The mining town of Goetia is split in two, between the Virtues (descendants of the angels who stayed in heaven) and the Fallen (whose ancestors took Lucifer's side in the big battle). Rarely do the two groups mingle, but on the one celebratory night that they do, a Virtue is found dead in a Fallen saloon and half-blood cardsharp Celeste must defend her sister Mariel from the swift justice of the Virtues.
For such a short book, Roanhorse really packs in a lot of worldbuilding and intrigue. The old-time western feel of Goetia, the strict social structure, the racial commentary (Celeste can pass as a Virtue if needed, while her sister can't), even the health impacts of industry. However, the plot — solving the mystery of who this murdered man was and who killed him — never slowed, making for a thrilling ride. Not that I'm surprised — Roanhorse always delivers a fantastic story in a fully realized world.
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