Mira lives quietly in a small rural community in Scotland - until one day she witnesses a stranger running for her life through the forest. Shot and killed in front of her, the body is soon removed, the only clue to the death a spot of blood and a crumpled piece of paper. Mira discovers a list of names on the paper, including her own, and the word 'Watcher' beside one of her contemporaries in the village. Suddenly Mira feels threatened and, increasingly paranoid about the motives of those around her, she plans her escape from the community she's known all her life. Heading towards the capital, she soon discovers an urban nightmare she'd never suspected. A city led by ruling families, where the families are kept in power through their reliance on 'spares' - or clones. Mira herself is a clone of Clarissa, the daughter of one of the governors. Clarissa's brother spots Mira on the streets and is intrigued by her. As he discovers the truth behind his family situation, he determines to help her escape. She is too dangerous to be left 'at large' and is being pursued. Together they head for France, where they know a third 'spare' is being brought up. In a tense denouement, Clarissa and Mir