Death Marked (Death Sworn)

Having lost her magic and been exiled to the concealed caves of the assassins, Ileni learns the truth behind her entire life. Every truth she has been told is replaced by a lie; Ileni’s life has been directed so that she will eventually destroy the Empire. Contrary to what the assassins want, Ileni only wants to discover the truth, not to become a weapon for anyone to use. So, Ileni infiltrates the Imperial Academy of Sorcery, where she regains the use of magic with the help of lodestones. However, her joy at this recaptured magic is tarnished by the type of magic; her original magic is one of healing and peace, not of combat and war. Ileni’s beliefs about the truth shift, causing new alliances to form, and old friendships to falter.

The second novel in a two-part series, Death Marked leaves quite a bit to be desired. The budding relationship started in the first novel is largely underdeveloped because the characters, Ileni and Sorin, are apart from each other. In addition to this, much of the conflict developed in this novel is internal; a lot of the action is developed through Ileni’s decisions, not external conflicts. For those who enjoy characters’ internal struggle and emotional development, this novel fulfills the requirements with enough external conflict to make this an enjoyable read.