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Beneath a Navajo Moon
The search for a woman who disappeared in 1906 has lead cultural anthropologist Erin Dawson to Cedar Canyon, where the iconic terrain of red rock walls and mesas keep Navajo traditions--and maybe criminal evidence--well hidden. When Erin's search leads her to cross paths with tribal policeman Adam Silverhorn, it's hardly love at first sight. But everywhere she turns, Adam is already there.
Fighting their feelings for each other, the two are suddenly thrust into a battle far more dangerous--a common quest to rout an insidious drug cartel that has spawned the recent rise in gang violence on the reservation. Adam's position of authority gives Erin a rare glimpse into Navajo life few outsiders like her ever see--and into a crime ring that no one dares to imagine. As danger mounts, Adam and Erin begin to wonder if they will live to tell how they really feel.
Fighting their feelings for each other, the two are suddenly thrust into a battle far more dangerous--a common quest to rout an insidious drug cartel that has spawned the recent rise in gang violence on the reservation. Adam's position of authority gives Erin a rare glimpse into Navajo life few outsiders like her ever see--and into a crime ring that no one dares to imagine. As danger mounts, Adam and Erin begin to wonder if they will live to tell how they really feel.
336 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2014
17 people are currently reading
649 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Carter
52 books246 followersWriter. Book Lover. Avid Gardener. World Traveler.
Lisa Carter is the Publishers Weekly bestselling and award-winning author of more than thirty books. She writes the contemporary Truelove Matchmaker romance series with Love Inspired. She also writes romantic suspense—best described as “Sweet Tea with a Slice of Murder.” When not hard at work on her next fictional adventure, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family. A native North Carolinian, she has strong opinions on barbecue and ACC basketball. www.lisacarterauthor.com
Follow Lisa on BookBub for the latest book news at https://bit.ly/3G2iWGv.
Join her newsletter mailing list for book happenings at https://rb.gy/2ilkh7.
Lisa Carter is the Publishers Weekly bestselling and award-winning author of more than thirty books. She writes the contemporary Truelove Matchmaker romance series with Love Inspired. She also writes romantic suspense—best described as “Sweet Tea with a Slice of Murder.” When not hard at work on her next fictional adventure, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family. A native North Carolinian, she has strong opinions on barbecue and ACC basketball. www.lisacarterauthor.com
Follow Lisa on BookBub for the latest book news at https://bit.ly/3G2iWGv.
Join her newsletter mailing list for book happenings at https://rb.gy/2ilkh7.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
August 16, 2020
An edgy romantic suspense with equal parts grit and sweet and everything in between. And a conflicted hero who takes brooding to a whole other level! Gentle readers, keep faith with Adam, he's on a perilous journey but he gets there in the end.
Which brings me to the unapologetic faith thread that's at the heart of it all. It's fraught with conflict and even rage. Adam is a stubborn, angry man who doesn't want to give an inch. Thinks he can do better on his own. But no one is more stubborn than a loving Father waiting for His son to reach out to Him. Stirring, goosebumping moments. Funny, because I read some reviews which complained about the 'preachyiness' but I found it refreshingly bold.
Erin is an MK (Missionary Kid) with the kind of faith that has been refined by a lifetime of challenging experiences. But she also feels pressure from her uber successful missionary family to prove her faith overseas like the rest of them. They don't approve of her anthropological research on the Navajo reservation -- even if it is about their family history. But Erin feels led to Cedar Canyon and the secrets it hides.
Adam and Erin are not a good fit for so many reasons and yet when they let their guard down, there's the kind of deep connection that speaks of forever. But they are on opposing sides of nearly everything and, oy! do things get charged when they are together. Quips and snipes punctuated by moments so piercingly sweet I found myself holding my breath. This is definitely one romantical roller-coaster ride!
Loved the insights in the Navajo culture and Carter doesn't shy away from the social issues that have resulted from centuries of prejudice and mistreatment. Very pertinent to the times we are living in now.
I listened to the audible edition of this book, narrated by Emily Caudwell. She did an amazing job especially with the Native dialect -- at least, it sounded like she pronounced the Navajo words correctly to my untrained ear!
Which brings me to the unapologetic faith thread that's at the heart of it all. It's fraught with conflict and even rage. Adam is a stubborn, angry man who doesn't want to give an inch. Thinks he can do better on his own. But no one is more stubborn than a loving Father waiting for His son to reach out to Him. Stirring, goosebumping moments. Funny, because I read some reviews which complained about the 'preachyiness' but I found it refreshingly bold.
Erin is an MK (Missionary Kid) with the kind of faith that has been refined by a lifetime of challenging experiences. But she also feels pressure from her uber successful missionary family to prove her faith overseas like the rest of them. They don't approve of her anthropological research on the Navajo reservation -- even if it is about their family history. But Erin feels led to Cedar Canyon and the secrets it hides.
Adam and Erin are not a good fit for so many reasons and yet when they let their guard down, there's the kind of deep connection that speaks of forever. But they are on opposing sides of nearly everything and, oy! do things get charged when they are together. Quips and snipes punctuated by moments so piercingly sweet I found myself holding my breath. This is definitely one romantical roller-coaster ride!
Loved the insights in the Navajo culture and Carter doesn't shy away from the social issues that have resulted from centuries of prejudice and mistreatment. Very pertinent to the times we are living in now.
I listened to the audible edition of this book, narrated by Emily Caudwell. She did an amazing job especially with the Native dialect -- at least, it sounded like she pronounced the Navajo words correctly to my untrained ear!
September 16, 2014
I don’t normally read romance novels, but this one had an intriguing premise—a southern Anglo searching for a family member in the modern Navajo Nation—that I tried it. Further, this is a Christian romance, with all the preaching and jargon common to that genre. Despite that, I liked it. Multiple, complex plots and realistic conflict (and some not-so realistic) propel the story along.
