With each new story, Natasha Pulley outdoes herself with her imaginative storylines, unique characters, and her ability to immerse the reader in all of it. Avelyn Brocken, a Jesuit priest, has been sent home to Hreodwater to investigate a strange occurrence on behalf of the Vatican. Hreodwater is known for its salt mine and also the abbey in the salt mine that attracts dozens of pilgrims each year. Home is at once familiar and strange for Avelyn, and now with the added complication of the doctor at the abbey lodge, Jericho. As Avelyn struggles with his conflicting feelings about Jericho and being back in Hreodwater there are strange things happening at salt mines around the world. Faith, belief, desire, salt mines, humor, wit, and a fascinating matriarchal community. A less capable author would not have been able to weave together such seemingly disparate elements into a coherent story. I loved every page and can’t wait to convince more people to read this incredible book.
The Salt King by Natasha Pulley, (List Price: $29.99, Bloomsbury Publishing, 9781639737291, August 2026)
Reviewed by Holly, The Country Bookshop in Southern Pines, NC