I received this free eARC novel from NetGalley. This is my honest review.

This has been on my TBR pile for so long, and I'm glad I finally got around to it. I really enjoyed the storyline and seeing the characters change throughout the story was a great character development. The plot was great and kept my attention. I'm glad I got the chance to read this and will be on the lookout for more in the future!

I tried reading this book but sadly I didn't make it very far while reading this book. I think that the different point of views made it a bit difficult to understand . I usually love this author's books and I hoped that this one would work out for me.

Breeana Shields is one of the great authors I know so far. I enjoyed reading this first book and surely this second one is worth every reader's time

Although the beginning captivated me I have lost interest in finishing the book and therefore won't be giving it a proper review and will give it a neutral 3 stars.

Fans of POISON’S KISS are sure to enjoy this book! I loved delving deeper into this fascinating world, and I very much enjoyed the folklore woven throughout the story and thought that really served to enrich the world. The world building itself is even more robust than in book one and just so well done. There are some truly gorgeous descriptions and prose throughout

A simple read with lots of action and predictable plot-twists.

I honestly feel like Poison’s Cage was a huge improvement from Poison’s Kiss. I feel like the story was fleshed out much better and the motivations and diversions were much more unique. Motivations come into question in this story and the characters were easier to connect to.

I feel like the relationships became more complex and we come to find out so much more about the hardships each individual had gone through. I especially love Iyla’s perspective. I enjoyed seeing her figure out what she really wanted to do and what would be considered right for her. I loved getting into her head and seeing how she really thought about Marinda and the sacrifices she had made for her over time.

Overall, this sequel is a fitting conclusion to this duology. The progression of the characters felt authentic and I enjoyed the journey and the spy aspects to the narrative. The Poison’s Kiss duology is an enjoyable and engaging duo to read. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good fantasy.

Excellent sequel!!! I can't wait to see what the author brings out next.

Book one was good and so was this one. It has an overall interesting story with beautiful descriptions and characters I do like. The sequel to me wasn't better or worse, it was a good story progression. Overall enjoyable read.

I really wanted to like this. I love fantasy, especially fantasy that draws inspiration from other cultures. I’ve seen very few yong adult novels that draw from Indian cultures and traditions, but I really could not get into this book. I can’t stand when problems could be solved if the characters would just have a conversation, and even though this had multiple povs, they all seemed rather shallow.

"Each weapon is a work of art, and I wonder what drives the impulse to make the instruments of death so beautiful."

Marinda and Iyla infiltrate the Naga in an attempt to kill the Nagaraja. They somehow continue to work with each other despite the lies that are woven into their lives and plans. They can hardly trust each other but still continue to rely on each other as their missions unfold.

The Story- I liked how this story of a vish kanya was still able to continue as the girls essentially aim to overtake the organization that turned them into monsters. The story flows easily and like the first book, was a very easy read. There really weren’t many dull moments as our characters are metaphorically thrown into a pit of snakes and are never quite out of danger throughout the story. It seems the entire time that the Naga are always just one step ahead of the girls.

Though the book continues my favorite aspect (the Indian/Hindu/Buddhist inspired world building) it also brought back aspects I didn’t like, that first and foremost being the romance. This time, Iyla has her chance at romance, and it seems one meeting was enough to have a hold on her heart. Though love at first sight can always be built upon, which later I am sure it is assumed the characters bond between the pages), their encounter did not seem to justify their actions before they really had a chance to get to know one another.

For me, this book was mainly triggering two things I liked: lives in imminent peril with a dash of cultural flavor. If that’s your main dish and you liked the first book then I say this is the book for you. If the somewhat bland romance is going to be a problem for you then maybe don’t put this at the top of your to-be-read list. However, with that being said, let me reiterate that this book isn’t focused on the romance but more of comradery between Marinda & Iyla and how it is challenged.

The World Building- Although the first book set up the world with the vish kanya, this book gave a little more information regarding the Nagaraja, Tiger Queen, Crocodile King, and Garuda. I always have extra love for a book that incorporates real culture or folklore into its story, and this is no exception. There is something intriguing about transforming an idea to fit into another story, especially when it’s not your typical westernized/European/medieval style folklore. I do wish there was just a smidge more about the other factions, though, it would be expected that it would focus on the Naga. I did appreciate that Garuda had a slightly bigger role (since Garuda is an enemy to the Naga), and that even though typically is seen as male was written as female! Yay, girl power! I loved how Shields portrays their true forms as well. The concept made the Raksaka seem much more present and fearful.

