Baghdad, AD 1138. When his teacher vanishes during a magical spell gone awry, Warrick appeals to the dying astronomer John of Cornwall for help in finding him. He's promptly blackmailed into escorting John's sharp-tongued daughter, Sophia, and a priceless crystal ball to Byzantium. Forced to flee from the sultan who is determined to possess both Sophia and the crystal ball, Warrick, his best friend Robin, Sophia, and the gorgeous genie that Sophia's father has conjured as her chaperone all join a caravan.
Genie spends her time flirting with Robin or trying to tempt the beautiful but dowdy Sophia into more glamorous clothing. Warrick is fascinated by sharp-tongued Sophia, whom he believes is hiding heartache and dark secrets. As their danger increases, passion grows, though Sophia tries to fight it. Across burning desserts, through steep mountain passes, during an earthquake and attacks by the sultan's men, the two couples, determined to reach Byzantium and safety, risk all for love.
But in Byzantium, they find treachery and new dangers that leave them with no choice except to continue their long journey in hope of reaching England.