We all know that Sam, Bill and Thomas grew up together as best friends, overcame their childhood bully and then dived into a new nightmare called high school. But what actual events transpired that sent Sam and Bill into military service, and to eventually create their own business we know as SANDBOX? And how did Thomas become a successful children's book writer and come to live in Running Springs? This glimpse back in time will set the foundation for what each of them will endure in the future. Their past will catch up to them soon enough because, as we know, nothing is ever as it appears...in Shadows of the Sand.