The Briar Book of the Dead

Slatter’s gruesome and disappointing third novel set in the gothic fantasy universe established in Of Sorrow and Such tells the tragedy of the Briars, a witch family ruling autocratically over the town of Silverton. When both the Briar matriarchs die in the same year, nonmagical Ellie Briar nervously assumes the role of family steward, and Audra—Ellie’s powerfully magical cousin—is appointed Briar Witch, serving as absolute ruler of both family and town. When Audra leaves Silverton on business, Ellie is left in charge and must balance the town’s needs with her own duties. Things grow more complicated when her power finally awakens: she’s a speaker, someone able to see ghosts and set to rest unsettled souls by resolving their unfinished business. Tragedy plagues both the living and dead as Ellie discovers Silverton is rife with abuse, murder, and horrifying secrets. Unfortunately, Slatter’s blunt critique of power and corruption is hampered by wooden characters and a soap operatic plot that over relies on violence for shock value. This is best suited for die-hard fans. (Feb.)