Book Review: Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder

Title: Touch of Power
Author: Maria V. Snyder
Genre: Teen Fiction, Adult Fiction, Fantasy
Publication Date: 12/20/11  (I can't wait to purchase my copy!!!)
Publisher: Mira
ISBN-13 Book: 9780778313076
Source: I received a copy for review from NetGalley.  This is my honest review.

Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In a land where healers are hunted and blamed for a plague, healer Avery of Kazan has been on the run for three years, never staying too long in one place, constantly fearing capture, and keeping to herself for her own safety.  Until, one night when she heals a child and is turned in to the city guard by the child’s parents.  There is only one sentences for those accused of being a healer, death.  While waiting for her punishment, Kerrick appears and offers to rescue her from her predicament if she will heal a friend.  Unfortunately, Kerrick’s friend has the plague, and healing a plague victim is a death sentence for any healer.

I love fantasy novels, if you can’t tell by the number of them that I review.  I love it when a fantasy world envelops you and becomes so believable that you can see it, smell it, and even taste it.  Very few authors are capable of creating a world that attractive and enticing, but I am definitely going to have to add Snyder’s name to the list of authors that can.  Her world of the fifteen kingdoms is remarkable, as is her world building.  I had no problem navigating my way through her fantasy world.

The characters were interesting.  Kerrick is stubborn, but noble.  Belen is the lovable “Poppa Bear” always looking out for his cubs.  Flea, is the youngster who just wants to grow up, and don’t forget the inseparable Vinn and Quain.  Each character has the niche, and getting to know them was part of the fun.  Avery herself is a strong female character.  She lets Kerrick know that she decides who she will and won’t heal.  I love that despite being a captive, she has the strength of character to stand up for herself.

The pacing of the novel is perfect, it was a very quick read, and I loathed putting it down.  It had enough detail to keep the reader interested and involved, yet this didn’t hamper the momentum of the novel.  It kept me turning pages all the way through. 

The dialogue between Kerrick and Avery was one of my favorite parts of the novel.  Avery isn’t afraid to stand up for herself and she is a very strong character.  It was interesting to see these two butting heads.

My only criticism of the novel is that it was a bit predictable.  I saw the ending coming a mile away, and yes even some of the relationships too.  In this novel though, I am not sure it is a bad thing.  The author gave me what I wanted.  I wanted that ending and that relationship.  Call me a sucker, but it worked for me.

Overall, I loved this fantasy book, and hope Snyder writes more—I want to see these characters again.  Besides, they have so loose ends to tie up!  This is being billed as a first in the series—I personally can’t wait for number two!

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