The Stray and The Stranger, (Paperback)

<p>In the shadowed streets of Calamor, where beastfolk are hunted and collared, a golden-furred stray named Mona survives by instinct alone-quick, silent, and always one step ahead of the chains. </p><p></p><p>When a scarred human guardian named Valen offers her shelter and purpose as his "House Guard," Mona must decide if trust is worth the risk of new scars.</p><p></p><p>Valen is no stranger to loss. Haunted by the friends he couldn't save and the blood-magic that burns through his veins with every lash of his whip, he takes Mona in not out of charity, but recognition: she is the stray he once was, and the protector he still tries to be.</p><p></p><p>But Calamor's peace is fragile. A bounty on rare golden fur draws hunters to their door, old laws punish kindness, and whispers of rebellion stir in the beastfolk enclaves. As Mona learns to wield a bow and write her own name, she discovers that safety is never free-and protection always carries a cost.</p><p></p><p>In a world that fears difference and punishes hope, two broken souls must choose: hide from the darkness, or stand against it together.</p><p></p><p><em>A gritty YA fantasy of found family, quiet courage, and the price of loyalty. For readers who love morally gray guardians, scarred survivors, and the hard-won light in the shadows.</em></p>

• The Stray and The Stranger, (Paperback)
• Author: Self Publisher
• ISBN: 9798295661686
• Format: Paperback
• Publication Date: 2026-03-21
• Page Count: 156