At the age of seventeen, the protagonist in The Buried Symbol teeters on the edge of adulthood. A tragic event causes Brock to reconsider his role as the Empire has defined it, choosing to break free from society’s bonds in pursuit of a better life.

His mother's influence during early childhood, followed by a difficult upbringing after her untimely death, imprint him with a deep sense of compassion. Possessing an insatiable curiosity and a Sherlock Holmes-like sense of logic, he has a tendency to identify a secret from a minuet clue and then pursue the truth at any cost. These traits, along with his God-given abilities, lead him to discover a magic that has been buried for centuries.

His friends have their own dark pasts, leaving them emotionally damaged and feeling incomplete. They gravitate toward Brock, drawn by his likeable personality and strong belief in right and wrong. The relationships that Brock establishes within the story say as much about him as his action do. 

Brock’s companions include: his loyal childhood friend, who is homeless and lives on the streets of his home town; his quiet, yet massive roommate who is destined to be a great warrior; a quirky brainiac who creates amazing inventions; a jolly giant; a brooding aristocrat; and his strong-willed girlfriend, who is hiding secrets of her own.

From his beginnings at the coastal city of Kantar, throughout his journey to Fallbrandt, and within the walls of the Academy itself, Brock meets a vast array of interesting characters. Among them is a powerful rival, intent on seeing Brock destroyed in any way possible. The actions of this rival are among many obstacles that Brock must overcome in pursuit of his dream of becoming an Academy Master.

I invite you to follow Brock on his journey. Expect to fall in love with him and other personalities found within the pages of The Buried Symbol. When you finish reading the story, let me know how you feel about his rival. Do you despise him or do you feel sorry for him?