Leaving the Tribe

When two horrific deaths disturb the calm of daily life in the Woods Tribe, sisters Zalea and Milla are forced to run away from everything they've ever known.
In the troubled Old Times, before the girls were born, bad leaders wreaked havoc on the nation. These days there's a better system, one the girls have been taught is best for everyone.
Their tribe is made up of people with similar cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs. Other tribes in other places have their own traditions and customs. The groups deal with each other only in proscribed ways, which means the girls have little knowledge of the world outside their rural home.
Zalea, who thinks too much according to her elders, has always seen cracks in the facade of tribal fairness. Why is everything decided by men? Why are women bartered like cattle? Why do some crimes go unpunished? And why is their mother so unhappy and silent?
Milla, younger and less likely to question authority, likes the security tribal life provides, along with the feeling of knowing who she is and where she belongs. She looks forward to the time when Grandfather will arrange a marriage for her with a suitable young man.
The execution of a mysterious trespasser caught on Woods lands follows tribal law, but a shocking murder follows that changes everything. Zalea insists she and Milla must run or face terrible consequences. Trusting her sister's judgment, Milla goes along, although she's unwilling and fearful.
Readers will be spell-bound as the girls begin a dangerous trek across the nation, seeking safety, a better way of life, and the man who can tell them the secrets of their past.