Synopsis
Welcome to Grail, Louisiana-next to nothing and just beyond reality-where hoodoo meets Jesus, and townsfolk pray to both. This dark fantasy delves into the psychological and motivational depths of Grail and its residents. Miss Sedele mixes up green cocktails called "cryptoverdes" at Le Bon Chance. Vida Dumars, owner of the Moonlight Diner, peers into the deepest realms of her customers' hearts as though they were picture windows. Town spirit Good Gray Man has promised good fortune to the town as long as it hangs onto tradition. A quirky, fantastical town's heart and soul are slowly, often painfully revealed in this dark and captivating novella.
Author Biography: Lucius Shepard is the recipient of the Hugo, Nebula, and World Fantasy Awards and the author of Valentine, Jaguar Hunter, and Beast of the Heartland. He lives in Vancouver, Washington.
The Washington Post
Shepard's observant eye and an unexpectedly downbeat ending carry the day, along with some soaring prose. — Tim Sullivan