The first in a disturbing an overwhelming trilogy, this story that is primarily directed towards younger readers will also spark the interest of older readers thanks to its remarkable combination of horror, mystery, love, and action. Emmeline knows she s not supposed to explore the woods outside her settlement. The enemy that has wiped out half her people lurks out there, attacking at night and keeping them isolated in an unfamiliar land with merciless winters. When faced with a potential wedding to the wrong someone, Emmeline s dreams urge her into the woods, where she uncovers the path her grandmother once took the one that cost her. What is really at the end of the path? Is it something so dark and scary as everyone has claimed? If Emmeline isn t careful, she may have the same fate has her grandmother."