Although several vividly drawn characters are featured in the novel, the dominating figure is that of its remarkable heroine, Vesper Holly. The opening paragraph of the book gives the reader an intimation of this unusual personality. "Miss Vesper Holly has the digestive talents of a goat and the mind of a chess master. She is familiar with a half dozen languages and can swear fluently in all of them. She understands the use of a slide rule but prefers doing calculus in her head."

She is extremely courageous and totally loyal to family and friends; at once charming and intelligent, she displays considerable initiative and inventiveness as well. With the rational powers of a great detective, she also solves the centuries-old mystery of the socalled magical army. One is not likely to find a more likeable and lively character.

The narrator is Professor Brinton...