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Mud Sawpole #2
Silent Are the Dead
A Kiowa woman faces new threats to her tribe and identity while struggling to keep her Silicon Valley business afloat. She must search deep within herself to find answers—and a murderer—in Mary Higgins Clark Award Finalist D. M. Rowell’s thrilling sequel, perfect for fans of Winter Counts.
While back on tribal land, Mud Sawpole uncovers an illegal fracking operation underway that threatens the Kiowas’ ancestral homeland. But there’s an even greater a local businessman involved in artifact thefts is murdered, and a respected tribe elder faces accusation of the crime. After being roped in by her cousin, Denny, they begin to investigate the death while also pursuing evidence to permanently stop frackers from destroying Kiowa land, water, and livelihoods.
When answers evade her, Mud heeds her grandfather's and great-aunt’s words of wisdom and embraces Kiowa tribal customs to find the answers that she seeks. But her ceremonial sweat leads to a vision with answers wrapped in more questions.
Mud and Denny race against the clock to uncover the real killer and must face the knowledge that there may be a traitor—and a murderer—in their midst. It’s already too late for one victim—and Mud may be next.
While back on tribal land, Mud Sawpole uncovers an illegal fracking operation underway that threatens the Kiowas’ ancestral homeland. But there’s an even greater a local businessman involved in artifact thefts is murdered, and a respected tribe elder faces accusation of the crime. After being roped in by her cousin, Denny, they begin to investigate the death while also pursuing evidence to permanently stop frackers from destroying Kiowa land, water, and livelihoods.
When answers evade her, Mud heeds her grandfather's and great-aunt’s words of wisdom and embraces Kiowa tribal customs to find the answers that she seeks. But her ceremonial sweat leads to a vision with answers wrapped in more questions.
Mud and Denny race against the clock to uncover the real killer and must face the knowledge that there may be a traitor—and a murderer—in their midst. It’s already too late for one victim—and Mud may be next.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 19, 2024
21 people are currently reading
240 people want to read
About the author
D.M. Rowell
2 books47 followersD.M. Rowell ( Koyh Mi O Boy Dah )
Like her protagonist Mud, D. M. Rowell comes from a long line of Kiowa Storytellers within a culture that treasures oral traditions. She’s an award-winning and nominated producer/writer on several documentaries, including Vanishing Link: My Spiritual Return to the Kiowa Way, seen on PBS and winner of TrailDance 2007 Best Oklahoma Documentary.
As a child, Rowell was heavily influenced by her traditional Kiowa Grandfather, C. E. Rowell. He was an artist, master storyteller, recognized Tribal Elder and one of the last readers of the Sai-guats, winter count deerskin calendars that chronicled a hundred years of Kiowa history. Her Grandfather’s stories, memories, and art instilled a deep respect and love for her Kiowa culture and traditions within Rowell.
After a three-decade career spinning stories for Silicon Valley startups and corporations with a few escapes creating independent documentaries, Rowell started a new chapter writing a mystery series that features a Silicon Valley professional Kiowa woman and her Plains Indian tribe. The first in the series is "Never Name the Dead," Crooked Lane Books, November 8, 2022.
Rowell enjoys life in California with her partner of thirty-eight years, their son and a bossy, feral gray cat.
source: Amazon
Like her protagonist Mud, D. M. Rowell comes from a long line of Kiowa Storytellers within a culture that treasures oral traditions. She’s an award-winning and nominated producer/writer on several documentaries, including Vanishing Link: My Spiritual Return to the Kiowa Way, seen on PBS and winner of TrailDance 2007 Best Oklahoma Documentary.
As a child, Rowell was heavily influenced by her traditional Kiowa Grandfather, C. E. Rowell. He was an artist, master storyteller, recognized Tribal Elder and one of the last readers of the Sai-guats, winter count deerskin calendars that chronicled a hundred years of Kiowa history. Her Grandfather’s stories, memories, and art instilled a deep respect and love for her Kiowa culture and traditions within Rowell.
After a three-decade career spinning stories for Silicon Valley startups and corporations with a few escapes creating independent documentaries, Rowell started a new chapter writing a mystery series that features a Silicon Valley professional Kiowa woman and her Plains Indian tribe. The first in the series is "Never Name the Dead," Crooked Lane Books, November 8, 2022.
Rowell enjoys life in California with her partner of thirty-eight years, their son and a bossy, feral gray cat.
source: Amazon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
November 5, 2024
This second entry in the Mud Sawpole mysteries picks up almost immediately after the end of book one, in which Mud rushed back from California to her Oklahoma hometown when her grandfather called out of the blue. She discovered there were frackers on her grandfather's land who were threatening him, and someone had been stealing artifacts important to the Kiowa from the tribe museum.
At the opening of this novel, right after the tribal meeting, Eli, an elder, is adamant with Denny and Mud. He wants a family headdress returned that his deadbeat son Buck, stole and sold. Then Georgie, Mud's former girlfriend and Buck's wife, alerts them that a body is in the tribal office. Except, then it vanishes.
Mud and Denny head over to the museum to speak with Gerald, with Georgie unfortunately in tow.
Mud is anxious to return to California and her urgent business concerns, but she is also concerned about the museum thefts and the frackers. Now, the dead body is at the museum, and the headdress is missing, Denny convinces her to help him clear Eli's name before calling the police. Georgie sticks with museum employee and her friend Brenda instead of concerning herself with investigating the situation at the museum.
Denny and Mud travel all over, talking to different people, have a near deadly and terrifying encounter with rattlesnakes, attempt to figure out who would have the clout and connections to be involved in both illegal fracking and theft of artifacts, which leads them to suspecting someone in the tribal office is involved.
Though you don't have to read book one to understand this story, I would strongly urge readers to start there. There is important information imparted by the author about Mud's family relationships and background, and historic and cultural information about the Kiowa that explains the depth of disrespect by the people damaging land through fracking, and the desecration of Kiowa culture by someone attempting to steal, forge and sell items of great family significance.
This book was engaging with never a dull minute. The pace starts fast and only takes one small, vital break while Mud reconnects with herself and her place in her culture, then races off again. The peace with which she approaches matters after a much needed talk with her Aunt Cora helps her slow her thoughts down enough to identify the person(s) behind the fracking and brings her to a realization about her holding on to some things from her past. She also figures out who is the murderer.
The writing is great, and I loved getting a slightly better understanding of Kiowa beliefs (e.g., the importance of owls) and it added wonderfully to the depth of the story.
I listened and read this book, and loved both experiences. Voice actor Katie Anvil Rich ably embodies Mud's inner conflict as she wants to help her Oklahoma family, even as she also wants to put her California-based business on a assured footing. I loved the way Rich handled the banter between Mud and the always impulsive Denny. Georgie is suitably irritating and self-centred, while Mud's Aunt Cora has the weight of her years and the wisdom she's gained shining through her calm voice.
I loved this story, and am eager to read and/or listen to what D.M. Rowell creates next.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Crooked Lane Books and to Dreamscape Media for the ARCs in exchange for my review.
At the opening of this novel, right after the tribal meeting, Eli, an elder, is adamant with Denny and Mud. He wants a family headdress returned that his deadbeat son Buck, stole and sold. Then Georgie, Mud's former girlfriend and Buck's wife, alerts them that a body is in the tribal office. Except, then it vanishes.
Mud and Denny head over to the museum to speak with Gerald, with Georgie unfortunately in tow.
Mud is anxious to return to California and her urgent business concerns, but she is also concerned about the museum thefts and the frackers. Now, the dead body is at the museum, and the headdress is missing, Denny convinces her to help him clear Eli's name before calling the police. Georgie sticks with museum employee and her friend Brenda instead of concerning herself with investigating the situation at the museum.
Denny and Mud travel all over, talking to different people, have a near deadly and terrifying encounter with rattlesnakes, attempt to figure out who would have the clout and connections to be involved in both illegal fracking and theft of artifacts, which leads them to suspecting someone in the tribal office is involved.
Though you don't have to read book one to understand this story, I would strongly urge readers to start there. There is important information imparted by the author about Mud's family relationships and background, and historic and cultural information about the Kiowa that explains the depth of disrespect by the people damaging land through fracking, and the desecration of Kiowa culture by someone attempting to steal, forge and sell items of great family significance.
This book was engaging with never a dull minute. The pace starts fast and only takes one small, vital break while Mud reconnects with herself and her place in her culture, then races off again. The peace with which she approaches matters after a much needed talk with her Aunt Cora helps her slow her thoughts down enough to identify the person(s) behind the fracking and brings her to a realization about her holding on to some things from her past. She also figures out who is the murderer.
