If you haven’t read any of the other books this will give you a general overview of the world.
This story takes place hundreds of years after the Great Death devastated the earth, killing most humans, all domestic animals and all wild animals larger than a turkey. Those who survived were left with the task of rebuilding society.
The new social structure is based on a class system. The classes important to this story are the Almightys, Guards and House Servants.
Almightys, the only direct descendants of the human race, rule the other classes. They are generally between five and six feet tall with pale, alabaster skin.
Guards belong to the Almightys and are used for hunting or for protection. They are between four and six feet tall and their hair color varies. Their eyes are usually brown and they have a light coating of hair on their bodies. Most males wear facial hair. They have large canine teeth used for biting and tearing. They are strong, fast and heal quickly. Their senses of hearing, smell and night vision are superior to Almightys.
House Servants also belong to the Almightys but their role in this society is to manage the households and businesses of the Almightys. They are slender in build and between four and five feet tall. They have a light coating of hair covering their bodies and have both claws and fangs. The males are usually clean shaven and. Their eyes are usually a vibrant hue and their senses of night vision, hearing and smell are superior to the Guards’.