The Wolves of Staro Selo

"In this world, the most marginalised—women and children—are shown to be the fiercest proponents of change." - Matilda Nevin, Asymptote 

"The Wolves of Staro Selo is like a good Gogol story" - Dylan Stewart, The Manchester Review 

"This book is a full-blooded, authentic, figurative-metaphorical reflection of today’s reality!" - Kelly Luce, Electric Literature Magazine 

"Zdravka Evtimova’s sharp prose and vivid characters draw readers into a harsh world that is as compelling as it is unsettling. Her authentic voice shapes a thought-provoking work that does not shy away from the darker aspects of human nature. Through its fragmented yet intimate portrayal of community and family, the novel invites reflection on universal struggles while raising questions about justice, belonging, and human fragility." - Nataliya Deleva, author of Arrival

"Evtimova seamlessly brings together the fantastical and the true. The author paints a community that survives by the skin of its teeth but that also sees joy and wonder in the faces of neighbours, in loyalty, and in friendship. The language is exquisite, bursting with juxtaposing portraits of poverty and spectacle." - Caroline Hardaker, author 

In the deprived Bulgarian neighborhood of Staro Selo, crime rules people’s lives. Unemployment, violence, and corruption are common concerns. Dimitar becomes wealthy by running Staro Selo in terror. But old Elena, a witch-like character with a gift for healing will not shy away from the injustices her neighbors are forced to endure. A decision that will have consequences for her entire family.