Gwen's back home for the worst birthday of her life. Yes, it's nice to see her family, great to get presents, and exciting to find that her uncomplicated, unlabeled friend with benefits just so happens to be in the area. But her mother loves feeding her vegetables, Gwen can't go two minutes without fighting with her father, and her bed buddy is also a mercenary in town on some dangerous business. Not only has something in the forest has been kidnapping hikers, but there's a weird flu going around that seems suspiciously resistant to hot tea and cold medicine. Shops are closing, streets are emptying, and Gwen's on the case, whether she likes it or not.What was supposed to be a relaxing vacation has turned into a nightmare of midnight treks through the woods, grumpy sasquatches, and a rival mercenary who may be more trouble than whatever has it out for the townsfolk. At least there's cake. ___ Welcome to the Preternatural Pacific Northwest, where fairies, werewolves, and all sorts of strange creatures live in secret, right alongside humanity. Empathy in the PPNW is Urban Fantasy with a chick-lit feel. If you can relate to sarcasm in the face of hardship, loving cupcakes, and having a best friend you'd do anything for, you'll love following Gwen and her friends.