Twenty-five years ago, the world changed. Rifts opened around the globe, releasing rogue magics that changed everything. Creatures once believed to exist only in movies and books were now real. People who once believed themselves "normal" found their latent paranormal abilities awakened and amplified. The land and creatures nearest the rifts were forever changed, whether for good or ill remains to be seen.

Either my parents had a warped sense of humor or they were forewarned about what my life would be like living as close to the North Texas Rift as I did. Why else name me Ripley after the main character in their favorite science fiction movie? Then they were gone. A basilisk killed my dad and Mom disappeared while investigating reports of rogue werewolves. At least that's what I'd been told, and I never had reason to doubt it.

Until now. Someone attacked my home and my friends. When I discover who, they'll learn it is never a good idea to mess with someone who plays with fire, literally as well as figuratively.

My name is Ripley Walker, and those responsible for hurting my friends will soon learn the error of their ways.