Peripatetic researcher John Thunstone uncovers a horrifying and malevolent supernatural force at work in the peaceful English village of Claines

John Thunstone is invited to participate in a seminar on folklore at Buford State College. He learns that the college had been founded by a rich man, Samuel Whitney, in gratitude for the healing prayers of a local women's group. However, other accounts state that Whitney had been cursed by his enemies and healed by a coven of witches. Moreover, two or more covens are supposedly still active in Buford. Grizel Fian, a fellow particiant in the seminar, is mentioned as the head of one coven.