The Dead Cat Tail Assassins by P Djèlí Clark is a whip-smart, fast-paced novella about a group of undead assassins living in a magic-rich world who follow a rigid set of rules. Eveen knows all too well what happens when you break these rules, and when she makes a bizarre discovery while executing her new contract, it looks like she may have to break another.

Clark delivers sharp, witty dialogue from a colourful cast of characters in this brief, but rich novella. Its short length does nothing to hinder the depth or clarity of the world of Tal Abisi and the intricate puzzle laid out before the reader.

Eveen is a lovable rogue of a protagonist and it’s impossible not to applaud her chaotic choices and fall head over heels for her surprising quirks. The supporting cast is equally lovable: the foodie acolyte who speaks fluent legalese, the deadly, story-loving mistress of the guild, and the bookish thaumaturgist who wants nothing more than to stay in his orrery, the magnificence of which would make Aughra jealous. 

This story is thick with suspense and barely gives you a moment to stop and appreciate the sly but poignant world-building that Clark weaves in between Eveen’s filthy curses and wicked grace. The stakes ramp higher with every page until the climatic ending ties everything together in a way that is perfectly satisfying and finger-stabbing smart. 

This is a delightfully violent nugget of a book that brings nothing but joy and delicious vindication. This would be perfect for fans of The Locked Tomb by Tamsyn Muir and Foundryside by Robert Jackson Bennett. 

The Dead Cat Tail Assassins is due for release 6th August – you can order your copy HERE