Tread of Angels

In a Western mining town called Goetia, descendants of angels and demons live in an uneasy social hierarchy. The Fallen - those with demon blood - face discrimination but possess the unique ability to detect divinity, a precious element mined from a fallen angel's remains. Celeste Semyaza, a half-Fallen gambler, must defend her sister Mariel who stands accused of murdering a high-ranking Elect citizen. As Mariel's advocatus diaboli in the Court of Virtues, Celeste investigates the crime with help from Abraxas, a demon from her past. The investigation leads Celeste through Goetia's complex web of social tensions, forbidden relationships, and long-held prejudices. She uncovers uncomfortable truths about both the victim and her sister while navigating the dangerous politics between the Fallen and the Elect. This noir-tinged fantasy novella explores themes of justice, loyalty, and the true nature of good and evil in a society built on inherited sin.

Readers note this novella moves quickly but feels underdeveloped. The unique premise and world-building receive frequent mentions, particularly the fresh take on angels and demons in an Old West setting. Liked: - Fast-paced narrative that can be read in one sitting - Strong sibling relationship between main characters - Original mythology and alternate history elements - Noir detective story structure Disliked: - World-building lacks depth and explanation - Characters need more development - Romance subplot feels rushed - Ending leaves too many questions unanswered Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 3.9/5 (300+ ratings) Common reader comments mention wanting a full-length novel instead of a novella to fully explore the concepts. As one Goodreads reviewer noted: "Great ideas but needed more room to breathe." Several Amazon reviews praised the "unique blend of Western and supernatural elements" while criticizing the "abrupt resolution."

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★ Rebecca Roanhorse draws from her Black and Indigenous (Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) heritage to create unique perspectives in speculative fiction, winning both the Hugo and Nebula awards for her short fiction. ★ The concept of divinity mining in "Tread of Angels" parallels historical mining rushes like the Colorado Silver Boom of the 1880s, which similarly transformed communities and created stark social divides. ★ The term "Goetia," used for the story's setting, comes from medieval occult practices and refers to a specific branch of ceremonial magic involving the summoning of demons. ★ The role of advocatus diaboli (Devil's Advocate) in the novel is based on a real position within the Catholic Church, historically responsible for arguing against the canonization of potential saints. ★ The story's exploration of Fallen versus Elect society echoes the complex racial dynamics of the post-Civil War American West, where different ethnic groups faced varying levels of discrimination and segregation.