Charlie Madigan is a single mother, a cop, and after being brutally attacked she has returned from the dead. A feat that has left her with some residual side effects, some which hinder her in her life and job and others which help. As if the world weren't complicated enough with all the supernaturals coming out of the closet, so to speak, there is now a new off world narcotic, Ash, that is killing people. Charlie and her partner Hank must get to the bottom of its origin before it takes more innocents and those that Charlie loves.

I have no idea how to start this review. I have so much I want to say and I'm afraid I'll come off like a gushing fangirl. On second thought I should sound like that because I am now officially a Kelly Gay fangirl. Charlie Madigan is an awesome character, tough, strong, and she fits right into this dark, gritty world. I could not put this book down. I was completely hooked by the end of the first chapter and read it in one sitting. What could be better than a character that has mysteriously come back from the dead, who has a partner that is a siren, and can kick butt? I certainly can't think of anything. I love books set in a world where there has been a "revelation" of the supernatural. It's a great plot device allowing for the suspension of disbelief that is so necessary when you read these types of stories. Ms. Gay has made me wish that October 10th was a day that held special meaning in this world as well. I can't wait to read the next in this new series and I strongly recommend that you pick up The Better Part of Darkness as soon as it hits the bookstore!

Reviewed by: Hayley