Shadow Study is a book by Maria V. Snyder. This is the fiction book and fourth installment in The Chronicles of Ixia. The author has made a good fan base for herself. If you are looking to enjoy something special from the author then Poison Study is the novel for you. Night Study is another book from Maria that promises loads of entertainment.
The audio narration of the Shadow Study novel is done by Gabra Zackman. It was an outstanding narration which made the audio narration better than the print version.
The story of this novel started with the character of Yelena. She was a poison taster, yet her life was very simpler. But, she would survive to become an integral part when it comes to the balance of power between the rival countries. Those countries were Sitia and Ixia. She then started using all of her magic to ensure peace all across the two rival countries. The need was to protect the relationship that she had with Valek. 
All of a sudden, they were beset from all corners by those who were vying for power through intrigue and politics. Both the job and life of Valek were in danger. As Yelena tried to uncover the scope of the different secrets around, she was up against a completely new challenge. Her magic got blocked. She must keep that thing a secret. If not then her enemies will find out how vulnerable she had become. Yes, those poison-tasting days were indeed much simpler and not as dangerous.
The story had some amazing twists and turns on offer. This was an outstanding addition to the series. The adventures within the book are an indicator of something even bigger and better in the series.