In this third installment of the Earth's Children series, Jean M. Auel transports readers back 25,000 years to the dawn of modern humanity, where Cro-Magnon and Neanderthal coexist. Ayla, a woman of remarkable abilities and spirit, embarks on a perilous journey with her mate Jondalar, only to find herself amidst the Mamutoi, the Mammoth Hunters. Her skills in hunting and healing earn her unprecedented acceptance, but also draw her into a web of unfamiliar social customs and language. In this harsh Ice Age world, Ayla faces the warmth of friendship and the fires of jealousy. A chance encounter with the charismatic ivory carver, Ranec, sparks a fierce rivalry, threatening her union with Jondalar. As the great hunt heralds the coming of spring, Ayla is confronted with a dire choice between two futures: stay with Ranec and the Mamutoi or embark on an uncertain path with Jondalar.