57 pages • 1 hour read
This Poison Heart
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Book Brief
372
Novel • Fiction
Upstate New York • Contemporary
2021
YA
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
This Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron follows Briseis Greene, a teenager with the secret magical ability to control plants, who inherits a house from her biological aunt. As she explores her new home, she uncovers family secrets, hidden talents, and learns about her magical heritage in a journey that reshapes her understanding of family and identity, all while dealing with competing magical threats. The book contains descriptions of violence, racism, and the death of a parent by violence.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Suspenseful
Adventurous
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
29,467 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
This Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron captivates readers with its unique magical realism and strong LGBTQ+ representation. Positive insights highlight the rich, immersive world-building and the protagonist's compelling journey of self-discovery. Some reviews point to a slow-paced plot and underdeveloped side characters, but overall, it remains an engaging and inclusive read.
Who Should Read This Poison Heart?
Readers who enjoy This Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron typically appreciate young adult fantasy with a strong, empowered female lead. Fans of diverse, LGBTQ+ inclusive narratives and mythological elements, akin to books like Cinderella Is Dead or Legendborn, will find this book enchanting and compelling.
29,467 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Thandie Greene/“Mom”
Thandie Greene/“Mom”
One of Briseis’s protective and thoughtful mothers, cautious by nature and devoted to putting her family's needs first, even in challenging situations.
Angie Greene/“Mo”
Angie Greene/“Mo”
Briseis’s other mother, known for her optimistic and playful approach, who is open about her feelings and handles life's difficulties with a candid and loving nature.
Karter Redmond
Karter Redmond
Briseis’s first friend in Rhinebeck who appears impressed by her powers and grapples with a complicated relationship with his mother.
Marie Morris
Marie Morris
An immortal girl with a mysterious past and a protective nature, who slowly reveals her secrets and becomes Briseis’s love interest.
372
Novel • Fiction
Upstate New York • Contemporary
2021
YA
14-18 years
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