For a young woman whose time is running out, a healing trip to a dreamlike town becomes a nightmare of dark secrets, twisted obsessions, and inescapable truths in this propulsive speculative thriller.

Evangeline Windemere knows love. Despite her wealthy mother’s objections, it’s her rebellious boyfriend, Slater, who’s always been there for her. But Evangeline is struggling with a mysterious illness. Hovering between life and death, her only hope is in the compellingly handsome, silver-eyed Dr. Sebastian Blithe. He knows what’s best for Evangeline.

A restorative stay in Dr. Blithe’s estate in the remote town of Paradise will work wonders. With hills of grass uncommonly green for the desert, quaint shops, and fresh air, it’s like a dream come true. But something is wrong. Sebastian’s staff is evasive, and the town’s residents seem to revere the altruistic doctor. Then come the whispered warnings that Evangeline is not safe. When a strange marking appears on her flesh, Evangeline fears she’s awakening the dark side of Paradise.

Now Evangeline must search for the truth. As Slater journeys to Paradise to rescue her, the fate that awaits him and Evangeline is written in the stars…and in blood.

© 2026 by Brittany A. Marasciulo. ℗ 2026 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.