For nearly 10,000 years, the Trials have been a sacred tradition. Only within an ancient forest can every child of age hope to master their elemental gifts... But Evalina Verdani was born a child of storms. Daelyn Preis grew up with a soul full of flames. And Tevaun and Mireia both had hearts bound to darkness itself. Locked away their entire lives, they were told their gifts were just too different. Too dangerous to allow into the outside world. Which is why they each dreamed endlessly of escaping into the Ildarwood. Only by defeating the menacing threats lurking within could they ever hope to change their tragic fates... Written for fantasy-loving teens and adults alike, this dark yet inspirational prequel to the main "Trials of Ildarwood" series includes a hand-drawn map, thirteen chapter illustrations, and an appendix full of lore. , the largest international awards program for independent authors and publishers.