Bloodstone by Barbara Campbell

This compilation of excerpts centers on a fantastical narrative following Keirith, a young man with the ability to "ride the spirits of animals," a power that is forbidden by his tribe and feared due to its connection to a malevolent figure, Morgath. The story details Keirith's journey after he is captured by the Zherosi, a people who practice human sacrifice and believe he may be the "Son of Zhe," a fire god. Simultaneously, his father, Darak, embarks on a perilous quest to rescue him, navigating treacherous landscapes and encountering various characters while grappling with the ethical dilemmas surrounding Keirith's unique abilities. The texts explore themes of familial love, cultural conflict, sacrifice, and the complex nature of power, as Keirith grapples with his identity and Darak confronts the harsh realities of a world beyond his village.