Synopsis:
In an isolated desert town, a young woman seeking a fresh start is confronted by ancient gods, malevolent supernatural forces, and eccentric neighbours.
A witty horror-tinged fantasy, perfect for fans of Silvia Moreno-Garcia, Chuck Tingle, and Rachel Harrison.
When Selena travels to the remote desert town of Quartz Creek in search of her estranged Aunt Amelia, she is desperate and short of options. Fleeing an unhappy marriage, she has exactly twenty-seven dollars to her name, and her only friend in the world is her dog, Copper.
On arrival, Selena learns Amelia is dead. But the inhabitants of Quartz Creek are only too happy to have a new resident. Out of money and ideas, Selena sees no harm staying in her aunt’s lovely house for a few weeks, tending to her garden and enjoying the strange, desolate beauty of the desert. The people are odd, but friendly, and eager to help Selena settle into her new home.
But Quartz Creek’s inhabitants share their town with others, old gods and spirits whose claim to the land long predates their human neighbours. Selena finds herself pursued by disturbing apparitions, visitations that come in the night and seem to want something from her.
Aunt Amelia owed a debt. Now her god has come to collect.
Average Score: 3.79
Review: This book was almost universally well received by our members – which is a relief because I nominated it and loved it!
As with all T Kingfisher books, the context is set deftly and she really brings desert living to life. Her characters are warm and full of humour and the story zips along. Unlike some books we’ve read recently that felt too long, this one felt short and we’d all have happily read a longer version.
The ending felt a little rushed in a sort of that escalated quickly way, but we were glad that Selena got to face two of her demons.
The Next Chapter Book Club 