Fire Study

Articleissues
unreferenced = February 2008
cleanup = February 2008infobox Book |
name = Fire Study
title_orig =
translator =


image_caption =
author = Maria V. Snyder
illustrator =
cover_artist = Erin Craig
country = United States
language = English
series = Study Series
genre = Fantasy
publisher = Mira
release_date = March 2008
english_release_date =
media_type = Print Trade Paperback
pages = 441
isbn = 9780778325345
followed_by = Storm Glass

"Fire Study" is a 2008 fantasy novel written by Maria V. Snyder, and is the third book of a series.

Plot summary

Fire Study continues Yelena Zaltana’s adventures. When word that Yelena is a Soulfinder—able to capture and release souls—spreads like wildfire, people grow uneasy. As the Council debates Yelena’s fate, she receives a disturbing message: a plot is rising, led by a murderous sorcerer she has defeated before.

Drawing on untested skills, Yelena becomes embroiled in the desperate fight to stop the Daviian Clan from unleashing a Fire Warper. Unfortunately, fire is one element she can’t control even if her life depended on it. And there is more at stake than just her life.

Yelena’s journey is fraught with allies, enemies, lovers and would-be assassins, each of questionable loyalty. She will have one chance to prove herself—and save the land she holds dear.

Characters

*Yelena — Main Heroine.
*Valek — Main Hero, a highly skilled Assassin whom is famous and feared for killing the former king, and being immune to magic. As the chief of security, Valek’s duties involve keeping the Territory of Ixia and the Commander safe. He’s in charge of a vast network of spies throughout Ixia and into the southern lands of Sitia. The work suits him as he enjoys putting together pieces of information and discovering plots and plans well before they’re initiated. Patience learned when he studied the assassin arts aids him when he does find an illegal activity in full swing. Watching and learning as much as he can, Valek will only pounce when he’s assured of catching all the culprits. He’s not only confident, but cocky as well.
*Commander Ambrose — Secondary character. Powerful and focused, the Commander doesn’t suffer fools at all. Driven by his own code of behavior, the Commander detests opulence and excess, viewing it as a waste of time and money. He believes in simplicity and logic, and has set up a strict way of living that is very straightforward and without compromise. Uncorrupted by power, he lives the life he endorses, makes sure all his people are treated fairly, and all their needs are met. Advisors and officers are promoted based solely on intelligence and skill.
*Ardenus (Ari for short) - Secondary character. Solid, strong and unflappable, Ari is a down to earth guy. His intelligence has helped him rise through the ranks of the Commander’s Army from Private to Captain. He is the complete opposite of his partner, Janco, who can drive him crazy at times but Ari won’t trust anyone else to protect his back.
*Janco — Secondary character. Quick witted and fleet footed, Janco is a fast fighter and talker. He loves to duel with swords and sing rhymes to unnerve his opponents. Known as a jokester, Janco is frequently underestimated and has surprised many with his fighting skills. His views on life are rather odd and he enjoys embellishing a good story. His partner, Ari keeps him in line and grounds him. Janco’s constant bantering and bickering with others makes for either high entertainment or pure annoyance depending on who you are, but if anyone should threaten one of his friends, Janco turns deadly serious.

External links

[http://www.mariavsnyder.com/ Maria V. Snyder - Official homepage of the Author]