A few quibbles: A broken starter doesn’t normally kill the engine once it’s running. Handguns have iron sights, not “cross hairs” (which implies an optical sight). The .357 magnum handgun would be hard for a injured petite female to carry, let alone aim and fire repeatedly, with her only non-dominant hand.
This is the second novel I’ve read this year set at least in part among the Navajo. The other was John Scalzi’s Locked-In. Is this a trend? Is Navajo the new Amish?
Interesting that the moon has no significance to the story. Nice title and cover.
A few quibbles: A broken starter doesn’t normally kill the engine once it’s running. Handguns have iron sights, not “cross hairs” (which implies an optical sight). The .357 magnum handgun would be hard for a injured petite female to carry, let alone aim and fire repeatedly, with her only non-dominant hand.
This is the second novel I’ve read this year set at least in part among the Navajo. The other was John Scalzi’s Locked-In. Is this a trend? Is Navajo the new Amish?
Interesting that the moon has no significance to the story. Nice title and cover.
September 2, 2015
I'm not going to pick on this book for being Christian literature as I didn't find it to be 'preachy' toward the reader, but one has to expect some discussion points regarding the religion/faith. I didn't enjoy it because the story's drama was quite predictable. This was one of those stories where everything eventually ends up tied up into a neat little package. Also, the romance was bland. There was no real reason why the two main characters should be together let alone be attracted to each other. Several of the scenes throughout the story added no new knowledge about the main characters nor did they forward the story along.
July 14, 2021
I listened to the audio version of this book on a solo drive from Virginia to Tennessee and it was the perfect companion. I absolutely loved the storyline and I’m a big fan of enemies to lovers tropes. If you enjoy romantic suspense, I highly recommend this read.
September 27, 2016
Although I enjoyed the mystery and understand that Christian belief had a role in the story and the unfolding of part of the mystery, it seemed to me to be somewhat overdone and interfered with my enjoyment of the book.
June 3, 2021
This is the story Erin Dawson a cultural anthropologist is searching for a woman who disappeared in 1906 from Cedar Canyon. Her search has lead her to Adam Silverhorn a tribal policeman and it seems everywhere she turns he is there and the Navajo life. Everything she is searching there seems to be somethings much more dangerous than either realized like a drug cartel and gang violence. They end up having to work together against these crime rings to find the truth.
June 5, 2017
Beneath a Navajo Moon
A thrilling story, placed on the Navajo reservation, where I have spent many wonderful years, with the beautiful people of the Dine culture! I love reading about all the wonderful places, on the Navajo reservation, and the equally wonderful traditions and lifestyles, of The People!
A thrilling story, placed on the Navajo reservation, where I have spent many wonderful years, with the beautiful people of the Dine culture! I love reading about all the wonderful places, on the Navajo reservation, and the equally wonderful traditions and lifestyles, of The People!
February 18, 2020
A somewhat predictable Christian mystery/romance. A cultural anthropologist is finishing her thesis on the Navajo reservation. She finds herself drawn to the history of the place and the mystery of the young white woman who disappeared years ago. She is also tied to the young Navajo deputy with whom she initially clashes. Quite a predictable story.
January 6, 2022
I’ll keep coming back
Lisa Carter is an excellent author. Her characters real, her settings vivid, her plots full of action. And the bonus is the faith in the Living God that weaves itself into the story and the characters. This one in particular has a strong message of faith. I will definitely reread this book and the others in the set.
Lisa Carter is an excellent author. Her characters real, her settings vivid, her plots full of action. And the bonus is the faith in the Living God that weaves itself into the story and the characters. This one in particular has a strong message of faith. I will definitely reread this book and the others in the set.
August 28, 2025
Way too much religion
Nowhere in the description did it say that this was about preaching and religious brainwashing. It felt insulting to the Navajo people who were so mistreated by whites.
Nowhere in the description did it say that this was about preaching and religious brainwashing. It felt insulting to the Navajo people who were so mistreated by whites.
October 6, 2017
I liked her other navajo book better, but maybe because i read it first. this is similar.
Police, romance, religion on the rez. Character a little too preachy. Quick read.
Police, romance, religion on the rez. Character a little too preachy. Quick read.
July 1, 2018
Plot is predictable. Easy read. Quite a bit of talk of religion. My mother would probably have liked it more than I did
December 27, 2018
My favorite from her to date!
August 2, 2019
Christian Romance novel with a flavoring of Tony Hillerman.
March 1, 2021
DNF. This wasn't for me.
May 31, 2021
Uninspired cliches cloaked in religious zeal.
July 23, 2021
Intriguing
January 19, 2023
Not a bad book, a bit windy on clothing and surroundings, would rather read the story..
Read
July 5, 2021Harlequin romance meets Christian love story. Couldn't keep going. Abandoned about 15% in.
October 27, 2014
Normally, I am a relatively slow reader. Between my busy lifestyle and a touch of ADHD/dyslexia, it usually takes a while for me to get through a book. That was not the case with this one. I received the book a week ago and had it done by Saturday. From the very first chapter, the plot was so compelling, I hated to put it down!
What I first noticed about Beneath a Navajo Moon was its use of the Dine language. I lived in Flagstaff, Arizona, for a couple years, volunteering, working and worshiping with Navajos, so I appreciated the author's authentic references to the language and culture of these wonderful people. Many of the references to Dine beliefs and behavior were familiar to me--like their love of fry bread and sweets, the traditional dress and superstitions and the way they love to tease. Other things were new, like the fact that they consider direct eye contact confrontational and prefer to be called "American Indians," rather than Native American.
In addition to the Navajo terminology, I loved the author's robust vocabulary. This isn't dumbed-down to a fifth grade reading level, like so many books today. There are lots of what I call $20 words in this novel that a college graduate should know, but others might need to reach for the dictionary to understand.
