A review by thelittleb00kworm
Master of Poisons by Andrea Hairston

adventurous emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

 
This is such an incredible, underappreciated epic fantasy standalone. From the very first page, Master of Poisons pulled me into its richly crafted, African-inspired world. The worldbuilding is simply breathtaking—poison deserts, jellyfish explosions, lightning storms, and fire demons paint a vivid picture of a land on the brink of destruction. It’s equal parts beautiful and horrifying, and I couldn’t get enough.
The story follows two main perspectives: Djola, the Master of Poisons, and Awa, a young Garden Sprite training to become a griot (a mix of storyteller, historian, and mapmaker). Djola’s life is already complicated—he’s second-in-command to Emperor Azizi, married to the fiery pirate Samina, and father to three children. But when he’s exiled for suggesting hard truths to save the world from the poison desert, Djola’s journey takes a tragic turn. Meanwhile, Awa’s chapters have a slower, more spiritual arc as she navigates the spirit world, Smokeland, accompanied by bees hiding in her hair. Her perspective is haunting and deeply emotional.
The book tackles big themes—climate change, survival, politics, and power—with raw honesty. Hairston doesn’t shy away from exploring how those in power often protect their own comforts rather than making the sacrifices needed for true change. It’s timely, thought-provoking, and layered with complex relationships, particularly the tender and magnetic connection between Djola and Samina.
I loved how inclusive this world is, featuring queer relationships and nonbinary characters (called “veson,” with the pronoun “vie”). It’s one of the most authentic and seamlessly integrated representations I’ve read in fantasy. The writing is poetic, with lines like, “A sliver of moon lurked beyond the mist, a crooked smile in the dark,” that stayed with me long after finishing.
However, it’s not a fast read. The chapters are short, which can make the pacing feel choppy at times. Some transitions happen so abruptly that I found myself rereading passages to catch up. The slower, introspective parts might not be for everyone, but I think they add to the depth of the story. Awa’s arc, in particular, is a slow burn that builds into something truly beautiful.
Despite its challenges, Master of Poisons is a marvel. The chaotic magic, intricate politics, and unique characters make this world unforgettable. It’s one of the most breathtaking and emotional fantasies I’ve read in years, and it left me with goosebumps. If you love richly imagined worlds, powerful themes, and stories that linger long after you’ve turned the last page, give this book a chance.
“No hope without change, no change without sacrifice.”