Some wounds never heal. Some debts demand to be paid.

At seven years old, Jerran watched his world burn.

His family was torn from him, his home reduced to ashes, and the man responsible escaped justice. Alone and desperate, Jerran survived the only way he knew how—by stealing, fighting, and learning never to trust the world that had betrayed him.

Ten years later, Jerran has carved out a life for himself. But the past has never loosened its grip.

When an unexpected discovery offers him a chance to confront the horrors of his childhood, Jerran must leave behind the fragile life he has built and venture into a world of dangerous magic, deadly creatures, and secrets better left buried.

He won't travel alone.

At his side are Brannick, his loyal friend and aspiring wizard; Kassiera, a formidable warrior with a will of her own; and Tarrus, a gifted bard whose talents may prove invaluable on the road ahead.

But as their journey carries them deeper into danger, Jerran discovers that enemies are not always easy to recognize, loyalty comes at a price, and the truth about his past may be more painful than the memories that haunt him.

With everything he loves at risk, Jerran must decide how far he is willing to go to settle an old score—and what he is willing to sacrifice along the way.

For a young thief haunted by the ashes of yesterday, the greatest battle may be deciding who he will become tomorrow.