'With the publication of Precious Bane, a substantial readership came to respect Mary Webb's quiet genius . . . When she died at the age of forty-six, literature lost a voice that promised to speak for Shropshire as poignantly as Thomas Hardy had spoken for Wessex, Emily Bronte for Yorkshire - New York Times

Prudence Sarn was born with her 'precious bane', a cleft palate, for which she is persecuted as a witch by her superstitious neighbours. Their daily ridicule drives Prue to take refuge in the wild Shropshire countryside, and she develops a profound love of nature. Furtively, Prue dreams of being , of being kissed on the lips, and harbours a hopeless passion for Kester Woodseaves, the weaver.

Prue's brother, Gideon, is hungry for wealth and power, whatever the cost. Gideon incurs the wrath of his would-be father-in-law, whose act of vengeance results in Prue being accused of murder. Only Kester, who has perceived her true worth, can defend her from her accusers.

Winner of the 1926 Prix Femina Vie Heureuse Prize.