Amber Mettle is a Chicago journalist with a rescue instinct—especially for animals.
When she follows her restless husband to Los Angeles for a fresh start, she tries to keep an open mind. But before she can find her footing, she finds herself blindsided by betrayal—no job, no future, no sense of direction. And then, just as she’s beginning to rebuild, tragedy strikes. A catastrophic wildfire reduces her home to rubble and claims her beloved pets, thrusting her into a relentless battle with insurance companies, mortgage lenders, and opportunistic grifters.
But Amber’s story doesn’t end in ash. Following the fire, guided by haunting premonitions and signs from the animals she couldn’t save, she channels her grief into action. Fueled by love, an unwavering sense of justice, and an eccentric cast of characters who bring unexpected humor to even the darkest moments, she fights to hold the people responsible accountable—and discovers that even in devastation, hope can take root.
Author: Carri Karuhn
Publication Date: November 10, 2026
