Tin God by Elizabeth Hunter is a compelling exploration of themes like power, sacrifice, and the complexities of divine entities interacting with mere mortals. Hunter, who has gained a significant following with her unique blend of fantasy and supernatural elements, crafts a narrative in Tin God that pushes the boundaries of traditional urban fantasy by introducing deities into a modern-day setting in a way that is both innovative and intricate.

At its core, Tin God tells the story of Jayne Thorne, a CID detective in San Francisco who stumbles upon a murder case that seems ordinary but soon reveals itself to be fraught with celestial intrigue and divine secrets. The victim is discovered with ancient symbols etched into his skin, symbols that hint at the work of a god—an old one, known in myths for its ruthlessness and power. Jayne, pragmatic and grounded, finds her logical approach to solving crimes challenged as she delves deeper into a world where the divine manipulates the mortal.

Hunter does a remarkable job of building a world where gods walk hidden among humans, their motivations obscured and their powers often curtailed by modern disbelief. This setting raises compelling questions about the nature of faith and the power of ancient deities in a society governed by technology and science. The author's depiction of San Francisco is vivid and detailed, providing a rich backdrop against which the drama of the divine unfolds. It is an environment where every shadow could hide a myth, and every person might not be entirely human, which significantly heightens the tension and intrigue.

Character development is one of the strengths of Tin God. Jayne Thorne is depicted as a strong, intelligent woman but with enough flaws and personal struggles to make her relatable. Her skepticism and determination make her an ideal foil to the cryptic and often infuriating nature of the gods she encounters. The dialogue, particularly Jayne's interactions with both her human and divine counterparts, crackles with intensity and humor. It helps in fleshing out her character and provides a deep sense of immersion in the story.

The plot of Tin God unfolds with a meticulous balance of pace and depth. Hunter propels the narrative with enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing but knows when to slow down and delve into the more profound philosophical implications of her characters' actions and the world they inhabit. The mystery at the heart of the story is engaging and well-constructed; clues are layered throughout the narrative in a way that is satisfying rather than frustrating. Hunter’s craft in storytelling is evident in how she manages suspense and revelation, maintaining a grip on the reader’s attention throughout.

One of the more intriguing aspects of Tin God is its exploration of power dynamics between humans and gods. The gods in Hunter’s narrative are not omnipotent beings unconcerned with human affairs but are rather beings with their own vulnerabilities, subject to human emotions and conflicts. This renders them both more relatable and more terrifying. The moral ambiguities in their interactions with humans—exploitation, protection, manipulation—offer a rich vein of conflict and thematic depth that Hunter explores with keen insight and empathy.

Thematically, Tin God is dense and thought-provoking. The interplay between belief systems, the nature of power, and the ethics of immortality are explored in a narrative that is as much a thriller as it is a philosophical treatise on the nature of divinity and humanity. Hunter does not offer easy answers but rather presents scenarios that challenge the characters’ and readers’ perspectives on morality and duty.

In conclusion, Tin God by Elizabeth Hunter is a masterful blend of myth, mystery, and mortal consequence. It challenges the conventions of urban fantasy by introducing gods into the modern world in a way that is believable and brimming with narrative potential. With its strong characterizations, brisk pacing, and profound thematic depth, this novel will appeal not only to fans of the fantasy genre but also to those who appreciate a story that provides food for thought along with its twists and turns. Tin God is a thought-provoking, highly entertaining read that marks Elizabeth Hunter as a significant voice in contemporary fantasy.