Chronicles of Ixia: Study

As the Sitian Council, deeming her dangerous due to her Soulfinder abilities, decides her fate, Yolena, who can capture and release souls, embarks on a dangerous journey to her homeland to save her people from a murderous sorcerer.

"Ever since being kidnapped from the Illiais Jungle as a child, Yelena Zaltana's life has been fraught with peril. But the recent loss of her Soulfinding abilities has endangered her more than ever before. As she desperately searches for a way to reclaim her magic, her enemies are closing in, and neither Ixia nor Sitia is safe for her anymore. Especially since the growing discord between the two countries and the possibility of a war threatens everything...

Former poison taster Yelena has become a vital part of the balance of power between rival countries Ixia and Sitia. Now she uses her magic to keep the peace in both lands -- and protect her relationship with Valek. But when her magic is suddenly blocked, she must keep that a secret -- or her enemies will discover just how vulnerable she really is -- while searching for who or what is responsible for neutralizing her powers.

From condemned prisoner to food taster for the Commander of Ixia, from apprentice to a charismatic assassin to warrior with ever-evolving magical powers, Yelena is a remarkable heroine like none you've ever experienced.
Follow her amazing journey through Maria V. Snyder's breathtaking fantasy series, which New York Times bestselling author Mercedes Lackey calls "engaging and entirely original...fascinating in its rich detail."...