The Poison Season takes place on an island where a society of recluses protects a bloodthirsty forest. The poisonous lake that surrounds them discourages any visitors, and they are fiercely defended by the Forest that is slowly taking over the land. Gifted with haunting voices, Endla’s residents have irresistible songs, and, like the mythical sirens, they lure outsiders to their death.
The world the author creates is enchanting and chillingly dangerous, and it draws readers into a forbidden love affair. Leelo, who has always been skeptical of her family’s teachings, encounters an outsider in the forest, but instead of killing him, she befriends him. She eventually must reconcile the beliefs of her people with her feelings for an outsider.
The Poison Season is a fantasy standalone that will draw you in and never let you go. While it is a slow build, every word is intentional, and the ending will haunt you for days. Filled with danger and intrigue, the characters come to life and their fear is palpable.
I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoyed The Buried and the Bound and The Depths.