ROSEMARKED, by Livia Blackburne

The story: Zivah is rose marked by a disease that will kill her. Dineas is scarred by torture and loss. Thrust together on a high-stakes mission to spy on the capital, the two couldn’t be more different: Zivah, deeply committed to her vow of healing, and Dineas, yearning for vengeance. But as they grow closer, they must find common ground to protect those they love.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG; Violence PG-13; Sexual content PG; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG-13; Magic & the occult G; GLBt content G; adult themes (torture, implied genocide, scenes of battle violence) PG-13; overall rating PG-13.

Liz's comments: Told in alternating viewpoints, this is a fast-moving fantasy that will especially appeal to girls. A complicated story, best for 8th and up.