meg_thebrave's review against another edition
4.0
I loved this next addition of the Leaphorn series. Hillerman blends Navajo and Kiowa traditions so well into his crimes and mysteries, and each story I read is so much fun.
mpetruce's review against another edition
4.0
I generally don't like mysteries, but I do read some from time to time. Tony Hillerman is one of the few mystery authors I will always read though. Not sure why, although the mysteries I read always tend to be ones that provide a window into a culture unfamiliar to me (China, North Korea, and, in this case, the Navajo). That said, Hillerman, a journalist, writes really well and easily, and educates as well as entertains while developing characters I find interesting.
amylynn1031's review against another edition
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
linda48's review against another edition
4.0
Another book by Tony Hillerman that delves into Navajo life and religion. The Navajo culture is heavily based on their religion, mythology and superstition, all of which is described in detail and clarity by Hillerman.
cleheny's review against another edition
5.0
Of the Leaphorn-only mysteries, this is my favorite because of its construction. The opening chapter effectively links Navajo culture and history with the mystery. From the second chapter, when he first appears, Leaphorn is thrust into events that link the (somewhat fictional) past with a present involving then-current political and militant trends. Leaphorn's investigation ties into multiple events that, eventually, unite into a satisfying conclusion. The final third or so of the book is suspensful and builds to a great climax.
majkia's review against another edition
4.0
Such a fascinating series, with lots of lore, colorful characters and scenery.
uncle_remus's review against another edition
5.0
More in the series, just as likeable, but slightly better than the first two.
Still no Jim Chee.
Still no Jim Chee.
libraryjen's review against another edition
adventurous
fast-paced
4.0
Well-paced and compulsively readable, Hillerman can write a good mystery.
godhelm's review against another edition
4.0
Picked this up after watching a few episodes of Dark Winds and learning the author was considered a friend of the Navajo people. The native american angle for once feels like it has some depth, and describes cultural ideas and traditions that are just missing in other books (like how every indian in the Longmire series of books is a giant and laconic with vague unspecified spiritual beliefs). It's a bit of a time capsule being written in the 70s, but it's entertaining, has interesting characters and some very vivid descriptions of the arid landscape.