Description:The year is 1724 when twelve-year-old Rachel comes to Charles Town to live with her father. Her mother died when Rachel was five and she has lived with her grandparents ever since. She makes a new friend in Sally, the tavern-owner's daughter, but their budding friendship is ended soon after the arrival of Miranda, Rachel's father's fiancee. To continue seeing each other, the girls decide to spent time on a small island near the town. They dub the island "Skull Island" after discovering a human skull near some quicksand on their first visit. They also discover a hidden lagoon, an overgrown trail, and mysterious carved symbols. Are pirates hiding stolen treasure on the island? The plot thickens when Rachel finds evidence of a secret relationship between Miranda and Mr. Craven, her father's business partner. Then her father's business is ruined when his ships are attacked by pirates. Is Miranda betraying Rachel's father? Can she save her father from disaster and keep her friendship with Sally?