The Characters-Iyla really stood out in this book, and for me was more the main character than Marinda. Again, I didn’t care much for her romance, though the girl does deserve to have someone she isn’t just trying to trick. Overall her character’s spirit and conviction is what shines the most. Though Marinda fights tooth and nail for Mani and occasionally for Iyla, Iyla is still the much better friend of the two.

I felt that Deven was really lack luster in this book. His character didn’t really do much of anything, and also just didn’t seem to fit. He’s supposed to be a prince, but didn’t really act very or do anything very princely.

The Soundtrack- The Dear Hunter - The Poison Woman

What a wonderful sequel to Poison’s Kiss!

Marinda and Iyla have infiltrated the Snake King’s castle and are acting as spies for the raja. They both have roles to play while not entirely trusting each other. They must learn to navigate the treacherous realm of the night king or they will not only lose the battle for the kingdom, but those they love the most as well.

First off, I love how this was a duology because HELLO–who’s over the trilogies??

This was a fantastic follow up to Poison’s Kiss, perhaps even better. I loved the complicated relationship between Marinda and Iyla. They’re both struggling to deal with the reality they’ve been thrust into while still trying to hold the tenuous truce (dare I say friendship?) they’ve established. I loved seeing their individual journeys and alternating points of view.

We see some of our old familiar characters in Kadru, Deven, and Mani. I always loved Kadru and I loved her involvement this time around. There are some definite twists and turns in this book. Albeit, some you saw coming a mile away while others were a little more surprising. I also enjoyed Balavan as a villain. I almost would have loved to see a little more development with him? We saw glimpses of how twisted and evil he could be, but I would have loved to have seen a bit more.

The plot definitely moves. The alternating points of view between Marinda and Iyla don’t lag from one to the other and you are anxiously turning the page to see what will happen to each of them. I also really enjoyed how we see more of the mythology and history of the world. It made for some great backstory.

If you haven’t picked up this duology yet, this is the perfect opportunity. It’s a fun, adventurous, YA Fantasy inspired by Indian folklore that will keep you turning the page to see what will happen next.

If you read Poison’s Kiss awhile ago, you might want to consider rereading it before picking this one up. This book picks up pretty much where the last one left off and there is not much time spent on recapping the first. Usually I like a re-cap, but in this case it worked for me that there wasn’t. You are reminded of a few things that happened in the first book, but there is never a huge info dump, which made the flow of the book at the start that much more heart pounding as you are immediately thrown into the action. This sequel has a lot more action than the first which made it hard to put down at times.

I can’t remember if Marinda was the sole POV in the first book, I kind of remember that there were some chapters from Iyla’s view point but this book switched back and forth between the two more than the first. I enjoyed getting to know Iyla better in this book. She is such a sad and bitter girl, but as you get to know her you understand her issues and start rooting for her life to get better. I still like Marinda although she is still a bit on the wimpy side. She does however prove herself to be worthy of heroine status. There were not as many scenes with her and Mani together, which I missed. I loved their relationship in the first book, and did enjoy the special moments they had in this book, I just wanted a few more. Deven was also not in this book as much as I would have liked although Marinda thought of him often.

The Hindu and Buddhist mythology that is the basis for this story was fascinating. I don’t know much about these myths but this book makes me want to read more. I was very intrigued by the Naga and the Garuda characters and thought that they made a good evil vs. good pairing. The storyline that develops from these two mythical creatures was fascinating and at times surprising. The idea that humans can lose their humanity and become monsters was well done in this story. I also liked that the idea of reincarnation and that everyone lives more than one life (including animals) was an interesting concept and how it was used in the book was a nice twist.

Great sequel to this wonderful duo-logy. Lots of action and some twists in the plot that kept me guessing at how it was all going to end. Some light and sweet romance thrown in as well. Loved the India like setting which made this story such a joy to read. Looking forward to seeing more from this author in the future.

We follow Marinda a poison maden otherwise known as a Visha kanya who can kill with a single poisonous kiss. After growing up training together Marinda and Lyla are given targets to take down for the Raja. Lyla gathers the information and Marinda makes the kill, but they're both unhappy with this arrangement. They would have ran away a long time ago if it wasnt for Marinda sick little brother Mani and their handler holding his medication.

The character developpement was well done and the different relationships between all the characters was absolutely fantastic. I connected with almost every major character. The relationship between Marinda and Mani was so heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. I really liked the romantic interests for Lyla and Marinda. They felt more like equals than the typical bossy and dominating male. I also enjoyed the addition of Varas character.

I loved the complex and raw female friendship between Marinda and Lyla in this book. Since we get Lylas perspective in this sequel I was able to really understand her motives. I came to realize how losing so many years of her life changed her. At first I got their two points of view mixed up and had to remind myself who I was following, but it was totally worth it to get into Lylas head. I came to feel very strongly for her and what she went through.

