Blackwood Marauders - Blackwood Marauders, #1

From the author of the critically acclaimed THE WOLF OF OREN-YARO comes this standalone novel that takes on the origin story of the Blackwood Marauders in the world of Agos-agan. Growing up in a quiet farm, young Luc didn't dream of adventures until he fails the military entrance exam. Robbed of the chance to prove his worth to his adoptive family, he crosses paths with a group of vicious, bloodthirsty mercenaries out on a monster-hunting quest.
With only his quick wits and honesty to fall back on, Luc's problems take a turn for the worst when he falls into a trap set by Roena Blackwood, the eldest of the local duke's daughters. Dragged into a twisted plot concocted by a power-hungry merchant, Luc must find a way to save the lives of those around him--including the very mercenaries he was fated to kill.