The Last Handmaid

There's more than one way to feed her hunger. 'Capturing a sense of Gothic splendour tempered with humour and suspense. An epic in every sense' TOM MEAD THE HANDMAID Hungary, 1604. Orphaned and alone, Catalina arrives at Csejte Castle with no protection and no power. It is a place of shifting loyalties, and girls who displease the household simply vanish. Survival here depends on obedience – and silence. THE COUNTESS Catalina is summoned to serve Countess Erzsébet Báthory, a woman as volatile as she is feared. Only she seems able to soothe her moods, drawing Catalina into the Countess' private chambers and her interest in strange ‘medicines’. THE COMPULSION As more girls disappear, Catalina knows there is a cost to staying alive. She must decide whether to try and escape her mistress’ hunger, be consumed by it – or learn to feed it herself… Inspired by the alleged most prolific female serial killer of all time, told through the eyes of their most trusted companion, this gothic historical suspense is perfect for fans of Carmilla and Weyward. Praise for Clare Whitfield 'Fast-paced and dark' ELODIE HARPER 'Brave and bold' ARAMINTA HALL 'A compulsive read' CAITLIN DAVIES 'An addictive, thrilling five-star read' ELENI KYRIACOU 'An exuberant and atmospheric read' THE TIMES