A luckless healer who begrudgingly accepts a magical apprenticeship must race to find a cure for his charming mentor's fatal affliction—before it's too late.

Half-goblin Imryn "Imi" Dyre hasn't had an easy life. Born into a poor family and now a student on scholarship, he's marked as an outcast amongst the wealthy magical families. So despite studying and honing his craft for years, it's no surprise when he's rejected from joining the ranks of healers. Just like that, his dream of opening a clinic in his impoverished neighborhood dies.

Out of options, Imi has no choice but to accept an apprenticeship under the master wizard Elim Greenwood. Wise beyond his years and, to Imi's dismay, indisputably handsome, Elim seeks a cure for a spell that's slowly killing him. And though many before have failed, Imi's magic might actually be the one solution to his mentor's fatal affliction.

There's no time to waste, but Imi's troubles continue as Elim's cousin, Freddie, approaches them with a new problem. Her husband has been cursed to feed on souls, and his ravenous need to attack others is growing. Now, Imi must grapple with the search for two separate remedies—all the while contending with his forbidden feelings for Elim.

Happily ever after has never felt more out of reach, but if Imi can save the man—and the family—he's come to love, he might finally find the place where he belongs . . .