'Lavishly entertaining' Independent'Enthralling . . . a literary feast' Stylist'A vividly imagined and deeply pleasurable gothic fantasy' Financial Times'O'Donnell is clearly a major talent' Guardian

The world had forgotten Mr Crowe and his mysterious gifts. Until he killed the poet.

He lived a secluded life in the fading grandeur of his country estate. His companions were his faithful manservant and his ward, Clara, a silent, bookish girl who has gifts of her own.

Now Dr Chastern, the leader of a secret society, arrives at the estate to call Crowe to account and keep his powers in check. But it is Clara's even greater gifts that he comes to covet most.

She must learn to use them quickly, if she is to save them all.

Sonorous, beautifully made, disquieting