Declan Fitzgerald had always been the family maverick, but even he can’t understand his impulse to buy a dilapidated mansion on the outskirts of New Orleans. All he knows is that ever since he saw Manet Hall, he’s been enchanted – and obsessed – with it. So when the opportunity to buy the house comes up, Declan jumps at the chance. Determined to restore Manet Hall to its former splendour, Declan begins the daunting renovation room by room, relying on his own labour and skills. But spending his days in total isolation in the empty house is taking its toll. He’s seeing visions of days from a century past, and experiencing sensations of terror and nearly unbearable grief – sensations not his own but those of a stranger. Local legend has it that the house is haunted, and with every passing day Declan’s belief in the ghostly presence grows. Only the companionship of alluring Angelina Simone can distract him from the mysterious happenings in the house, but Angelina has her own surprising connection to Manet Hall – a connection that will help Declan uncover a secret that’s been buried for a hundred years.
Dive into the captivating world of Nora Roberts' *Midnight Bayou*, a spellbinding tale of mystery, romance, and chilling suspense set against the evocative backdrop of New Orleans. This paperback edition invites you to unravel a century-old secret within the walls of the historic Manet Hall. Declan Fitzgerald, a man known for his independent spirit, finds himself inexplicably drawn to a dilapidated mansion on the outskirts of New Orleans. Manet Hall, a shadow of its former grandeur, casts a powerful spell on Declan, igniting an unshakeable desire to restore it to its original glory. Driven by an obsession he can't quite explain, he purchases the property, embarking on a painstaking renovation, brick by brick, fueled by his own labor and determination. But the isolation of Manet Hall begins to seep into Declan's soul. He experiences unsettling visions of the past, echoes of intense terror and profound grief that aren't his own. Local legends whisper of the house being haunted, and as the days pass, Declan becomes increasingly convinced that a spectral presence lingers within its walls. He's not alone in feeling the house's pull; animals refuse to enter the property, adding to the air of mystery and unease. Amidst the haunting atmosphere, Declan finds solace in the company of the alluring Angelina Simone. Angelina, with her own captivating charm and a mysterious connection to Manet Hall, offers a welcome distraction from the unsettling events unfolding within the house. As their bond deepens, Angelina's past intertwines with Manet Hall's secrets, drawing her and Declan closer to the truth. Angelina's connection to Manet Hall isn't mere coincidence. She possesses a unique understanding of the house's history and the tragic events that transpired within its walls generations ago. Together, Declan and Angelina delve into the mansion's dark past, uncovering a web of betrayals, lost love, and a shocking crime that has remained hidden for over a century. They will have to trust each other as they navigate the dangerous path of unveiling the deep dark secrets of Manet Hall. Roberts masterfully weaves together elements of suspense, romance, and the supernatural, creating a truly unforgettable reading experience. *Midnight Bayou* explores themes of obsession, redemption, and the enduring power of the past. Will Declan and Angelina find love amidst the shadows? Can they finally lay to rest the spirits that haunt Manet Hall, or will they become the next victims of its tragic history? This Piatkus Paperback edition of *Midnight Bayou* is a perfect addition to any Nora Roberts fan's collection and a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thrilling blend of mystery, romance, and ghostly intrigue. Prepare to be captivated from the first page to the last as you delve into the dark and seductive world of Manet Hall. Get ready to lose yourself in a gripping story that will keep you guessing until the very end, filled with twists, turns, and a satisfying resolution that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.