A Magic Steeped in Poison

Tea magic is really interesting and tasty concept.
The plot was concised to the competition, which was interesting and the court politics - the tension, the drama, the unease of who to trust was done so well. Although, there were some plot holes in the middle part of the story, just for conveniently get the main characters some information they seek.
The romance did not feel needed, quite rushed and not entirely fulfilled.