The Mallen Streak — Catherine Cookson

MALLEN

The name was a law unto itself. Drinking, gambling and womanizing, their reckless breed ravaged the countryside. All their sons, legitimate and bastard alike, bore the Mallen streak--a white shock coursing through dark hair. It was said that a marked Mallen never died in bed.

THE MEN

Thomas Mallen--who died of an unforgivable sin.
Dick Mallen--who gambled away his own fortune and stole the last of his father's.
Donald Radlet--the bastard son whose special cruelty was reserved for one woman.

AND THEIR WOMEN

Anna Brigmore--the passionate governess with a gift of sacrifice.
Constance--who married one man and gave herself to another.
Barbara--who suffered the cruel fate of the Mallen prophecy.