Selena seems to be trapped in psychologically abusive relationships, first with her mother, who has just died, and now with her current partner. Her only hope is an aunt she hasn't seen in years. Together with her dog, Copper, and the last of her money, Selena arrives in Quartz Creek only to find her aunt has died. As her aunt's last living relative, Selena claims the aunt's house and, vowing to stay only until she can earn enough money to leave, she and Copper settle in. She soon befriends her neighbor, Grandma Billy, and the local priest, Father Aguirre, both of whom teach Selena in the ways of the desert. What she learns is that there is a flimsy curtain between her and the spirit world inhabited by desert gods, chief among them is Snake-Eater, a malevolent god invited into this world by her late aunt. Fearing her life is in danger from Snake-Eater, Selena turns to her new friends for help expelling him from her house. The result is a battle between gods and humans whose outcome is not assured.
This is an engaging story with wonderful characters. The writing and pacing are spot-on, and the spirits who inhabit Selena's world are, except Snake-Eater, ones I'd like to have around my house. The desert setting makes what happens believable. Kingfisher is an excellent storyteller, and this well-written book is one of her best yet.
5/5 stars.
Thank you, NetGalley and 47North, for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The publication date is December 1, 2025.
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