The Barter is a ghost story and a love story. Bridget has given up her career to be a stay-at-home. But for Bridget, some crucial part of the exchange is absent: something she loves and needs. And now a terrifying presence has entered her home--only nobody but Bridget can feel it. On a farm in 1902, a young city bride takes a farmer husband. The marriage bed will become both crucible and anvil as Rebecca first allows, then negates, the powerful erotic connection between them. She turns her back on John to give all her love to their child. Much will occur in this cold house, none of it good.