In book one of The Poisons of Caux series (The Hollow Bettle), eleven year old Ivy helped to end the reign of the “Deadly Nightshades”—a evil king and queen who ruled Caux with poison and fear.
The Ancient Prophecy
In book two, The Tasters Guild, it’s up to Ivy to fulfill and ancient prophesy declaring that a Noble Child will cure King Verdigris, the true king of Caux. But the powerful Tasters Guild still spreads fear through Caux, and behind it all is the eyeless Director of the guild, Vidal Verjouce.
The Belly of the Beast
In order to fulfill the prophecy, Ivy must find the one and only door into Pimcaux, the land where the king resides. But it’s a dangerous mission, one that will bring her into the heart of the Tasters Guild. With the help of her friend and taster, Rowan; two trestlemen, Axle and Peps; her new cat, Six; and her own advanced knowledge of plants and poisons, Ivy must breach the walls of the Tasters Guild and complete her mission…without getting caught.
The Bottom Line
The Poisons of Caux #2: The Tasters Guild by Susannah Appelbaum is a creative story. It brings you into the land of Caux where the world is somewhat different from our own. It has a timeless quality, not in the past, present or future, similar to Angie Sage’s Septimus Heap series. Unfortunately, the writing style may be a little difficult for YA readers. It’s hard to visualize and often hard to follow. This book is definitely a challenge, and not for a reader who wants a fast-paced adventure.
