When her uncle Asriel shows up at her home in Oxford with evidence contradicting the teaching of the Magisterium, young Lyra Belacqua finds herself drawn into a conflict that could span multiple worlds.

Lyra's new home in Mrs. Coulter's luxurious London apartment becomes a prison after the two clash, and Lyra and Pan grow suspicious that her new benefactor is not looking for Roger at all. Meanwhile Lord Boreal, a priest of the Consistorial Court, arrives at Jordan College to investigate Asriel's claims.

Mrs. Coulter goes to Jordan College in search of Lyra, while Boreal's search for Stanislaus Grumman only raises new questions. Lyra finds herself in the company of the Gyptians, who hope that she can help them locate their missing children.

When the Gyptians arrive in the North Lyra attempts to recruit a dishonored warrior bear to help in their cause -- but they are not the only ones looking for him.

As Lyra and her new allies travel to the fortified city of Bolvangar, she is convinced the alethiometer is directing her to a finishing village where someone needs help. In the other world, Boreal monitors a woman and her son left behind by Stanislaus Grumman, a.k.a. Colonel John Parry.

Lyra finds herself a prisoner inside Bolvangar, where the Magisterium is conducting horrific experiments to separate children from their daemons.

After she is separated from Lee, Lyra finds herself imprisoned by the Bear King Iofur -- whom she tries to manipulate to her own ends. Boreal approaches John Parry's wife with a new hope ... and a threat.

Lyra and Roger arrive at Lord Asriel's keep, unaware of his ultimate plan. As Mrs. Coulter brings the full force of the Magisterium down upon them, Lyra rallies her bear allies to fight. In the other world, young Will tries to stay one step ahead of the men following him.