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Black Yé'ii:
“On one side, unconditional familial love supported by the camaraderie of law enforcement. On the other? Guns, drugs, and hatred. Black Ye’ii stages an epic battle between good and evil.” –Cam Torrens, award-winning author of the Tyler Zahn thriller series
The police fabricated a story about the night four members of MS-13 died in a tiny home on a quiet city street almost two years previous. George Tokay and his friends were not supposed to share the secret about what really happened that night. No one was to know the truth. But someone talked, and now MS-13, ruthless and wanting revenge, is back in town, and people are dying.
Can Detectives Graff, O'Connor, and Eiselmann find the killers and put a stop to the killing before anyone else dies?
The police fabricated a story about the night four members of MS-13 died in a tiny home on a quiet city street almost two years previous. George Tokay and his friends were not supposed to share the secret about what really happened that night. No one was to know the truth. But someone talked, and now MS-13, ruthless and wanting revenge, is back in town, and people are dying.
Can Detectives Graff, O'Connor, and Eiselmann find the killers and put a stop to the killing before anyone else dies?
393 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 2, 2025
11 people are currently reading
4609 people want to read
About the author
Joseph Lewis
11 books101 followersI am a reviewer and published author in the thriller-crime-mystery genre. I've won approximately 20 awards. You can find my work on my website at https://www.jrlewisauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
January 12, 2025
Really good read.
Black Yéʼii (the evil one) by Joseph Lewis.
I loved the cover and blurb of this book. I did enjoy this book. It took me a bit to get into it. I did like the story and plot. It was different. I did like Eiselmann and O'Connor and Graff. I did not see that twist coming. I did like the ending. I hope there is more to come.
Black Yéʼii (the evil one) by Joseph Lewis.
I loved the cover and blurb of this book. I did enjoy this book. It took me a bit to get into it. I did like the story and plot. It was different. I did like Eiselmann and O'Connor and Graff. I did not see that twist coming. I did like the ending. I hope there is more to come.
January 27, 2025
I absolutely could not resist grabbing this book with two hands!
When I spotted this cover, I was obsessed!
So much promise for a really great creepy read - and having read Fan Mail by this author last year - and loving it - I knew that I was going to love this one too.
This was, however, a chunky read and even though I was sucked in from the start, it did take me quite a while to get through it all.
I actually ended up reading it along with my lighter festive reads which I really don't think was a great combination as it felt like such a contrast that I struggled to really immerse myself in this one for long periods.
I really liked the concept and plotlines. I love a good twisty crime novel and this being set in a culture where good and evil spirits consume the lives of the community, this really added another layer of tension to this read.
The characters were well presented and developed and it was easy to relate to them on the whole, but there were definitely a fair few to keep track of - which when dipping in and out as I was, became a little tricky!
My only negatives for this book were definitely of my own creation and I absolutely know that given a different time and mindset, this would be right up my street.
I plan to add this back to my tbr pile and maybe re-read during autumn/spooky season when I can fully immerse myself and then review again.
When I spotted this cover, I was obsessed!
So much promise for a really great creepy read - and having read Fan Mail by this author last year - and loving it - I knew that I was going to love this one too.
This was, however, a chunky read and even though I was sucked in from the start, it did take me quite a while to get through it all.
I actually ended up reading it along with my lighter festive reads which I really don't think was a great combination as it felt like such a contrast that I struggled to really immerse myself in this one for long periods.
I really liked the concept and plotlines. I love a good twisty crime novel and this being set in a culture where good and evil spirits consume the lives of the community, this really added another layer of tension to this read.
The characters were well presented and developed and it was easy to relate to them on the whole, but there were definitely a fair few to keep track of - which when dipping in and out as I was, became a little tricky!
My only negatives for this book were definitely of my own creation and I absolutely know that given a different time and mindset, this would be right up my street.
I plan to add this back to my tbr pile and maybe re-read during autumn/spooky season when I can fully immerse myself and then review again.
June 24, 2025
This review was first published on Kurt's Frontier.
Synopsis:
Two years ago, four members of MS-13 died in a gunfight. Police created a false story to make it appear as a gang-related slaying. No one could reveal what truly happened that night. However, someone let something slip. MS-13 has resurfaced in Waukesha, Wisconsin. The brutal gang seeks revenge, and lives are now being lost. George Tokay and his friends try to stay ahead of the killers, while Detectives Graff, O’Connor, and Eiselman work to find them.
