The Moonspinners

Synopsis

Transport yourself to the idyllic hills of mid-century Crete in this tale of peril and intrigue, from the original queen of romantic suspense and author of Madam, Will You Talk?

'Mary Stewart is magic' New York Times

'One of the great British storytellers of the 20th century' Independent

While on a walking holiday through the beautiful, deserted hills of Crete, Nicola Ferris stumbles across a critically injured Englishman, guarded by a fierce Greek. Nicola cannot abandon them and so sets off on a perilous search for their lost companion - all the while being pursued by someone who wants to make sure none of them leave the island . . .

When the big white bird flew suddenly up among the glossy leaves and the lemon flowers, and wheeled into the mountain, I followed it.

'A comfortable chair and a Mary Stewart: total heaven. I'd rather read her than most other authors.' Harriet Evans

'She built the bridge between classic literature and modern popular fiction. She did it first and she did it best.' Herald

Summary

Chapter 1: The Shadow of Fear

Alex and Nicola Rowan are visiting their uncle, Dr. Gordon Stuart, on the sun-drenched island of Crete. Upon their arrival, they witness a strange incident: a mysterious figure lurking in the shadows. As night falls, a ghostly apparition appears outside their window, leaving them with an eerie feeling of unease.

Chapter 2: The Moonspinners

The siblings investigate the strange occurrences and encounter a group of enigmatic individuals known as the Moonspinners. Led by the charismatic Nikos Kanakis, they claim to be preserving the ancient traditions of Crete. However, Alex and Nicola suspect that something sinister is afoot.

Chapter 3: The Cave of Mysteries

Determined to uncover the truth, they seek the help of a local historian, Father Petros. Together, they explore a labyrinthine cave beneath the island, where they discover a hidden treasure: a priceless Roman statue.

Chapter 4: The Smugglers' Den

The Moonspinners are revealed as smugglers, intent on stealing the statue for their own gain. Nikos and his accomplices chase Alex and Nicola through the narrow streets of Heraklion. The siblings barely escape, but not before witnessing the true extent of the smugglers' power.

Chapter 5: The Legend of the Moonspinners

With the help of Father Petros and the local police, Alex and Nicola delve into the ancient legend of the Moonspinners. They learn that the group has a sinister history, linked to human sacrifices and dark rituals.

Chapter 6: The Ancient Oracle

Desperate to find a way to defeat the Moonspinners, Alex and Nicola seek out the ancient Oracle of Delphi. The oracle reveals a cryptic prophecy, foretelling the defeat of the smugglers by "the children of the sun and the sea."

Chapter 7: The Final Showdown

Armed with the oracle's prophecy, Alex and Nicola confront Nikos and his followers at the ruins of the Palace of Knossos. In a tense and thrilling climax, the siblings' courage and determination prevail. With the help of the police and the local people, they expose the Moonspinners and reclaim the stolen statue.

Real Example:

In Chapter 2, when Alex and Nicola first meet Nikos Kanakis, they are drawn to his charisma but also sense a sinister aura surrounding him. This is foreshadowing of the true nature of the Moonspinners and the danger that lies ahead.