Soul Song

In her newest Dirk & Steele novel, Liu introduces fiddle player Kitala Bell, cursed with the ability to foresee people’s deaths, and merman M’Cal, slave to a soul-stealing witch. When M’Cal’s cruel master orders M’Cal to steal Kitala’s soul, he’s loathe to carry through with it but can’t stop himself—or the witch. Unsuspecting Kit, meanwhile, has gotten herself in dutch with some local criminals while trying to help a girl she’s sure will be murdered. By the time M’Cal catches up with Kit, he’s forced into the role of rescuer—and, before long, red-hot lover. Though it starts slow—as clueless Kit must become acquainted with the author’s paranormal underworld—Liu’s latest is a clever, finely constructed take on the “Little Mermaid” story and delivers great paranormal suspense. Though the love story lacks complexity, and the Dirk & Steele detectives play only a peripheral part, all the other elements Liu fans expect—a strong heroine, a damaged hero, sharp dialogue and funny, fanciful details—are well-represented, making this a satisfying return to her universe. (July)