Mick Conway knows that stopping the time lightning didn't stop the relentless campaign to seize control of the time alleys of Victorian London. It's a subtle, far-reaching campaign led by an adversary with enormous cunning, charm, and power-an adversary who can distort alleys, corrupt allies, and fool even the savviest watchers.

As their adversary draws ever closer to being able to turn time travel into a devastating tool for oppression, Mick and his friends must learn to understand the inner workings of the alleys-and to overcome their own fears and doubts-to have any chance of protecting innocent people and keeping the time alleys free. And, despite not knowing whether they can even trust one another, they must find a way not only to work together but also, if they dare, to join forces with new friends and old enemies who may hold the key to their success-and their survival.