Review:
Black Yé’ii is part of a larger series. While reading the other books might be helpful, it is not a deal-breaker. Joseph Lewis has crafted an intriguing thriller. The reader is drawn into the suspense of where the killers will strike next. The story also reveals the instability of a gang hierarchy rooted in terror. Detectives Graff, O’Connor, and Eiselman work on related cases, searching for connections as the bodies pile up.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. My only real gripe is that there were a lot of characters to keep track of. Reading the previous books might have helped, but it was still an exciting read.
Synopsis:
Two years ago, four members of MS-13 died in a gunfight. Police created a false story to make it appear as a gang-related slaying. No one could reveal what truly happened that night. However, someone let something slip. MS-13 has resurfaced in Waukesha, Wisconsin. The brutal gang seeks revenge, and lives are now being lost. George Tokay and his friends try to stay ahead of the killers, while Detectives Graff, O’Connor, and Eiselman work to find them.
Review:
Black Yé’ii is part of a larger series. While reading the other books might be helpful, it is not a deal-breaker. Joseph Lewis has crafted an intriguing thriller. The reader is drawn into the suspense of where the killers will strike next. The story also reveals the instability of a gang hierarchy rooted in terror. Detectives Graff, O’Connor, and Eiselman work on related cases, searching for connections as the bodies pile up.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. My only real gripe is that there were a lot of characters to keep track of. Reading the previous books might have helped, but it was still an exciting read.
January 24, 2025
Black Yé'ii is Joseph Lewis's latest crime thriller. Lewis immediately grabs the readers attention at the very start with a double murder. Graff, O'Connor and Eiselman must work together to find out who has orchestrated the murders and the violence to innocent people.
The novel works well as a standalone which I liked as I've not read Lewis's previous books as I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. The dialogue is sharp with a tinge of authenticity that adds layers to the intriguing characters.
This is a thought provoking and intense psychological read. It's quite dark with graphic content which might not appease everyone but those fans of dark thrillers will not be able to put this great read down!
The novel works well as a standalone which I liked as I've not read Lewis's previous books as I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. The dialogue is sharp with a tinge of authenticity that adds layers to the intriguing characters.
This is a thought provoking and intense psychological read. It's quite dark with graphic content which might not appease everyone but those fans of dark thrillers will not be able to put this great read down!
November 16, 2024
“I believe this is my favorite so far! In his latest crime thriller, Black Yéʼii (The Evil One), author Joseph Lewis gets readers’ attention with a shocker of a start — a brutal double murder. He keeps that going as law enforcement works to identify the person who orchestrated this and other violence, especially since it is apparent innocent people, including an acclaimed author and a family of adopted brothers, are in danger. Here is the next, and hopefully, not the last, riveting adventure for the intriguing characters Lewis has created for his books.”
— Joan Livingston, author of the Isabel Long Mystery Series
— Joan Livingston, author of the Isabel Long Mystery Series
January 19, 2025
Captivating
This book was captivating from the beginning and everything I hoped it would be. I continue to love the characters and look forward to the stories of their growing up, healing, and maturing.
This book was captivating from the beginning and everything I hoped it would be. I continue to love the characters and look forward to the stories of their growing up, healing, and maturing.
November 17, 2024
A must-read small town crime thriller that will please new and old fans.
Black Yéʼii opens in Waukesha, Wisconsin, as Carmen Benevides finds three terrifying strangers on her doorstep. The trio is searching for her teenage son, Angel, and they won’t take no for an answer. Minutes later, Angel receives a text message from his mother’s phone: I need you to come home right away. It’s urgent. Angel knows those aren’t his mother’s words, and more importantly, that she may already be dead
Not long after receiving a warning text from Angel, and finding a gruesome crime scene, local detective O’Connor calls Waukesha Chief of Detectives James Graff with a devastating declaration: the international gang MS-13 has returned to town.
Lewis, who is comparable due to his trademark blend of action and family drama, first introduced the world-weary Graff in his stunning 2018 crime thriller Caught in a Web, which depicted the harsh realities of gang violence and its impact on local communities. Graff resurfaced in Lewis’ follow-up Spiral Into Darkness, in which he assisted the FBI in pursuit of a serial killer. This time, Graff knows his team is the only thing standing between MS-13 and more bloodshed.
