Richard Bennington is an archaeologist working on a small dig just outside Mexico City. The area in which he works was renowned as a place where the Aztecs once performed their New Fire Ceremony. At this ceremony the god Coatlicue could be begged to grant wishes in exchange for a sacrifice. However, these ceremonies have not taken place for many years.

Richard has a problem. After the death of his daughter his marriage was failing. He would give anything to try and repair his relationship with his wife. If only he could bring his daughter back...

El Dia de Los Muertos is yet another example of Brian A Hopkins' excellent writing. The story paints a rich vital landscape of Mexican life. The various characters move seamlessly together creating intricate, and sometimes shocking, relationships. You actually begin to feel Richard's pain as he struggles to save his failing marriage and come to terms with the tragic death of his daughter.

It is well known that I am a big fan of Brian's work so when this particular book arrived on the doorstep I was rather excited and couldn't wait to read it. I was not disappointed. OK, I ended up with a rather late night (well, it is a relatively short book and it seemed a shame to stop reading...).

I only have one problem when I read any of Brian's work – the end comes way too soon and then I am forced to wait for the next book to arrive!