Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder.

Touch of Power
by
Maria V. Snyder.

Laying hands upon the injured and dying, Avry of Kazan assumes their wounds and diseases into herself. But rather than being honored for her skills, she is hunted. Healers like Avry are accused of spreading the plague that has decimated the Territories, leaving the survivors in a state of chaos.

Stressed and tired from hiding, Avry is abducted by a band of rogues who, shockingly, value her gift above the golden bounty offered for her capture. Their leader, an enigmatic captor-protector with powers of his own, is unequivocal in his demands: Avry must heal a plague-stricken prince—leader of a campaign against her people. As they traverse the daunting Nine Mountains, beset by mercenaries and magical dangers, Avry must decide who is worth healing and what is worth dying for. Because the price of peace may well be her life....

***********************************************************************
Summary:

The story picks up in the aftermath of a devastating plague, which the healers guild were unable to cure without dying themselves. As a result, healers are not revered by society, but rather they are hunted drifters. Avry finds herself incarcerated, awaiting death, but then is rescued by a motley crew who want her to heal their leader, Prince Ryne, who lies in suspended animation in a magical coma in a distant land. He has a bad reputation, and he has the plague; healing him would kill Avry. 

In this Book there are some strong Characters!  

Avry; She is definitely no damsel in distress, Avry steps into leadership positions when she needs to, kicks ass when she needs to, and comforts and mothers when she needs to.  She is like one of the Best Heroines Ever.

Kerrick;  Not an easy character to love. Kind of an jerk, I know he had his reasons, But it was hard to like him for over half the book, then he becamea bit more gentle and understanding.

Belan; Poppa Bear. Big, kind, lovable protector. I loved him right from the start.

 Quain, Vinn, and Flea;  Loved them, these guys brought some fun to the book!

There is Magic!

The plot is so intriguing. If you like high fantasy and also read paranormal or urban fantasy you should like this. It's high fantasy but over done, and the language used is fresh and modern.  It's not stuffy and boring like other high fantasy masters who shall not be named. It's very political, with heaps of plot twists, some i didn't even see coming!

The magic system was simply wonderful. I wasn't entirely sure about the other types of mages, but I absolutely love healers that accept the sicknesses and injuries of others.  It meant that Avry had a weakness, an Achilles heel, that she wasn't some unstoppable force. It was awesome!


My ratings;  4.5 out of 5.

Age Range;  I'd say 12 up.  but again depends on the person!




Hope you Enjoy!   ;)