Griff works in a circus, his days filled with boring routine tasks. Nobody knows he has a unique ability: he can hear people's thoughts without their knowledge.

When the greedy circus master discovers his talent, Griff knows he must escape, and takes with him fellow circus member Tess and her collection of magical creatures. But even on the run, Griff keeps hearing a cry for help from a mysterious source he calls the Whisperer. Who is this person, and what does he want?

Meanwhile, Lute, the Crown Prince of the realm, is under attack from his uncle Janko, who wants to rule the kingdom. Narrowly escaping Janko's murderous clutches, Lute comes up against Bitter Olof, a bandit with a long history, and Calico Grace, who also seems to have a dubious past.

When Griff and Lute cross paths, many lives will change forever -- including their own. With allies both magical and human, they must join forces to defeat Janko, and reveal the truth behind the Whisperer.