From the ninth page of the first chapter, I was sucked into this story with the disappearance of the local chief of police. It was great to see an American Indian as the hero of such an exciting book, and to experience through his eyes the tension between the bilagaana (White man's) world and the Navajo culture. Tribal policeman, Adam Silverhorn, is not a two-dimensional character, behaving in both a heroic and ornery fashion throughout the story. His story is unfolded with realism and believability, just as if you were getting to know him in person.
The heroine of the story, Erin, also has very realistic conflicts almost any MK (missionary kid) can identify with. Having pursued a degree in anthropology and taken on a quest to find out what happened to a long-lost member of her adopted family, she feels like a disappointment to her missionary parents. She loves God and wants to do His will, but isn't sure what her calling is. Nevertheless, she does an awesome job of using her talents and knowledge to help others in the community where she is interning through the summer.
One of my favorite parts of the book is the chapter on the "Japanese Invasion" of the fictitious town of Cedar Canyon. Erin interviews some Navajo Code-Talkers about whether they may have remembered hearing of the White school-teacher, Olivia, that she's trying to track down. She shares her family's story of ancestors being liberated from a Japanese internment camp and immediately strikes a cord in their hearts. No sooner does her conversation conclude, than a busload of Japanese tourists breaks down in front of the band of old men. The way she handles both the unexpected visitors and the World War II veterans is an amazing example of a true peacemaker in action and makes for a fun break in the mostly suspenseful story.
My only complaints about the story are, first of all, the idea of a Navajo dating a blonde. This is really not something I observed in Native culture at all. I saw Navajos with Hopis, Apaches and other tribes, as well as some lovely Latinos, but not too much romantic involvement with White people. However, you learn as the story progresses that this relationship is part of Adam's investigation of a drug ring on the Rez.
The other issue I had is common among romantic fiction: The chemistry between Adam and Erin develops way too fast and gets far too serious. Cross-cultural relationships are generally slow-going. Even in "normal" dating relationships, a man generally doesn't get as protective toward a woman as Adam does in less than a month. Even the Platonic relationships in this book seem to develop more quickly than they would under normal conditions.
Nevertheless, Beneath a Navajo Moon is a great story. If you want a taste of Dine thought and culture, this is a good source. It made me want to go back to this group I consider "my people," and do more to help kids stay out of gangs and off drugs and love them to Jesus. If it makes others feel drawn to this rich culture and wide-open mission field, all the better! Lisa Carter has done a wonderful job of sharing the beauty of Navajo country and people. I look forward to reading other books by this author.
What I first noticed about Beneath a Navajo Moon was its use of the Dine language. I lived in Flagstaff, Arizona, for a couple years, volunteering, working and worshiping with Navajos, so I appreciated the author's authentic references to the language and culture of these wonderful people. Many of the references to Dine beliefs and behavior were familiar to me--like their love of fry bread and sweets, the traditional dress and superstitions and the way they love to tease. Other things were new, like the fact that they consider direct eye contact confrontational and prefer to be called "American Indians," rather than Native American.
In addition to the Navajo terminology, I loved the author's robust vocabulary. This isn't dumbed-down to a fifth grade reading level, like so many books today. There are lots of what I call $20 words in this novel that a college graduate should know, but others might need to reach for the dictionary to understand.
From the ninth page of the first chapter, I was sucked into this story with the disappearance of the local chief of police. It was great to see an American Indian as the hero of such an exciting book, and to experience through his eyes the tension between the bilagaana (White man's) world and the Navajo culture. Tribal policeman, Adam Silverhorn, is not a two-dimensional character, behaving in both a heroic and ornery fashion throughout the story. His story is unfolded with realism and believability, just as if you were getting to know him in person.
The heroine of the story, Erin, also has very realistic conflicts almost any MK (missionary kid) can identify with. Having pursued a degree in anthropology and taken on a quest to find out what happened to a long-lost member of her adopted family, she feels like a disappointment to her missionary parents. She loves God and wants to do His will, but isn't sure what her calling is. Nevertheless, she does an awesome job of using her talents and knowledge to help others in the community where she is interning through the summer.
One of my favorite parts of the book is the chapter on the "Japanese Invasion" of the fictitious town of Cedar Canyon. Erin interviews some Navajo Code-Talkers about whether they may have remembered hearing of the White school-teacher, Olivia, that she's trying to track down. She shares her family's story of ancestors being liberated from a Japanese internment camp and immediately strikes a cord in their hearts. No sooner does her conversation conclude, than a busload of Japanese tourists breaks down in front of the band of old men. The way she handles both the unexpected visitors and the World War II veterans is an amazing example of a true peacemaker in action and makes for a fun break in the mostly suspenseful story.
My only complaints about the story are, first of all, the idea of a Navajo dating a blonde. This is really not something I observed in Native culture at all. I saw Navajos with Hopis, Apaches and other tribes, as well as some lovely Latinos, but not too much romantic involvement with White people. However, you learn as the story progresses that this relationship is part of Adam's investigation of a drug ring on the Rez.
The other issue I had is common among romantic fiction: The chemistry between Adam and Erin develops way too fast and gets far too serious. Cross-cultural relationships are generally slow-going. Even in "normal" dating relationships, a man generally doesn't get as protective toward a woman as Adam does in less than a month. Even the Platonic relationships in this book seem to develop more quickly than they would under normal conditions.
Nevertheless, Beneath a Navajo Moon is a great story. If you want a taste of Dine thought and culture, this is a good source. It made me want to go back to this group I consider "my people," and do more to help kids stay out of gangs and off drugs and love them to Jesus. If it makes others feel drawn to this rich culture and wide-open mission field, all the better! Lisa Carter has done a wonderful job of sharing the beauty of Navajo country and people. I look forward to reading other books by this author.
