Book excerpt: The year is 1800. After her village is torched by agents of an evil Force, a cryptic note from her guardian sends young Tien Ming, a girl of mixed race, on a perilous quest for a spellbook that will give the holder immense power, wealth, and immortality! Accompanying her are two magical creatures--a shapeshifting owl and golden snow leopard--each with their own reasons for possessing the book. Through a myriad of unexpected twists and turns, Tien shows her bravery and strength of character. Thwarted by supernatural evil forces, ghosts, a human villain, and heart-wrenching betrayals, Tien journeys on, finding hope, redemption, and unlikely friendship by voyage's end.