A folktale mystery.
A parable of neglect.
A descent into horror.
An isolated twelve-year-old confides in no one except her diary, until one day the diary writes back. As the pages' suggestions spill violently out into the real world, Rosie Marsden must discover who-or what-is making the entries. And to what dangerous end.

The arresting second novel by Daniel Eaves blends earthy, well-written drama with supernatural horror and suspense to create a story many have described as "deeply satisfying" and "un-put-down-able." Set in England in the late 80's, our story follows Rosie Marsden, a bullied twelve-year-old from a broken family. Touching on issues of childhood neglect and mental illness, the underlying themes give a human voice to those who grow up in difficult circumstances, while the pacy plot provides us with a fulfilling mystery thriller, complete with disturbing supernatural elements.
What readers are saying
"I found it thoroughly engaging, I couldn't put it down. I made myself put it down before the end, so I could savor the end. A gripping tale full of good characters and a punchy ending." Martyn, Denver, USA.

"There was a consistent sense of threat and this was pleasantly tormenting! It meant I needed to keep reading and struggled to put the book down as I was always on the edge of a key discovery or something major and scary happening; I think I held my breath at times!" Ida, Leeds, UK.

"It varied between sad neglect and high drama, in a good way. I loved to hate the antagonists, and the fact that the mundane parts of Rosie's life were painted in its bleakness was very well done. I found the book to be captivating from the first read. It didn't stall or falter in any way. I didn't want to put it down." Rebekah, CA, USA.

"There were many scenes which were intensely dramatic and gripping with a sense of horror and the macabre. Often I found myself lost in the imagery, as though I was experiencing the drama rather than reading it, which is the best kind of fiction!" Hannah, Auckland, New Zealand.

"The tempo of the book definitely builds up in a satisfying manner. There's a real element of cliffhangery where I'll finish a chapter with the intention of going back to whatever it is I'm supposed to be doing, and just read the next chapter instead." Mike, London, UK.

"I don't have a scrap of belief in the supernatural but still found this creepy. Absoultely thrilling. That's what kept me hooked-I needed to find out who or what was responisble." Terry, Dumfries, Scotland.

"Very much enjoyed reading this. I enjoyed the way the writer developed the protagonist, and included a lot of observation of humanity and the way it treats certain people. The bullying and suicidal thoughts were pretty near the knuckle, as were the themes of alcoholism, abuse and mental illness. The author made me genuinely care about some of the characters, and despise others." Chris, Lancaster, UK.

"The rhythm of each chapter plays out smoothly, drawing the reader toward a satisfying crest at the close of each one. Enough of a tantalizing morsel to leave you craving another bite - AKA: 'cannot put this book down!'" Colleen, Kincardine, Canada.

"Really enjoyed the depth of description but the realism of Rosie's family life experiences and bullying were uncomfortable to read. The fact it wasn't easy going means it was very accurate and Eaves did a great job of making the reader feel empathy." Jed, York, UK.

"I'm not sure what else I can say except that I did not want to put it down. So, when is the next one coming?" Zara, Carlton Miniott, UK.