September 8, 2015
What a beautiful story this is, you can't ask for a more picturesque setting than the red rock walls of Cedar Canyon, Arizona on the Navajo Reservation. Here the story opens with Olivia Thornton sneaking out of the Cedar Canyon Mission School at dawn to think and pray. Olivia is highly disturbed at the ill treatment of the Navajo children by the hands of the ones that should be showing them the love of Christ. So deep in thought was Olivia, she never heard the man that came up behind her and clamped his hand over her mouth; the man that would forever change the course of her life.
Erin Dawson, cultural anthropologist, and daughter of Missionary parents, has been intrigued by the story of a distant relative that went missing in 1906 while a teacher at the Cedar Canyon Mission School. Erin is basing her dissertation on finding out more on Olivia so when she secures a job at the Information Center in town she takes that as a sign this is where she is supposed to be.
Adam Silverhorn a Cedar Canyon Police Officer is a man on a mission to rid the Reservation of the drugs that are destroying his people. Adam will stop at nothing to do what has to be done. So when Erin shows up he checks her out in more than one way. There is something about this sweet wholesome woman that draws him to her.
When Erin's car breaks down in the middle of nowhere and her cell phone has no signal Erin walks to the only place nearby to seek help. The local honky-tonk wasn't the best place for Erin to walk into but she didn't have much choice so she bravely goes in. Almost as soon as she enters Erin is accosted by several men, she is thankful when the dangerously handsome Adam Silverhorn comes to her rescue whispering in her ear to go along with the story she is one of his many girlfriends. Holding her close Erin notices he reeks of alcohol but when he pulls her in for a kiss to carry out the charade there is nothing there but the taste of peppermint. What is this larger than life man up to? Could he be just another cop on the take or is he a man who will do anything to catch the ones responsible for the drugs that are showing up here on his sacred homeland?
The more time Erin spends with Adam the more intrigued she is with him, there is so much more to this man than he lets on. He seems to be torn between two worlds; the sin filled one his vindictive grandfather wants to lure him into and the one his godly mother and uncle have raised him to believe in. Will Erin be able to help him choose between right and wrong? Both have decisions to make that may take them down very different paths.
Having been introduced to Lisa Carter's writing after reading her debut novel Carolina Reckoning I knew I was in for a treat with this one. Let me tell you I was not disappointed!! Once again Lisa has woven a tale with beautiful words and descriptive scenery that will draw you in and make you feel as if you are there seeing everything first hand. I also loved how Lisa tied in Oliva's story with modern day life on the Reservation. You can tell a lot of research went into this book. Thanks Lisa for all the hard work! I can't wait for your next story!
***Thanks to Abingdon Press and NetGalley for providing me a copy of this in exchange for my honest opinion.***
Erin Dawson, cultural anthropologist, and daughter of Missionary parents, has been intrigued by the story of a distant relative that went missing in 1906 while a teacher at the Cedar Canyon Mission School. Erin is basing her dissertation on finding out more on Olivia so when she secures a job at the Information Center in town she takes that as a sign this is where she is supposed to be.
Adam Silverhorn a Cedar Canyon Police Officer is a man on a mission to rid the Reservation of the drugs that are destroying his people. Adam will stop at nothing to do what has to be done. So when Erin shows up he checks her out in more than one way. There is something about this sweet wholesome woman that draws him to her.
When Erin's car breaks down in the middle of nowhere and her cell phone has no signal Erin walks to the only place nearby to seek help. The local honky-tonk wasn't the best place for Erin to walk into but she didn't have much choice so she bravely goes in. Almost as soon as she enters Erin is accosted by several men, she is thankful when the dangerously handsome Adam Silverhorn comes to her rescue whispering in her ear to go along with the story she is one of his many girlfriends. Holding her close Erin notices he reeks of alcohol but when he pulls her in for a kiss to carry out the charade there is nothing there but the taste of peppermint. What is this larger than life man up to? Could he be just another cop on the take or is he a man who will do anything to catch the ones responsible for the drugs that are showing up here on his sacred homeland?
The more time Erin spends with Adam the more intrigued she is with him, there is so much more to this man than he lets on. He seems to be torn between two worlds; the sin filled one his vindictive grandfather wants to lure him into and the one his godly mother and uncle have raised him to believe in. Will Erin be able to help him choose between right and wrong? Both have decisions to make that may take them down very different paths.
Having been introduced to Lisa Carter's writing after reading her debut novel Carolina Reckoning I knew I was in for a treat with this one. Let me tell you I was not disappointed!! Once again Lisa has woven a tale with beautiful words and descriptive scenery that will draw you in and make you feel as if you are there seeing everything first hand. I also loved how Lisa tied in Oliva's story with modern day life on the Reservation. You can tell a lot of research went into this book. Thanks Lisa for all the hard work! I can't wait for your next story!
***Thanks to Abingdon Press and NetGalley for providing me a copy of this in exchange for my honest opinion.***
December 27, 2014
What a gorgeous cover, and it even wraps around to the back of the book! Beneath A Navajo Moon is a novel in the Abingdon Press Abington Fiction - "a novel approach to faith" - series, so I expected the story to include a spiritual slant and some explicitly Christian details. Abingdon is an imprint of the United Methodist Publishing House, and the UMC is a mainline church body, yet I wasn't surprised to find Lisa Carter's book more in the conservative evangelical category than in the liberal mainline.
From the start, Carter nicely delineates flashbacks about Olivia, a white missionary and the original subject of central figure southerner North Carolinian Erin's visit to the Navajo rez for her cultural anthropology grad school research. in fact, we get several pieces of Olivia back story starting with the turn of the 20th century and into the middle of that century.
With my love of and familiarity with the southwestern desert, I enjoyed the author's fictitious northern Arizona Cedar Canyon locale where most of the action happens. I know very few details about Navajo culture, though I'm aware Arizona has more Native Indian-owned land than any other state. I also have enough knowledge of a raped and plundered land, a subjugated people and the subsequent hatred and contempt many native Peoples have for their oppressors to understand the White-Native People irresolution and conflict in this novel.
