"Frightening enough to jolt even the most jaded ghost story addict. Straub can write superb horror."
WASHINGTON POST

In a private school in New England, a friendship is forged between two boys that will change their lives for ever. As Del Nightingale and Tom Flanagan battle to survive the oppressive regime of bullying and terror overseen by the sadistic headmaster, Del introduces Tom to his world of magic tricks.

But when they escape to spend the summer holiday together at Shadowland – the lakeside estate of Del's uncle – their hobby suddenly takes on much more sinister tones. After a summer exploring the mysteries and terrors of Shadowland nothing will be the same.

"Straub is a master of creating fear out of everyday life."
SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

"Intriguing and appealing, poised and accomplished."
SUNDAY TIMES

"Truly fantastic… a work of literary magic."
MIAMI HERALD

Reviews

‘Frightening enough to jolt even the most jaded ghost story addict. Straub can write superb horror.’
Washington Post

‘Intriguing and appealing… poised and accomplished.’
Sunday Times

‘Truly fantastic… a work of literary magic.’
Miami Herald

‘Creepy from page one… a grand slam… I loved it.’
STEPHEN KING