3 Review(s)

The novel is set in the Scottish countryside and revolves around the story of the Meredith family, particularly focusing on the young widow, Isabel Sempill, who becomes the mistress of the grand but eerie old house known as "St. Rule's." The house, almost a character in its own right, carries a mysterious and somewhat malevolent atmosphere that gradually exerts a sinister influence over those who live there.Isabel Sempill marries into the Meredith family and soon finds herself navigating the complexities of her new role as the lady of the house. Her husband dies early in the story, leaving her a young widow with a stepdaughter, Margaret Meredith, and a son, Roland. Isabel is a strong-willed and independent character, but she is also sensitive to the uncanny aura of St. Rule's.