Magic Study (Study #2) by Maria V. Snyder

Book Summery (Via Goodreads): Yelena is a survivor. Kidnapped as a child, held prisoner as a teen, then released to act as a poison taster, she is now a student of magic. But these magic skills place her in imminent danger, and with an execution order on her head, she has no choice but to escape to Sitia, the land of birth
But nothing in Sitia is familiar. As she struggles to understand where she belongs and how to control her powers, a rogue magician emerges - and Yelena catches his eye. Suddenly she is embroiled in a situation not of her making. And once again her magical abilities will either save her life... or be her downfall.

Book Review:
Wow! I don't even know where to begin! My  head is still spinning. As I've read reviews on this series, it seems that most readers prefer Poison Study to the rest of the series. I must admit, I was a bit apprehensive going in to Magic Study. While, it did take me a wee bit longer to fully delve into the story, I was just as captivated with this sequel! I enjoyed seeing a softer side of Yelena. When first introduced to her in Poison Study, she has become hardened, just looking to survive. This time around, Yelena not only thrives, but has people who make her life worth living (Janco, Ari, Valek, Irys, her parents, etc...). While she is once again met with a hostile environment, I enjoyed watching Yelena grow and adapt. Introducing more magic into the story makes for a more complex plot, which I enjoyed. I've seen several reviews displeased with Yelena's newly developed ability to speak with horses, but I rather enjoyed this aspect. It gave the story some whimsy and humor. I don't think I'll ever look at an apple the same. ;) There is so much left unanswered, I hope that the final installment of the series will prove to be satisfying and entertaining, as I have developed high expectations of Snyder.

Favorite Quote:
“Living is a risk," I snapped at him. "Every decision, every interaction, every step, every time you get out of bed in the morning, you take a risk. To survive is to know you're taking that risk and to not get out of bed clutching illusions of safety.” 

Cover Art Commentary:
LOVE IT! The colors are vivid and the jungle background is the perfect rich and lush. We see more of Yelena this time around as well.

Rating: