Every bone in Ingrid's body screams for her to leave, and as she walks from the graveside, she can’t shake the suspicion that Charles was murdered. As she hurries to uncover the truth and get away from Strathbairn, another murder takes place - one that traps her in the very place she is desperate to escape from.
Running out of time and clues, can Ingrid evade the truth of that terrible night up at the abbey the last time she was here, and can she solve the mystery of Charles’ death before his ghost does away with her?
Isobel and her daughter Sarah have returned to Strathbairn by a request from Miles to attend the funeral of his father Charles. Her apprehension to return to a place she once was treated so poorly as a staff member, has her questioning why she would agree. Once again, she finds herself among the darkness of the land, dissention among the family members, and the secrets of the past.
Once a housekeeper, now a guest, Ingrid still does not seem to fit. She is still treated the same as before. There is much mistrust and resentment lies within her heart as she tries to navigate being back at this place she never thought she would ever return to.
"The camaraderie, the unity, the affection they all display to one another is extraordinary. I feel like an outsider, a stray, an orphan looking in on a happy family. And none of their behaviour is false. None of it is for show. They are genuinely happy in each other’s company, celebrating the moment, the togetherness. Thinking of the cool ambience in the main house—the dark moods of Gertrude and Miles, the tensions, the squabbles and fights—I can only conclude that the antics and the joy in the kitchen are a kind of foil, a contrast that only serves to draw attention to that very difference. And I wonder who has the better deal in life. When I put the two side by side, in this house at least, it is far, far better to be a servant."
Ingrid wants to get back to her home as soon as possible, but circumstances continue to stop her, and now she is finding herself being haunted by the ghost of Charles McCleod. He is trying to lead her to solve the mystery of his death and as she is trying, so many more dark secrets are revealed.
It was such a joy to return to Strathbairn with Ingrid. Even though the place always has a sense of foreboding with all the lingering memories of the past, Ingrid's story is what keeps me engaged. She is a character that one can't help but root for. She has been through some dark times, and I can't wish for nothing less than for her to experience more light in her life. She does not give up on the challenges she faces, and she remains steadfast to her character.
Once again, Isobel Blackthorn has created a dark Gothic novel filled with mystery, intrigue, and suspense. Characters to like and some to dislike considerably which adds to the tension. A place that often feels cursed.
Another captivating gothic story sure to entertain fans of the genre.
Format: Purchased eBook
Song Pairing: Morning Light by David Tolk
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