The oldest library in the world lies derelict and forgotten in an empty landscape. A thousand years ago, farseers prophesied these final days when the book city would fulfil the secret purpose of its founders. But what is the secret of Alligor? And who are the charming strangers with their casual violence and seductive women? Why have they come, and what do they want? Are they heroes or villains? And does love really exist, or did the authors invent it? When all you know comes from books it’s difficult to choose between truth and fiction. But being wrong might have terrifying consequences. In a world gone mad, some things are best not known; some books best left unopened…