This Poison Heart

Briseis has a power she must keep hidden - she can grow plants with a touch and create remedies from them. When she inherits a mysterious estate from her birth family in rural New York, she and her adoptive mothers relocate there for the summer, hoping for a fresh start. At the estate, Briseis discovers a garden filled with rare medicinal plants and a family legacy that runs deeper than she imagined. As she works to understand her abilities and her connection to this place, strangers begin showing up at her door seeking specific plants, leading her to uncover old secrets. The story combines elements of Greek mythology, botanical magic, and family mystery as Briseis navigates her growing powers and learns about her ancestry. Her journey involves understanding both the benefits and dangers of her gift while protecting those she loves. This contemporary young adult fantasy explores themes of identity, family bonds, and the weight of inherited legacies. The integration of Greek mythology with modern elements creates a fresh take on coming-of-age stories while examining the responsibilities that come with power.

Readers praise the unique blend of Greek mythology, botanicals, and Black representation. Many highlight the strong family relationships, particularly between Bri and her mothers. The gothic atmosphere and vivid descriptions of the estate and plant magic receive frequent mentions in positive reviews. Common criticisms include a slow-paced first half, predictable plot twists, and underdeveloped side characters. Some readers note that the romance feels rushed and takes a backseat to other plot elements. Average ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (14,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (1,200+ ratings) BookTok/BookTube: Frequently recommended Sample reader comments: "The plant magic system is fresh and original" - Goodreads reviewer "Takes too long to get to the action" - Amazon reviewer "Perfect for fans of House of Salt and Sorrows" - BookTok review "The family dynamics between Bri and her moms feel authentic and heartwarming" - Barnes & Noble reviewer

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🌿 Author Kalynn Bayron drew inspiration from Greek mythology, particularly the story of Medea, while crafting the magical plant elements in the novel. 🌱 The book's main character, Briseis, has a rare form of chlorokinesis - the ability to control and communicate with plants - which draws parallels to real-world medicinal plant traditions. ⚗️ Many of the poisonous plants mentioned in the book, such as nightshade and oleander, have been used both as medicines and weapons throughout human history. 🏛️ The novel's setting, a mysterious estate in rural New York, was partially inspired by Gothic literature classics like "Rebecca" by Daphne du Maurier. 🌺 This Poison Heart is part of a duology, with its sequel "This Wicked Fate" completing Briseis's story of family secrets and botanical magic.