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A spellbinding, epic and heart-racing magical adventure from an exquisite new storytelling talent.

India, 1855. There are two kinds of magic in Chompa''s world. The kind her mother favours: writing-magic, which anyone can do if they take the time. Write a spell in Farsi, and wait. It''s calm, controlled, safe, says Ammi. It''s slow, frustrating, boring, thinks Chompa.

Then there''s finger-magic, which only those descended from ancient djinn are born with. Immediate, powerful - and dangerous, for every act of finger-magic leaves a trace, and comes at a price . . .

Growing up in an isolated village, hot-headed Chompa has never understood why her mother forbids her from using her potent finger-magic - until, one day, Chompa defies Ammi, and casts a spell. Soon after, a group of pale men attack their home and snatch Ammi.

In desperate search of her mother, Chompa must travel to another world: to England, and the smoky, bustling streets of East End London, where the powerful Company is transporting magical people like her and Ammi for the most sinister purpose . . .

''A wonderfully vibrant debut . . . A vivid magical adventure'' - Jasbinder Bilan

''An unexpected gem of a story . . . A stellar setting, a gut-punch of a twist, and an unforgettable heroine. This has all the hallmarks of classic children''s storytelling'' - Nizrana Farook


©2023 Nazneen Ahmed Pathak (P)2023 Penguin Audio