In the meticulously crafted city of Aurum, Luella's 17 year old life appears unremarkable. But her world is shattered by the discovery that she has contracted the disease that nearly eradicated the human race and caused mutations. The mutated are not welcome in Aurum and she will have to flee for her life. With nowhere to turn Luella seeks her charming Uncle Reglin's help. She seeks refuge in a Trial encampment, only to find herself entangled in the power struggles between the Directorate and the powerful Innovian Government. As Luella navigates the perilous landscape outside of Aurum, she is paired with a trainer, Ian Hatteras, an infuriating man with a troubled past and secrets that could change everything. As the mysteries surrounding the disease unravel, Luella must confront her destiny and the challenges that lie ahead. With courage and determination, she faces the unknown, determined to survive in a world where nothing is as it seems.

Jess grew up in the smallest of small towns where everyone knew everyone. Very few people left Lost Springs, Wyoming except for Jess's major High School crush, Nathan. His football scholarship took him all the way to the University of Oregon. Jess was sure she would never see him again, not that he even knew who she was. No one paid attention to the chubby, funny friend who pretty girls like Brittany kept around because she wasn't threatening to them. But that was about to change in ways Jess never could have never suspected.