The writing is great, and I loved getting a slightly better understanding of Kiowa beliefs (e.g., the importance of owls) and it added wonderfully to the depth of the story.
I listened and read this book, and loved both experiences. Voice actor Katie Anvil Rich ably embodies Mud's inner conflict as she wants to help her Oklahoma family, even as she also wants to put her California-based business on a assured footing. I loved the way Rich handled the banter between Mud and the always impulsive Denny. Georgie is suitably irritating and self-centred, while Mud's Aunt Cora has the weight of her years and the wisdom she's gained shining through her calm voice.
I loved this story, and am eager to read and/or listen to what D.M. Rowell creates next.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Crooked Lane Books and to Dreamscape Media for the ARCs in exchange for my review.
July 30, 2024
Silent Are the Dead is the second installment of the Mud Sawpole series. I just want to start off by saying I have not read the first and this book is a great stand alone novel. It is a story about a women named Mud who helps her tribe with a murder, illegal fracking operation on their land, and the theft of a tribal relic. I thought the look in their heritage and tribal politics was fascinating. The writing and voice was very well done and on point. The MC was is a person that is trapped between two worlds, the one of their ancestors and modern day America, which I thought was portrayed so beautifully heartbreaking. I thought this novel was very well done. Highly recommend 4.5 stars.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the author and the publisher for allowing me ARC access. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the author and the publisher for allowing me ARC access. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 18, 2024
Beginning immediately after the first book in the series, Mud continues to try and figure out who is stealing precious artifacts and who is assisting in the fracking of her native lands. But, my issues with the first book continued in this installment. When did anyone sleep? And did Mud miss that big ol' obvious clue because she was so sleep deprived? I think so! Did the reader need to spend so much time reading about Mud and her cousin, Denny, catching rattlesnakes? I think not. Likewise, her California business continues to distract and annoy me. I really thought it irresponsible of her to ditch the presentation preparation to stay at the reservation and investigate. Yes, it was important, but there wasn't an absolute time limit to investigate. Anyway, that is just me. I recognize that it was supposed to symbolize Mud straddling her two worlds, but it wasn't a very positive look at the situation. I want this series to continue and I was to continue reading it. I just hope the author, and Mud, find a better balance.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
April 20, 2024
What a pleasure in this second installment featuring Mud Sawpole. Although it follows hard on the heels of Winter Counts, there is enough reference to the first book so that the series (hopefully there will be more) can begun with Silent are the Dead, but a richer experience of course would occur if the first one had been read. D. M. Rowell beautifully blends the dilemma of a former member of this Kiowa family who has successfully forged a life in Silicon Valley. One of my favorite shows, Reservation Dogs, was set and filmed in the same region of Oklahoma, so there was ease in the visual descriptions. This particular episode features a twisty mystery that incorporates Kiowa traditions, giving it a current sensibility.. Looking forward to more.
October 12, 2025
3.5
There were many things to like about this book, but the time line annoyed me. As Mud and Denny drove from one end of the county to the other (as mentioned by Sky), there really wasn't enough time for all the shenanigans ( including rattlesnake wrangling) and lengthy conversations to happen. But. I enjoyed the characters and loved learning more about the Kiowa people. I haven't read the first book of the series, but will, and I look forward to more in the series.
There were many things to like about this book, but the time line annoyed me. As Mud and Denny drove from one end of the county to the other (as mentioned by Sky), there really wasn't enough time for all the shenanigans ( including rattlesnake wrangling) and lengthy conversations to happen. But. I enjoyed the characters and loved learning more about the Kiowa people. I haven't read the first book of the series, but will, and I look forward to more in the series.
April 4, 2024
What a thrilling introduction to the Mud Sawpole series! I have not read the first one (I seem to have a knack for selecting books that are part of a series) however this was an excellent place to start nonetheless.
Mae “Mud” Sawpole is a queer Kiowa woman who left the nation in Oklahoma for Silicon Valley to launch a professional storytelling agency as part of her mission to be the storyteller for the Kiowa as her grandfather designated her. Mud has insecurities about her role as she is visibly a woman of mixed heritage, however with the support of her family members she comes to realize that she is Kiowa through and through regardless of what ancestry she has because the Kiowa blood is what counts.
The story starts presumably where the last one ended. Mud has recently solved a murder and is at the Tribal Headquarters after being summoned back to Oklahoma by her grandfather who is currently on a spiritual quest and only tells her it’s an emergency. She’s there with various other family and members of the nation for a ceremony to return the Jefferson Peace Medal to its rightful place in the Kiowa museum. This is an artifact of critical importance to the nation as a symbol of what might have been peaceful contact with American colonizers and there are only three genuine medals in existene. Near the end of this ceremony after Mud and others witness several disputes and perplexing actions in the headquarters, her former high school love literally stumbles over a body. The prologue is from the perspective of the dead man and gives just the slightest hint of what led to his demise, as the Peace Medal is not the only ancestral artifact that has ended up in the wrong hands.
Over the course of a single night, Mud and her cousin Denny, are engaged in a race against time to figure out who committed this murder before Mud has to leave on a 12pm flight back to Silicon Valley for a presentation that will make or break her agency. They must figure out who the real killer is before the police hone in on a Kiowa elder, who Mud and Denny know didn’t do it, and don’t investigate further. In addition to this murder, Mud and Denny are also investigating crimes of environmental destruction on their nation’s land.
I appreciated how fast paced this book was and the fact it took place over one night didn’t seem contrived. The only irritating part was the partner in the agency in Silicon Valley who kept popping up by phone as a reminder that Mud has critical business interests now and needs to focus on that, not her family and the situation at hand (which Mud doesn’t explain at all to her partner). Her business partner seemed almost comically disrespectful, especially in how she uses the nickname “Mud” after overhearing it, a nickname which Denny came up with during Mud’s childhood Kiowa naming ceremony, but it’s possible there’s some explanation about this dynamic that’s established in the first book.
The various twists and the final revelation of who committed the murder genuinely surprised me. I found it both educational and interesting to read about how Mud reconnected with her Kiowa roots and used ancestral knowledge to ultimately put together the clues.
The author is a Kiowa woman and includes a variety of Kiowa words within the book, an explanation of Kiowa sign language and how it’s used which is demonstrated throughout the story, and there is a glossary of Kiowa words at the end. Kiowa ceremonies and the importance of certain rituals are also critical parts of this book. I enjoyed the inclusion of all of that background and am interested in learning more about Kiowa culture and history beyond this book. Of course I also want to read more Mud Sawpole mysteries!
Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books and to NetGalley for this ARC to review. This review is my honest opinion.
Mae “Mud” Sawpole is a queer Kiowa woman who left the nation in Oklahoma for Silicon Valley to launch a professional storytelling agency as part of her mission to be the storyteller for the Kiowa as her grandfather designated her. Mud has insecurities about her role as she is visibly a woman of mixed heritage, however with the support of her family members she comes to realize that she is Kiowa through and through regardless of what ancestry she has because the Kiowa blood is what counts.
The story starts presumably where the last one ended. Mud has recently solved a murder and is at the Tribal Headquarters after being summoned back to Oklahoma by her grandfather who is currently on a spiritual quest and only tells her it’s an emergency. She’s there with various other family and members of the nation for a ceremony to return the Jefferson Peace Medal to its rightful place in the Kiowa museum. This is an artifact of critical importance to the nation as a symbol of what might have been peaceful contact with American colonizers and there are only three genuine medals in existene. Near the end of this ceremony after Mud and others witness several disputes and perplexing actions in the headquarters, her former high school love literally stumbles over a body. The prologue is from the perspective of the dead man and gives just the slightest hint of what led to his demise, as the Peace Medal is not the only ancestral artifact that has ended up in the wrong hands.
Over the course of a single night, Mud and her cousin Denny, are engaged in a race against time to figure out who committed this murder before Mud has to leave on a 12pm flight back to Silicon Valley for a presentation that will make or break her agency. They must figure out who the real killer is before the police hone in on a Kiowa elder, who Mud and Denny know didn’t do it, and don’t investigate further. In addition to this murder, Mud and Denny are also investigating crimes of environmental destruction on their nation’s land.
I appreciated how fast paced this book was and the fact it took place over one night didn’t seem contrived. The only irritating part was the partner in the agency in Silicon Valley who kept popping up by phone as a reminder that Mud has critical business interests now and needs to focus on that, not her family and the situation at hand (which Mud doesn’t explain at all to her partner). Her business partner seemed almost comically disrespectful, especially in how she uses the nickname “Mud” after overhearing it, a nickname which Denny came up with during Mud’s childhood Kiowa naming ceremony, but it’s possible there’s some explanation about this dynamic that’s established in the first book.
