Tonino is the only person in the famous Montana household who wasn't born with an instinct for creating spells, but he has other gifts.
While older siblings copy charms in the scriptorium, Tonino finds quiet comfort in books and the company of Benvenuto, the Casa's boss cat. Listening to feline counsel yields secrets no spell-book can teach — provided the notched-eared cat is willing to share them.
Across the golden streets, ancient wards on the Old Bridge begin to crack, and rival magicians trade fiery accusations instead of answers. Uncovering the sinister force sapping the city's virtue demands a perilous truce — unless a two-hundred-year feud destroys Caprona first.
His ability to communicate with cats just might help defend the city of Caprona against a mysterious enchanter — but only if Tonino can learn to cooperate with a girl from the hated Petrocchi family of spell-makers.