Two years prior, the local police and a group of boys conspired to keep the shooting of four MS-13 members a secret. Graff knows any of them are likely targets, but none more so than high school track star George Tokay, who is at his family’s remote lake house. Unlike O’Connor, George hasn’t received Angel’s warning – and is completely oblivious to the fact that his life is in danger.
The word Yéʼii refers to Navajo spiritual deities, and Black Yéʼii is discussed as The Evil One. Lewis delves into George’s experiences in the Navajo Nation of Northeastern Arizona, as well as the concept that there is some greater force at work. A shared belief system handed down from generation to generation – and the tranquility experienced by multiple characters in place of natural beauty – casts an effective spell over what is an otherwise action-packed work of suspense. The effect is aided by religious ritual and spooky premonitions.
Throughout, Lewis perfectly captures teenagers’ ability to confront danger while simultaneously thinking they are invincible. In a telling scene, the boys decide they need to sight in their rifles and handguns – not only because they “might become the hunted,” but also because hunting season is approaching. In a world filled with military-style rifles, boys in the woods engaged in target practice with civilian hunting equipment is almost charming. But be warned: just because most of Lewis’ characters are sympathetic doesn’t mean every member of the local 4-H club is to be trusted.
While the novel works as a stand alone for newcomers, Lewis delivers numerous easter eggs for longtime fans. In particular, readers of Lewis’ novel Fan Mail will recognize multiple characters as well as a relevant event that rocked the community. But the fun doesn’t end there. Like a budding franchise, Lewis has managed to create connective tissue among numerous books in his catalog while still unveiling new wonders.
Black Yéʼii opens in Waukesha, Wisconsin, as Carmen Benevides finds three terrifying strangers on her doorstep. The trio is searching for her teenage son, Angel, and they won’t take no for an answer. Minutes later, Angel receives a text message from his mother’s phone: I need you to come home right away. It’s urgent. Angel knows those aren’t his mother’s words, and more importantly, that she may already be dead
Not long after receiving a warning text from Angel, and finding a gruesome crime scene, local detective O’Connor calls Waukesha Chief of Detectives James Graff with a devastating declaration: the international gang MS-13 has returned to town.
Lewis, who is comparable due to his trademark blend of action and family drama, first introduced the world-weary Graff in his stunning 2018 crime thriller Caught in a Web, which depicted the harsh realities of gang violence and its impact on local communities. Graff resurfaced in Lewis’ follow-up Spiral Into Darkness, in which he assisted the FBI in pursuit of a serial killer. This time, Graff knows his team is the only thing standing between MS-13 and more bloodshed.
Two years prior, the local police and a group of boys conspired to keep the shooting of four MS-13 members a secret. Graff knows any of them are likely targets, but none more so than high school track star George Tokay, who is at his family’s remote lake house. Unlike O’Connor, George hasn’t received Angel’s warning – and is completely oblivious to the fact that his life is in danger.
The word Yéʼii refers to Navajo spiritual deities, and Black Yéʼii is discussed as The Evil One. Lewis delves into George’s experiences in the Navajo Nation of Northeastern Arizona, as well as the concept that there is some greater force at work. A shared belief system handed down from generation to generation – and the tranquility experienced by multiple characters in place of natural beauty – casts an effective spell over what is an otherwise action-packed work of suspense. The effect is aided by religious ritual and spooky premonitions.
Throughout, Lewis perfectly captures teenagers’ ability to confront danger while simultaneously thinking they are invincible. In a telling scene, the boys decide they need to sight in their rifles and handguns – not only because they “might become the hunted,” but also because hunting season is approaching. In a world filled with military-style rifles, boys in the woods engaged in target practice with civilian hunting equipment is almost charming. But be warned: just because most of Lewis’ characters are sympathetic doesn’t mean every member of the local 4-H club is to be trusted.
While the novel works as a stand alone for newcomers, Lewis delivers numerous easter eggs for longtime fans. In particular, readers of Lewis’ novel Fan Mail will recognize multiple characters as well as a relevant event that rocked the community. But the fun doesn’t end there. Like a budding franchise, Lewis has managed to create connective tissue among numerous books in his catalog while still unveiling new wonders.
November 30, 2024
Black Yéʼii is a gripping psychological thriller that plunges readers into the duality of love and evil in a small Wisconsin town. The story weaves between past trauma and present terror as Angel Benevides, his mother, and his friends made up of adopted brothers become the targets of a deadly revenge plot tied to the enigmatic and fearsome Navajo deity, Black Yéʼii. The book begins with a chilling home invasion and murder, setting the tone for a narrative filled with complex characters, moral dilemmas, and shocking twists. Lewis masterfully interlaces Navajo spiritual elements with the gritty realism of crime, creating a world where loyalty, courage, and survival are tested at every turn.
