In a single night, Mariette Rossard lost everything—her mother, her childhood, and her mortal life. When the opportunity arises for a fresh start in the New World, she leaves France without a backward glance. Soon strange tales, involving other Casket Girl brides, follow her into the wilds of colonial Louisiana. Mindful of a woman's precarious reputation—and the speed of gossip—she heeds every whisper involving blood-thirsty vampires. All the rumors pale in comparison to a neighbor's accusation—that she practices witchcraft. Mariette won't lose all she holds dear a second time.