When Virginia and Jack Sargent took the twins and moved to sunny Southern California, they were filled with hope and eager expectations. But soon, doubt and loneliness crept in. Then—was it by chance?—Virginia met Madeline.

Beautiful, mysterious, irresistible Madeline . . . who knew so much about them, things no one could know . . . Madeline who made predictions that came true . . . Madeline who had powers that could make Jack rich, make Virginia famous. She moved into their lives, their home . . . their bed.

Soon, her relentless scheming takes control of the entire family. But no one knows how it will end or what miracle or madness will happen next. Not even Madeline.

This chilling tale rises to a tense crescendo as the psychic dissects and manipulates the family's beliefs and paralyzes their will to protect themselves. This classic story of brainwashing offers a cautionary tale for anyone who has lost the ability to question an illogical certainty.