An explosive mix of magic, gunpowder and politics, set against a historical backdrop. Simeon Runciman is a firework maker with dangerous ideas; he's a difficult man with a mysterious past. For years he and his son, Casimir, have led an itinerant lifestyle, eking out a living by putting on fireworks displays and selling fireworks at fairs and markets. Casimir has always had the feeling that his father was running away from something, but when Simeon decides to settle down, his past finally catches up with him. Simeon's enemy, the sinister magician, Circastes, reappears in their lives intent on revenge, and Casimir is caught in a web of murder, deceit and magic. Forced to fight for his own survival, Casimir must also confront the harsh truth of who his father is and what he has done, as well as the real nature of the magic that he wields. Natalie Jane Prior has spun the most intriguing and fascinating tale against an historical backdrop that seems as unpredictable and dangerous as Simeon's own explosive mix of magic, gunpowder and politics. She eloquently builds this dark tale to a breathtaking climax. Ages 11+