This paranormal fantasy follows Marie Winters, who has just died in an unfortunate chair-related incident. After her death, she is greeted by a peculiar looking alien named Xel. As a social worker at the Department of Spectral Affairs, Xel is tasked with helping ghosts reconcile their pasts and happily pass on. The problem is, Marnie has no particular ties to people or places. With no one to haunt and nowhere to go, Xel pulls some strings at the office and hires Marnie as the Department's new intern. Suddenly Marnie is going on missions, decoding alien languages, and squaring off against terrifying department heads.
Riesbeck delivers a sweet and whimsical story, with engaging and beautiful illustrations, but she also delves into heavier topics. As the story progresses, it becomes clear that Marine had withdrawn from society because of her depression. And in order to pass on, she'll need to confront it. Though the story stays lighthearted throughout this first volume, Marnie's mental illness will resonate with readers who suffer from depression. It may also help readers to identify signs of depression in their friends or family.
All in all, this was an adorable and valuable read. It was full of humor and effectively integrated tough topics. I really look forward to reading more from this author.