"Witness protection has a protocol for dealing with every situation -- except magic. Fifteen-year-old Cate's life has been monitored since her new identity was created five years ago. She's spent countless hours learning how to deal with potential threats and dangerous situations. None of which is any use when everyone around her is suddenly frozen like statues at the bus stop. As she attempts to make sense of the frightening scene, a mysterious group of teenagers appears out of thin air. They are intrigued she's not affected, but focus on completing their deadly mission, using baffling powers before they vanish again. When the group seeks her out the next day, Cate is drawn into a world filled with sorcery and time travel. After she accidentally brings a cheerleader back from the dead, her incredible powers are revealed. Cate is shocked to discover she has a pivotal role to play in a centuries-old battle between two mortal enemies which threatens to destroy her entire world. With her family in danger and the distinction between good and evil blurred, Cate is faced with the choice of which side to join. Will she risk destroying innocent lives to save the ones she loves?" (taken from book cover)