Fountain of Evil

HONOR YOUR FATHER. HURT YOUR MOTHER

Christabel believes it's her sacred duty to protect her teenage daughter, Samantha. Never mind that Sam can be aggressive to the point of violence. Never mind that she refuses to return Christabel's love.

Inevitably, in a fit of rage, Sam knocks her mother unconscious. During her recovery, Christabel finally concedes that tough decisions must be made, and she and her ex-husband Ravi register Sam in a group residence. Ravi is relieved, but Christabel is guilt-stricken. Somehow, though, with Samantha securely rehomed, sparks of the couple's old romance reignite.

Too bad that their budding love is built on deception. Worse, that their daughter reveres her manipulative father and shuns her generous mother. More horrifying yet, something evil is happening in Sam's group facility and Christabel must intervene before an ominous situation turns into a disaster.

Editorial Reviews

"A surprising, disturbing look into small town utopia that had me turning pages at warp speed. Fountain of Evil kept me up past my bedtime, both because I couldn't put it down, and because I couldn't let it go."-Cat Skinner, author of Bump and Grind

"Sally Basmajian tips her quill into darker ink for this creepy, twisty story of motherhood and marriage gone off the rails. Readers will root for the protagonist stuck in a Stepfordesque setting until the very end."-Lena Scholman, author of Between Silk and Wool

Excerpt

Samantha: Where's Daddy?

Nurse: He will visit again tomorrow. With your mother, who is always here for you.

Samantha: Want Daddy.

Nurse: Your parents are so happy you're using more of your words. As am I.

Samantha: [She is still smiling but she closes her eyes]

Nurse: Well, there we go. Another day, and such a pleasant one it was, too. I'll wish you sweet dreams now, Samantha.

Samantha: Good night.

Nurse: Sleep tight.

Samantha: Give Mommy a great big bite. [Grinds teeth and laughs]