When Andrew's dad mucks up a business deal, he must go away to find a job. Mum must work flat out, and the children are sent to live in the country with Cousisn Beatrice - a difficult elderly lady who hates boys. Andrew is miserable, though younger sister Bella adjusts happily. Older sister Joanna, usually cheerful, becomes moody, and as time goes on develops an evil personality. Andrew makes friends with a blind boy, Simeon, and together they make a splendid model of Cousin Beatrice's farm, which they plan to sell to a local toy shop. They also come to realise that Joanna's peculiarities have to do with an ancient Druidic maze on a nearby hill. She seems mesmorized by it. It is Andrew and Simeon who must find a way of saving Joanna, which they do in a gripping finale. Simeon's special skills are very important to their success. Cousin Beatrice, the product of a violent father, learns to like and accept the boys. An enthralling read.