Rycroft “Philo” Philostrate investigates “Unseelie Jack”, a mysterious assailant with a grudge against the fae. Vignette Stonemoss barely escapes Tirnanoc with her life and arrives in The Burgue looking for a fresh start. Imogen Spurnrose meets her new neighbor. In Parliament, the fight over the critch heats up.

Philo investigates the murder of a mysterious fae. Tourmaline introduces Vignette to a new group of faeries. Imogen tries to have Agreus removed from the neighborhood. Jonah disappears.

Philo investigates the murder of his childhood headmaster. Vignette ingratiates herself into the Black Raven. Imogen hatches a plan to help her brother. Breakspear goes on the offensive with Longerbane.

Lovers Philo and Vignette risk their lives to help the oppressed Faefolk of Carnival Row.

When Philo plots to challenge Jonah's hereditary claim to the Chancellorship, Vignette intervenes.