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The Taking of Irene Hart
They were promised paradise, but a serpent lies in wait...
1859. Somerset, England.
When widow Hester Hart decides to sign over all her family’s worldly goods – and their freedom – to a secretive religious community, her daughters, headstrong Ruby and fragile Irene, have little say in the matter.
Led by the charismatic Reverend Peters, the women enter a world with its own set of rules and where Irene, cursed with seizures and ill health, is believed to have second sight. But as Hester and Irene are drawn into the community’s twisted philosophy, Ruby detects a darker truth stalking its shadowy corners.
When a shocking discovery throws the community open to scrutiny, the stakes are raised and Ruby realises that it is not only their souls that must be saved…
Publisher: One More Chapter
First published: 13/02/2025
Reviews for this book
'The Taking of Irene Hart is not just a tale of suspense; it's also a poignant exploration of familial love, resilience, and the consequences of misplaced trust. Reiss' evocative writing and rich historical detail make this an unforgettable read for fans of historical fiction with a psychological edge.'
The Secret Book Review
'This is a fast-paced gothic novel that explores themes of religion and morality, with hints of the supernatural, that will appeal to fans of The Essex Serpent, The Shadow Key and The Silence Factory.'
The Historical Novel Society