"Crafty Novel of Gothic Suspense"

Ms. Tyrrel's debut novel is filled with sensual romance set against the backdrop of an old home replete with a haunting history. When San Francisco architect Stacy Addison decides to buy a mountain home away from the bustle of the city, she finds the perfect property in the Sierra Mountains. Though in a state of disrepair, the price is right, and Stacy purchases the beautiful rambling home whose former elderly owner, Mrs. Shapiro, is now residing in a nursing home.

Stacy is immediately attracted to her new neighbor, photographer Brand Vandevere, who lives in a nearby remodeled barn with his cousin Tess and housemate Saul. Upon learning that Brand had originally wanted Stacy's home for his own, Stacy remains conflicted about her feelings for him, as his moody, brooding nature confuses her. The suspense continues to escalate when Stacy receives threatening phone calls at her apartment and architectural firm in San Francisco, and she is forced to permanently relocate to her new home.

The attraction between Stacy and Brand ignites in a sizzling love scene at a fourth of July picnic, but Brand leaves for a hiking expedition soon afterwards, and his off again/on again girlfriend Alana is a constant presence at the barn. Stacy alternates between missing Brand and wondering if he is the person behind the vicious phone calls, even as she becomes disturbed by the constant premonition that someone is coming into her home while she is absent. This crafty novel of romance and suspense culminates in a breathtaking conclusion that will leave the reader eagerly anticipating this new author's next novel.

Reviewed by Sheri Melnick
Posted May 27, 2004

Summary

A dazzling tale of a thoroughly modern woman who falls in love with the house of her dreams—only to have it turn into her ultimate nightmare.

It's a turn-of-the-century rambling manor in the shadows of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. And even though it will need months of renovations, nothing will stop architect Stacy Addison from buying it—not even the threatening notes...the hang-ups...the harassment.

Someone doesn't want Stacy in the house. But it's not just the house, Stacy slowly realizes. Someone wants her gone—permanently.