Elida, a wizard for hire in her twenties, works as a private investigator in Pittsburgh. After her father's death, she throws herself into solving supernatural cases that the police can't handle. Her journey begins with a childhood dream of becoming a detective, inspired by the Hawkshaw comic strips. She partners with Detective Aurora Miller, who got relegated to unassigned cases after witnessing something unbelievable. Their collaboration starts when Aurora hires Elida to solve a mysterious case, sparking a friendship that hints at deeper feelings. Meanwhile, Elida juggles small jobs to fund her research on fallen angels, one of whom, Penemue, haunts her dreams and reality. She also navigates the interference of the Alabaster Council, a wizard-governing body that opposes black magic. While working for Joe Castellano to set up enchantments against burglary and lost keys, Elida spots a man with a sword fighting off a ghoul. This man, Joseph, belongs to an order of knights combating demonic influences. He reveals that Penemue's presence has weakened around Elida and suggests he might recruit Zackry Wallace, an army vet Elida took under her wing. Zackry has seen things others haven't and claims descent from William Wallace. He falls in love with a flower shop owner while guarding against supernatural thieves, but remains ready to fight when needed. Murders involving disembodied victims hit the city, and Aurora hesitantly seeks Elida's insight on whether vampires or other night world entities might be responsible. Elida identifies the killings as haruspicy rituals for summoning demons. She suspects a vampire trying to call forth Asmodeus to banish another fallen angel named Kokabel. The Alabaster Council sends "the Grey" to assist with the demonic threat. As they race against time to stop the ritual set for December 21st, they face hostile snow elementals and increasing chaos from the fey world. Joseph confirms Zackry's father was part of his knightly order and recruits Zackry after he proves himself in battle alongside Elida. With new resolve and allies, they confront the vampire orchestrating the murders. The vampire reveals his plan to use Asmodeus to eliminate Kokabel's influence permanently, but underestimates Elida's growing power and determination.