After her mother's death, 14-year-old Fenna escapes the clutches of her abusive stepfather in the dead of night, fleeing to the grim streets of Ravenshire. In her first love, she believes she has found a place to call home. But after marriage, all she receives in return is violence and verbal abuse. Determined not to wait for a lover to save her, she swears off the idea of depending on anyone again. However, she never expects to meet Vandersey. A man who is charming, ruthless, powerful, and wealthy—he is destined to rule the underworld as the head of a mafia family. "Fenna, my love, all I need is for you to be waiting at home when I return," Vandersey whispers, pressing a tender kiss to her lips. "No matter what happens." Fenna smiles back. The heat from the gun tucked at the small of her back is a reminder of her resolve. Only she knows that she will never again sit at home, waiting for anyone. She is her own salvation. Character Key: Fenna Olivia—The female protagonist. The Mind's Voice—Fenna's unique ability, similar to telepathy. The more tense or fearful a person is, the louder their thoughts become to Fenna. Paul Oliver—Fenna's abusive husband. Vandersey Olivia—The male protagonist, Fenna's possibly estranged cousin (a claim made by Paul to protect himself, but its truth remains unverified.) Clement Archer—Vandersey's superior. Ravenshire—Fenna's current residence. The Vegetable Stall—The stall where Fenna sells vegetables. Amelia Darcy—A female government employee Fenna once helped, who works in law enforcement and calls Fenna "The Garbage Angel." Vivienne Carnet—The seamstress who runs a shop downstairs in Fenna's apartment. Philip Hayes—Amelia's coworker. Danno Department Store—Fenna's second job after working at the vegetable stall. She works as a sales associate at this department store. Evelyn Harris—The department store's manager and Fenna's mentor. Capone Donovan—Clement's superior. Annie Greer—The household maid for Fenna and Vandersey, who later becomes Vandersey's mistress. Billy Thompson—An undercover cop infiltrating the mafia who was mistakenly killed by the police. He had once helped Vandersey.