child. In these stories, the xana switches her baby for that of another woman. Second, stories of xanas who suffer spells. In these stories, an act performed according to a secret ritual can break the spell. Third, xanas who possess treasures and riches. The xana may have acquired the riches accidentally, or through donation or theft; sometimes the human character of the tale obtains the treasure, but most of the times does not. Finally, stories about xanas who are malicious. The most important tales of this category are those in which: the xana enters a home through a keyhole; the xana takes and enchants someone; the xana transforms into an animal; and the xana provides a magic belt. In literature Cuban writer Daína Chaviano uses the xana motif in her novel The Island of Eternal Love. When one of the characters encounters a xana while she is combing her hair, the dialogue between them marks a crucial twist in the plot. Kelley Armstrong's Darkness Rising series has three characters who are believed to be xanas. Resurgent members of this supernatural race due to genetic modification: Hayley Morris, Nicole Tillson and the deceased Serena. Given their powers and association with water, Serena's death by drowning is a point of mystery in the story. See also Zana Zână References Asturian mythology Spanish legendary creatures Female legendary creatures