Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder

Laying hands upon the injured and dying, Avry of Kazan absorbs their wounds and diseases into herself. But rather than being honored for her skills, she is hunted. Healers like Avry are accused of spreading the plague that has decimated the Fifteen Realms, leaving the survivors in a state of chaos.

Stressed and tired from hiding, Avry is abducted by a band of rogues who, shockingly, value her gift above the golden bounty offered for her capture. Their leader, an enigmatic captor-protector with powers of his own, is unequivocal in his demands: Avry must heal a plague-stricken prince—leader of a campaign against her people. As they traverse the daunting Nine Mountains, beset by mercenaries and magical dangers, Avry must decide who is worth healing and what is worth dying for. Because the price of peace may well be her life...

Another great book by a great author.  I was looking forward to reading a fantasy by Snyder after reading her Inside Out series, and I was definitely not disappointed.  The biggest part of what I loved was the worldbuilding.  Snyder built her own magic system in a world that works symbiotically with it.  I like how there are different types of mages and their effects on the world around them are unique.  The magic plants, especially the lilies, are also a nice touch.  Characters are another high point.  I loved Avry and how she grew into her power while keeping her morality and learning what it is to keep a promise to evil people.  I was not as big on Kerrick because of his early manipulations and meanness towards Avry, however, I can see how it really defined his character as the person who would do anything to save his friend.  The plot was good, however it had some really repetitive spots where the gang were yet again hiding out in a cave or walking through a forest which really slowed things down to a near-standstill.  I did like how Snyder is not afraid of being cruel to her characters, and in some areas I almost cried over them (no spoilers!).  The ending was good, making me want the sequel but not being so much of a cliffhanger that I was angry.  I've already got the next book on order and I'll be furiously devouring it in December!