The Crimson Road

Slatter returns to her lush Sourdough Universe (last visited in The Briar Book of the Dead) for this fun if somewhat uneven gothic standalone. Violet Zennor was raised by her father to be a ruthless assassin. When her father dies, Violet believes she’s finally gained her independence, only to find her efforts to live a normal life thwarted by her father’s menacing and meddling friends. To protect her remaining family, Violet must follow her father’s last instructions, traveling north to the Darklands, a realm where vampire-like creatures called Leech Lords live. There, she is to destroy the noble House of the Anchorhold and “rescue her brother,” who, as far as she’s aware, has been dead for 13 years. It’s a treacherous journey that unexpectedly leads to friendship, love, and self-discovery. Violet makes an admirable heroine; her blend of strength and skepticism is refreshing, and it’s a joy to watch her forge her own path. Though readers needn’t be familiar with previous volumes, longtime fans will enjoy the cameos made by Slatter’s past female protagonists. Unfortunately, after a suspenseful start, the plot loses momentum in the novel’s back half as the action slows, making the climax feel drawn out. Still, the immersive worldbuilding, fascinating magical lore, and strong heroine make this worth a look. (Feb.)