Tony Hillerman called it a gripping novel. Booklist says this is a series to watch. Start reading award-winning author Susan Slater’s original series right here, from the beginning. Native American psychologist Ben Pecos has returned to the New Mexico pueblo of his birth as an intern with the Indian Health Service. Still struggling with the demons of his past, he is plunged into the nightmare … plunged into the nightmare rampage of a mysterious illness that is killing the residents of the pueblo, including his own grandmother.
One of the victims, the powerful tribal governor, had made powerful enemies, and Ben suspects his murder was premeditated—but that doesn’t explain the insidious killer now stalking the innocent. Undaunted, Ben digs deep into the motives of power and greed to root out a killer whose deadly agenda is spiraling out of control.
Newly edited e-book edition
Praise for The Pumpkin Seed Massacre:
“… a gripping novel.” –Tony Hillerman
“This is a wonderful book with loveable heroes.” –Library Journal
“… Ben Pecos—raised far from New Mexico’s Tewa Pueblo—could become as lasting a fictional presence as Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee.” – Chicago Tribune
“Solid characters, fascinating atmosphere, and authentic setting—The Pumpkin Seed Massacre is a book you will enjoy. Ben Pecos is a star in the detective firmament. I predict a big future for Susan Slater.” – Barbara D’Amato
“Slater’s first novel holds the reader’s interest with its brisk pace, well-rendered New Mexico landscape and challenging plot … [T]his promising first novel heralds a series to watch.” –Booklist
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Excellent mystery. Like the setting and info about Indian tribe.
Being a fan of Hillerman, I was curious about this Author. Must say I was very delighted. Interesting characters, a plot one cannot figure out, and some surprises. She is writing another and I am waiting!
Loved this book! I am a. Tony Hillerman fan and the southwest area books. It had just the right amount of mystery that kept me not wanting to put it down and see who was going to eat the seeds next. Two thumbs up!!
Interesting ending, I enjoyed!
I don’t agree that this book is reminiscent of Tony Hillerman but, nonetheless, it is an interesting read. The only similarity is that it is set on an Indian reservation. As a murder mystery, the plot is unique. Even though you know who is responsible and how it was done there is still plenty of mystery woven into the story. I would read another book by this author.
well written yarn involving high placed criminal types and crooked politicians with a totally just ending
A scientific thriller of the Coma genre. I will look forward to the author’s next one.
I really enjoyed this.
Excellent read. Good story. Plan to read more books by this author.
This book provides an alternative narrative for a modern medical mystery. It gives well written characters with some Native American culture and mysticism.
enjoye the read.
Native American with an interesting plot
A different twist on greed for power. interesting twists
Enjoyed it a lot. Lots of twists but most of all so New Mexico!
Couldn’t put it down!
Really enjoyed this book. Learned about beliefs of this people. Has great potential as main characters in future books. Looking forward to reading of further adventures.
The story unfolds at a measured pace, expanding on several threads by turn. It kept me interested to the end. I was sorry to finish reading.
This was a story that I could not put down. There are some crazy people in this world that will do anything for more money.
An entertaining story that remains respectful of Native American traditions while weaving a story compromised by the values of the Anglo-world, The Pumpkin Seed Massacre was captivating from beginning to end.
Enjoyed, fast read.