The Queen's Poisoner

The Kingfountain Series, Book 1

By: Jeff Wheeler

Narrated by: Kate Rudd

The first book in the million-copy, Wall Street Journal bestselling Kingfountain series from Jeff Wheeler.

King Severn Argentine’s fearsome reputation precedes him: usurper of the throne, killer of rightful heirs, ruthless punisher of traitors. Attempting to depose him, the Duke of Kiskaddon gambles...and loses. Now the duke must atone by handing over his young son, Owen, as the king’s hostage. And should his loyalty falter again, the boy will pay with his life.

Seeking allies and eluding Severn’s spies, Owen learns to survive in the court of Kingfountain. But when new evidence of his father’s betrayal threatens to seal his fate, Owen must win the vengeful king’s favor by proving his worth - through extraordinary means. And only one person can aid his desperate cause: a mysterious woman, dwelling in secrecy, who truly wields power over life, death, and destiny.

©2016 Jeff Wheeler (P)2016 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved.

Political Intrigue and Magic

I thought the narration was excellent; it really added to the world of the book by making characters so distinct.

The world itself is also fun; the culture has an emphasis on water, and everything related back to a belief in the fountain (where the series gets it's name).

Owen is the central figure. A young boy that is sent to the king as a hostage, but has a strongly sympathetic effect on much of the household, he slowly learns subtle skills to help him survive. The central question is whether all the help and knowledge he obtains will be enough.

My only reservation was how one character is called fat/unhealthy repeatedly as an insult. The character isn't evil and is more than just that representation, so it was something I could get past, but it was there.

I'm very excited to hear book two!

meh

Decent story plot, enjoyed the narration, just didnt feel like there was captivating plot drama

Yet another winner!

I’m a recent convert to this author but so far I’ve loved everything - whether it be contemporary thriller or fantasy. So upset when the book is done and can’t wait to pick up the next!

fun story

I enjoyed the book and I look forward to sharing it with the kids who also love magic and fantasy books

I'm addicted

I'm addicted to Jeff Wheeler's world ... this is the 3rd series I've started and will finish and I'm amazed by the depth and formula he uses to take me into such wonderful yet introspective worlds ... that becomes like memories of another life on another world yet the magic is so familiar you can almost feel it in ours.
Big thanks to Kate Rudd for delivering this universe when I commute 2hrs to work and then keep listening later bc I can't stop while I work... I think her quality delivery is just as important as the stories (nothing worse than a great story being read by the wrong person) and she sells it like she wrote it or was there. Thank you both for making horrible driving time now something I yearn for 😁