The various twists and the final revelation of who committed the murder genuinely surprised me. I found it both educational and interesting to read about how Mud reconnected with her Kiowa roots and used ancestral knowledge to ultimately put together the clues.
The author is a Kiowa woman and includes a variety of Kiowa words within the book, an explanation of Kiowa sign language and how it’s used which is demonstrated throughout the story, and there is a glossary of Kiowa words at the end. Kiowa ceremonies and the importance of certain rituals are also critical parts of this book. I enjoyed the inclusion of all of that background and am interested in learning more about Kiowa culture and history beyond this book. Of course I also want to read more Mud Sawpole mysteries!
Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books and to NetGalley for this ARC to review. This review is my honest opinion.
March 17, 2025
I wanted to love this more than I did. Don't get me wrong, it's a good mystery but there were enough issues I didn't feel like overlooking to give this four stars. A mystery about an Indigenous detective written by an Indigenous woman, I about fell over myself to get this, not realizing it was book two. Usually this is not a problem in mystery series. You usually get enough woven in to know what's gone before in the series. However, this felt way too much like a duology vs a mystery series and without having read book one, you felt you were missing out. I didn't care for that much.
Nor the fact that apparently Mud is faced with two mysteries in what seems to be a 48 hour trip home to the reservation in Oklahoma from her place in California. That felt like such an impossible scenario that it bothered me the entire book. Also this gets interwoven with something I do not like: the trope of here's a woman with a high powered job being expected to give it up for the sake of someone else. Usually you see that in a Hallmark Christmas romance. At least here, the pressure makes more sense, the idea Mud can't be Kiowa enough living off the reservation because as much as I dislike it, there is truth in the loss of culture once you're away from it. That said I watched too many friends face the accusations of not being Indigenous enough because of their jobs or where they chose to live and it's hard enough to watch, let alone live through so I had some pity for Mud.
But not enough sympathy because I thought Mud was rather a bad friend. She has her business with her best friend who is now facing their big make or break moment alone with Mud doing nothing to help and actively avoiding helping her. So I lost a lot of respect for her.
The mystery is strange enough. Mud's high school girlfriend stumbles across a body in one place only to have it move to another. The dead man has been all but stealing Indigenous cultural artifacts by offering a pittance to families desperate for money just to stay alive and then selling the artifact to collectors for a fortune. From what I can tell Mud and her family stopped him in the last book and now he's dead and a friend of her grandfather, Eli, might be blamed because the dead man has Eli's money in his pocket (the money his grandson had given to the victim to buy a headdress) and Mud and her cousin decide that the cops would not listen to Indigenous people (which given real life history, that's sadly fair).
Mud does want to go home but feels compelled to help Eli. Georgia, her ex, might have done the killing or her husband who worked for him. Then her cousin's girlfriend's mother might be guilty and she might be tied up with the illegal fracking that's going on. So there is a lot of real world issues being brought into this and that was nice.
What I didn't care for in the mystery was Cousin Denny being Mud's Watson in that he keeps darting from one 'this guy did it, I just know' to the next, accusing people (if only to Mud) with little proof which sends them off on another branch of the investigation. It got old fast but it did make for a convoluted mystery.
I didn't hate this but also I didn't love it enough to buy another. Maybe if the library gets it I'd try this series again.
Nor the fact that apparently Mud is faced with two mysteries in what seems to be a 48 hour trip home to the reservation in Oklahoma from her place in California. That felt like such an impossible scenario that it bothered me the entire book. Also this gets interwoven with something I do not like: the trope of here's a woman with a high powered job being expected to give it up for the sake of someone else. Usually you see that in a Hallmark Christmas romance. At least here, the pressure makes more sense, the idea Mud can't be Kiowa enough living off the reservation because as much as I dislike it, there is truth in the loss of culture once you're away from it. That said I watched too many friends face the accusations of not being Indigenous enough because of their jobs or where they chose to live and it's hard enough to watch, let alone live through so I had some pity for Mud.
But not enough sympathy because I thought Mud was rather a bad friend. She has her business with her best friend who is now facing their big make or break moment alone with Mud doing nothing to help and actively avoiding helping her. So I lost a lot of respect for her.
The mystery is strange enough. Mud's high school girlfriend stumbles across a body in one place only to have it move to another. The dead man has been all but stealing Indigenous cultural artifacts by offering a pittance to families desperate for money just to stay alive and then selling the artifact to collectors for a fortune. From what I can tell Mud and her family stopped him in the last book and now he's dead and a friend of her grandfather, Eli, might be blamed because the dead man has Eli's money in his pocket (the money his grandson had given to the victim to buy a headdress) and Mud and her cousin decide that the cops would not listen to Indigenous people (which given real life history, that's sadly fair).
Mud does want to go home but feels compelled to help Eli. Georgia, her ex, might have done the killing or her husband who worked for him. Then her cousin's girlfriend's mother might be guilty and she might be tied up with the illegal fracking that's going on. So there is a lot of real world issues being brought into this and that was nice.
What I didn't care for in the mystery was Cousin Denny being Mud's Watson in that he keeps darting from one 'this guy did it, I just know' to the next, accusing people (if only to Mud) with little proof which sends them off on another branch of the investigation. It got old fast but it did make for a convoluted mystery.
I didn't hate this but also I didn't love it enough to buy another. Maybe if the library gets it I'd try this series again.
November 17, 2024
It is her cousin Denny's fault that Mud Sawpole got the nickname "Mud" on her Kiowa reservation. We eventually learn how that happened. Mud has long been gone from her reservation and her indigenous roots, running a successful operation in California. Her business seems to be a marketing firm that creates stories for the brands it represents. This fits, because Mud's beloved grandfather is the anointed storyteller for their tribe. He has long since designated Mud as his heir to this title, but she chose to leave and has been happy with the decision. But her return has her deeply reflecting about where she belongs. This is the second entry in this series and I need to go back for the first story, which involved Mud's return to the reservation to help her grandfather. She has not been home for ten years.
As this story opens, the prior story is referenced by a cleansing ceremony related to the return of a stolen artifact that Mud helped recover. Mud has not yet returned home, so the two novels happen immediately in sequence. Many artifacts are being purchased for bargain prices and sold for many times the acquisition price by an unsavory man and his partners in the tribe. Mud's grandfather continues to be upset as well that people are conducting illegal fracking operations on a property bordering his land, contaminating his creek. His efforts to get them to stop are futile and the people on the sight are hostile and possibly dangerous. Mud's cousin Denny convinces her to spend her last couple of days in the area trying to address both the artifact purchases and the fracking.
Early on, we meet some of the players in tribal government and many people Mud remembers from growing up on the reservation. When a key person is murdered, various unexpected things start to unfold and Mud is drawn in. Throughout, she is conflicted over her responsibilities to her business and her responsibilities to family and the tribe. This whole novel was very satisfying. There are some really funny parts. Along the way, we learn about the old ways and the loss of the old ways,. The mystery is quite good and the audio version had great voicing by Katie Anvil Rich.
As this story opens, the prior story is referenced by a cleansing ceremony related to the return of a stolen artifact that Mud helped recover. Mud has not yet returned home, so the two novels happen immediately in sequence. Many artifacts are being purchased for bargain prices and sold for many times the acquisition price by an unsavory man and his partners in the tribe. Mud's grandfather continues to be upset as well that people are conducting illegal fracking operations on a property bordering his land, contaminating his creek. His efforts to get them to stop are futile and the people on the sight are hostile and possibly dangerous. Mud's cousin Denny convinces her to spend her last couple of days in the area trying to address both the artifact purchases and the fracking.
Early on, we meet some of the players in tribal government and many people Mud remembers from growing up on the reservation. When a key person is murdered, various unexpected things start to unfold and Mud is drawn in. Throughout, she is conflicted over her responsibilities to her business and her responsibilities to family and the tribe. This whole novel was very satisfying. There are some really funny parts. Along the way, we learn about the old ways and the loss of the old ways,. The mystery is quite good and the audio version had great voicing by Katie Anvil Rich.
April 16, 2024
The second of this series picks right up from where the first left off. It can be read on it’s own. Mud Sawpole is back home in Oklahoma while her business is preparing a critical presentation in California. She’s torn between where her priorities need to be. Her brother and Grandpa are convinced frackers are tainting the water. Then there’s the stolen artifacts from the reservation. Then a dead body. Mud and her brother attempt to determine who the killer is while eliminating the innocent obvious suspect. My suspect list wavered at every turn as new developments occurred. It was a well plotted mystery with many characters I liked. Mud was so busy in twenty-four hours I was exhausted just reading about the occurrences.
