From New York Times bestselling author Tony Hillerman comes another unforgettable mystery in which Leaphorn & Chee must race against the clock to solve two brutal murders. “[Hillerman’s] clowns are . . . every bit as raucous, profane, and funny as Shakespeare’s.”—New York Times Book ReviewDuring a kachina ceremony at the Tano Pueblo, the antics of a dancing koshare fill … Review
During a kachina ceremony at the Tano Pueblo, the antics of a dancing koshare fill the air with tension. Moments later, the clown is found bludgeoned to death, in the same manner a reservation schoolteacher was killed only days before.
Officer Jim Chee and Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn believe that answers lie in the sacred clown’s final cryptic message to the Tano people. But to decipher it, the two Navajo policemen may have to delve into closely guarded tribal secrets—on a sinister trail of blood that links a runaway, a holy artifact, corrupt Indian traders, and a pair of dead bodies.
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Read it – loved it.
Hillerman had a gift, opening up a part of America long overlooked and undervalued. He presents a good mystery wrapped in cultural education, beautiful descriptions, and characters who are very real, sometimes funny, sometimes stubborn, sometimes wise, always true to themselves and their culture, and with each book growing a bit more. I not only recommend every one of his books, we are all lucky enough that his daughter Anne has continued his legacy in this series, even improving on it by exploring more deeply his female characters.
A great book a look into a different world,different value and good story plot again I enjoy the whole series
Have enjoyed all of Hillerman ‘s books
I love Tony Hillerman books!
I like his writing and the information on Native Americans, good characters.
I found the story a little confusing at times and with a bit too much drama. The ending was not particularly satisfying.
Enjoy almost all of the late Tony Hilerman’s books (and now his daughters, using the same characters as her father). He paints a vivid picture of primarily Navajo life/culture in the 4 Corners area (UT, AZ, NM, CO), and the Navajo Police. As such they portray a realistic and atypical setting for his crime novels, that one familiar with that area of the country can easily visualize.
I’ve loved all the books in this series.
Intriguing and engaging, draws you in to the mystery and surprises with the unexpected conclusion.
I have read several Hillerman books, Great stories of southwest Indian life. Very entertaining.
Good native American story telling.
I always learn so much when I read Tony Hillerman books! This was an interesting look at the Native American traditions I knew nothing about previously. I love Jim Chee, and I respect his sensitive handling of the fetal-alcohol-syndrome child. These books are always action packed, and provide a wonderful mental-health escape for me.
Another thoroughly enjoyable story from a reliable author.
I really love books that I can learn something while enjoying the author’s style and get into the story to help solve it.
I love Hillerman.
I enjoy the mysteries set in the SW and the main characters that are in this series.
Good solid mystery writing.
Reading Hillerman’s books gives the reader a peek at Navajo culture. I spent a year in Santa Fe and gained no insight into Native American culture. Reading this book was like dipping my pinkie into the lives of shamans and those people who perform the sacred dances.
Love Tony Hillerman’s books and also Anne Hillerman’s books who continue with the same characters.