by Anne Bishop
First published 2020
Deputy sheriff Ana Cordoza arrives in Bennett, a former ghost town where humans were wiped out after massacring the shape-shifting Others. The settlement now serves as an experiment in coexistence between humans and Others. Ana works under a Wolfgard sheriff while the community rebuilds. A blood prophet child lives with foster parents seeking acceptance. A dangerous Other operates a saloon in human fashion. The town reopens its shops and offices as residents attempt normal lives. Their fragile peace faces disruption when profit-seeking humans take notice of Bennett's revival. The arrival of the notorious Blackstone Clan brings additional chaos to the struggling community. These outlaws and gamblers threaten to expose hidden truths that could destroy everything the settlers have built. Ana must navigate the complex tensions between species while protecting a town where survival depends on cooperation. The story explores whether natural enemies can truly coexist or if their fundamental differences will lead to mutual destruction.
Genres: science-fiction, fantasy, thriller, paranormal
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Bennett, Others
Period: present-day
511 pages · Mass Market Paperback · Ace
Content warnings: violence