New York Times bestselling author Maria V. Snyder wowed readers with Poison Study, the unforgettable story of poison taster Yelena. Now she’s back with a new tale of intrigue.
Once, only her own life hung in the balance…
Oddly enough, when Yelena was a poison taster, her life was simpler. But she’d survived to 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.
Suddenly, though, they are beset on all sides by those vying for power through politics and intrigue. Valek’s job and his life are in danger. As Yelena tries to uncover the scope of these plots, she faces a new challenge: her magic is 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.
Yes, the days of tasting poisons were much simpler. And certainly not as dangerous…
“Doing full justice to the plot of this original and entertaining epic fantasy is impossible. Suffice it to say that the action is nonstop. The many characters leap to life, particularly Yelena, whose first-person narrative is riveting.” —RT Book Reviews on Fire Study
Now available as ebooks!
Praise for New York Times bestselling author
MARIA V.
SNYDER
‘Maria V. Snyder tantalises readers with another complex, masterful story set in a magical world so convincing that she’ll have you believing that it’s actually real.’
—YAReads.com on Storm Glass
‘A compelling new fantasy series’
—SFX magazine on Sea Glass
‘Wonderfully complex … Opal finally comes into her own in Spy Glass.’ —Fantasy Book Review
‘This is one of those rare books that will keep readers dreaming long after they’ve read it.’
—Publishers Weekly starred review on Poison Study
‘Filled with Snyder’s trademark sarcastic humour, fast-paced action and creepy villainy, Touch of Power is a spellbinding romantic adventure that will leave readers salivating for the next book in the series.’ —USA TODAY on Touch of Power
‘Maria V. Snyder is one of my favourite authors, and she’s done it again!’
—New York Times bestselling author Rachel Caine on Inside Out
Also by New York Times bestselling author Maria V. Snyder
from MIRA INK™
The Chronicles of Ixia
POISON STUDY
MAGIC STUDY
FIRE STUDY
STORM GLASS
SEA GLASS
SPY GLASS
The Insider Series
INSIDE OUT
OUTSIDE IN
from MIRA BOOKS
Avry of Kazan series
TOUCH OF POWER
SCENT OF MAGIC
TASTE OF DARKNESS
www.mirabooks.co.uk/mariavsnyder
This book is dedicated to all my loyal readers who asked for more books about Yelena and Valek. This one is for you. Enjoy!
THE TERRITORY OF IXIA
Contents