Joseph Lewis writes with an unflinching eye for detail. The opening chapter hooked me immediately, its brutal depiction of the home invasion was both horrifying and mesmerizing. His vivid descriptions made Carmen Benevides’s fear palpable, and the attackers’ malice leaped off the page. Lewis’s knack for pacing is remarkable. Each scene flows naturally into the next, leaving no room for filler. The dialogue is sharp and often tinged with an authenticity that adds layers to each character, particularly the enigmatic George Tokay.
The incorporation of Navajo mythology into a modern crime thriller is both unique and compelling. The concept of Black Yéʼii as a metaphor for the darkness within human nature is thought-provoking. I particularly enjoyed the moments where George reflects on his cultural heritage, it brings a poignant depth to the narrative. I felt that the supernatural elements were sometimes underutilized. While they added intrigue, I wished the story explored more of Black Yéʼii’s mystical presence rather than keeping it primarily symbolic. The balance of cultural richness and crime drama is a fresh take that sets this book apart. Angel’s tragic arc is heart-wrenching, and his vulnerability contrasts sharply with the cruelty of his attackers. George Tokay, as a central figure, is fascinating. His connection to both the spiritual and physical battles in the story gives him a unique edge.
The camaraderie among the brothers is a highlight, especially their moments of quiet reflection at the lake. These softer scenes provide a necessary counterpoint to the violence and elevate the story from a simple thriller to something more emotionally resonant.
Black Yéʼii is an intense and thought-provoking read that merges psychological tension with cultural depth. While its graphic content won’t be for everyone, those who appreciate dark, character-driven thrillers will find it hard to put down. I’d recommend it to readers looking for a story that lingers in the mind long after the last page.
Joseph Lewis writes with an unflinching eye for detail. The opening chapter hooked me immediately, its brutal depiction of the home invasion was both horrifying and mesmerizing. His vivid descriptions made Carmen Benevides’s fear palpable, and the attackers’ malice leaped off the page. Lewis’s knack for pacing is remarkable. Each scene flows naturally into the next, leaving no room for filler. The dialogue is sharp and often tinged with an authenticity that adds layers to each character, particularly the enigmatic George Tokay.
The incorporation of Navajo mythology into a modern crime thriller is both unique and compelling. The concept of Black Yéʼii as a metaphor for the darkness within human nature is thought-provoking. I particularly enjoyed the moments where George reflects on his cultural heritage, it brings a poignant depth to the narrative. I felt that the supernatural elements were sometimes underutilized. While they added intrigue, I wished the story explored more of Black Yéʼii’s mystical presence rather than keeping it primarily symbolic. The balance of cultural richness and crime drama is a fresh take that sets this book apart. Angel’s tragic arc is heart-wrenching, and his vulnerability contrasts sharply with the cruelty of his attackers. George Tokay, as a central figure, is fascinating. His connection to both the spiritual and physical battles in the story gives him a unique edge.
The camaraderie among the brothers is a highlight, especially their moments of quiet reflection at the lake. These softer scenes provide a necessary counterpoint to the violence and elevate the story from a simple thriller to something more emotionally resonant.
Black Yéʼii is an intense and thought-provoking read that merges psychological tension with cultural depth. While its graphic content won’t be for everyone, those who appreciate dark, character-driven thrillers will find it hard to put down. I’d recommend it to readers looking for a story that lingers in the mind long after the last page.
![Profile Image for Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1716366774i%2F12703387._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
January 18, 2025
Joseph Lewis masterfully weaves family, friendship, gang violence, and psychological tension into Black Yéʼii: The Evil One, a gripping thriller set against the stark backdrop of small-town Wisconsin. Seamlessly blending Navajo mythology with the gritty realities of crime, he has crafted a story that is as chilling as it is emotionally resonant.
Set amidst Waukesha and the lakes north of Crivitz, the novel follows a group of high school boys confronting the deadly consequences of a buried secret. A year after a traumatic encounter with MS-13 gang members, the past comes back to haunt them when the Chicago-based gang learns the truth behind their members' mysterious deaths. With vengeance fueling the gang's return, the stakes are higher than ever as detectives Graff, O’Connor, and Eiselmann work to protect the boys and uncover the killers before more lives are lost.
