Combining reality and fantasy to create an alternate world in which magic and science have coexisted for centuries, this book presents the tale of a young hero's coming of age during a period of war and wizardry. With World War I engulfing Europe, young Fletcher Arrowsmith runs away from home to serve his country as one of the elite airmen, a squadron of talented mages who use spells to fly and attack their enemies. But as the innocent teenager's romantic visions of valor and honor are quickly destroyed, he learns of the true costs of love and battle. Now disillusioned and distraught, Fletcher must find a way to hold onto his beliefs while evading the attacks of enemy soldiers, sadistic vampires, fire demons, and rock trolls.