Through the Dark Wood (Treasures of Darkness - Treasures of Light Book 1)

Seventeen year old orphan Zam Windwater lives the life of a humble shepherd until a mysterious messenger brings news that Zam is in terrible danger. Now he must leave his home and shepherd’s life to take up the adventurer’s mantle on a perilous quest, the full purpose of which remains a mystery to be discovered.
Zam encounters a motley assortment of creatures, warriors, and supernatural beings as he travels the forbidding path through the “Dark Wood” of Darlandis.
Evil seeks to end his life before his call can be fulfilled. Dragons, Grimmals, Shadow Vermin, and Seritheen pursue, as Zam moves beyond his fear into the battles he must face in hopes of freeing a friend, finding a love, and discovering a life larger than he ever dreamed possible.