There are more deities and daemons in the world than stars in the sky. But only Heartseers like Anise Star can see them - because only they still believe. Anise's job is to help humans and daemons live happily together.

But when the villainous Mr Babbitt tries to steal her home in the White Woods and drive the daemons out, she is forced to travel to the capital to ask the High King for help. First, though, she'll have to convince him that daemons still exist. Accompanied by loyal daemon-dog Wolf, Anise sets out on a spellbinding and treacherous journey, meeting magical musician Robin and fox god Whin, and facing the cunning Magpie Queen and a deadly poisonous ink monster.

In the midst of her battles she learns that it's not just the daemons of the White Wood she must save, but all the daemons of the world.