My feelings about Beneath A Navajo Moon are very mixed. Erin is an adopted daughter of sometimes foreign missionaries who has lived in several different cultures. We get typical evangelical missionary stereotypes of White Protestants thinking they need to help save Unreached People Groups. Indigenous People Cedar Canyon Community Church Pastor Johnny is no big cultural surprise, either. We find the necessity of Erin marrying a true believer who has given his life to Jesus. We get redemption by blood in the context of native practices and Christian convictions. Interesting vignette of Adam drawing his own blood in the unfinished initiation ceremony toward the book's end and then finally his giving his life to Jesus in order to claim his true redemption via Jesus' shed blood - "not with blood of goats or heifers" - as we read in the letter to the Hebrews the book sometimes cites. Erin and her romantic native American interest Adam are the most clearly drawn characters.
Apparently Carter has not been writing all that seriously for all that long, and though she writes fairly well, she seems like an author to keep following, since I expect her writing to keep getting better and better. I like the two dozen "Discussion Questions" at the end. I wouldn't necessarily consider Beneath a Navajo Moon for a reading club, but anyone who has read the book might want to consider some of their own experiences and convictions in light of the book's narrative.
From the start, Carter nicely delineates flashbacks about Olivia, a white missionary and the original subject of central figure southerner North Carolinian Erin's visit to the Navajo rez for her cultural anthropology grad school research. in fact, we get several pieces of Olivia back story starting with the turn of the 20th century and into the middle of that century.
With my love of and familiarity with the southwestern desert, I enjoyed the author's fictitious northern Arizona Cedar Canyon locale where most of the action happens. I know very few details about Navajo culture, though I'm aware Arizona has more Native Indian-owned land than any other state. I also have enough knowledge of a raped and plundered land, a subjugated people and the subsequent hatred and contempt many native Peoples have for their oppressors to understand the White-Native People irresolution and conflict in this novel.
My feelings about Beneath A Navajo Moon are very mixed. Erin is an adopted daughter of sometimes foreign missionaries who has lived in several different cultures. We get typical evangelical missionary stereotypes of White Protestants thinking they need to help save Unreached People Groups. Indigenous People Cedar Canyon Community Church Pastor Johnny is no big cultural surprise, either. We find the necessity of Erin marrying a true believer who has given his life to Jesus. We get redemption by blood in the context of native practices and Christian convictions. Interesting vignette of Adam drawing his own blood in the unfinished initiation ceremony toward the book's end and then finally his giving his life to Jesus in order to claim his true redemption via Jesus' shed blood - "not with blood of goats or heifers" - as we read in the letter to the Hebrews the book sometimes cites. Erin and her romantic native American interest Adam are the most clearly drawn characters.
Apparently Carter has not been writing all that seriously for all that long, and though she writes fairly well, she seems like an author to keep following, since I expect her writing to keep getting better and better. I like the two dozen "Discussion Questions" at the end. I wouldn't necessarily consider Beneath a Navajo Moon for a reading club, but anyone who has read the book might want to consider some of their own experiences and convictions in light of the book's narrative.
January 7, 2015
The more I read of "Beneath a Navajo Moon", from author Lisa Carter, the more involved I became with the spiritual and emotional and physical challenges facing the characters. While the book features a strong, intelligent heroine, it was the troubled and tormented hero who really drew me into the story line. Erin Dawson, a graduate student working on her doctoral dissertations, has come to Cedar Canyon, Arizona to research her heart's quest. Long fascinated with the partial history of Olivia Thornton, a teacher at the Cedar Canyon Mission School in the early 1900's, Erin is determined to unearth the complete truth about the woman who haunts her thoughts. As the legend was told, Olivia was captured by a Navajo warrior, Silver Eagle, on the day the Navajos came to release their children who were forced to attend the Christian mission school. Lives were lost and the school never reopened, and Olivia lived among the Navajo for a time before being reunited with her own people. However, a great love had grown between Olivia and Silver Eagle, and eventually, she returned to the West to look for him. Erin could not rest until she found out if the unlikely sweethearts had found a happy-ever-after. Adam Silverhorn is a Navajo tribal policeman, a native son torn between the strong pull of the past, and the modern-day threat of the criminal element thriving in the Navajo Nation. Adam is handsome, charismatic, and the grandson of Hershal Begay, a tribal leader who operates on his own side of the law, fueled by his hatred of the white people and their government. Hershal's greatest desire is to turn Adam to his twisted way of thinking, and to have Adam leave law enforcement behind and take over the Begay empire. Meeting Erin, a woman of faith and compassion, has Adam longing for a different kind of life--and his feelings are shared by Erin. More than cultural differences are keeping them apart--Adam is secretly working undercover to bring down a meth lab being run on tribal land, and must act his role of playboy and bad boy until his assignment is complete. Adam tries to stay away from Erin, but her sweet strength and spirituality call out to his needy soul. Their connection proves to a dangerous one, and enemies are all around them--enemies who are all too ready to keep them apart at any cost. Will an abiding faith and a lasting love bloom in the midst of great turmoil and tribulation? Will Adam and Erin, and those they hold dear, survive and find a future of peace and fulfillment? "Beneath a Navajo Moon" is a compelling and suspenseful inspirational romance which touches on many thought-provoking issues.
Review Copy Gratis Amazon Vine
Review Copy Gratis Amazon Vine
July 10, 2014
For as long as I can remember I love reading about the Native American people, their cultures and their love for the land and for the living things that dwell on the earth. Lisa Carter has taken this aspect, combining both contemporary and historical storylines to produce an amazing murder mystery and a bit of romance in her latest novel Beneath a Navajo Moon.
