A 17th-century curate, James Blades, finds himself transported to an England where the Null beasts are top of the food chain and prey upon the hole-dwelling humans. Blades takes on the Null in pitched battles and teaches the humans to have self-respect. But treachery and violence are to follow.

Thomas Blades has been released from his time as God-King in the alternative world he fought and ruled over. His descendants rule and fight but he cannot bear to return and meddle in their lives.

Meek and mild curate Thomas Blades discovered an alternative earth where humanity languished at the base of the food-chain. Over eventful years, Blades defeated the bestial Null master-race and carved out the empire of 'New-Wessex'. Shedding all former inhibitions, he ascended its throne as unchallenged 'god-king'. Exiled in turn by overpowering new enemies - the 'angels' - Blades was rescued by his own descendant, Guy Ambassador, after centuries of absence. Under Blades' strangely charmed leadership, the enigmatic and merciless angels were repulsed and humanity enjoyed a respite of liberty. But now, decades later, the venerable god-king broods in seclusion, refusing to die; the fountainhead of bitter thoughts and deeds. Meanwhile, Wessex sinks-into anarchy and neglect. Guy Ambassador travels amongst the bickering princedoms and warring states, wavering in the faith that has cost him family, friends and home. All around him the world of New-Wessex is moving towards resolution of its ultimate destiny and reason for being. Forces beyond human comprehension invade the already baroque realm.