CONCORD – In her debut novel, author Nancy Gardner weaves themes of witchcraft, family dynamics and religion into a “must read” mystery.

Protagonist Lily Scott is a modern-day witch who was born with a strange birthmark – a mark shared by many maternal ancestors before her. It is the mark of a Dream Walker. Dream Walkers have the power to walk into other people’s dreams to solve crimes.

As an adolescent, Scott tried out her super power, and the result was disastrous. She never dared to dream walk again, until three decades later when her daughter is charged with a murder she did not commit. Scott must decide whether to risk dream walking to exonerate her daughter, or be held helpless by her fear of the terrifying Dream Stalker.

The book is set in Salem, Massachusetts, during Halloween season. One reviewer wrote, “From streets and landmarks of Salem during the fall, to fleshed-out characters with distinct characteristics, to learning about plants in Wicca, this book was entertaining and gripping!” Another reviewer, NY Times best-selling mystery author, Brunonia Barry, called the book, “a richly imagined Salem thriller.”

“My inspiration for ‘Dream Stalker’ began with my fascination with dreams – I keep a dream journal,” Gardner said. “A question came into my head a good 10 years ago: What if an amateur sleuth could walk into other people’s dreams to solve crime?” The author took the idea and ran with it.

Gardner incorporated elements of the paranormal into her plot because of her attraction to the history and cultural norms surrounding witchcraft.

“For hundreds of years, the label of ‘witch’ caused many an herbalist or midwife to be brought to trial and even sentenced to death,” she said. “Look no further than the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 for one close-to-home example. It wasn’t until the close of the 20th century that fear of paganism subsided, a change demonstrated by the fact that Salem now proudly calls itself ‘Witch City.'”

Gardner slyly presents the antithesis of paganism through Scott’s sister, a Catholic nun.

There is no shortage of drama in “Dream Stalker.” Scott is a widow, and is estranged from both her daughter and sister. The plot includes murder, suicide, drugs and some twists and turns along the way.

“I hope readers relax into an enjoyable mystery, and leave the story reminded that families can learn to forgive each other’s past mistakes,” Gardner said.

Gardner previously has published a number of short stories that also are mysteries. “Dream Stalker” is the first novel in a planned trilogy.

The Gardner household is full of imagination, creativity and lots of paper. Gardner’s husband also is an author.

“My husband, David, is also a novelist (The Journalist: A Paranormal Thriller and The Last Speaker of Skalwegian),” she said. “He and I support each other’s writing efforts, though we’ve taken different paths to publication. Living with someone who understands your writing obsession is wonderful!”

The Gardners also have children and grandchildren who bring much joy to their lives.

Gardner is a member of the New Hampshire Writers’ Project and Sisters in Crime. “Dream Stalker” is available on Amazon in either e-book, paperback or audiobook format. Award-winning narrator Karen Krause dramatizes the audiobook version.

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