In an ever-expanding universe of speculative fiction, Rebecca Roanhorse offers a refreshing and masterful blend of fantasy and the mythic Wild West in her latest novel, Tread of Angels. The year is 1883, and Roanhorse transports readers to the bustling mining town of Goetia, set in the rugged terrains of Colorado. Here, the discovery of a powerful new element named Divinity has set off a frenetic mining rush, drawing an array of characters from across the spectrum to the mountainous landscapes lush with danger and opportunity.

Roanhorse crafts a world where the historical grit of the Old West converges with celestial mythology—a bold narrative choice that enriches the canvas of her storytelling. The town of Goetia is perched near Abaddon’s mountain, an area fraught with tension and lore, becoming the backdrop for a narrative that explores themes of discrimination, power, and redemption.

Central to Tread of Angels are the Fallen, descendants of demonkind, who coexist uneasily with the Virtues, the victors of an ancient celestial war. This dichotomy between the Fallen and the Virtues introduces a complex social hierarchy, with the Fallen often relegated to the fringes of Goetian society despite being integral to the town’s economic success.

Roanhorse’s protagonist, a member of the Fallen, is compelling and deeply human, embodying the struggles and resilience of her community. Her narrative arc, defined by a quest for justice and equality, is both personal and universally appealing, weaving through the intricacies of familial bonds, societal expectations, and personal redemption.

The author’s prose is sharp and evocative, effectively capturing the rugged beauty of the Colorado landscape and the intensity of the celestial elements at play. Roanhorse excels in building a dense, immersive world without overwhelming the reader, maintaining a brisk pace that expertly balances action with character development. The interplay between different species, their lore, and their social standing is articulated with nuance, making the world of Goetia feel lived-in and real.

However, where Tread of Angels truly shines is in its exploration of themes such as morality, justice, and the costs of war. Through her imaginative reconfiguration of angels and demons, Roanhorse invites readers to reflect on the nature of good and evil, and the gray areas in between. The novel challenges the binary notions of virtue and vice, making a compelling case for the complexity of human (and non-human) nature.

In conclusion, Tread of Angels is a notable addition to Rebecca Roanhorse’s repertoire, one that pushes the boundaries of genre while remaining deeply rooted in the human experiences of struggle and resilience. It is a testament to Roanhorse’s skill as a storyteller and her ability to reimagine the past with a vividness that speaks profoundly to the present. This novel is highly recommended for fans of speculative fiction looking for new narratives that combine the familiar with the fantastical in bold, exciting ways.