Genetic engineer Adrian Cross is stranded in the luminous Emerald Canopy, home to the towering, matriarchal Emberthorn Clan. Mistaken for a rare tree spirit, he is taken captive by the clan’s formidable leader Haelia. Using modern science, he earns respect as the clan’s healer and falls deeply in love with her. When the scheming high priest Valmon tries to sabotage a life-or-death ritual to unlock Haelia’s ancient genetic curse, Adrian risks his life to save her. The ritual succeeds; the pair become co-rulers of the clan and build a peaceful new life together in the rainforest.
