For many years the humans in Orgarlan have been forbidden to learn magic of any kind. In fact the humans were to be eradicated by order of Lord Ky'debaul unless there were special exceptions of the species that he claimed for his slave stock. But a band of humans escaped his clutches by hiding well beyond his reaches.
Monica, Wenda and Darmin are three cousins in this group of humans who have been living with their Aunt Grecha since they were small, in the midst of the jungle of Orgarlan, safe from Lord Ky'debaul.
These three cousins have been learning magic from their aunt who happens to be one of the strongest witches on this side of the continent.
Monica and Darmin are at the age to pass their first rite for learning this magic from their aunt, the ability to learn the magic that is held in the pages of the book of Hestate.
Darmin wants the book of Hestate but Monika inherited it. With this book she can destroy Lord Ky'debaul and take his castle and his throne.
Monika fears her Aunt Grecha is mortified by her failing the rite of passage with a binding cloth her cousin has switched on her. She goes in search of someone else who is willing to teach her how to use magic.
As time passes, Monika learns her Aunt has passed away and has left her estate behind to Monika's care. The most important part of this estate is the secret magic book of Hestate, a book that has been handed down through the ages and left in the care of one of whom will keep it from being misused.
The only problem - the demon imps that Monika and Darmin have bonded with from their rite of passage as familiars are playing a game of shell with this very special grimoire.

Who has the Book of Hestate?