Graceling - Kristin Cashore

In the Middluns, some people are born "Graced" with special abilities. They have skills that far surpass the average. They can hold their breath longer, run faster, or sing more beautifully. Or, they might be able to sense emotions ... even read minds. 

Katsa's Grace is killing and because of this she is the favorite weapon of her uncle, the King. She wishes to escape his control and find another use for her life.

A rescue attempt brings Katsa face-to-face with another Graced young man, a Leonid prince who intrigues her. Their time together begins to unravel the secrets of a king whose unblemished reputation has spread across the Seven Kingdoms. 

In a search to find the truth, to discover her place in the world, and to open herself to love, Katsa must push beyond all boundaries and risk it all.

Soulbound - Heather Brewer

I must admit I haven't read the Vladimir Todd books, but I did pick up Heather Brewer's newest book Soulbound. It was fantastic.

This book combines some of my favorite elements: katanas, killer beasts, romance, and a female protagonist the reader can easily get behind.

Kaya must attend Shadow Academy. There her life is dictated by Protocol. As a Healer, Kaya is expected to stay on the sidelines and sacrifice whatever is needed to help the Barron to whom she is bound. However, Kaya has seen what can happen when the helpless are attacked. She vows she will be ready to protect herself and those she cares about.

But when Kaya looks for someone to train her, she finds her options are nearly non-existent. Only one man will train her, and he's been working to making her life miserable. Can she trust him to train her, even if she has to keep it a secret from her bound Barron?

As Kaya pushes against Protocol for her independence, she learns more about herself and others than she expected. Can she become strong enough to stand on her own?

Other Titles You Might Enjoy:
Graceling