I love it when a book grips me so completely I dont even notice how far Ive read. I was just so happy to be back in this world I couldn't put it down. The writing was easy to get immersed in and the character developpement didnt slow down the pace. The world and mythology were super fascinating. I adored all the lore about the Gods and poison madens. The plot twist took me by surprise even though I had my doubts about the direction it was going in.

I didnt realise this was only a duology and the ending killed me. I need more and Im sad to see it end after connecting with the characters so much. The author crafted a compelling plot with amazing characters and a rich world. Id definitely recommend picking up this duology if you enjoy YA fantasy. It deserves a lot more recognition than its getting. I loved the sequel even more than the first book so if you read the first one and enjoyed it you should pick this one up. You wont be disapointed.

Helllllo emotional rollercoaster! I read Poison's Kiss and Poison's Cage back to back because after I read the first book, I just couldn't stand not knowing what would happen next! I absolutely loved this series and I thought it was incredibly unique and entertaining. I've read very mixed reviews, but I would highly recommend these novels. They are jam packed with action as well as romance, magic, and loooots of snakes!

I loved all of the characters and really enjoyed how I felt like I wasn't sure who I could trust while reading. That aspect put a special twist on the novel that made me feel on the edge of my seat at all times. Marinda was definitely a hardcore character and I loved how she had good morals, but she would also do whatever it took to protect the ones she loved.

All in all, Poison's Cage was everything I wanted and more! I loved the action, romance, and the fast paced plot. I would highly recommend both Poison's Kiss and Poison's Cage to readers who enjoy YA fantasy novels. It was a great read and I look forward to reading more from Shields in the future. Thank you to Penguin and NetGalley for sending this novel in exchange for an honest review.

I made the mistake of reading Poison’s Cage a year after tackling Poison’s Kiss and I paid the price. Sometimes, you know, a sequel fills in the gaps a bit for readers who aren’t reading a series back-to-back, either through an obvious recap or woven into the first few chapters. That didn’t happen with this book and for the first 25% or so I was completely lost. I’ve quite literally read hundreds of books since Poison’s Kiss, I’m not going to remember everything and I didn’t find it to be a memorable first book anyway.

Getting back to Poison’s Cage, in short, read this one fairly soon after the first book. Once I started shifting back into the world of visha kanyas and god-like creatures worshipped by mortals come to life, things improved. One of my problems with the last book was a lack of world in any sort of depth to be interesting. Shields went into overdrive and the world, the culture she’s created, all of it fueled the plot and it’s a good thing too or I might not have stuck around for the sequel. I loved the mythology focus and seeing how the stories played out in the “current day” of the novel. It’s what I missed in book 1 and was happy to see brought up in the sequel.

But the characters still didn’t do it for me. Marinda was still lacking something. She’s just not all that interesting of a heroine. Everything she does is to protect her brother Mani but she goes to such exaggerated lengths to do this that I questioned her intelligence on more than one account. To be honest, I enjoyed reading the chapters from Ilya’s point of view more. They popped up here and there, enough to make Ilya another protagonist in her own right and far more interesting. She was once a seductress and spy, used to make Marinda stronger while selling her own lives in exchange so she has a lot of reason to hate Marinda but she doesn’t. And her storyline kept the story moving, the acts of betrayal, spying on the Crocodile King, meeting a cute boy (though I have thoughts on the romance subplots in this book. . .). She captured my attention more than Marinda and made this book better than the first for that reason.

And as to that romance – ugh. It wasn’t as strong for most of the novel (thankfully) though there were scenes with Marinda and Deven together being super couple-y but not really enforcing why I should care if they’re together or not. Then Ilya got a romantic subplot which I enjoyed more because it was fun to watch the banter but it moved far too fast, much like Marinda and Deven in the previous book, but I actually saw something between Ilya and her guy. The romance lead to a sickly-sweet epilogue and not in the good way (I love romances, y’all, but not how this was done).

But Poison’s Cage did wrap up fully. I don’t feel like there’s room for more nor would I really want to read more in this particular series. I may pick up future books by the author, though. This was a slightly improved sequel in a pretty average duology.

I received an eARC of this book via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review.

Brilliant!! Utterly brilliant! Seriously I have no other words to describe this book. Poison’s Cage by Breeana Shields is the fantastic conclusion to Marinda’s story that began in Poison's Kiss. Full of intrigue, politics, and crisis of conscience, readers will not want to set this book down until the final page. I just thought I loved the first book, it doesn’t even compare to my feelings after finishing its sequel.

