Victoria J. Price’s A Legacy of Poison and Lies is a riveting tale that seamlessly blends elements of dark fantasy, adventure, and emotional depth. The novel follows Zylah Renfall, a protagonist whose journey is as much about survival and revenge as it is about self-discovery and redemption. Price crafts a world that is both enchanting and perilous, filled with magic, monsters, and moral complexities that challenge the characters at every turn.

The story begins six months after Zylah has fled Virian, a place that holds painful memories and a past she cannot escape. As a travelling apothecary, Zylah is not only battling the external threats of a world filled with monsters and magic but also an internal struggle—a mysterious sickness that threatens her very existence. This duality of conflict is one of the novel’s strengths, as it adds layers to Zylah’s character, making her journey both physically and emotionally taxing.

Price’s portrayal of Zylah is compelling. She is a character marked by her past, labeled as a murderer and a monster, yet she is driven by a sense of justice and the need to protect those she left behind. Her complexity is further enhanced by the guilt she carries, which is palpable and relatable. The author does an excellent job of making Zylah’s internal struggles as engaging as the external ones, creating a protagonist who is both flawed and fiercely determined.

The theme of freedom and its cost is prevalent throughout the novel. Zylah’s escape from Virian is not just a physical journey but a metaphorical one, representing her desire to break free from the chains of her past. However, Price does not shy away from showing that freedom is not without its sacrifices. Zylah’s declining health serves as a constant reminder of the price she must pay, adding a sense of urgency and tension to the narrative.

Another significant theme is the idea of redemption and retribution. Zylah’s quest for vengeance against Marcus, the Fae responsible for her current plight, is not just about settling scores but also about finding redemption for herself and those affected by the new king’s tyranny. This quest is fraught with danger, as Zylah must navigate a world where alliances are fragile, and trust is a rare commodity. The novel explores the moral ambiguities of revenge, questioning whether it truly leads to redemption or if it merely perpetuates a cycle of violence.

The supporting characters in the novel are well-developed, each adding depth to the story. The old friend who brings news of the growing army of monsters serves as a catalyst for Zylah’s journey, and their interactions provide insight into her past and the person she strives to become. The dynamics between the characters are intricate, with alliances forming and breaking as the plot unfolds, keeping readers engaged and invested in their fates.

Price’s world-building is another highlight of the novel. The setting is richly detailed, with a sense of history and magic that permeates every page. The author’s ability to create a vivid and immersive world enhances the story’s impact, making the stakes feel real and the dangers ever-present. The monsters and magic that besiege Zylah and her allies are not just obstacles but integral parts of the world that challenge the characters’ beliefs and resolve.

In terms of pacing, A Legacy of Poison and Lies strikes a balance between action and introspection. The narrative moves swiftly, with enough twists and turns to keep readers on the edge of their seats, yet it also allows for moments of reflection that add emotional depth to the story. Price’s writing is both evocative and precise, capturing the intensity of the action scenes and the subtleties of the characters’ inner turmoil.

For readers who enjoy dark fantasy with strong character development and intricate plots, this novel is a must-read. It shares thematic similarities with works like Sarah J. Maas’s Throne of Glass series and V.E. Schwab’s Shades of Magic trilogy, where protagonists grapple with their pasts while navigating worlds filled with magic and danger. However, Price’s unique voice and the personal stakes for Zylah set this novel apart, offering a fresh perspective within the genre.

Overall, A Legacy of Poison and Lies is a captivating read that combines the thrill of adventure with the depth of a character-driven narrative. Victoria J. Price has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, leaving readers eager for more. Whether you are drawn to tales of magic and monsters or stories of personal growth and redemption, this novel delivers on all fronts, making it a standout addition to the world of fantasy literature.