Taste of Darkness by Maria V. Snyder is an intense and thrilling conclusion to the Healer series. Avry, the protagonist, continues her fight to save her people while navigating dangerous political intrigue and a powerful enemy. The story is filled with action, magic, and heart-pounding twists. Avry’s strength and determination shine, and her relationship with Kerrick provides a solid emotional core. While the pacing is fast, some plot threads could feel rushed. Still, fans of the series will love this exciting finale packed with danger, romance, and adventure!

Reviewing old arcs, have tried to read but couldn't get into. Won't be trying again so no formal review will be posted on social media.

Taste Of Darkness by Maria V. Snyder is the conclusion to Snyder’s Healer trilogy and friends, I think maybe I might have had a different experience with this book had I chosen to read it closer to the previous two books in this trilogy. This book follows what happens when Avry and Kerrick are separated as well as all the different factions getting ready for the final battle. As it has been about six years since I read the second book in the series, I had no idea what was going on for the most part. I figured out somethings from context clues, but my advice to you all is to read this trilogy closer together to enhance your level of appreciation.

While I can’t really speak to character growth from book to book because I don’t have much of a recollection of the two previous books, I can certainly speak for plotting, pacing, and world building. I kind of felt like this book was a little bit slow paced and it seemed like there was a lot of waiting around for something to happen. I mean, first Kerrick up and leaves and we’re waiting to find out his fate. Then we’re waiting around to figure out what to do about Cellina and Tohon and the Skeleton King, but also Estrid. For me, the plot just didn’t feel all that cohesive. I am sure loose threads were wrapped up, but I can’t even remember most of the threads to begin with.

That being said, a Maria V. Snyder book where I felt a little lost as a reader is still better than NO Maria V. Snyder books. I enjoyed the interaction between all the characters. The friendships were fun to read about — especially the “monkeys.” I also liked Avry’s mentorship of Flea and the ongoing joke of “Thank the Flea.”Also, there’s a lot of adult situations which Avry and Kerrick, so don’t confuse this for a YA book, I’d probably put this in NA/adult fiction. On the whole, I did really like reading this book but definitely wish I had taken the time to re-read or at least refresh myself before diving in to finish up Taste Of Darkness and the Healer trilogy.

While reading this book, one thing I realised is that when you pick up a fantasy novel by Maria V. Snyder, you really know what you're getting into by now. The characters are determined and likeable. The writing is awesome and moves quickly. There's enough about the worldbuilding and magic systems to keep you intrigued, as well as a romantic side plot that never overwhelms the plot.
it's satisfying to see the baddies finally get what's coming to them.