In Paradise Falls, I'm the law. Since I became the police chief, crime here is about as common as a good hair day in a tornado, and peace between shifters and witches has never been smoother. My familiar, Tizzy the squirrel, keeps me entertained with her acorn-fueled antics, while my bear shifter hubby, Ford, makes me feel like the safest witch on the planet.

Like a vegan at a barbecue, trouble rolls into town in the form of a pack of werewolves. These furry interlopers aren't here for the scenic hikes or the artisanal honey—oh no, they want a piece of Paradise Falls, and they're not asking politely. When the Witch-Shifter Coalition votes to boot the wolves, the head howler throws down the gauntlet, declaring the sacred Rite of Arphlitian—a ritual fight to the death as ancient as the town's oldest oak tree.

With no choice, the town must choose a champion. And guess who volunteers? As the new mayor, Ford steps up to the challenge.

I'm sure someone in town is conspiring with the newcomers to take down the leadership in Paradise Falls. But who? And to what end?

Unfortunately, in Paradise Falls, the only thing more magical than the town's charms is this mystery.