Deaths and disappearances pile up as a mysterious beast stalks the French countryside and two girls seize an unlikely opportunity that just might save them all--or serve them up on a platter.

Step into this chilling, historical horror inspired by the unsolved mystery of the Beast of G?vaudan.

When a series of brutal, mysterious deaths start plaguing the countryside and whispers of a beast in the mountains reach the quiet French hamlet of Mende, most people believe it's a curse--God's punishment for their sins.

But to sixteen-year-old Jos?phine and her best friend, Clara, the beast isn't a curse. It's an opportunity.

For years, the girls of Mende have been living in a nightmare--fathers who drink, brothers who punch, homes that feel like prisons--and this is a chance to get them out.

Using the creature's attacks as cover, Jos?phine and Clara set out to fake their friends' deaths and hide them away until it's safe to run. But escape is harder than they thought. If they can't brave a harsh winter with little food... If the villagers discover what they're doing... If the beast finds them first...

Those fake deaths might just become real ones.

Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Published: 12/10/2024
ISBN: 9780593707722
Pages: 352
Weight: 1.06lbs
Size: 8.25h x 5.50w x 0.88d

Review Citations: Publishers Weekly 09/09/2024
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 11/01/2024
Kirkus Reviews 10/15/2024