To local carpenter Paul Corvus, the yawning Piney Woods town of Somora lovingly nurtures all its residents, but newcomers like fifteen-year-old Darla encounter hostility where they would normally expect warmth and welcome.
As many of the local adults remain oblivious to the mysterious forces that control them, Darla and her friends peel away layers of secrets from the town and its residents. As they uncover an ancient darkness beneath the town's peacefully reserved surface, Somora's denizens stumble into a forked path leading to immediate awakening or eternal slumber.
While embarking on a distant tour to discover herself, Paul's sister Melanie discovers an ancient power connecting her back to the home that she left. As Paul struggles under the control of the town's spirit, it may be up to Melanie and Darla to discover true intention and save him from the mouth of hell.
What a delightful first novel! It's part gothic suspense, part mystery, and part romance. Doc has a unique voice and a gift for a driving narrative that keeps the story flowing. This makes Crow Hunter a fun read. It's equal parts darkness and light with a bit of youthful innocence. I would have liked more character development but that's a mild criticism of this excellent little story.