Book excerpt: Dorana is a nation of magic and mages, a mystery to the people who live beyond its borders. Social elitist Morgan jealously protects the magical status quo ... until he falls in love with a political reformer, Barl, and follows her down the path of experimentation and rule-breaking. At first Barl is thrilled by the success of her seduction, but gradually realises she has unleashed a danger that might well destroy, not only her, but Dorana itself -- perhaps the whole world. As civil war erupts she leads an escape from the madness, knowing that if the trapped Morgan comes after them they will certainly die. Her only hope lies in making an alliance with the peaceful people living in a small country called Lur.