Young Kate and her friend Thomas are aboard the ship Magenta with its charismatic owner, Jacob Crane, sailing up the Thames. Their friend, Raphah, has been lost to the sea and they are convinced he is dead. But further trouble awaits them when they reach London and their beloved ship is seized. Further north, Beadle, former servant of the sorcerer Demurral, sets off on a terrifying journey; a journey haunted by mysterious enemies and a shadowy beast. But all paths are destined to lead to one place: Salamander Street - a street run by the magician Galphus.