The Earth is a moribund world older than memory, peopled by wizards and witches, rogues and highwaymen, dimly lit by a bloated red sun soon to wink out forever. The planet's greatest magicians conspire with - and against - each other, playing cruel tricks and conniving to steal the other's most miraculous treasures. Rhialto the Marvellous struggles to bring order, even some justice, to this squabbling gaggle of eccentrics and egotists. His efforts will take him back through time and outwards to the farthest reaches of space, to the place where the mysterious and powerful IOUN stones wait to be gathered by those who dare.

SF Grandmaster Jack Vance evokes a spellbinding world of politics and power set against the backdrop of a corrupt and ancient civilization. From amidst the pride and cynicism of his fellow magicians, Rhialto emerges as an unforgettable figure of melancholy grandeur.