Personal Darkness

World Fantasy and Bram Stoker Lifetime Achievement Award–winning author

"We draw our personal darkness round us to keep us safe from the sun."

The Scarabae family has existed for centuries. Wealthy beyond measure, they have no obligation or allegiance to anyone but themselves. They appear ancient but are timeless, driven only by the need to continue their line.

Ruth is their latest progeny, the spawn of a union her mother Rachaela believed unholy. Refusing to abide by family tradition, Ruth slaughtered most of the Scarabae, burning their ancestral manor to the ground. Now, she preys upon everyone she encounters, consumed by an insatiable need to drink the blood of her victims before torching their homes.

To find Ruth, the Scarabae turn to another branch of the family. If anyone can bring her to heel, it's the hunter Malach. Relentless and dangerous, he will not allow Ruth's trail of destruction to lead to the Scarabae—and he will kill any surviving witnesses left behind in her wake.

Rachaela doesn't know whether Malach intends to capture or execute Ruth. Emotionally alienated from her daughter, Rachaela is detached from Ruth's fate one way or the other. She is unable—or unwilling—to free herself from the manipulative Scarabae: especially the beautiful and alluring Althene, a companion of Malach who pursues her own pleasures—and is intent on seducing Rachaela . . .