The history books from my generation didn’t provide much accurate information about indigenous peoples culture. It’s so rewarding to find authors weaving their customs into stories now. I’ve learned much about their beliefs and rituals reading this type of novel. I especially enjoyed the glossary of Kiowa phrases. Many of my ancestors were from the area in this series which makes it even more special to read. Thanks to the author for a mystery with so much woven into the setting and people. I look forward to more of Mud’s adventures.
I should have known from the vivid cover to avoid this story. Full transparency here – I DESPISE snakes! I won’t watch or read about them, therefore I admit to skimming over some pages that made my skin crawl and would give me nightmares. I live very near Oklahoma, the setting of this novel, and where snakes are prevalent. I know they’re an essential piece of ecology, just can’t get past my phobia.
An advance reader copy of “Silent are the Dead” by D. M. Rowell, Mud Sawpole #2, Crooked Lane Books, publication 11/19/2024, was provided by NetGalley. These are all my own honest personal thoughts and opinions given voluntarily without compensation.
The history books from my generation didn’t provide much accurate information about indigenous peoples culture. It’s so rewarding to find authors weaving their customs into stories now. I’ve learned much about their beliefs and rituals reading this type of novel. I especially enjoyed the glossary of Kiowa phrases. Many of my ancestors were from the area in this series which makes it even more special to read. Thanks to the author for a mystery with so much woven into the setting and people. I look forward to more of Mud’s adventures.
I should have known from the vivid cover to avoid this story. Full transparency here – I DESPISE snakes! I won’t watch or read about them, therefore I admit to skimming over some pages that made my skin crawl and would give me nightmares. I live very near Oklahoma, the setting of this novel, and where snakes are prevalent. I know they’re an essential piece of ecology, just can’t get past my phobia.
An advance reader copy of “Silent are the Dead” by D. M. Rowell, Mud Sawpole #2, Crooked Lane Books, publication 11/19/2024, was provided by NetGalley. These are all my own honest personal thoughts and opinions given voluntarily without compensation.
August 5, 2024
"Find the tribe that knows your song." (Unknown)
Mae "Mud" Sawpole embraces just that. She is a member of the Kiowa Nation in Carnegie, Oklahoma. Life pointed her in a different direction as she left the familiar for Silicon Valley in California. Her hard work and dedication allowed her to set the foundation for a start-up company. She and her team were in the midst of drawing in a new client when the phone call came in from Carnegie. She's needed back home.
The Kiowa Tribe Museum has been presented with the Jefferson Peace Medal that dates back to the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1804. This relic has been treasured by the tribe. Gerald Bean, the curator, has been questioned about tribal artifacts that have gone missing. Although, presently, there is no definitive proof, there are a lot of suspicions as to the future safety of these artifacts in the museum.
When Mud finally reaches Carnegie, she is met by her cousin, Denny, who is more like a brother to her. The two of them realize that there is more going on here than what meets the eye. In fact, Anna ManyHorse, the tribal legislator, alerts them to possible illegal fracking on this ancestral land as well. Soon coincidences line up with the possibility that someone within their own tribe may be up to no good.
Silent Are the Dead reads perfectly as a standalone even though it is the second book in this series. Never Name the Dead is the first. D.M. Rowell fills this one with thievery and fraud of Kiowa artifacts, illegal fracking, a room full of rattlesnakes, and a dead body out of the blue that keeps showing up in odd places. The draw is in the fine writing and in the honoring of the Kiowa tribe throughout. This is the perfect opportunity to support Native American authors and their remarkable culture.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Crooked Lane Publishers and to D.M. Rowell for the opportunity.
Mae "Mud" Sawpole embraces just that. She is a member of the Kiowa Nation in Carnegie, Oklahoma. Life pointed her in a different direction as she left the familiar for Silicon Valley in California. Her hard work and dedication allowed her to set the foundation for a start-up company. She and her team were in the midst of drawing in a new client when the phone call came in from Carnegie. She's needed back home.
The Kiowa Tribe Museum has been presented with the Jefferson Peace Medal that dates back to the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1804. This relic has been treasured by the tribe. Gerald Bean, the curator, has been questioned about tribal artifacts that have gone missing. Although, presently, there is no definitive proof, there are a lot of suspicions as to the future safety of these artifacts in the museum.
When Mud finally reaches Carnegie, she is met by her cousin, Denny, who is more like a brother to her. The two of them realize that there is more going on here than what meets the eye. In fact, Anna ManyHorse, the tribal legislator, alerts them to possible illegal fracking on this ancestral land as well. Soon coincidences line up with the possibility that someone within their own tribe may be up to no good.
Silent Are the Dead reads perfectly as a standalone even though it is the second book in this series. Never Name the Dead is the first. D.M. Rowell fills this one with thievery and fraud of Kiowa artifacts, illegal fracking, a room full of rattlesnakes, and a dead body out of the blue that keeps showing up in odd places. The draw is in the fine writing and in the honoring of the Kiowa tribe throughout. This is the perfect opportunity to support Native American authors and their remarkable culture.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Crooked Lane Publishers and to D.M. Rowell for the opportunity.
September 11, 2024
4 stars for an informative mystery set on a Kiowa reservation in Oklahoma.
The blurb: " Mud Sawpole recently returned to the Kiowas after leaving a high-powered career and was plunged into the vortex of a crime that nearly consumed her and the tribe. The danger hasn’t gone away—and now, Mud faces an even greater threat. There’s an illegal fracking operation underway that threatens the sanctity of the Kiowas’ ancestral homeland, but there’s also an evil hidden right within the heart of the tribe."
This book 2 in the series, and I have not read book 1. It worked for me as a stand alone. I liked that the author incorporates Kiowa traditions into the narrative of the mystery. The author is a Kiowa Storyteller, a person designated by tribal elders to carry on the traditions and culture of the Kiowa nation. The author has used her experiences working in Silicon Valley and as a Storyteller to create Mud Sawpole, a Kiowa Storyteller and currently working in Silicon Valley as head of a startup advertising firm specializing in computer companies.
There is a murder that appears to have been committed by a tribal elder, but probably was not. Mud and her cousin Denny race against the clock to find the real killer and stop the illegal fracking operation. They do resolve both. I was not sure of who the killer was until the end.
One Quote, by Mud: "My grandfather James Sawpole was the Tribe Storyteller; the last reader of our Winter Count Chronicles. During tribe gatherings Grandpa shared stories from our history, keeping us united as a people."
Thank You Crooked Lane Books for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
#SilentaretheDead #NetGalley.
Pub Date Nov 19 2024
The blurb: " Mud Sawpole recently returned to the Kiowas after leaving a high-powered career and was plunged into the vortex of a crime that nearly consumed her and the tribe. The danger hasn’t gone away—and now, Mud faces an even greater threat. There’s an illegal fracking operation underway that threatens the sanctity of the Kiowas’ ancestral homeland, but there’s also an evil hidden right within the heart of the tribe."
This book 2 in the series, and I have not read book 1. It worked for me as a stand alone. I liked that the author incorporates Kiowa traditions into the narrative of the mystery. The author is a Kiowa Storyteller, a person designated by tribal elders to carry on the traditions and culture of the Kiowa nation. The author has used her experiences working in Silicon Valley and as a Storyteller to create Mud Sawpole, a Kiowa Storyteller and currently working in Silicon Valley as head of a startup advertising firm specializing in computer companies.
There is a murder that appears to have been committed by a tribal elder, but probably was not. Mud and her cousin Denny race against the clock to find the real killer and stop the illegal fracking operation. They do resolve both. I was not sure of who the killer was until the end.
One Quote, by Mud: "My grandfather James Sawpole was the Tribe Storyteller; the last reader of our Winter Count Chronicles. During tribe gatherings Grandpa shared stories from our history, keeping us united as a people."
Thank You Crooked Lane Books for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
#SilentaretheDead #NetGalley.
Pub Date Nov 19 2024
September 29, 2024
Thank you so much to NetGalley and DM Rowell for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Silent are the Dead coming out November 19, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
While back on tribal land, Mud Sawpole uncovers an illegal fracking operation underway that threatens the Kiowas’ ancestral homeland. But there’s an even greater threat: a local businessman involved in artifact thefts is murdered, and a respected tribe elder faces accusation of the crime. After being roped in by her cousin, Denny, they begin to investigate the death while also pursuing evidence to permanently stop frackers from destroying Kiowa land, water, and livelihoods.
When answers evade her, Mud heeds her grandfather's and great-aunt’s words of wisdom and embraces Kiowa tribal customs to find the answers that she seeks. But her ceremonial sweat leads to a vision with answers wrapped in more questions.
