Jim Butcher the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Dresden Files and the Codex Alera
novels conjures up a new series set in a fantastic world of noble families steam-powered
technology and magic-wielding warriors... Since time immemorial the Spires have sheltered
humanity. Within their halls the ruling aristocratic houses develop scientific marvels foster
trade alliances and maintain fleets of airships to keep the peace. Captain Grimm commands the
merchant ship Predator. Loyal to Spire Albion he has taken their side in the cold war with
Spire Aurora disrupting the enemy's shipping lines by attacking their cargo vessels. But when
the Predator is damaged in combat Grimm joins a team of Albion agents on a vital mission in
exchange for fully restoring his ship. And as Grimm undertakes this task he learns that the
conflict between the Spires is merely a premonition of things to come. Humanity's ancient enemy
silent for more than ten thousand years has begun to stir once more. And death will follow in
its wake...