Cultural anthropologist Erin Dawson has been following the story of Olivia Thornton, from 1906 through her journal that captures a time from her life when she was taken captive by an Navajo Indian known as Silver Eagle. What she discovers is that this started out as a kidnapping but instead love was found. Despite the fact that Olivia's family tried to discourage her from reuniting with Silver Eagle, she made an attempt to find him at all costs when marriages between white women and Indians were frowned upon. Erin knows that there is more to this story that what is in the journal and she is going to do everything she can to unlock the mystery.
What she doesn't plan on is falling for tribal policeman Adam Silverhorn. He is in the process of investigating the murder of the chief of police in Cedar Canyon on the Navajo Reservation. Armed with a handful of clues he's been learning more about an undercover operation that has been threading its way through the police department and even he has his own secrets to hide. The one thing he hadn't planned on is becoming friends with Erin in the process and with them spending more time together, he has to remind himself where the boundaries of their relationship are, despite her uncanny ability to appeal to his appetite for a great meal!
I received Beneath a Navajo Moon by Lisa Carter compliments of Abingdon Press for my honest review and did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable one. The opinions contained here are strictly my own. This is such a great novel because of how Lisa has written this from two perspectives, one from Olivia Thornton's as she comes to terms with being kidnapped by a Navajo Indian who wants to learn more about the God she believes in and from Erin's perspective as she tries to figure out what happened to Olivia when she set forth to find the man she had fallen in love with despite the prejudices from both families based on their cultural differences. It is a great example of the power of love and how nothing can stand in the way. For anyone who loves a bit of mystery steep in Indian heritage, you will definitely love this one. I easily give it a 5 out of 5 stars.
Cultural anthropologist Erin Dawson has been following the story of Olivia Thornton, from 1906 through her journal that captures a time from her life when she was taken captive by an Navajo Indian known as Silver Eagle. What she discovers is that this started out as a kidnapping but instead love was found. Despite the fact that Olivia's family tried to discourage her from reuniting with Silver Eagle, she made an attempt to find him at all costs when marriages between white women and Indians were frowned upon. Erin knows that there is more to this story that what is in the journal and she is going to do everything she can to unlock the mystery.
What she doesn't plan on is falling for tribal policeman Adam Silverhorn. He is in the process of investigating the murder of the chief of police in Cedar Canyon on the Navajo Reservation. Armed with a handful of clues he's been learning more about an undercover operation that has been threading its way through the police department and even he has his own secrets to hide. The one thing he hadn't planned on is becoming friends with Erin in the process and with them spending more time together, he has to remind himself where the boundaries of their relationship are, despite her uncanny ability to appeal to his appetite for a great meal!
I received Beneath a Navajo Moon by Lisa Carter compliments of Abingdon Press for my honest review and did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable one. The opinions contained here are strictly my own. This is such a great novel because of how Lisa has written this from two perspectives, one from Olivia Thornton's as she comes to terms with being kidnapped by a Navajo Indian who wants to learn more about the God she believes in and from Erin's perspective as she tries to figure out what happened to Olivia when she set forth to find the man she had fallen in love with despite the prejudices from both families based on their cultural differences. It is a great example of the power of love and how nothing can stand in the way. For anyone who loves a bit of mystery steep in Indian heritage, you will definitely love this one. I easily give it a 5 out of 5 stars.
January 25, 2015
Both Erin and Adam are trying to fulfill their calling in their lives, both a bit rebelling against their respective families and both are from totally opposite worlds. Christian anthropologist Erin is MK (missionary kid) from South, considering herself "plain and unattractive" and running against wishes of her family to become a missionary in Papua New Guinea, Peru or other part of world - her passion is to uncover the fate of white girl Olivia captured by Navajos at the turn of the century, who fell in love with her capturer Silver Eagle and, as her old diary is saying, was trying to get back to him when rescued against her will. Proud Adam is attractive Navaho undercover cop fighting the drug cartel in the reservation and trying to bring the best for his people - but what is the best? Fighting the government because old and new unjustice against Read Indians? Or peaceful "sheep" way of his Christian uncle? Erin and Adam can´t deny the growing attraction between them, but will they follow such risky feelings which require so much trust in the unknown future?
OK, I´ve been wanting to love the book so much! And with the heavy heart I must say that I just...don´t. Everything is here - romance new and old, collision between two worlds, suspense and danger, friendships and love, both forbidden and winning. And Lisa Carter is one gifted writer for sure, with vivid imagination and ability to put the thrill in. What could go wrong? Well...this is a thriller, so I can understand the certain level of black-white character setting, but this was just too black and white and stereotypized for me, I must say. Almost everybody is either totally lovely or totally devilish, which helps to create the thrill, but I just can´t love the characters for their mistakes! I love real, flawed people with whom I can identify.
Even more difficult thing to touch is heavy preachiness present. I am Christian, so I like stories about the relationship with God in everyday life. I get what Lisa is promoting, and some questions/passages were great food for thought, but I suggest to follow the golden rule "less is more". Faith should be more present in actions than in words.
I also suggest to make a more deep research (for example the Japanese people would never let anyone hug them publicly!)
I would read Lisa´s next book. I hope to meet with her best assets - undeniable gift for writing, colourful description of nature and environment and her deep spirituality (same quality in lessened quantity).
OK, I´ve been wanting to love the book so much! And with the heavy heart I must say that I just...don´t. Everything is here - romance new and old, collision between two worlds, suspense and danger, friendships and love, both forbidden and winning. And Lisa Carter is one gifted writer for sure, with vivid imagination and ability to put the thrill in. What could go wrong? Well...this is a thriller, so I can understand the certain level of black-white character setting, but this was just too black and white and stereotypized for me, I must say. Almost everybody is either totally lovely or totally devilish, which helps to create the thrill, but I just can´t love the characters for their mistakes! I love real, flawed people with whom I can identify.
Even more difficult thing to touch is heavy preachiness present. I am Christian, so I like stories about the relationship with God in everyday life. I get what Lisa is promoting, and some questions/passages were great food for thought, but I suggest to follow the golden rule "less is more". Faith should be more present in actions than in words.
