Prague, 1672. Franz Theophrastus is the son of the most powerful demon-summoner in the fabled City of Magic. But he's a caged bird with clipped wings, given no allowance, taught no sorcery, and treated with calculated contempt by his father and their servants alike.

Everything changes when Franz is given control of the beautiful demon Nehemoth on his birthday. Even knowing the gift is a concealed act of cruelty, Franz can't help but fall for the only person ever to show him affection. Nehemoth, bound by sorcery, has been secretly commanded to toy with Franz's feelings before breaking his heart. But hardened as they are to coerced service, the demon likewise can't resist falling for Franz; he's the most virtuous and loving human Nehemoth has ever encountered. Together the lovers are caught in a web of intrigue spun among Prague's sorcerers, who are contending for the ultimate prize, control of the Holy Roman Empire. The two have only a day to explore the greatest city in all of Europe and find a measure of freedom; Franz's future and Nehemoth's very existence are at stake.