E. O'Meagher

There is an island off the coast of Maine where men have been searching for treasure for centuries. Driven by legend, fueled by historical accounts, and navigating a map with disputed origins, countless searchers have tried to find evidence the fabled riches exist. But the myth surrounding the lost fortune of The Tainted Fate is a deadly one.

Margaret “Meg” Lanigan has lived on White Cedar Island as long as anyone can remember. As vice-chair of the local historical society, she passes her days organizing fundraisers, planning festivals, and giving summer tours to visitors eager to learn about the island's famous history. As the island’s resident witch, she spends her nights crafting spells under the moonlight and conversing with her familiar. It's the simply comfortable way of life she’s earned.

As a new summer season begins, that simplicity is challenged by the arrival of two friends intent on being the ones to finally solve the riddle of the island. With a documentary film crew in tow, their prying threatens to complicate Meg’s carefully crafted facade.

Before long, however, plans far more dangerous than treasure hunting reveal an unsettling connection to the fortune no one thought possible. Because the deeper they dig the more they risk provoking the brutal mystery behind the tales. And as her carefully laid fabrications begin to unweave, Meg is forced to face her past and decide just how far she is willing to go to keep the island’s secrets buried.

Content Warning: this novel contains scenes with graphic violence, blood, depictions of self-harm (when performing spells), violence against women in historical context, profanity sexual situations, mentions of animal cruelty (off page), and discussions of infidelity. Readers who may are sensitive to these subjects, please take care.

Official Cover to Come

Seven souls will be the cost…