A Little Taste of Poison

Gr 5–7—Struggles with class and religious differences and conflicts arising from abuse of power are smartly woven into this sequel to the fantastical mystery A Pocket Full of Murder. Isaveth is given a scholarship to the prestigious magical school Tarrenton College by Glo-Mor, the company that bought her spellpaper in the earlier book. Isaveth, a Moshite whose father was imprisoned, attempts to fit in among her aristocratic new peers. Though her father has since been released, she and friend Esmond, the son of the dying Sagelord, work to prove that Isaveth's father was framed. Isaveth is concerned about Esmond's brother Eryx becoming Sagelord; Eryx will prevent Moshites, who face continuous discrimination and pressure to convert, from receiving relief. Isaveth tries to blend in at her new school but is bullied, outed as a Moshite, and accused of thievery. Fortunately, she makes friends with Eulalie Fairpont and Mander Ghataj, who help her as she sneaks into a masked ball, confronts family troubles, and is kidnapped. The second installment has an excellent story line and solid character development. Anderson keeps her world-building detailed but never overwhelming, revealing the history of the Moshites and why they have a lower social standing than other groups. Broader issues of prejudice and social class give readers a chance to reflect on religious and socioeconomic discrimination.