Mud and Denny race against the clock to uncover the real killer and must face the knowledge that there may be a traitor—and a murderer—in their midst. It’s already too late for one victim—and Mud may be next.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. I didn’t realize it was the second book, so I need to read the first one. I really love Native American stories and mysteries, so I was excited to check this out. I’m not super familiar with Kiowa, so I loved learning more about them and glossary to Kiowa words at the end of the book was really helpful. I really loved Mud and Denny’s characters. The plot was really interesting and I loved the idea of two worlds, trying to live in society and stay true to your heritage. The writing was wonderful.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Native American mysteries.
While back on tribal land, Mud Sawpole uncovers an illegal fracking operation underway that threatens the Kiowas’ ancestral homeland. But there’s an even greater threat: a local businessman involved in artifact thefts is murdered, and a respected tribe elder faces accusation of the crime. After being roped in by her cousin, Denny, they begin to investigate the death while also pursuing evidence to permanently stop frackers from destroying Kiowa land, water, and livelihoods.
When answers evade her, Mud heeds her grandfather's and great-aunt’s words of wisdom and embraces Kiowa tribal customs to find the answers that she seeks. But her ceremonial sweat leads to a vision with answers wrapped in more questions.
Mud and Denny race against the clock to uncover the real killer and must face the knowledge that there may be a traitor—and a murderer—in their midst. It’s already too late for one victim—and Mud may be next.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. I didn’t realize it was the second book, so I need to read the first one. I really love Native American stories and mysteries, so I was excited to check this out. I’m not super familiar with Kiowa, so I loved learning more about them and glossary to Kiowa words at the end of the book was really helpful. I really loved Mud and Denny’s characters. The plot was really interesting and I loved the idea of two worlds, trying to live in society and stay true to your heritage. The writing was wonderful.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Native American mysteries.
April 14, 2024
Silent are the Dead is the second book in D.M. Rowell's Mud Sawpole series. I actually have had the first Mud Sawpole book (Never Name the Dead) on my TBR for awhile, and actually received a copy for Christmas. For those who have not read the first book, it is possible to read this book first without feeling too lost. You will have spoilers if you read the second book first, but the author does a great job of balancing recapping where our protagonist has been before, with where she is at now.
The story takes place over about a one day time frame, and there are many moments where I was questioning whether or not Mud could solve the mysteries before her flight back to California. The one day turnaround really added to the tension in the novel. Many murder mysteries are open ended with just the timeline of needing to solve the mystery soon. There were some really dire consequences if the murder wasn't solved by the morning after the murder took place.
Rowell did a great job of incorporating history, current issues facing tribes, and providing context for the novel without distracting from the plot. I was really interested in her incorporating fracking, and with Killers of the Flower Moon having just come out, I thought this book had really great timing. The book also reminded me of how historical issues are still happening today, particularly when it comes to land and mineral rights. Overall, the book was really well done and I am excited to see more indigenous fiction.
Please be advised I received an Advance Reader's Copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The story takes place over about a one day time frame, and there are many moments where I was questioning whether or not Mud could solve the mysteries before her flight back to California. The one day turnaround really added to the tension in the novel. Many murder mysteries are open ended with just the timeline of needing to solve the mystery soon. There were some really dire consequences if the murder wasn't solved by the morning after the murder took place.
Rowell did a great job of incorporating history, current issues facing tribes, and providing context for the novel without distracting from the plot. I was really interested in her incorporating fracking, and with Killers of the Flower Moon having just come out, I thought this book had really great timing. The book also reminded me of how historical issues are still happening today, particularly when it comes to land and mineral rights. Overall, the book was really well done and I am excited to see more indigenous fiction.
Please be advised I received an Advance Reader's Copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 9, 2024
As far as murder mysteries go, this one falls a bit on the silly side for me. I definitely clocked who the involved parties were within the first 10 chapters. I’m a big fan of Bones, so the description of the murder wound plus meeting one of the other characters quickly after made it very obvious.
I found Mud to be thinking about the wrong things at the wrong time, but that’s super relatable to me. Denny on other hand, was completely insufferable and hot headed. I couldn’t wait to finish some scenes with him just to get away from him.
I understand the connectedness of the crimes, but I do wish that the fracking investigation and the murder mystery were two separate stories. I think they both take from each other, which is how life goes, but the execution makes for a distracting read. It did not make for a more complex story, it just felt a bit cluttered. With the fracking story in particular, it didn’t feel like the stakes were all that high and it sometimes felt like an afterthought.
To be fair, I did not read the first book as this is an ARC from NetGalley, but I think the story provides enough context and motivations for the characters.
I did love the very direct voice of the experience and struggles of the Kiowa people. I think some would call it heavy handed, but I think it served as a really good anchor for the setting. Much like Mud, at all times you are reminded of where you are. I enjoyed that aspect a lot.
I think if you’re looking for a murder mystery this is a pass. However it serves as a really strong “slice of life” type of story that you’ve probably not encountered.
I found Mud to be thinking about the wrong things at the wrong time, but that’s super relatable to me. Denny on other hand, was completely insufferable and hot headed. I couldn’t wait to finish some scenes with him just to get away from him.
I understand the connectedness of the crimes, but I do wish that the fracking investigation and the murder mystery were two separate stories. I think they both take from each other, which is how life goes, but the execution makes for a distracting read. It did not make for a more complex story, it just felt a bit cluttered. With the fracking story in particular, it didn’t feel like the stakes were all that high and it sometimes felt like an afterthought.
To be fair, I did not read the first book as this is an ARC from NetGalley, but I think the story provides enough context and motivations for the characters.
I did love the very direct voice of the experience and struggles of the Kiowa people. I think some would call it heavy handed, but I think it served as a really good anchor for the setting. Much like Mud, at all times you are reminded of where you are. I enjoyed that aspect a lot.
I think if you’re looking for a murder mystery this is a pass. However it serves as a really strong “slice of life” type of story that you’ve probably not encountered.
September 25, 2024
First, thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing an arc of the book. This book will be released on 19th November 2024.
“Silent Are the Dead” by D.M. Rowell is a captivating sequel in the Mud Sawpole series, where cultural heritage meets modern threats in a high-stakes mystery. Mud Sawpole, a former Silicon Valley professional who has returned to her Kiowa roots, faces her toughest challenge yet as she navigates illegal fracking operations and the betrayal of tribal members who steal sacred artifacts.
The novel beautifully blends Kiowa traditions with modern dilemmas, making it more than just a mystery—it’s an exploration of identity, belonging, and the significance of cultural preservation. Mud’s struggle between her professional obligations and her commitment to the tribe adds depth to her character, while the vivid descriptions of Kiowa ceremonies and landscapes immerse the reader in the setting.
Rowell’s narrative keeps the tension high as Mud and her cousin Denny race against time to solve a murder and recover the stolen relics. The complex web of deceit and danger is further enriched by the portrayal of the tribe’s internal politics and the external threats from corporate interests. While the book can be enjoyed as a standalone, it’s clear that Mud’s journey is far from over. “Silent Are the Dead” is a compelling and culturally rich mystery that fans of Indigenous fiction will appreciate. Highly recommended!
“Silent Are the Dead” by D.M. Rowell is a captivating sequel in the Mud Sawpole series, where cultural heritage meets modern threats in a high-stakes mystery. Mud Sawpole, a former Silicon Valley professional who has returned to her Kiowa roots, faces her toughest challenge yet as she navigates illegal fracking operations and the betrayal of tribal members who steal sacred artifacts.
The novel beautifully blends Kiowa traditions with modern dilemmas, making it more than just a mystery—it’s an exploration of identity, belonging, and the significance of cultural preservation. Mud’s struggle between her professional obligations and her commitment to the tribe adds depth to her character, while the vivid descriptions of Kiowa ceremonies and landscapes immerse the reader in the setting.
Rowell’s narrative keeps the tension high as Mud and her cousin Denny race against time to solve a murder and recover the stolen relics. The complex web of deceit and danger is further enriched by the portrayal of the tribe’s internal politics and the external threats from corporate interests. While the book can be enjoyed as a standalone, it’s clear that Mud’s journey is far from over. “Silent Are the Dead” is a compelling and culturally rich mystery that fans of Indigenous fiction will appreciate. Highly recommended!
April 14, 2024
First and foremost, thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing me with an eARC for an honest review!
I actually started reading this without knowing that it was a sequel! It was so gripping that I had to look more into it, and I have since read both books! I think that this is a great continuation of Mud's story, and continues to ratchet up the stakes time and time again. With the context of the first novel, you get to feel her own growth as she reconnects to her roots. I will note, Mud and Denny must be super human to just keep going without sleeping! All jokes aside, I think the fact that the events of these books take place in such a short amount of time makes the stakes feel higher and higher, and the changes between frantic searching and slow consideration feel natural.
