One tragic impulsive mistake made Chloe Winslow an outcast to her influential magic family. As a medical student, she wants to combine science with sorcery to heal those she hurt and right her wrongs. But brilliant, charismatic Devlin Marsh re-routes her plans with a once-in-eternity offer: membership in the exclusive Northern Circle, a mysterious Vermont coven known for pushing the limits.

Enthralled by Devlin and their mesmerizing mutual attraction, Chloe makes a dangerous sacrifice to help the Circle's high priestess awaken Merlin himself-and learn his timeless cures. But a foreshadowing soon causes Chloe to doubt the Circle's real motives, as well as Devlin's . . .

Now Merlin's demonic shade is loose in the human world, while Chloe and Devlin's uneasy alliance will pit them against ancient enemies, malevolent illusions, and shattering betrayal. And with the fate of two realms in the balance, Chloe must risk her untried power against a force she can't defeat-and a passion that could destroy her.

Praise for Pat Esden and her Dark Heart Novels

"Esden creates a world of incredible atmosphere." -RT Book Reviews

"This is a fantastic book. Pat Esden is extremely skilled at creating a tense atmosphere and spooky setting. I'd recommend this book to anyone who likes a good story with suspense, romance, and a super cool world." -Pintip Dunn, New York Times bestselling author, on A Hold on Me

"It's a unique paranormal twist on the gothic novel, complete with old family secrets, bloody dilemmas, steamy guy with hidden truths, all set in an vast manor built along the foggy shores of Maine. For anyone in love with Daphne du Maurier. Or if you're just tired of the same old paranormal fodder out there, this one is a nice and r