Elaine Cunningham has been wandering with the dark elves of Faerûn for some time but likes to think it hasn't seriously affected her personality. She has also written the popular Forgotten Realms series, including Songs & Swords and Counselors & Kings. She is the author of the New York Times-bestselling Star Wars novel Dark Journey. She lives in New England with her husband and sons. Learn more about her at www.elainecunningham.com.

In the magical land of Halruaa, an unassuming counselor discovers he has more power-and a destiny far greater-than he ever imagined

Some are born with magic, and some are born without . . . Matteo, un-magical counselor to the mighty wizards of Halruaa, has devoted his life to the truth-until he finds that he may have a hidden spark of magic after all. Now, with only a street waif for a companion, he's on the run from the mysterious Cabal. In the dismal Swamp of Akhlaur, Matteo will seek his own truth while battling a creature out of his nightmares.
But something even worse is on his trail, a relentless persecutor of magic: The Magehound.