My main criticism with this book is that it seems there is too much repetition with certain aspects of the book, like the repetitive definitions of things or explaining of certain customs too many times. It may also be an effect of reading both books back to back, but there are some areas that feel a little verbose due to this.
All in all, I did enjoy this book greatly and am happy to recommend it! It is a fun ride and provides enough mystery to keep you reading
I actually started reading this without knowing that it was a sequel! It was so gripping that I had to look more into it, and I have since read both books! I think that this is a great continuation of Mud's story, and continues to ratchet up the stakes time and time again. With the context of the first novel, you get to feel her own growth as she reconnects to her roots. I will note, Mud and Denny must be super human to just keep going without sleeping! All jokes aside, I think the fact that the events of these books take place in such a short amount of time makes the stakes feel higher and higher, and the changes between frantic searching and slow consideration feel natural.
My main criticism with this book is that it seems there is too much repetition with certain aspects of the book, like the repetitive definitions of things or explaining of certain customs too many times. It may also be an effect of reading both books back to back, but there are some areas that feel a little verbose due to this.
All in all, I did enjoy this book greatly and am happy to recommend it! It is a fun ride and provides enough mystery to keep you reading
November 14, 2024
Plot
Silent are the Dead is book number 2 in the Mud Sawpole series, but it can completely read as a standalone. The introductory chapters gave great details on the context, the characters, the Kiowa tribe and their culture. The murder was a good intrigue and the development of how each character fitted into the situation was done really well.
I did however feel like after fifteen or so chapters though, that there were no new twists or motivations to our main characters to react to.
Characters
The Kiowa culture and practices were deeply entrenched in the narrative that it was clear to me from the start which characters were Kiowa descendants and which characters were taking advantage of the tribe. Unfortunately, because of this I was not surprised when the killer was revealed, nor the brains of the fracking operation.
Narrative
The rattlesnake chapter was SO tense I was gripping my sofa arm the whole way through! However I didn't get the same sense of tension at any other point in the book which was a shame. I did enjoy the sweat round and how this journey was described.
Thank you NetGalley and DM Rowell for an ARC copy of this book
Silent are the Dead is book number 2 in the Mud Sawpole series, but it can completely read as a standalone. The introductory chapters gave great details on the context, the characters, the Kiowa tribe and their culture. The murder was a good intrigue and the development of how each character fitted into the situation was done really well.
I did however feel like after fifteen or so chapters though, that there were no new twists or motivations to our main characters to react to.
Characters
The Kiowa culture and practices were deeply entrenched in the narrative that it was clear to me from the start which characters were Kiowa descendants and which characters were taking advantage of the tribe. Unfortunately, because of this I was not surprised when the killer was revealed, nor the brains of the fracking operation.
Narrative
The rattlesnake chapter was SO tense I was gripping my sofa arm the whole way through! However I didn't get the same sense of tension at any other point in the book which was a shame. I did enjoy the sweat round and how this journey was described.
Thank you NetGalley and DM Rowell for an ARC copy of this book
May 9, 2024
She is Mae at her advertising agency in California where there is an important deal near to closing and she has work to do on it. She is Mud in her hometown at the Kiowa reservation in Oklahoma where grandfather has called her for help with the thefts of important tribal artifacts. She is both, and there are crises in each part of her life at the same time. One of those parts includes a murder involving both greed and theft of historical items belonging to family. She and her cousin discover an illegal fracking operation which poisons all water in the area, and a confusing murder. She is an apprentice storyteller and an amateur sleuth with a deep sense of justice. Her cousin, on the other hand, hops from accusing one suspect after another. And the characters are so well depicted that I felt as if I knew them in my own world here in Wisconsin. Twisty and filled with tribal lore.
I requested and received a free temporary EARC copy from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received a free temporary EARC copy from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
May 17, 2024
This is the second book, which appears to start where the first ended. There is enough background information to understand what is happening.
Mae "Mud" Sawpole is a Kiowa woman who has left the tribe to start a business in Silicon Valley. Mud returns to Oklahoma at the behest of her grandfather.
Mud and her cousin, Denny, must work together to solve the mystery of the dead white man, who is stealing precious artifacts, and who is allowing fracking on tribal land.
This story blends together the rich history of the Kiowa people with a fast-paced thriller. I enjoyed reading this and understanding more of the Kiowa culture. I also appreciated the glossary for the definitions of the words used from the Kiowa language. Just a reminder to myself (and all) -- just because it is different doesn't make it bad.
Thank you, Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley, for the opportunity to read the eARC of Silent are the Dead.
Mae "Mud" Sawpole is a Kiowa woman who has left the tribe to start a business in Silicon Valley. Mud returns to Oklahoma at the behest of her grandfather.
Mud and her cousin, Denny, must work together to solve the mystery of the dead white man, who is stealing precious artifacts, and who is allowing fracking on tribal land.
This story blends together the rich history of the Kiowa people with a fast-paced thriller. I enjoyed reading this and understanding more of the Kiowa culture. I also appreciated the glossary for the definitions of the words used from the Kiowa language. Just a reminder to myself (and all) -- just because it is different doesn't make it bad.
Thank you, Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley, for the opportunity to read the eARC of Silent are the Dead.
December 13, 2024
Silent Are the Dead by D.M. Rowell
Narrated by Katie Anvil Rich
Audiobook rating : 4.5 stars
Book rating : 2.5 stars
Overall rating : 3.5 stars
The narration was really good, and that's what kept me hooked in the story otherwise it was surely a dnf for me.
So this is second book of "Mud sawpole mystery"buy you can read it as a standalone. This is a well written book but the mystery and characters didn't really matter to me. There was no character development. Maybe first book will give more but as mystery didn't matter much to me so I doubt I will pick up any book by the author in near future.
It was just a big miss for me. The cover is delicious and that's what made me request the book. At some points mystery to was good but it was slow paced. Also I didn't care who killed who, or who is killed so there's that.
Thank you Netgalley and dreamscape media for the ARC in exchange of an honest review.
Narrated by Katie Anvil Rich
Audiobook rating : 4.5 stars
Book rating : 2.5 stars
Overall rating : 3.5 stars
The narration was really good, and that's what kept me hooked in the story otherwise it was surely a dnf for me.
So this is second book of "Mud sawpole mystery"buy you can read it as a standalone. This is a well written book but the mystery and characters didn't really matter to me. There was no character development. Maybe first book will give more but as mystery didn't matter much to me so I doubt I will pick up any book by the author in near future.
It was just a big miss for me. The cover is delicious and that's what made me request the book. At some points mystery to was good but it was slow paced. Also I didn't care who killed who, or who is killed so there's that.
Thank you Netgalley and dreamscape media for the ARC in exchange of an honest review.
June 2, 2024
When I started this book, I didn't realize it was the second in the series, but luckily, D.M. Rowell includes plenty of backstory/information regarding the Kiowa culture to keep everyone informed and understanding the story. I enjoyed this book, despite the rattlesnakes (no thanks!), and I have to say that the murder kept me thinking and made me want to figure it out before Mud & Denny did. I also really appreciated the inclusion of all of the cultural references of the Kiowa. I had never known anything about the Kiowa before reading this book, and am very interested in it now. I definitely want to go back and read the first Mud Sawpole book, and I look forward to any other books in the future. Very well done, and I'd say more of a 4.5 than just a 4!
November 8, 2024
This title just didn't do it for me. As it takes place on Kiowa land with primarily Kiowa characters, I'd been hoping for one of those reading experiences that combines solid mystery plotting with an opportunity to enter into a community outside my own. And it did offer these things.
For me, the problem was just that dialogue and characters felt oddly incomplete. I don't know how to explain it further. It was a bit like trying to drive with a somewhat fogged windshield.
It you like multicultural mysteries, the title is definitely worth a try. You may find strengths in it that I missed.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
For me, the problem was just that dialogue and characters felt oddly incomplete. I don't know how to explain it further. It was a bit like trying to drive with a somewhat fogged windshield.
It you like multicultural mysteries, the title is definitely worth a try. You may find strengths in it that I missed.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
December 6, 2024
Thank you to Net Galley and Crooked Lane Books for the e-ARC.
I requested this book because I haven’t read much by Kiowa authors, and this book is centered in Kiowa life.
I’m not sure if this is considered a cozy mystery or not. I’m not much of a mystery fan, so I don’t feel qualified to discuss that. This does seem to hold true to many mystery tropes and will fill that "everything works out in the end" mystery fan’s may like.
