Book excerpt: A GOTHIC ROMANCE. MISTY MOORS. ANCIENT SECRETS. FORBIDDEN PASSIONS. Her mother had always been afraid. That's what Damaris remembered. From the time she was a little girl until the day her mother died, she had seen the fear in her eyes. But now she understood. Now she was afraid, too. Young Damaris wanted more than anything to be happy at Thornoak, the ancient manor owned by her aunt and uncle. Adventuring through the wide, open beauty of the Dale in the company of her rambunctious cousins she rediscovered a joy she had thought lost with the death of her parents. And in the deep, storm-tossed eyes of Lauran Ashbrigg she was surprised to find an entirely new emotion. But even under the warm and inviting sun, Damaris is chilled by the undeniable fact that the family which claims to welcome and love her is hiding truths from her: The truth of the Lady Stone. The truth of the Old Ways. The truth of moon and star and witchcraft. The truth of her mother's death. PRAISE FOR MARGARET FRAZER "Exquisitely written, the novel offers a brilliantly realized vision... Suspenseful from start to surprising conclusion, this is another gem from an author who's twice been nominated for an Edgar." -Publisher's Weekly "Love the passionate attention to detail in character, custom, and setting, and the sympathetic creation of believable people and events. Essential." - Library Journal of New York "A lovingly told story, rich with fascinating description. Ms. Frazer provides a real treat for lovers of all things." - Toby Bromberg, Romantic Times "The writing is seamless... Rich period detail, canny characterization, and a lively plot should endear her tales to anyone..." - Minneapolis Star Tribune "Mystery... Suspense... Frazer executes with audacity and ingenuity." - Kirkus Reviews "Weaves a budding romance and a grand, unrequited passion with a bold and dangerous plot... Great fun for all!" - Alfred Hitchcock Magazine "Frazer's books will be among those I read as soon as I see them." - Houston Facts Twice nominated for the Minnesota Book Award. Twice nominated for the Edgar Award. A Romantic Times Top Pick. A Herodotus Award Winner.