The Darling Undesirables – first in the series, takes place in a post-steampunk world where dark energy has been harnessed by a reclusive genius known as "Father Inventor" – revered by man, reviled by more.

Energy problems solved, humanity becomes obsessed with unlocking the secrets to eternal life. Unrestricted genetic experimentation has produced a population of parentless children – the Darling Undesirables.

Named for their missing body part, each Darling Undesirable is pampered and indulged, with the most charming – or physically haunting – becoming popular media pets.

The most adored Darling Undesirable is 15-year-old Heart. She dreams of escaping with her friend, Eye and her beloved clockworks horse. But first she must save her father, Father Inventor, and the world he brought into being from the evil forces of The Purists, intent on destroying everything he ever accomplished.