The Manse: Maria's Mystery - Hardcover

"There is something about a genuinely peaceable, good-natured woman that causes a certain type of person to imagine they may walk all over her. This likelihood increases if she happens to be naturally pretty. Men may feel certain that they can be the stronger force in a relationship. In terms of other women, admiring friends may be genuine but, when envy creeps in, the temptation to be manipulative seems even greater."

When people are privileged or in a position of authority, they sometimes believe they have the right to intimidate others. This can be especially true when they perceive a woman is weak or attractive. A pretty, feminine woman may be thought to have little strength of character and she could run the risk of being bullied.

Maria made the difficult decision to leave two jobs that she really enjoyed. Both times there was another worker there who made her feel small. But she found there is strength in ridding oneself of controlling people and moving on. Maria finds work that suits her much better taking care of horses and dogs.

For several weeks over the Christmas season, she stays in a mansion as an employee, but also as a guest. She meets others with whom she feels compatible, and they enjoy the holiday. The guests in The Manse have tales to tell, and share confidences and insights on long winter evenings, feeling cosy and safe by the fireside.

Then events take a surprising turn.