In this prequel to the already published novel, "Westerdale" we find out how the early life of Heaton Grimshaw shapes and moulds the character of the man he later becomes. Born from a disastrous meeting of insanity and tyranny he struggles to make sense of the world around him, having no true knowledge of his absent parents. Tainted by streaks of cruelty and always dogged by black moods and dark depressions Heaton is hated by his peers and becomes the proverbial loner. Despite being raised as a gentleman the wild part of Heaton's spirit dominates, ill-preparing him for the many injustices and tragedies he is forced to suffer as he struggles through life. But Heaton has one unique gift...his ability with horses and thus he uses this latent talent to carve a niche for himself when all else fails. But blood is thicker than water and as events and his siblings move against him we find him wandering beaten, penniless and homeless on the very moorland that is to lead him to Westerdale and a new chapter of his life.