In a picturesque village in Brittany, a woman named Véronique arrives, seeking answers about her past. She discovers a letter revealing the fate of her estranged husband, Alexis Vorski, who has died under mysterious circumstances. The letter also mentions a strange coincidence involving her initials found on a deserted cabin, prompting her to investigate further. Véronique finds the cabin, only to discover a dead body inside, missing a hand. This shocking discovery is compounded by a drawing she finds, depicting four women crucified, one resembling her. Overwhelmed, she faints and later returns to the village, only to find the body has vanished. Determined to uncover the truth, Véronique embarks on a journey through Brittany, following a trail of cryptic signs that lead her to the Isle of Sarek. There, she learns of a dark prophecy involving thirty coffins and four women to be crucified. As she delves deeper into the island's mysteries, she encounters a series of tragic events, including the deaths of those close to her. Véronique's son, Francois, is revealed to be alive but has been taken captive along with his tutor, Stéphane Maroux. As she navigates the dangers of the island, she confronts the sinister forces at play, including a woman connected to her past who harbors a deep-seated hatred for her. The narrative unfolds with themes of motherhood, sacrifice, and the struggle against fate. Véronique's quest to reunite with her son becomes a race against time as she faces the malevolent forces that threaten their lives. The story culminates in a confrontation with the dark legacy of the island, where Véronique must confront her fears and the truth about her family's past. Ultimately, the tale explores the intersection of love and horror, as Véronique fights to protect her son and uncover the secrets that bind them to the island's tragic history. The resolution remains uncertain, leaving readers to ponder the implications of fate, identity, and the enduring bonds of family amidst chaos and despair.
By Maurice Leblanc · First published 1913 · Genre: Mystery, Adventure, Thriller · 18 chapters