"Katherine's place is the same as any woman's-on the shelf next to the dresses and bolts of cloth." Women have absolutely no rights of their own, and are at the mercy of men, especially warlocks, who aren't known for their patience and tenderness. Women may have magic, but they aren't able to wield it, and women who have a great deal of magic are very valuable, which is why they are sold off to the highest bidder, usually a warlock who just wants them as breeders. They are controlled by their owner through intimidation and pain by way of hexes. Katherine has been sold off to a disgusting, old warlock by her father, and doesn't know what to do, until her mother comes up with a plan to help her daughter run, which is very risky for both of them, but Katherine doesn't see any other way.

This prequel novella is a very quick read, but that doesn't keep you from experiencing the horror the females in this society face on a daily basis. You can't help but root for Katherine and the others she meets up with along the way. Her journey is a hard one, but in it she finds meaning and a way of life completely different than the one she thought she would be living.

I enjoyed this prequel very much and look forward to continuing with the series to see where it goes.

5/5 stars.

*** I would like to thank NetGalley, Chardonian Press, and Janeal Falor for the opportunity to read and review this book.