A Magic Steeped in Poison was the first book I ever had approved on NetGalley and I absolutely loved it. Judy I. Lin has such a talent for creating beautiful worlds and characters. It is so easy to imagine the places she writes about. I also always want to eat whatever she puts in her books. I was so excited to get Song of the Six Realms and it was everything I wanted it to be and more. It'll sweep you away from the first page. I absolutely recommend it!

Thank you Netgalley and Feiwel and Friends, and Macmillan Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book! All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Oh my gosh, thank you! Song of the Six Realms is one of my anticipated releases of 2024, and it did not disappoint!

Xue is a talented musician who was orphaned at a young age. Left with no clear memories of her past and taken care of by her beloved Uncle, he leaves Xue to be trained in the arts of the entertainment industry at the House of Flowing Water. When it is her time to showcase her talent with the qin, she captures the attention of Duke Meng. He offers her a deal she is unable to refuse: he will pay off her contract if she leaves the House of Flowing Water but she has to live with him at his estate for three years. Little does she realize there is a bigger plot at hand, and a mystery involving her uncle in need of unravelling or the Realms will see its demise.

The way Judy I. Lin can weave a story and leave you entirely breathless is incredible. I adore the Book of Tea duology, and I just knew I would love her newest release. The characters are flawed, well-developed, and intriguing. The world-building is compelling, complex, and magical. I wanted to stay in the world so much longer. The story flowed perfectly, and the pacing is just right for the amount of information we are given. There was never a dull moment reading from Xue's point of view. She is a character I enjoy reading about and I love her spirit and courage. The bond between her and Jinglang is bittersweet. I'm honestly happy with how this book ended. I think I would have been disappointed if it went a different, or more predictable, route.

The last few chapters were intense and exciting, and I was hooked from the start. I believe Song of the Six Realms is a stand-alone but I can see another book come out of it. I feel there is a lot of lore to work with and other characters to follow if the option is there for one.

I highly recommend Song of the Six Realms if you love the Book of Tea duology, Strike the Zither, and The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea.

This book is beautiful. The setting is lovely and compelling. The world building is incredibly rich and engaging, the romance highly engaging. I really enjoyed this!

For those who enjoyed the author's previous books, The Book of Tea duology, you are sure to enjoy this book as well. This felt like a stand alone book, although I could see more being written in this land and about these characters. I don't know why, maybe it was the music connection, but it brought to mind for me the book Sabriel by Garth Nix.

Thank you NetGalley for a free e-galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.

"Song of the Six Realms" by Judy I. Lin is a beautifully crafted young adult fantasy novel that seamlessly blends elements of gothic romance with a richly imagined celestial world. The story revolves around Xue, a talented musician with a mysterious past, who finds herself entangled in the intrigues of the divine rulers of the Celestial Realm. Lin's storytelling is both lyrical and captivating, drawing readers into a world filled with magic, danger, and romance.

Xue's character is deeply compelling, embodying both vulnerability and strength. Her journey from a life of servitude to becoming a key figure in the fate of the Six Realms is expertly depicted, resonating with themes of self-discovery and destiny. The relationship between Xue and Duke Meng, the enigmatic Duke of Dreams, is particularly engaging. Lin skillfully develops their connection, balancing the romantic tension with the larger narrative of celestial politics and impending war.

Lin's world-building is a standout feature of this novel. The Six Realms are vividly described, each with its unique characteristics and inhabitants. The integration of celestial beings, demonic beasts, and the intricacies of realm politics adds a layer of complexity and intrigue to the story. The use of traditional Chinese instruments and cultural references enriches the narrative, providing a unique and immersive experience.

The plot unfolds with a perfect blend of action, mystery, and romance. Lin’s pacing keeps the story moving at a brisk pace, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader thoroughly engaged. The theme of memories and their connection to one’s identity and destiny is explored in a thoughtful and intriguing manner.

"Song of the Six Realms" is a stunning addition to the fantasy genre, offering a fresh and enchanting tale that will captivate fans of YA fantasy and gothic romance alike. Lin's ability to weave a complex and engaging narrative with well-developed characters and a mesmerizing setting makes this book a standout. It's a novel that not only entertains but also leaves the reader pondering the deeper questions of identity, power, and the choices that define our destiny.

I loved the story, the world building and meeting the different characters. I felt completely immersed in the story and couldn't stop reading it. The cover is beautiful, as all their books are. I keep coming back to this author because honestly all their books are just so amazing and you can see tiny pieces of other books if you look close enough

Judy Lin once again weaves a gorgeously-written tale with high stakes, compelling relationship dynamics, and complex characters you can't help but fall in love with. The Duke and Xue have one of the most unique relationships I've read in YA, and I love any story that centers around a main character struggling to remember their forgotten past. Lin keeps the momentum pushing forward despite a good portion of the plot revolving around the past, which isn't easy to do. With thrilling action and an unforgettable pair of characters, SONG OF THE SIX REALMS cements Lin as one of the strongest YA writers of our time.

I really enjoyed this book so much! I flew through this book and I was so upset when it was over. The plot was fast paced but not much which is what I really enjoy. I am obsessed with the characters and can not wait to read more by this author. I will be recommending this book to all of my friends and family.