Raised in the woods by a fur trapper father, Rig can sense the paths of those who have passed nearby, human or animal. Some paths are fresh and others centuries old, which makes it easy for Rig to pick the best locations for animal traps, and avoid danger on their travels. It’s an unusual gift he must keep hidden, or risk exploitation by others. 

When his father dies, Rig sets out to follow his final instructions; travel to the grand city of Aressa Sessamo to find the sister he never knew he had.

An encounter with a boy from the local village leads to a surprising discovery about his ability, but makes him a target by an unruly mob. Absconding from the village and finding a new travel companion, Rig navigates down to the lowlands. He carries on him a fortune in jewels that a village housekeeper had kept safe for his father. If he can sell them, he’ll be rich beyond comprehension. 

When Rig’s true identity is revealed, he finds himself the focus of rival forces who want to use him to achieve their own political agenda. Educated by his father far beyond trapping animals, Rig must make use of his skills if he is to survive long enough to reach his sister. 

Packed with time travel paradoxes and logical conundrums, this is a sci-fi novel that feels like fantasy, where talents seem magical and outsmarting enemies is essential.