Fireblood - Jeff Wheeler

Tyrus of Kenatos has made it his life's work to banish the plagues that ravage the kingdoms. He believes the answer to ending the devastation lies in the Scourgelands. Yet, Tyrus's first expedition into the cursed woods failed after being defeated by mysterious minions who stalked and killed most of his band.

Now a prisoner in his own tower, Tyrus has summoned his nephew Annona Druidecht possessing innate magic called the firebloodon the guise of finding a hidden treasure with which to purchase his twin sister Hettie's freedom. But in reality, Tyrus is using his niece and nephew, and their magic, as an opportunity to escape and resume his desperate mission. And to aid them, he has enlisted the warrior-monk Paedrinwho is almost as green as the siblings when it comes to traveling these troubled lands. The trio is determined, and along the way they grow to trust each otherand new additions to the groupin order to accomplish their missionswhether or not those missions are one and the same.

But the Arch-Rikeruthless ruler of Kenatoshas learned of these plans, and has sent the fearsome Kishion to destroy all those that oppose him. Now Tyrus and his unwitting allies must face down not only the plague, but this new enemyand fulfill their quest before a fresh horror is unleashed on the world.

Author of the Muirwood Trilogy, Landmoor, Silverkin, and numerous stories and articles for the fantasy e-zine Deep Magic, Jeff Wheeler has long been fascinated with medieval history and lore. His inspiration for Fireblood stemmed from reading about the Black Death and its devastation in Europe and from his research of ancient Roman and Greek civilizations. Jeff is a writer from 7-10 p.m. on Wednesday nights. The rest of the time, he works for Intel Corporation, is a husband, a father of five kids, and a leader in his local church. He lives in Rocklin, California. When he isn't listening to books during his commute, he is dreaming up new stories to write.