Being a village Protector is a big job, even if Grandpa Widow makes it look easy. So when Grandpa Widow is suddenly called away, and Gussy has to step into the role herself, she barely feels ready to perform the magical Rites that keep her village safe from the Great Doom. On her very first night in charge, a mysterious newcomer arrives in search of shelter, forcing Gussy to break the number one rule of being a Protector: When the sun goes down, keep the gates shut.

But not everything in Gussy’s village is as it appears. And as the Great Doom makes its presence known, and the villagers all look to Gussy for help, Gussy will have to turn to some surprising allies to save the only home she’s ever known.