Melissa Jacobson Bad Magic and Whiskey

She swore off death magic a decade ago. Her family's survival depends on breaking that promise. In 1880s Colorado Territory, a retired death mage has sworn off her dark powers after a catastrophic failure cost hundreds of lives. Now living quietly on a failing homestead with her found family, she wants nothing more than to forget the blood-soaked years she spent hunting supernatural threats for the government. But when mysterious deaths begin draining the life from their livestock and a young agent arrives with a lucrative contract, desperation forces her hand. As shadows from her violent past resurface, she's drawn into a web of magical murders in Las Vegas, New Mexico Territory. Women are dying by sinister means, their life essence stolen for a purpose far more sinister than simple murder. Working alongside old allies and new companions, she uncovers a conspiracy of cursed artifacts, necromancy, and a revenge scheme designed specifically to destroy her. Perfect for fans of Emma Bull's Territory and the dark magic of V. E. Schwab, this supernatural western delivers gritty frontier justice with a paranormal twist. Strong women, found family bonds, and the brutal cost of wielding forbidden power collide in a tale where redemption comes at a devastating price. Some powers demand a sacrifice. Some debts are paid in blood.