'A Venom Dark and Sweet' continues the tale of redemption for Kang, intertwining his journey with that of Ning. The book delves into a realm of nightmares as the empire faces impending doom. The enemies to lovers dynamic, strong female characters, and intricate world-building create a high-stakes, action-packed conclusion to 'The Book of Tea' duology. However, some readers found the shift in focus from relationships to missions and the quick resolution of the ending to be a drawback.

Characters:

Characters are well-developed, with strong personalities and relationships, particularly highlighting Ning's complexity and Kang's redemption.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is lush and beautifully described, offering vivid imagery that is engaging without being overwhelming.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot starts slow but gains momentum with action and world-building, although the ending lacks surprise and feels too safe.

Setting:

The setting is a richly described fantasy world based on Chinese mythology, centered around magical elements and tea culture.

Pacing:

The pacing is uneven, with a slow start that improves, but the climax feels rushed, leading to a quick resolution.

Notes:

The book features a unique magical system related to tea-making.

It is inspired by Chinese mythology, incorporating gods and monsters.

Ning, the main character, is portrayed as both strong and kind.

The story shifts perspectives between Ning and Kang, providing dual storytelling.

Some readers felt the ending was too quick and neatly wrapped up.

The world-building was praised for its lush beauty, although some felt it faltered near the end.

The book has been compared to xianxia fantasy, focusing on epic battles and dark lords.

Readers loved the enemies to lovers dynamic present in the storyline.

The writing is described as beautiful yet readable, making it engaging for many.

There are hopes for spin-off books following the main duology.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book contains themes of danger and violence, along with some stressful or intense events.

Has Romance?

While romance is present, particularly in the enemies to lovers dynamic, it takes a backseat to the main plot.

From The Publisher:

The enthralling conclusion to Judy I. Lin's Book of Tea duology-#1 New York Times bestseller A Magic Steeped in Poison and A Venom Dark and Sweet-is sure to enchant fans of Adrienne Young and Leigh Bardugo.

A great evil has come to the kingdom of Dàxi. The Banished Prince has returned to seize power, his rise to the dragon throne aided by the mass poisonings that have kept the people bound in fear and distrust.

Ning, a young but powerful shénnóng-shi-a wielder of magic using the ancient and delicate art of tea-making-has escorted Princess Zhen into exile. Joining them is the princess' loyal bodyguard, Ruyi, and Ning's newly healed sister, Shu. Together the four young women travel throughout the kingdom in search of allies to help oust the invaders and take back Zhen's rightful throne.

But the golden serpent still haunts Ning's nightmares with visions of war and bloodshed. An evil far more ancient than the petty conflicts of men has awoken, and all the magic in the land may not be enough to stop it from consuming the world...

Ratings (2)

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Did Not Like (1)

Reader Stats (5):

Read It (2)
Want To Read (3)

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A Venom Dark and Sweet

Judy I. Lin

Book 2 in the series:The Book of Tea