With this free, ebook-only extract, sample the haunting world of Ilka Tampke''s debut SKIN, coming in August 2015. Also contains special extra material from the author.

Celtic Britain, AD 28. Every seven years, the people of Durotriga unite at the Gathering to perform a ritual; one which will keep the peace amongst their tribe. Tonight, they will offer a gift to their tribal ancestors. That gift is a blood sacrifice.

''The journeymen and -women started to sing down the songs
of our tribe in powerful harmony. I could sense the expectation
in the gathering, the pulsing of hearts and the coursing of blood.
This ritual was part of our story, part of our truth,
but the terribleness of it was never forgotten.''

Ailia, only seven years old, must attend the ritual and stand with the other daughters of the tribe. For a young girl will be chosen tonight - and Ailia is the right age...