Deep in the rugged Appalachians of North Carolina lies the cove, a dark, forbidding place where spirits and fetches wander, and even the light fears to travel. Or so the townsfolk of Mars Hill believe--just as they know that Laurel Shelton, the lonely young woman who lives within its shadows, is a witch. Then it happens--a stranger appears, carrying nothing but a silver flute and a note explaining that his name is Walter and he is mute--and Laurel experiences true companionship and happiness for the first time. But Walter harbors a secret that could destroy everything. In a time of uncertainty, when fear and danger reign, Laurel and Walter will discover that love alone may not be enough to protect them. -- Provided by publisher.

Includes a reader's group guide.