This book was fine, but I did struggle to stay engaged. The action felt overcomplicated, the timelines unrealistic, and the foreshadowing was very heavy. There was also a repetitiveness that weighed down the narrative. Which is too bad, because there were elements that I really wanted to like.
December 8, 2024
I enjoyed reading about the authors knowledge on the Kiowa tribe and the change in culture from my usual read. I thought this being a second book gave enough context about the main character (Mud) for it to be an independent read from the first.
The storyline was paced well, even with some side stories on Kiowa history, and I found myself invested in the characters. Where this fell apart a little bit for me was the overall unserious tone. I felt like I wasn’t reading a murder thriller but a more young adult crime novel. Which overall is fine, just different than I was expecting. Still a good read and would be interested in more from D.M. Rowell.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ARC!
The storyline was paced well, even with some side stories on Kiowa history, and I found myself invested in the characters. Where this fell apart a little bit for me was the overall unserious tone. I felt like I wasn’t reading a murder thriller but a more young adult crime novel. Which overall is fine, just different than I was expecting. Still a good read and would be interested in more from D.M. Rowell.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ARC!
December 26, 2025
Hoped to see improvement from the first installment, which had promise. It’s clear this author does not have the proper guidance in the publishing field, and a terrible editor. This was such a waste of time and money. I always buy Indigenous authors’ books. But this was a mistake. I do not support low effort mediocrity when there is so much brilliance within the many First Nations of America. Not surprised there are no more prospective books for this series. This may not be Rowells’ path. Perhaps with better training and editorial support. But these have both read like very underdeveloped first drafts
Two stars, solely because of the glimpses (although very manufactured, not easily blended into the storyline) into Kiowa culture.
Two stars, solely because of the glimpses (although very manufactured, not easily blended into the storyline) into Kiowa culture.
April 9, 2024
Mary Higgins Clark Award-finalist Rowell’s second mystery featuring Kiowa professional storyteller Mae “Mud” Sawpole opens in media res as she attends a cleansing and blessing ceremony at the Kiowa Tribe Museum in Carnegie, Oklahoma. As recounted in Never Name the Dead, Mud and her cousin Denny thwarted the attempted theft of the precious Jefferson Peace Medal given to the Tribe during the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1804. Earlier in the day, they had also found a body and identified the killer. Now, it is time to return the medal to the museum and for Mud to go back to Silicon Valley, where her PR client has an important event. First, she needs to confront tribe chairman, Wyatt Walker, and tribe legislator Anna ManyHorse about the illegal fracking on her grandfather’s land but when the dealer involved in the theft of the Jefferson Peace medal and other Kiowa artifacts is murdered and a respected tribal elder falls suspect, Mud and Denny must race against the clock on the longest night of their lives (Mud has a noon flight to catch the next day!) to find the real culprits behind the fracking and the dealer’s killing. As a gay woman of mixed race, Mud has always felt a bit of an outsider (“a large minority in the Tribe didn’t think I was Kiowa enough…because I didn’t look Indian enough”), but her great-aunt’s wisdom and a ceremonial sweat bath set her on the path to finding the truth. Rowell, whose Kiowa name, “Koyh Mi O Boy Dah”, means “She Is A Traditional Kiowa Woman”, provides enough backstory for newbies to slip easily into the storyline. Her details about Kiowa history, culture, and spiritual traditions are respectful and fascinating. She also knows how to write an intense fight scene complete with menacing rattlesnakes. Tony Hillerman fans will enjoy discovering a promising)g mystery writer and her intriguing protagonis. (reviewed in the March 28 issue of First Clue https://mailchi.mp/firstcluereviews/c...
October 28, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eArc in both print and audiobook format.
“Silent Are the Dead” by D. M. Rowell is a gripping sequel in the Mud Sawpole series that delves deep into the heart of the Kiowa tribe’s struggles and D.M. Rowell’s Silent Are the Dead is a captivating mystery that seamlessly blends cultural heritage with modern-day intrigue. This second installment in the Mud Sawpole series continues to explore the rich tapestry of Kiowa traditions while delivering a thrilling and suspenseful narrative.
Katie Anvil Rich’s narration is a standout feature of this audiobook. Her ability to capture the youthful energy and determination of Mud Sawpole, the protagonist, adds depth to the listening experience. Rich’s expressive voice and nuanced performance bring the characters to life, making the story both engaging and immersive. Her portrayal of the various characters, from the resilient Mud to the enigmatic antagonists, is spot-on, enhancing the overall impact of the narrative.
The story begins with Mud Sawpole returning to her Kiowa roots to recover a priceless artifact, the Jefferson Peace Medal.
The plot is intricately woven, with multiple layers of mystery and suspense. Rowell masterfully balances the fast-paced action with moments of introspection, allowing readers to connect with Mud on a deeper level. The twists and turns are well-timed, keeping readers captivated.
Mud Sawpole is a compelling protagonist, characterized by her strong sense of identity and unwavering determination. Her journey is both personal and professional, as she navigates the complexities of her heritage and the modern world. The supporting characters, including her cousin Denny and the various tribal elders, are well-developed and add richness to the story. Rowell excels at creating characters that are relatable and memorable.
The setting of the Kiowa reservation is vividly depicted, with Rowell’s descriptions bringing the landscape and cultural elements to life. The atmosphere is tense and charged, reflecting the high stakes of Mud’s quest. The inclusion of Indigenous history and traditions adds depth to the narrative, making it a mystery and also a cultural exploration.
Silent Are the Dead tackles themes such as identity, heritage, and the impact of external forces on the Indigenous.. Rowell explores the tension between preserving cultural traditions and adapting to modern challenges. The novel also touches on environmental issues, with the threat of fracking adding an urgent and relevant dimension to the story.
Silent Are the Dead is a compelling and thought-provoking audiobook that will appeal to fans of mystery and cultural narratives alike.
Rowell’s skillful storytelling, combined with Rich’s exceptional narration, makes for an engaging and immersive experience.
Whether you’re new to the Mud Sawpole series or a returning fan, this audiobook is sure to leave a lasting impression! . The protagonist, Mud Sawpole, returns to her roots after a high-powered career, only to find herself embroiled in a whirlwind of crime that threatens to engulf her and her tribe.
The narrative weaves a complex tapestry of tribal traditions, modern challenges, and the unyielding spirit of the Kiowa people. Rowell’s storytelling is masterful, blending suspense and cultural richness to create a novel that is both thrilling and enlightening. The book’s exploration of identity, heritage, and the impact of external forces on indigenous communities is poignant and timely.
As Mud Sawpole confronts an illegal fracking operation that desecrates the sacred lands of the Kiowa, she also grapples with an internal menace—a betrayal from within the tribe that involves the theft of precious artifacts. The tension escalates when this internal conflict intertwines with the external threat, leading to a crescendo of danger and deceit.
Rowell’s characters are beautifully fleshed-out, with Mud Sawpole standing out as a beacon of resilience and determination. Her journey is not just a quest to solve a mystery but a deeper search for meaning and connection to her cultural roots. The supporting cast adds layers of complexity to the narrative, each with their own motivations and secrets that enrich the plot.
The setting is a character in itself, with the vast landscapes of the Kiowa homeland serving as a silent witness to the unfolding drama. Rowell’s vivid descriptions of the environment transport readers to a place where the past and present collide, where every stone and stream holds a story.
“Silent Are the Dead” is a compelling mystery and a profound reflection on the struggles of preserving one’s culture in the face of modernity. It’s a tale of courage, community, and the unbreakable bond between a people and their land. With its intricate plot, robust character development, and thematic depth, this novel is a standout addition to the genre and a testament to Rowell’s skill as a storyteller.
I LOVED EVERYTHING about this book (after I send this review, I am buying a copy of "Never Name The Dead" the 1st in the Mud Sawpole series).).
"Silent Are The Dead" is one of the most engaging stories I have read this year, and I expect this author is headed (#1 with a bullet) for the bestseller list.
Another "one to watch" with the 2nd book in what I hope is a LENGTHY series featuring Mud Sawpole - could there be a BETTER name for a somewhat mystical crime-fighter?
If you are a fan of Thomas Perry's Jane Whitefield series, do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of D.M. Rowell's "Silent are The Dead".
“Silent Are the Dead” by D. M. Rowell is a gripping sequel in the Mud Sawpole series that delves deep into the heart of the Kiowa tribe’s struggles and D.M. Rowell’s Silent Are the Dead is a captivating mystery that seamlessly blends cultural heritage with modern-day intrigue. This second installment in the Mud Sawpole series continues to explore the rich tapestry of Kiowa traditions while delivering a thrilling and suspenseful narrative.
