Something is stirring on Bodmin Moor. Something evil and very sinister is seeking to break out of hell and into the world of men. Now the Guardians of the Gates - an ancient order of militant priests - have been alerted to its presence. They only have one man capable of taking on such a dangerous assignment. He is Father Paul Samuel, the finest slayer in the history of the brotherhood. Unfortunately for them he is tired and desperately close to burnout. In a desperate race against time, Father Samuel must locate and destroy this primeval enemy of mankind before he falls apart and before it can wreak havoc upon earth. Aided by two unexpected partners, and tormented by a love that has been forbidden him, Father Samuel battles to save not only his own soul, but also the world as we know it. As he does so he discovers that sometimes, when you stand too close to the fires of hell, sooner or later you start to smell of sulphur yourself. v