When fifteen-year-old Ciarán Morrigan eavesdrops on a conversation between his father and two mysterious strangers, his life—and the life of his little sister, Remiel—is changed forever.

After their father makes a startling decision, the Morrigan siblings are forced to flee the only life they've ever known and embark on a dangerous adventure across the nation of Empirya.

With the help of a disinherited vagabond, a cynical violinist, a fire-juggler with a fierce temper, an aspiring mechanic, and a cheerful librarian, Ciarán and Remiel must fight to escape those who have been hired to hunt them.

But will Remiel's dark secret prevent the Morrigan children from finding a place they can truly call home?

Missouri, 1849: Samantha dreams of moving back to New York to be a professional musician—a challenging goal, especially for a Chinese girl. But a tragic accident dashes her hopes and leaves her fearing for her life. With the help of a runaway slave named Annamae, Samantha flees town for the unknown frontier.

Life on the Oregon Trail is dangerous for two girls, so they disguise themselves as Sammy and Andy, two boys heading for the California gold rush. Sammy and Andy forge a powerful bond as they each search for a link to their past and struggle to avoid unwanted attention.

When they cross paths with a band of cowboys, the light-hearted troupe becomes unexpected allies. With the law closing in and new setbacks emerging each day, the girls quickly learn there are few places to hide on the open trail.

This beautifully written debut is an exciting adventure and a heart-wrenching survival tale. Above all, it’s a story about perseverance and trust that will restore your faith in the power of friendship.