The Red Light of Dawn — Jonathan Edward Feinstein

The people of Narmouth had always thought young Gaenor was a bit odd, but even they would never have thought she would vie for a man's job by applying for an apprenticeship with the local adept. However, getting the job is just the start. Working for the mysterious Artur the Southlander, she not only learns magic but proves herself to be an inventive genius. When Artur is placed on the king's honors list, they travel to the capital, but end up running for their lives.