by P. C. Cast
First published 2016
Mari belongs to the Earth Walker Clan and carries powerful healing abilities passed down through generations. She has avoided her responsibilities until a special animal companion selects her and transforms her path. A brutal assault destroys her community and forces Mari to reveal both her magical strength and a dangerous secret about her mixed heritage. She begins a desperate quest to protect what remains of her people. During her mission, she encounters Nik, whose father leads a rival Tribe that has long dominated her own. Mari discovers feelings she has never experienced before. An ancient evil approaches their world, bringing destruction beyond anything previously witnessed. Mari must drive this darkness from the land. She chooses to violate sacred Clan traditions by joining forces with Nik. Together they prepare for the coming battle. Mari must save her surviving people, protect herself and Nik, and accept the destiny she was born to fulfill as she faces enemies determined to annihilate everything she loves.
Genres: romance, adventure, fantasy, action
Vibes: atmospheric, emotional, suspenseful
Tropes: chosen-one, enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Earth Walker Clan, Tribe
Period: ancient
608 pages · Hardcover · St. Martin's Griffin
Content warnings: violence