Rosemarked

Gr 9 Up—When early symptoms of the dreaded Rose plague are discovered among the Amparan soldiers occupying her small village, Zivah volunteers to help. Despite having just finished her apprenticeship, Zivah is a gifted and compassionate healer. Sadly, her contact with the infected troops doesn't leave her unscathed. She contracts the disease and remains alive but Rosemarked, a sign that she is a carrier and will not live more than a few more years. No longer able to perform her duties as a healer, Zivah goes into seclusion until the commander of the soldiers she aided sends word that her services are needed at the Capitol, where many people have contracted the same illness. Meanwhile Dineas, a Shidadi tribesman whose people have spent years in prolonged combat with Capitol troops, has been given a mission—infiltrate the Amparan troops and pass vital information to his clan. After a chance and near-deadly encounter, Zivah and Dineas reluctantly join forces and travel together to the Capitol. Though they couldn't be more different, Zivah and Dineas gradually overcome their mutual distrust and find common ground in their desire to protect their people. This is a fast-paced, well-written, can't-put-down fantasy that will appeal to a wide audience. A sequel will be in high demand.