Picking up a few months after the end of Poison's Kiss, Marinda is back with Gita and heading to the Naga’s hideout. She is determined to bring the Naga down and bravely volunteers to be a spy for the raja in exchange for her brother Mani’s safety. I’ll admit I was a little lost at the beginning of the story as it’s been a year since I read the first book, but I quickly caught up to what was happening and realized that Marinda was getting herself in over her head. One of the things I love about Marinda’s character is her honesty and loyalty to her friends. This girl would die if it meant saving one of them and that is a real possibility going into the Naga’s inner circle.

But it isn’t just Marinda returning to the Naga. Ilya also goes on assignment from Deven to protect Marinda. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t a fan of Ilya in Poison's Kiss. I liked her, and I felt sorry for her. Here is a girl whose whole life has been taken in service to the Naga and in creating the visha kanya, the poison maiden Marinda. Yet as much as she resents Marinda, she loves her. They have a bond that goes deeper than just friends. These girls survived atrocities at Gopal’s hands and they did so together. I loved seeing their relationship from both girls. In fact, I fell in love with Ilya reading her POV chapters. She is such a conflicted character and I loved her redemption in this novel.

While Poison's Kiss was a fantasy, it focused more on Marinda and her discovering the Nagaraja. This book focuses more on the mythology and building of those myths. I absolutely fell in love with the plot. I loved learning more about the Naga, Garuda, and the others. I found it interesting how the author built her own myths on these characters who appear in Hindu texts. I loved how it was interwoven with this plot to bring down the Nagaraja and the truth behind what he actually is. Seriously couldn’t have predicted it and it gave me chills while reading. As I’ve already said….Brilliant!

Overall I believe that I loved Poison’s Cage more than I loved the first one and I really didn’t think that was possible! I loved getting two POVs, Marinda and Ilya’s. I loved their friendship, I loved Deven (because seriously that has to be said), and I loved the mythology. This book broke me in the end though. I cried like a baby and then cried some more. It’s a beautifully written story about two strong girls willing to give their lives to save the other. If you enjoyed the first, if you enjoy fantasy, grab a copy and read it as soon as you can. It will not disappoint!

Again Breeana Shields delivers a diverting story and a quick read. My main concern is that I never truly feel transported to an India or Indian inspired world. As a reader I want the world to come alive and have a depth that I never felt with Poison's Cage. Shields writing is strong enough to get me to finish the book but not memorable.

I was a big fan of Poison's Kiss and was eager to see how the series ended. I was extremely happy with this sequel and almost wish it was not the end.

•Pro: In my review for Poison's Kiss, I stated that I wanted more of the Iyla-Miranda friendship in this book, and you know what? Shields delivered. I loved getting to the root of their relationship and watching each of them make sacrifices for the other.

•Pro: Shields gave us so much more of the folklore in this book. We learn more of the origin story and I found it all quite fascinating.

•Pro: We got more of the beautiful writing I admired so much in the first book as we delved further into this world.

•Pro: Good things finally happen for Iyla. I don't want to say too much, but the fates finally did her a solid, and I was simply overjoyed that Shields gave Iyla a little happiness.

•Pro: So many ends were tied up quite nicely. I am a closure-ho, so you know I was loving all the answers I got, and let me tell you, there were some fantastic reveals.

•Pro: This book was much more emotional for me than Poison's Kiss. Some many good, bad, and in-between things happen in this book, and as I was celebrating some amazing beginnings, I was mourning some heartbreaking endings.

•Pro: I just want to take this time to give Breeana Shields a standing ovation for that ending. She may have broke my heart, but she more of less put it back together with that conclusion. I am getting chills just thinking about it.

Overall: A beautiful, emotional, and satisfying ending, which gave me closure and left me drying some happy tears.

I was hoping that this book would go better than the first one but they were both about the same.
The book started out really slow. The first 200 pages kept on dragging and they were so boring until I realized that pretty much the whole book was boring. The plot was very weak. There were so many holes in it and it kept on bouncing from point to point, without much fluidity.

However, I really enjoyed the amount of detail the author used to describe everything. I felt like I could see everything in my head and the imagery was very rich, but then again sometimes it was too much and I was like ok we get it the palace is nice.

The relationships in this book were badly developed and unnecessary. I remember that this was a problem in the first novel and it intensified in this book. Her relationship with Deven and Mani are so one-dimensional and undeveloped I couldn’t really feel much for them.

I guess I'm not surprised I didn't like this book. After all the first book only barely drew me in enough to read the second. By this point though most of my interest in the series is gone. I've seen this kind of story before written in a much more compelling way.