Katie Anvil Rich’s narration is a standout feature of this audiobook. Her ability to capture the youthful energy and determination of Mud Sawpole, the protagonist, adds depth to the listening experience. Rich’s expressive voice and nuanced performance bring the characters to life, making the story both engaging and immersive. Her portrayal of the various characters, from the resilient Mud to the enigmatic antagonists, is spot-on, enhancing the overall impact of the narrative.
The story begins with Mud Sawpole returning to her Kiowa roots to recover a priceless artifact, the Jefferson Peace Medal.
The plot is intricately woven, with multiple layers of mystery and suspense. Rowell masterfully balances the fast-paced action with moments of introspection, allowing readers to connect with Mud on a deeper level. The twists and turns are well-timed, keeping readers captivated.
Mud Sawpole is a compelling protagonist, characterized by her strong sense of identity and unwavering determination. Her journey is both personal and professional, as she navigates the complexities of her heritage and the modern world. The supporting characters, including her cousin Denny and the various tribal elders, are well-developed and add richness to the story. Rowell excels at creating characters that are relatable and memorable.
The setting of the Kiowa reservation is vividly depicted, with Rowell’s descriptions bringing the landscape and cultural elements to life. The atmosphere is tense and charged, reflecting the high stakes of Mud’s quest. The inclusion of Indigenous history and traditions adds depth to the narrative, making it a mystery and also a cultural exploration.
Silent Are the Dead tackles themes such as identity, heritage, and the impact of external forces on the Indigenous.. Rowell explores the tension between preserving cultural traditions and adapting to modern challenges. The novel also touches on environmental issues, with the threat of fracking adding an urgent and relevant dimension to the story.
Silent Are the Dead is a compelling and thought-provoking audiobook that will appeal to fans of mystery and cultural narratives alike.
Rowell’s skillful storytelling, combined with Rich’s exceptional narration, makes for an engaging and immersive experience.
Whether you’re new to the Mud Sawpole series or a returning fan, this audiobook is sure to leave a lasting impression! . The protagonist, Mud Sawpole, returns to her roots after a high-powered career, only to find herself embroiled in a whirlwind of crime that threatens to engulf her and her tribe.
The narrative weaves a complex tapestry of tribal traditions, modern challenges, and the unyielding spirit of the Kiowa people. Rowell’s storytelling is masterful, blending suspense and cultural richness to create a novel that is both thrilling and enlightening. The book’s exploration of identity, heritage, and the impact of external forces on indigenous communities is poignant and timely.
As Mud Sawpole confronts an illegal fracking operation that desecrates the sacred lands of the Kiowa, she also grapples with an internal menace—a betrayal from within the tribe that involves the theft of precious artifacts. The tension escalates when this internal conflict intertwines with the external threat, leading to a crescendo of danger and deceit.
Rowell’s characters are beautifully fleshed-out, with Mud Sawpole standing out as a beacon of resilience and determination. Her journey is not just a quest to solve a mystery but a deeper search for meaning and connection to her cultural roots. The supporting cast adds layers of complexity to the narrative, each with their own motivations and secrets that enrich the plot.
The setting is a character in itself, with the vast landscapes of the Kiowa homeland serving as a silent witness to the unfolding drama. Rowell’s vivid descriptions of the environment transport readers to a place where the past and present collide, where every stone and stream holds a story.
“Silent Are the Dead” is a compelling mystery and a profound reflection on the struggles of preserving one’s culture in the face of modernity. It’s a tale of courage, community, and the unbreakable bond between a people and their land. With its intricate plot, robust character development, and thematic depth, this novel is a standout addition to the genre and a testament to Rowell’s skill as a storyteller.
I LOVED EVERYTHING about this book (after I send this review, I am buying a copy of "Never Name The Dead" the 1st in the Mud Sawpole series).).
"Silent Are The Dead" is one of the most engaging stories I have read this year, and I expect this author is headed (#1 with a bullet) for the bestseller list.
Another "one to watch" with the 2nd book in what I hope is a LENGTHY series featuring Mud Sawpole - could there be a BETTER name for a somewhat mystical crime-fighter?
If you are a fan of Thomas Perry's Jane Whitefield series, do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of D.M. Rowell's "Silent are The Dead".
November 7, 2024
I enjoyed this second Mud Sawpole mystery even more than the first one. As with Never Name the Dead, this book weaves Kiowa culture throughout the story. This book takes place directly after the events in the first book. Rowell really stepped up her game in this one! There were times I was on the edge of my seat (rattlesnakes) and I LOVED the part where Mud and Denny visit their Aunt and Mud does a sweat lodge. I listened to the audio of this one and the narrator does a good job too. I hope Rowell writes more of these!
Thank you to Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for an advance copy of this audiobook for review.
Thank you to Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for an advance copy of this audiobook for review.
November 19, 2024
The personal journey, extended family relationships, and symbolic resonance with the land captivated me. Strands of identity, loyalty, ancestors, and community weave into a layered tale of a Kiowa storyteller’s homecoming.
As she strives to protect her family from frackers, 'Mud' discovers deep, deadly layers of crime.
Adventure, intrigue, Kiowa culture, and relationships pushed to their breaking or connecting points fuel Silent are the Dead.
Mud shines as a clear-hearted, brave yet vulnerable hero. Her loyalties to her people crowding her career add tension. A tangled web of corruption, danger and murder tightens around her.
Her cousin Denny serves as an entertaining counterpart for their high-stakes investigation. The close presence of a former lover who now has a husband and a baby adds to the complications. I liked the lowkey LGBT aspect of the book. It's simply a given, without drama. Rowell brings a refreshing voice to the mystery space.
TBH, the cultural issues, Mud’s quest, and the relationships engaged me more than the mystery, and I found the book entirely satisfying. For me, the antagonists lacked dimension, yet that didn't detract from my immersion in Mud and Denny's suspenseful, tight-deadline rush to solve everything.
The audiobook’s clarity is excellent. The narrator's pacing and enunciation are good, and I’m sure most listeners will find this an enjoyable listen.
There’s a wonderful spirit in this novel and it lands beautifully. I hope to experience more books by D. M. Rowell.
Highly recommended by readers who savor mystery, suspense, LGBT+, #ownvoices indigenous representation, and / or diversifying your audiobooks.
Thank you, DreamScapes Media for the ALC via NetGalley for consideration. These are solely my opinions.
As she strives to protect her family from frackers, 'Mud' discovers deep, deadly layers of crime.
Adventure, intrigue, Kiowa culture, and relationships pushed to their breaking or connecting points fuel Silent are the Dead.
Mud shines as a clear-hearted, brave yet vulnerable hero. Her loyalties to her people crowding her career add tension. A tangled web of corruption, danger and murder tightens around her.
Her cousin Denny serves as an entertaining counterpart for their high-stakes investigation. The close presence of a former lover who now has a husband and a baby adds to the complications. I liked the lowkey LGBT aspect of the book. It's simply a given, without drama. Rowell brings a refreshing voice to the mystery space.
TBH, the cultural issues, Mud’s quest, and the relationships engaged me more than the mystery, and I found the book entirely satisfying. For me, the antagonists lacked dimension, yet that didn't detract from my immersion in Mud and Denny's suspenseful, tight-deadline rush to solve everything.
The audiobook’s clarity is excellent. The narrator's pacing and enunciation are good, and I’m sure most listeners will find this an enjoyable listen.
There’s a wonderful spirit in this novel and it lands beautifully. I hope to experience more books by D. M. Rowell.
Highly recommended by readers who savor mystery, suspense, LGBT+, #ownvoices indigenous representation, and / or diversifying your audiobooks.
Thank you, DreamScapes Media for the ALC via NetGalley for consideration. These are solely my opinions.
November 12, 2024
Many thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the free e_ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I loved Winter Counts and was hoping that this book would offer something similar. I did not read book #1 in this series and that was not an issue for me. If you pick this one up, just know that its not a griping crime novel. In fact, the crimes addressed were mundane and easy to figure out. I think this book is much more about telling the Kiowa story of its culture, traditions and rituals. Had I know that, I probably would not have requested this one. I found it to be too slow paced for my taste. Give it a read and see what you think.
I loved Winter Counts and was hoping that this book would offer something similar. I did not read book #1 in this series and that was not an issue for me. If you pick this one up, just know that its not a griping crime novel. In fact, the crimes addressed were mundane and easy to figure out. I think this book is much more about telling the Kiowa story of its culture, traditions and rituals. Had I know that, I probably would not have requested this one. I found it to be too slow paced for my taste. Give it a read and see what you think.
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