To the Haunted Mountains (Tales of Nedao #1) by Ru Emerson - Vintage Paperback

This story is mine to lay before you, by right and by knowledge; alone of those who know the tale, I, Nisana, was present from its Nedaoan beginnings to their end.

Though we of AEldra blood who wear cat's form are brief of speech, I take the telling willingly upon myself that you may know the truth of Ylia... Lady of Nedao, heir to the throne, swordswoman and sorceress.

Here then is the beginning-from the destruction of the King's City, to the dark magics of a long and perilous journey. Listen carefully, and come with me...

"Ru Emerson has a deft and confident knowledge of both the geography of her world, and the more subtle inner terrain of her character's emotions."
-MEGAN LINDHOLM, author of WIZARD OF THE PIGEONS