were so exciting. The plot was very intriguing, so full of conspiracies and loyal characters that were willing to make any kind of sacrifices in order to do what they were supposed to do. I loved the part love play in the story, it was heartbreaking to see the struggles they had to face.
I generally stay away from historicals, is not my favorite genre, but this one had something that attracted me so much that I wanted to read it. It was a right decision, I enjoyed so much this story. Nikko was my favorite part of it. The only issue I had with it was that I would love to see more alone time between Nikko and Rodas, maybe a little bit more romance. But in general I was very pleased with it. I had a great time reading it.
Rodas and Nikko were really good characters. Perhaps a little bit too perfect, something I usually wouldn’t like, but I loved them anyway. The story was great, especially the last pages that were so exciting. The plot was very intriguing, so full of conspiracies and loyal characters that were willing to make any kind of sacrifices in order to do what they were supposed to do. I loved the part love play in the story, it was heartbreaking to see the struggles they had to face.
I generally stay away from historicals, is not my favorite genre, but this one had something that attracted me so much that I wanted to read it. It was a right decision, I enjoyed so much this story. Nikko was my favorite part of it. The only issue I had with it was that I would love to see more alone time between Nikko and Rodas, maybe a little bit more romance. But in general I was very pleased with it. I had a great time reading it.
December 14, 2017
This was a really good story with desperate choices and fiendish political machinations. Rodas and Nikko have been hiding their relationship for three years, and the author does a good job of communicating how hard and painful that has been for them. The story is told through Poison Master Nikko's point of view and throughout the story he is frantically trying to see a way that he can keep both Rodas and himself alive to see the morning. We are swept along with him as he casts about for solutions, knowing that his lover's duty and honor won't allow the couple many choices. The story is really fraught with tension and I couldn't see any way for a happy ending for the couple. The conclusion was surprising and pleasing, very well done. It's the details of the poisoner's trade that made me class this as a fantasy work. That was a nice bit of world-building. I would have rated it higher had it been a longer work. While this was part of Dreamspinner Press's Advent calendar of Christmas stories, it's really not one. The events are set at Winter Solstice but could easily have been set at any time and none of the yule-ish traditions are in evidence. This is my first sampling of Nichols's work and I plan to seek out more.
December 6, 2017
I've been craving a good fantasy book lately that just happens to have m/m characters in it. So I might be going easy on this because it came so close to filling that craving.
Yes, the only thing remotely holiday about it was that the feast was part of their solstice celebration. Yes, there is a lot of poison (seriously, like 3 different poisons are used on different people at different times on one night), betrayal, and death. And yes, the ending is
But all of those things don't outweigh my fantasy-geek delight in glow-in-the-dark poison tattoos, the sword fights, the king and courtly intrigue, and the Cinderella-like path Nikko had followed to go from beggar to king's poison master.
So, yes, not very warm-fuzzy-Christmas feeling. But still fun to read.
Favorite Quote:
"A liar thinks all men lie."
Yes, the only thing remotely holiday about it was that the feast was part of their solstice celebration. Yes, there is a lot of poison (seriously, like 3 different poisons are used on different people at different times on one night), betrayal, and death. And yes, the ending is
But all of those things don't outweigh my fantasy-geek delight in glow-in-the-dark poison tattoos, the sword fights, the king and courtly intrigue, and the Cinderella-like path Nikko had followed to go from beggar to king's poison master.
So, yes, not very warm-fuzzy-Christmas feeling. But still fun to read.
Favorite Quote:
"A liar thinks all men lie."
August 24, 2021
Back-handed compliment.
Not the best gay story I’ve ever read but by far better than most. A well thought out and executed plot (pardon the pun) with a twist.
When Nikko, the Poison Master to the king, is ordered to poison the King’s nephew and heir presumptive who is also secretly Nikko’s lover he is presented with a seemingly unsolvable dilemma. Should he not succeed he will betray both his oath and his king, should he succeed he will betray both his lover and his own heart.
Not the best gay story I’ve ever read but by far better than most. A well thought out and executed plot (pardon the pun) with a twist.
When Nikko, the Poison Master to the king, is ordered to poison the King’s nephew and heir presumptive who is also secretly Nikko’s lover he is presented with a seemingly unsolvable dilemma. Should he not succeed he will betray both his oath and his king, should he succeed he will betray both his lover and his own heart.
December 13, 2020
This solstice he was giving his lover the gift of death.
This sentence from this fantasy novella just about sums up the book. I did feel the unenviable quandary faced by both MCs in their respective roles as Royal Poisons expert and second on line to the throne ... at one stage, it would seem a 'Romeo and Juliet'-esque finale would have been the only realistic option; thankfully, a non-contrived/believable HEA ending was achieved. 3.5 stars.
This sentence from this fantasy novella just about sums up the book. I did feel the unenviable quandary faced by both MCs in their respective roles as Royal Poisons expert and second on line to the throne ... at one stage, it would seem a 'Romeo and Juliet'-esque finale would have been the only realistic option; thankfully, a non-contrived/believable HEA ending was achieved. 3.5 stars.
December 2, 2018
3.5*
Darkly intense, set in a Medieval type era. Nikko as the palace poisoner and Rodas the kings nephew are forced to keep their relationship secret because of their stations in life.
Enjoyed the machinations that Nikko had to do to ensure Rodas remained safe though it is more of an acceptance of what can be rather than a fulfilment of wishes.
Enjoyed.
Darkly intense, set in a Medieval type era. Nikko as the palace poisoner and Rodas the kings nephew are forced to keep their relationship secret because of their stations in life.
Enjoyed the machinations that Nikko had to do to ensure Rodas remained safe though it is more of an acceptance of what can be rather than a fulfilment of wishes.
Enjoyed.
December 27, 2017
Oh how I loved this short novella! The world building was stellar; the leads compelling; and the tension PERFECT. Don't expect a traditional holiday story here--expect a fantasy/paranormal novella with excellent writing and characters. Go read this no matter the time of year!
January 3, 2018
I liked this. It's short, simple and a joy to read.
March 1, 2018
4.25 Stars
February 28, 2019
Wow! That was something amazing - a mix of fantasy and historical with a twist.
Enjoyed every word.
Enjoyed every word.
June 5, 2019
Great worldbuilding for a short novella and realistic m/m romance plot for the era and political context. Enjoyed, wish there was more.
August 30, 2019
Short, sweet, sexy - wish it was a full length novel!!
March 10, 2020
The ending:(
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