I also suggest to make a more deep research (for example the Japanese people would never let anyone hug them publicly!)
I would read Lisa´s next book. I hope to meet with her best assets - undeniable gift for writing, colourful description of nature and environment and her deep spirituality (same quality in lessened quantity).
October 10, 2014
Erin Dawson is on a mission. She wants to find out information about a long ago relative who was carried off by Navajo Indians at the turn of the century. What makes this an interesting proposition is that her adoptive parents are missionaries and she is always on a mission. They want her to follow in their footsteps and join the mission overseas. But Erin first goes to Arizona to the Navajo nation in search of her families roots (that of a long lost aunt).
The search will lead her to provide anthropological help to the local Indian Museum as part of her time, she is there on an internship. But while there she is searching for the tale of long lost Aunt Olivia Thornton. What happened to Olivia? After she was rescued from the Indians she went willingly on her own back to them searching for the love of her life. Did she succeed?
Erin doesn't expect to find love in this place, but at the first glance of Adam Silverhorn she finds a handsome intriguing Navajo that she wants to know more about. His uncle is the local Minister at the Navajo Church. Erin's faith and Uncle Johnny's faith are so sincere and they join together to pray for the salvation of Adam Silverhorn.
But before that might happen Erin will learn that Adam is a police officer who is trying his best to uncover the drug cartel that is bringing Meth to the Indian youth. His search is not one for someone who is not willing to give up his life to find the source, irradiate it and save "the people."
The story is well written. The history of the Navajo people is well documented. The tension between the white world and the indian world is well played out.
But the instant love of one person for another is not something to be overlooked. Will Adam and Erin be able to put their differences behind them and find the true love that awaits them? Will religion more than culture be the dividing point?
Lisa Carter does a great job of weaving a story that touches on so many topics that it is surprising that you can have all that and still find room for the story line that weaves it's way through.
My only question at the end of the book is this, "Was that the end of the story, or is there more?"
Enjoy!
The search will lead her to provide anthropological help to the local Indian Museum as part of her time, she is there on an internship. But while there she is searching for the tale of long lost Aunt Olivia Thornton. What happened to Olivia? After she was rescued from the Indians she went willingly on her own back to them searching for the love of her life. Did she succeed?
Erin doesn't expect to find love in this place, but at the first glance of Adam Silverhorn she finds a handsome intriguing Navajo that she wants to know more about. His uncle is the local Minister at the Navajo Church. Erin's faith and Uncle Johnny's faith are so sincere and they join together to pray for the salvation of Adam Silverhorn.
But before that might happen Erin will learn that Adam is a police officer who is trying his best to uncover the drug cartel that is bringing Meth to the Indian youth. His search is not one for someone who is not willing to give up his life to find the source, irradiate it and save "the people."
The story is well written. The history of the Navajo people is well documented. The tension between the white world and the indian world is well played out.
But the instant love of one person for another is not something to be overlooked. Will Adam and Erin be able to put their differences behind them and find the true love that awaits them? Will religion more than culture be the dividing point?
Lisa Carter does a great job of weaving a story that touches on so many topics that it is surprising that you can have all that and still find room for the story line that weaves it's way through.
My only question at the end of the book is this, "Was that the end of the story, or is there more?"
Enjoy!
July 27, 2014
Lisa Carter in her new book, “Beneath a Navajo Moon” published by Abingdon Press brings us into the life of Erin Dawson.
From the back cover: What happens when love and danger collide deep in the heart of The Navajo Nation?
The search for a woman who disappeared in 1906 leads cultural anthropologist Erin Dawson to Cedar Canyon, where the iconic terrain of red rock walls and mesas keep Navajo traditions—and maybe criminal evidence—well hidden.
When Erin’s search leads her to cross paths with tribal policeman Adam Silverhorn, it’s hardly love at first sight. But everywhere she turns, Adam is already there.Fighting their feelings for each other, the two are suddenly thrust into a battle far more dangerous—a common quest to rout an insidious drug cartel that has spawned the recent rise in gang violence on the reservation. Adam’s position of authority gives Erin a rare glimpse into Navajo life few outsiders like her ever see—and into a crime ring that no one dares to imagine. As danger mounts, Adam and Erin begin to wonder if they will live to tell how they really feel.
For most of us we have no idea of what happens on an Indian Reservation. Some of us think of casinos, some think of alcoholism, perhaps gangs. Adam is a tribal policeman, and we should see more of him, terrific character, who has to patrol the Navajo Nation which is quite an undertaking. Erin is searching out a disappearance from 1906. They join forces to try to crack a drug ring. In the midst of all of this there is even a romance. Intrigue, mystery, large amounts of danger and a clash of cultures are just some of the ingredients in this wonderful adventure. I am looking forward to the next book from this highly talented author.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Abingdon Press for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: What happens when love and danger collide deep in the heart of The Navajo Nation?
The search for a woman who disappeared in 1906 leads cultural anthropologist Erin Dawson to Cedar Canyon, where the iconic terrain of red rock walls and mesas keep Navajo traditions—and maybe criminal evidence—well hidden.
When Erin’s search leads her to cross paths with tribal policeman Adam Silverhorn, it’s hardly love at first sight. But everywhere she turns, Adam is already there.Fighting their feelings for each other, the two are suddenly thrust into a battle far more dangerous—a common quest to rout an insidious drug cartel that has spawned the recent rise in gang violence on the reservation. Adam’s position of authority gives Erin a rare glimpse into Navajo life few outsiders like her ever see—and into a crime ring that no one dares to imagine. As danger mounts, Adam and Erin begin to wonder if they will live to tell how they really feel.
