logo Wed, 25 Dec 2024 15:04:44 GMT

This Rough Magic


Synopsis


The pioneer of romantic suspense and author of Madam, Will You Talk? Mary Stewart leads her readers on a thrilling journey to a Mediterranean island paradise in this tale of mystery, murder and intrigue, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie and Barbara Pym.

'Suspense and romance expertly mingled' Observer

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

Lucy Waring, a young, out-of-work actress from London, leaps at the chance to visit her sister for a summer on the island paradise of Corfu, and what's more, a famous but reclusive actor is staying in a villa nearby. But Lucy's hopes for rest and romance are shattered when a body washes up on the beach and she finds herself swept up in a chilling chain of events.

I shuddered, and drank my coffee, leaning back in my chair to gaze out across pine tops furry with gold towards the sparkling sea, and surrendering myself to the dreamlike feeling that marks the start of a holiday . . .


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 chapter introduces Mary Dawes, a young Englishwoman who has recently inherited a large country estate in West Virginia. Mary is an unconventional and spirited woman who has traveled the world and has a passion for science and exploration. Upon arriving at her estate, she discovers a hidden room containing a magical book called "The Book of Shadows." The book grants her extraordinary powers, including the ability to heal the sick and control the elements.

Chapter 2

Mary uses her powers to heal a young boy who has been injured in a hunting accident. The boy's father, a wealthy and influential local landowner named John Henry Riley, is grateful for Mary's help and invites her to spend Christmas at his estate. While there, Mary meets Riley's daughter, Sarah, who is also a free-spirited woman with a love of nature.

Chapter 3

Mary and Sarah explore the surrounding woods together and discover an ancient Native American burial ground. They encounter a group of locals who are trying to destroy the burial ground, and Mary uses her powers to stop them. The local sheriff, a corrupt and superstitious man named Sam Moses, arrives and attempts to arrest Mary, but she is protected by Riley and his allies.

Chapter 4

Moses continues to harass Mary, and he eventually has her arrested for witchcraft. She is brought to trial and faces the death penalty. However, Sarah and Riley gather evidence to prove Mary's innocence, and she is eventually acquitted.

Chapter 5

Mary and Sarah decide to use their powers to help the local community. They travel the countryside, healing the sick and fighting for justice. They also encounter a group of traveling musicians who share their love of nature and music.

Chapter 6

Mary and Sarah's activism attracts the attention of a powerful and wealthy industrialist named Ephraim Worth. Worth wants to build a railroad through the valley where Mary and Sarah live, and he is willing to use violence to get what he wants. Mary and Sarah organize the local community to resist Worth's plans.

Chapter 7

Worth's men attack the community, but Mary and Sarah use their powers to defend them. The battle is intense, but Mary and Sarah ultimately defeat Worth and his allies.

Chapter 8

In the aftermath of the battle, Mary and Sarah reflect on their experiences and the power of magic. They realize that magic is not just a force for good or evil, but a tool that can be used for both creation and destruction. They vow to use their powers wisely and to continue fighting for justice and equality.