A kingdom teeters on the edge of destruction in Alvin Luther's young adult debut, "Mystic Claw."

When Zaven wanders into the town of Cedar Willow, he has no idea that his life is about to change.

But when an old shopkeeper offers him a job-to find an elusive treasure chest believed to be buried somewhere near Disciples Tower-Zaven has no reason to refuse.

He heads off on his new mission with the shopkeeper's nephew, Ivan, by his side. Along the way, the two encounter a host of colorful characters-including Ivan's cousin, the beautiful Prunella.

When the duo finally find the...