For most of us we have no idea of what happens on an Indian Reservation. Some of us think of casinos, some think of alcoholism, perhaps gangs. Adam is a tribal policeman, and we should see more of him, terrific character, who has to patrol the Navajo Nation which is quite an undertaking. Erin is searching out a disappearance from 1906. They join forces to try to crack a drug ring. In the midst of all of this there is even a romance. Intrigue, mystery, large amounts of danger and a clash of cultures are just some of the ingredients in this wonderful adventure. I am looking forward to the next book from this highly talented author.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Abingdon Press for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
July 20, 2014
Inspirational Romance
1906 and Present Navajo Nation, Arizona
Erin Dawson is a cultural anthropologist that has gone to Cedar Canyon on a search for a woman that disappeared in 1906. A place where the Navajo traditions are kept well hidden amid the red rock walls and mesas. What also might be hidden there is evidence of criminal activity. Erin’s search leads to her crossing paths with tribal policeman Adam Silverhorn no matter where she turns. Though when they first meet it is hardly love at first sight but every time they meet after that the sparks fly between them.
Erin and Adam are suddenly thrust into a battle that is more dangerous than either could have expected especially as they are fighting their feelings for each other. A battle to stop an insidious drug cartel that has lead to a rise in gang violence on the reservation. With Adam, Erin gets a view into the life of the Navajos, a view that very few outsiders ever get the chance to see. She also gets a view into a crime ring that no one imagined existed. As the danger rises around them Adam and Erin wonder if they will ever be able to tell each other how they truly feel.
This is a story that brings a small glimpse into the Navajos that makes for an excellent read. For readers that enjoy inspirational romances this is one that is sure to please them. It basically has two stories in one. One from the past and one from the present and the way the two are interwoven together makes for a very enjoyable book. The mystery that is woven into each story makes for a story that will keep reader turning the pages to see what will happen next and if Erin and Adam will be able to make it through the danger okay. It will also have readers turning the pages to see if things will work out for Adam and Erin. The story and scenery comes to life with every word that is read and readers will find it very easy to picture the mesas and canyons that are in this book.
1906 and Present Navajo Nation, Arizona
Erin Dawson is a cultural anthropologist that has gone to Cedar Canyon on a search for a woman that disappeared in 1906. A place where the Navajo traditions are kept well hidden amid the red rock walls and mesas. What also might be hidden there is evidence of criminal activity. Erin’s search leads to her crossing paths with tribal policeman Adam Silverhorn no matter where she turns. Though when they first meet it is hardly love at first sight but every time they meet after that the sparks fly between them.
Erin and Adam are suddenly thrust into a battle that is more dangerous than either could have expected especially as they are fighting their feelings for each other. A battle to stop an insidious drug cartel that has lead to a rise in gang violence on the reservation. With Adam, Erin gets a view into the life of the Navajos, a view that very few outsiders ever get the chance to see. She also gets a view into a crime ring that no one imagined existed. As the danger rises around them Adam and Erin wonder if they will ever be able to tell each other how they truly feel.
This is a story that brings a small glimpse into the Navajos that makes for an excellent read. For readers that enjoy inspirational romances this is one that is sure to please them. It basically has two stories in one. One from the past and one from the present and the way the two are interwoven together makes for a very enjoyable book. The mystery that is woven into each story makes for a story that will keep reader turning the pages to see what will happen next and if Erin and Adam will be able to make it through the danger okay. It will also have readers turning the pages to see if things will work out for Adam and Erin. The story and scenery comes to life with every word that is read and readers will find it very easy to picture the mesas and canyons that are in this book.
September 7, 2014
This was a fascinating story that I did not want to put down! I loved the character of Erin, a follower of God but very attracted to Adam, an unbeliever. She was strong and sassy and gave Adam a run for his money. I liked Adam, too, but it was a little frustrating to see some of the choices he made, especially when he was felt he could run his own life better than God could. Faith and the power of prayer were very important elements in the story and they were done very well. I liked the discussions Erin and Adam would have about God and I especially liked Erin's struggle to be obedient, no matter the cost. It was fascinating to learn about the Navajo culture and so sad to read about what many of them endured at the hands of the government, especially taking away their children to go to mission schools. This fact was what led Erin there in the first place and I loved the sections that focused on the woman Erin's trying to track down. I like stories with a mix of contemporary and historical elements. I appreciated a look into a culture I'm not very familiar with and I'm glad to see more stories being published about Native Americans in the Christian market. I really liked the other characters, too, and felt they added much to the story. The romance was fun and their banter amusing. This is the third book I've read of Carter's and I've enjoyed them all! She's become an author to watch for me. I highly recommend this book!
I received this book free from Abingdon Press in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book free from Abingdon Press in exchange for an honest review.
April 21, 2014
This inspirational book touched on several topics from the whites trying to change the American Indians first by sending in teachers who demanded many changes in their culture to taking the young women and men away from their homes to better assimulate them into the American Culture (yea). The string that made this book interesting to read was the anthropologist who was looking for one of her relatives who had disappeared in the early 1900's and there was no record of her returning to her people. There was one clue and that of a quilt which seems to tye here to the two cultures.
Most of it I enjoyed as each group have their own ideas about othere and how when one is in control dangerous persons can enter especially in a geographical area of Arizonia which has many mountains and hiding creavices for drug and other criminal elements to hide without being seen and invade the people in this reservation. The one drag back which seems to happen ofter when there are two types of people in this case one white and one brown and it seems no matter how it is written the white seem to be the smartest one, but then the book is written on the female's entry into the world of the American Indians. On a positive note there were references to incidents such as the "Coders" who were a huge help during World War II.
Most of it I enjoyed as each group have their own ideas about othere and how when one is in control dangerous persons can enter especially in a geographical area of Arizonia which has many mountains and hiding creavices for drug and other criminal elements to hide without being seen and invade the people in this reservation. The one drag back which seems to happen ofter when there are two types of people in this case one white and one brown and it seems no matter how it is written the white seem to be the smartest one, but then the book is written on the female's entry into the world of the American Indians. On a positive note there were references to incidents such as the "Coders" who were a huge help during World War II.
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