Life is growth, the unfolding of potential. For an acorn that potential is becoming a great tree; a caterpillar transforms into a beautiful butterfly. But what is the potential of a human being? In the story Laura and the Ancient Enigma, the first volume of four in the epic-fantasy series The Minstrel's Song, every girl Laura's age is expected to marry and start a family. There are no other options - and no exceptions. But Laura has been trained almost from birth by her grandfather, the music director in King Alaric's palace, to be a musician of extraordinary skill. How can she put her unparalleled talent to use? Her grandfather suggests she speak to the Master Minstrel, traveler of the five kingdoms who may be able to help. Laura's story unfolds within a wider world of political and religious conflict and insidious superstition, a world of ancient mysteries the origins of which date back thousands of years into a hoary past populated by a powerful legendary sorcerer and a conniving disincarnate demon. Though the sorcerer has been nearly forgotten, the ghostly entity remains a hovering threat who seems to delight in instigating war and terrorizing humans. Also looming over the realm is another remnant of that misty past, a unique curiosity, an impenetrable stone wall which has come to be called the Enigma. The wall's origin, though lost to memory, is the key to a prophecy, known only to the Master Minstrel, which hints at a profound spiritual connection with the terrorizing entity. For Laura to reach her potential, she must come to understand all of this plus the hidden story of her own conception and birth. Laura's journey of Self-realization is impeded by dangerous obstacles but encouraged by love and ennobled by the potential to change the world. To learn more about the author, this book, and other novels by the author, please visit the web site: www.jameshaselton.com