The warlock never promised Lucinda a happily ever after, but she is still dismayed by how quickly reality intruded on her fairy tale. Her honeymoon is disturbed by assassination attempts and lightning strikes, and her return home brings her no peace of mind. When she discovers a magical conspiracy, Lucinda's faith is shaken in everything she trusts, and she vows to expose the Fire Warlock's most shameful secret and see that justice is served. As the hot summer draws towards a violent end, Lucinda teeters between terror and rage. She would be less angry about risking her life if she didn't suspect that her husband—her hero!—may intend to step aside and let her die.