It was a summer just like any other in ritzy Penlow Park. Until the beautiful Diane Cheney arrived — the mysterious raven-haired widow who radiated sexuality... She spread her dark sexual spell on them all — and on their marriages.

On Paul Fayette, the contented, suburban banker and on his happy tomboy wife Laura. On the philandering Clint Stahl and his discontented, wanton wife Margaret. Mrs Cheney played all things to all lovers. Victim to the master. Aunt to the small boy. Taskmaster to the wanton. Romantic love to the girl-child. And she corrupted goodness wherever she found it. Her time at Pentlow Park became the DARK SUMMER that changed their lives forever...