Elatsoe

Elatsoe is a young adult fantasy novel set in an alternate version of Texas where supernatural beings exist alongside humans. The story centers on Ellie, a 17-year-old Lipan Apache teenager who can summon animal ghosts - a power inherited through her ancestral line. When Ellie's cousin dies under mysterious circumstances, she must use her ghost-calling abilities and the companionship of her spectral dog Kirby to uncover the truth. Her investigation leads her through a landscape where vampires and fae creatures are part of everyday reality. The book combines elements of murder mystery, supernatural adventure, and Apache storytelling traditions. As Ellie pursues justice, she confronts both present-day corruption and complicated truths about her family's past. This debut novel explores themes of indigenous identity, family legacy, and the intersection between traditional knowledge and modern life. The story presents a fresh perspective on contemporary fantasy by centering indigenous characters and worldviews.

Readers highlight Elatsoe's unique blend of Apache culture, paranormal elements, and murder mystery. Many reviewers connect with the asexual representation and authentic Indigenous perspective. Readers praise: - The creative worldbuilding that weaves Lipan Apache traditions with supernatural elements - The strong family relationships, especially between Ellie and her parents - The protagonist's determination and moral compass - Natural integration of asexual representation without making it the story's focus Common criticisms: - Pacing issues, particularly in the middle section - Plot points that feel unresolved - Writing style sometimes reads as too young for YA - Some find the mystery elements predictable Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (11,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (500+ ratings) BookBrowse: 4.5/5 (200+ ratings) "The cultural elements feel lived-in rather than explained," notes one Goodreads reviewer. Another Amazon reader states, "The story needed more tension to drive the mystery forward."

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🌟 Darcie Little Badger holds a PhD in oceanography, bringing unique scientific perspectives to her fantasy writing. 🦬 The name "Elatsoe" is derived from the author's Lipan Apache family name, meaning "hummingbird." 🐾 Ghost animals in Lipan Apache storytelling traditions often serve as protectors and guides, similar to Elatsoe's spectral dog Kirby in the novel. 🎨 The book features illustrations by Rovina Cai, whose black-and-white artwork adds a haunting dimension to the supernatural elements of the story. 🏆 Elatsoe was named as a TIME Magazine Top 100 Fantasy Books of All Time, making it one of few Indigenous-authored books to receive this recognition.