Gloom thickens over the owl world after the death of King Hrath. Bloodthirsty hagsmars and rebel troops are hatching plans for the final conquest of the owl kingdoms. All hope lies with Crown Prince Hoole. With the help of his mentors - the wise Grank and the blacksmith Theo - he will have to take the throne and create a strong army capable of opposing the advancing darkness and defeating it. The power of the magical coal burns in Hoole's heart, helping him become king. But Huul faces a danger far worse than rebellion or the poison of the deadly hags. For even the best magic is fraught with great temptation for anyone who possesses it.