In the Territories, a dark force stirs, Though no one knows if it's born of men or something far more sinister. Those who crossed the treacherous Burnt Ocean seeking a new life found their dreams shattered upon arrival, while those who had already settled there live in constant terror. Life in the Territories was never expected to be easy, but no one anticipated the horrors that awaited: kidnapped, chained, and forced into the mines, fueling the Governors’ wealth. Survivors of the brutal conditions wonder if they are truly the lucky ones, for at least their tormentors are human—unlike the mysterious creatures that lurk in the mist. When the Murk rolls in, it leaves death in its wake, the monsters in the mist savagely killing any who are caught in their grip. A small band of Highlanders have managed to elude that fate, but the relentless fear and creeping despair have taken their toll. With each passing day, the Governors grow richer, indifferent to the suffering of their people, while terror spreads. Hope flickers in the form of Jakob Kestrel, a man who doesn't flee the Murk. Instead, he hunts within it. Meanwhile, Bryen Keldragan and Aislinn Winborne, newcomers to the Territories, sense something dark brewing in the land but are unprepared for the horrors that await them. And while Jakob resists joining the larger fight, Talia Carlomin is determined to rid the Sea of Mist of its marauders at any cost. What none of them know is that fate has entwined their paths. And if they don’t come together, the Highlanders—and all who dwell in the Territories—will be doomed to a bloody end. Check out The Tales of the Territories , an Arthurian epic fantasy series that’s part of the universe of The Realms of the Talent and the Curse . If you want to find out more about this world, read the preceding series: The Sylvan Chronicles (9-book series) The Tales of Caledonia (7-book series) Peter Wacht is a best-selling author of epic sword and sorcery fantasy. He's published two series -- The Sylvan Chronicles and The Tales of Caledonia -- both set in The Realms of the Talent and the Curse. Next is The Tales of the Territories. An avid reader of fantasy books since he was a kid, Pete always wanted to write a story of his own! His novels focus on the fantasy and young adult fiction genres. A fan of mythology and history, he incorporates aspects of both into his books. His writing appeals to adults, young adults, and kids starting in middle school. In addition to publishing almost twenty books, he has written five free short stories, all of which are available for download on his website. To learn more, download a free short story or join his newsletter by visiting his author website: peterwachtbooks.com