The First Stone

By Robert Biehn

Cass's little sister is going to die. He'll burn the world down to save her.

Shadow & Bone meets An Ember in the Ashes (edited by Michael Braff of Red Rising).

As an Ignarus Myth, a human born with power over fire, Cass is seen as a threat to humanity.

Centuries ago, Myths were symbols of awe. That awe turned to horror when the first Nightmares appeared, mutated Myths that nearly wiped out the world.

Civilization collapsed. From the ashes rose the Prism Spire.

Led by the brilliant inventor and geneticist known as the Arbiter, one hundred compounds,
fortified with colossal walls, were built to shelter what remained of humanity. Then came his
decree: All Myths, save for a few Exempt essential to survival, must take the Pax Serum, erasing their powers and the Nightmare gene. Those who refuse are hunted by his augmented soldiers, Grafters.

Cass and his little sister Evelon live beyond those walls, hiding. Not because Cass is a Myth, but because the Arbiter has declared Evelon the most wanted person in the Prism Spire. With no memories beyond two years ago, they search for answers while struggling to survive.

When Evelon falls deathly ill, the only cure lies inside the REZ, a volatile neutral zone where civilians and Myths coexist under fragile peace.

A single mistake draws the attention of Felix, a high-ranking Grafter who lives for the hunt.
Forced into a fight for their lives, Cass faces a fate worse than death when Felix reveals his hidden weapon.

The Pax Serum.
* * * * *
YA dystopian fantasy: Dual POV (brother & sister) Morally grey heroes Fierce sibling bonds
Rebellion & sacrifice Deep world building

NO profanity, spice, or needlessly excessive gore.

The First Stone is book 1 of the Exousia Chronicles by Robert Biehn.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1969905115
• ISBN13: 9781969905117
• Release Date: December 2026
• Publisher: Storyteller Media
• Length: 480 Pages
• Weight: 1.00 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 6.0" x 9.0"
• Age Range: 11 to 15 years
• Grade Range: Grades 6 to 10