Poison Dance (Review)

Poison Dance | Livia Blackburne

Published by: Lion's Quill Press
Genre: YA, High Fantasy
Pages: 54
Format: E-book 
Source: Author, for honest review

James is skilled, efficient, and deadly, a hired blade navigating the shifting alliances of a deteriorating Assassin’s Guild. Then he meets Thalia, an alluring but troubled dancing girl who offers him a way out—if he’ll help her kill a powerful nobleman. With the Guild falling apart, it just might be worth the risk. But when you live, breathe, and love in a world that’s forever flirting with death, the slightest misstep can be poison. 

REVIEW

Set in the world of Midnight Thief, a forthcoming title from Disney-Hyperion, Poison Dance tells of James, an assassin. With its leader dead, and power shifting, the Guild he's a part of has become dangerous, and James and his friends have one chance to leave - If he trains a dancer named Thalia to kill, she will give them the means, and enough money, to flee.

I liked James from the beginning. He was different to most male MCs I'd read, acted because of his mind and not because of moronic insta-love (like a thousand males I could mention), and he thought with an unfiltered honesty that I admired. I really began to love him, though, when he showed a softness when it came to Thalia. 

The relationship between James and Thalia developed naturally. It didn't feel forced, rushed, or unfeasible, which was really uncommon and so nice to read. With assassins, caravaners, and a beautiful dancer with a hidden motive for murder, there's never a boring or lackluster chapter (again uncommon, especially for shorts, and even more especially for the genre). 

Well written, with lush descriptions, genuine characters, and a vivid world. I thoroughly enjoyed Poison Dance and am excited to read more of this world in Midnight Thief.

Characters ★★★☆☆

Setting/world building ★★★☆☆

Writing Style ★★★☆☆

★★★☆☆