SHADOW OF THE HEIRESS
Blurb:
Adopted into the wealthy Hargrove family, Charlotte believed she had found her place in the world. But the return of Evelyn, the rightful heiress, triggers a series of strange events: shadowy figures in the woods, whispers in the walls, and memories Charlotte can’t recall. Jack, a mysterious figure who claims to be her protector, warns her of a deadly ritual tied to a centuries-old curse. As the lines between truth and deception blur, Charlotte must uncover the family’s darkest secrets before the curse claims her life—or her sanity.
Trope:
Adopted into danger, unraveling family secrets, an immortal protector with ulterior motives, and a “chosen one” caught in a web of betrayal and destiny.
Climax:
The cult captures both Charlotte and Evelyn, preparing to enact the ritual in the family chapel. Jack, overcome with guilt, helps Charlotte escape, but Evelyn refuses to leave, convinced her death is inevitable.
Charlotte confronts the cult leader, who reveals that breaking the curse requires the destruction of the family artifact—a mirror that binds the ancient force. The artifact can only be destroyed by someone tied to both bloodlines. Charlotte, realizing her connection to the Hargrove legacy, uses the mirror to unleash the trapped force on the cult.
In a final twist, Jack sacrifices himself to destroy the mirror and sever his immortality, ensuring the curse is broken.
Denouement:
• Charlotte and Evelyn: Evelyn survives but leaves the estate, seeking a new life free from the family’s dark history. Charlotte continues to rebuild and redefine her identity without the shadow of the curse.
• Hints of Lingering Darkness: Although the curse is broken, remnants of the ancient force linger in the woods, suggesting not all is resolved.
• Final Revelation: Charlotte finds a hidden journal from Jack, hinting at deeper truths about her origins and the possibility that she may not have been adopted by chance.