The secrets of the house are the secrets of the heart.

It begins with an act of betrayal that destroys the tenuous bonds of Celestina Errantes's family. For years afterwards, Celestina longs for an escape from her unhappy home. Then an unexpected gift from her wealthy Lolo offers that chance: a long-forsaken property in Manila's bohemian district, close to where ladies of the evening ply their trade. It is no place for a proper young woman, but this house, even with its ghosts, makes Celestina feel at home.

Celestina tears into life, losing herself in the pleasures of the night, but soon finds that the emptiness within her is not easily filled. When finally a true chance at happiness promises to save her, a sinister voice from the past returns, threatening to destroy it all. (From Rare Machines/Dundurn Press)

Clarissa Trinidad Gonzalez is a Filipina author based in Toronto. Celestina's House is her first book.