The Liar of Red Valley

June 28, 2021
When the Liar of Red Valley, Calif., dies unexpectedly, her daughter, Sadie, inherits the position and must face off against monsters to protect the town she hates in this electrifying urban fantasy from Goodwater (Cold War Magic). Sadie’s mother taught her nothing about how to use the Liar’s magic, a gift from the mysterious King of Red Valley that allows lies to become true for those willing to pay the price. Sadie is both tough and vulnerable as she works to master this power while holding off the egotistical undersheriff and the frightening Laughing Boys, a dangerous gang of junkies possessed by demons. These enemies are after the Liar’s ledgers, a record of all the lies of Red Valley. Goodwater sets a breakneck pace as Sadie discovers dangerous secrets about both the King and his people in the ledgers and the King’s ancient enemies converge on the town. Now Sadie must choose whether to rally the townspeople who have always shunned her or abandon them to their fate. Chilling monsters, excellent interiority, and shocking twists make the pages fly as Goodwater builds to a climax which, unfortunately, falls a little flat after the high-stakes entertainment that precedes it. Still, the thrilling journey there is well worth it. Agent: Jennifer Udden, New Leaf Literary.