Unexpected Heroes

Saving the world from feuding gods made Ludik miss his wedding once before, so nothing will keep him from marrying his beloved this time…Except maybe a dead body. The accidental death of a trespasser could break the peace between the shapeshifting kindreds of Darrendra. In a mad race to keep a misguided witness from sowing deadly rumors, Ludik must follow the trail through hostile territory and turn a fierce wolf into an ally. But another death may shatter their fragile accord, and even with the help of his outkindred friends-a gilled translator, a fire mage, and the winged messenger of the Gods-Ludik might not be able to prevent war or escape his own execution. Danger lurks among the trees, and even if he solves the clues, the cost might break his heart.

In the last two years, fire mage Zefra helped defeat a band of pirates, avert a war, and even rescue the gods. What *can't she do? Find a job. Though her deeds are famous, no one believes the legends are about a scrawny, sixteen-year-old girl. With no prospects for work, Zefra leaves to try her luck in another city. But luck is not on her side. A powerful new cult is rising, preaching the downfall of the gods- and she and her friends stand in its way. When they are divided by kidnappers, assassins, and prison, she is left alone to track the clues. Zefra's only hope lies in a team of shapeshifting spies and a coded map to a lost city. If she can't untangle the conspiracy, the death of the gods will be just the beginning.