Life used to be simple. I solved cases for mortals, earning myself a solid reputation as a crack detective. And I basked in the adoration of every animal, bird, and sea creature known to man-or sorcerer. My animal mage part is the same, but everything else has changed.

The last time I remember being happy was the day I married Blake. Since then, nothing has gone right. When he met me, I traveled beneath crossed stars. Jinxed is a kind term for the trouble that followed me.

He says we're stronger together, but I'm starting to doubt that. Some challenges are meant to be faced alone. Maybe I can fix the problems plaguing us. Maybe I can't, but I have to try.

And I must do it with my animal allies. Blake won't like any of this, which means I'll have to slip away when he's not paying attention. And I'll need to cover my tracks well to make sure he doesn't follow me.

He's my heart, my life, but if I don't leave him, he'll be doomed right along with me, and I refuse to let that happen.