Cassandra Carter was born when life was easier. Then came the Covid-19 pandemic, the food shortages and war. She tries not to think about the time before, life is unrecognisable now and so is she. A new normal exists now; lawless, dangerous and survival is the goal. At House of Cole Cassie has carved out a new life, processing captives to trade with other houses. She is tough, distant and hardened until the arrival of a mysterious prisoner changes everything.