Every witch needs a black cat. But most witches don't get a cat that's quite as insane - or bloodthirsty - as Smythe.

Many years ago, Lydia Smith was a troubled young girl living a miserable existence on her family's farm. Then one day she rescued a dying cat and gave him a new chance. And that cat, in return, helped Lydia to see a whole new world of possibilities.

Armed with strange powers she gained after reading an ancient book, Lydia began to take her revenge on all those who had wronged her. Then tragedy struck and Lydia was targeted by a mob of angry villagers. Accused of witchcraft, she was subjected to a terrifying and brutal fate.

But her cat Smythe survived, and he had other ideas.

In the present day, Parker and her mother Alison move into Styre House, an abandoned rural property near a quaint English village. They soon discover, however, that this particular house has a dark past. Something nasty is lurking in the garden, and a mysterious black cat seems to have an agenda all of his own. Old photos depict a terrified girl being buried alive on the property, and Parker starts to notice strange noises in the house at night. More than a century might have passed since Lydia Smith was killed, but that doesn't mean she's entirely gone.

Can Parker save herself and her mother from the evil lurking in the house? Can Lydia find a way back from beyond the grave? And can Smythe save his one true mistress from a fate worse than death?

Originally published as three standalone books, Smythe: The Complete Trilogy collects together the full story for the first time.

First published (in this edition): November 2024
Genre: Ghost / Horror
Series or Standalone: Collection of three books