On an isolated ridge in Kentucky stands a lighthouse that illuminates nothing more than the surrounding woods. The lighthouse has long been dismissed as an eccentric local landmark - until its builder and keeper is found dead.

For deputy sheriff Kevin Kimble, the lighthouse keeper's death is disturbing and personal. Years ago, Kimble was shot while on duty and this recent death feels somehow connected.

Meanwhile, Audrey Clark is in the midst of moving her big-cat sanctuary to land adjacent to the lighthouse. Sixty-seven tigers, lions, leopards and one legendary black panther are about to have a new home there. Her husband, the sanctuary's founder, died scouting the new property, but Audrey is determined to see his vision through.

As strange occurrences multiply near the lighthouse, the sanctuary's animals grow ever more restless, and Kimble and Audrey struggle to understand what evil forces are at work just past the divide between dark and light . . .

PRAISE FOR MICHAEL KORYTA'S NOVELS

'Koryta is on my must-read list.' DEAN KOONTZ

'Guaranteed to put the cold finger down your spine.' MICHAEL CONNELLY

'A superior specimen . . . eerie . . . beautiful . . . resplendent.' The New York Times

'An icy, terrifying winner.' DENNIS LEHANE