This audiobook is narrated by a digital voice.

The letter arrived on a Tuesday morning, delivered by a postal worker who seemed unusually eager to leave Sarah's doorstep. The envelope bore her name in elegant script, but no return address—only a wax seal pressed with an unfamiliar symbol that resembled intertwining shadows.

Sarah Mitchell had been expecting correspondence regarding her great-aunt Cordelia's estate, but this felt different. The paper was heavy, almost warm to the touch, and when she broke the seal, a faint smell of lavender and something else—something metallic—wafted from within.

Dear Sarah, the letter began, You are hereby informed that you have inherited Greystone Manor and all its contents following the passing of Cordelia Blackwood. The property is located at 1847 Millbrook Road, approximately three hours north of your current residence. You are required to take possession within thirty days of receiving this notice.

Sarah frowned. Cordelia Blackwood? She had never heard her great-aunt referred to by that surname. As far as she knew, Aunt Cordelia had been a Mitchell, like the rest of the family. But then again, Sarah's knowledge of her family's history was admittedly sparse. Her parents had died when she was young, and she'd been raised by distant relatives who spoke little of the past.

The letter continued with legal jargon about property transfers and estate settlements, but it was the final paragraph that made Sarah's hands tremble slightly:

Please note that Greystone Manor has been unoccupied for several months. You may find the transition challenging, as the house has... particular characteristics that require adjustment. I strongly advise against bringing children or pets to the property initially. The previous caretakers have provided detailed instructions that you will find in the study. Follow them precisely.