The newest boy at Mrs. Timmins' Home for Orphans and Foundlings awakes at first light with no name and no memory. But a strange girl who hides among the shadows of the orphanage tells him that a mysterious wizard's creation, the Book of Lies, holds the answers, and then gives him one "Your name is Marcel." With that knowledge, and the help of three new friends, Marcel begins a quest to find the truth about his real identity—a truth that is hidden in the Book of Lies. As Marcel learns more about his past, he realizes that truth can change at any moment and can be manipulated by anyone, and he begins to wonder if the old book's so-called magical truth might be the greatest lie of all.

Marcel and Nicola are coming to terms with their new life as Prince and Princess of Elster. Marcel learns what spells and charms he can by reading the books left by Lord Alwyn, but soon realises his limitations in magic-making when he puts the entire kingdom under a spell. Ages 10+.

Three years have passed since Marcel defeated Mortregis, the great dragon of war, and more than a year since the Battle of Cadell. On a mountainside in Elster, Bea, who has lived among the elves all this time, longs to see her human friends again. When strange creatures disturb the tranquillity of the mountain forests and her grandfather disappears, she calls for Marcel's help. together with his cousin, Fergus, they travel into the forbidden underground world of Baden Dark on a rescue mission. But Marcel senses an ancient evil in Baden Dark and becomes determined to free all of Elster from its threat. Forever. the challenge will test his growing power as a sorcerer and even success may come at a terrible price. Bea is not convinced by his ambitions and when Marcel betrays her with his magic, he makes a decision that may keep them apart forever.