IF Styno is right. and it isn't with the vendors because it can be found in the game or through a quest then the system is just fine. but if it cannot be found anywhere at all then it is flawed.
also about which skills are we talking about exactly? i've heard walk in shadows and whirlwind? any others?
Although I have heard people saying that they bought whirlwind from Aureus, I think they are mistaken. he does not sell that book.
the only place to get that book in Cyseal is in the cellar of one of the houses there. it's a guaranteed find; sitting on a table IIRC.
I have also heard that you can get the book later in the game from the fire elemental in your homestead. have no clue about that one.
it's probably because whirlwind is pretty OP that they limit it.