From its opening scene—a chilling home invasion and murder—Black Yéʼii grips readers with unrelenting tension and a vivid portrayal of evil’s pervasive nature. The gang’s violent vendetta escalates into a battle between good and evil, where familial love and loyalty stand in stark contrast to the toxic bonds of gang life. The camaraderie among the brothers is a highlight, offering moments of quiet reflection and emotional depth amidst the chaos.
The portrayal of characters is exceptional, with detailed narration and emotional realism bringing their struggles and triumphs to life. George Tokay, a central figure, bridges the spiritual and physical realms of the story, drawing on his Navajo heritage to confront the darkness personified by Black Yéʼii, a fearsome deity symbolic of humanity’s inner evil. While the supernatural elements remain primarily symbolic, they add a layer of cultural richness that elevates the narrative.
The pacing is fast, and the dialogue sharp, with each twist and revelation drawing readers deeper into the story. The novel explores themes of secrecy, revenge, justice, and the duality of love and evil, delivering a psychological depth that sets it apart.
Black Yéʼii is a riveting read, offering fans of suspense and crime fiction an unflinching look at the impact of trauma and the enduring power of familial bonds.
This novel is not just a tale of survival but a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the ties that bind us, making it a story that lingers long after the final page.
Set amidst Waukesha and the lakes north of Crivitz, the novel follows a group of high school boys confronting the deadly consequences of a buried secret. A year after a traumatic encounter with MS-13 gang members, the past comes back to haunt them when the Chicago-based gang learns the truth behind their members' mysterious deaths. With vengeance fueling the gang's return, the stakes are higher than ever as detectives Graff, O’Connor, and Eiselmann work to protect the boys and uncover the killers before more lives are lost.
From its opening scene—a chilling home invasion and murder—Black Yéʼii grips readers with unrelenting tension and a vivid portrayal of evil’s pervasive nature. The gang’s violent vendetta escalates into a battle between good and evil, where familial love and loyalty stand in stark contrast to the toxic bonds of gang life. The camaraderie among the brothers is a highlight, offering moments of quiet reflection and emotional depth amidst the chaos.
The portrayal of characters is exceptional, with detailed narration and emotional realism bringing their struggles and triumphs to life. George Tokay, a central figure, bridges the spiritual and physical realms of the story, drawing on his Navajo heritage to confront the darkness personified by Black Yéʼii, a fearsome deity symbolic of humanity’s inner evil. While the supernatural elements remain primarily symbolic, they add a layer of cultural richness that elevates the narrative.
The pacing is fast, and the dialogue sharp, with each twist and revelation drawing readers deeper into the story. The novel explores themes of secrecy, revenge, justice, and the duality of love and evil, delivering a psychological depth that sets it apart.
Black Yéʼii is a riveting read, offering fans of suspense and crime fiction an unflinching look at the impact of trauma and the enduring power of familial bonds.
This novel is not just a tale of survival but a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the ties that bind us, making it a story that lingers long after the final page.
March 1, 2025
DO NOT START WITH THIS BOOK
This is part of a totally interconnected story, go all the way back to the beginning or it will all be confusing. It's unfortunately not marked anywhere, but I wish I had known.
There are so many players it's hard to keep track of them all, I mean there are at least 5 male names that start with B seems like we could have avoided that confusion pretty easily.
The cops use their last names and first names interchangeably, sometimes in the same paragraph. Just when I think I know who we're talking about they throw in a new name. I said out lout "Who's Paul?" "Who's Greg" ect, more times than I can count. It's unnecessarily confusing. For the reader's sake, sticking to one name probably would have been better.
You're thrown into this world with all these people talking about all these things happening. You only even hear about the back story to the others 30% into the book, that's a long time to be confused.
I kind of wondered if this was a YA story because it appears the villains and the heroes (who you never really know their ages, just that they're probably high schoolers) are more the focus than the cops doin their jobs.
The book doesn't really have a main character, the story flies all over the place. Including the intimate lives of the teenagers which doesn't even remotely touch on the plot or mean anything to any of the story or character development.
The author/stalker portion of the story felt like a convoluted sidequest, it may have been dotting T's and crossing i's from a previous book, but I don't know 'cause I wasn't aware I needed to read the others first.
And finally ........... maybe spoilers...........
.
.
.
.
.
.
The ending was anti climactic AF.
You don't know what Soraya's motivation was, why she needed to know SO BADLY what happened
You don't find out why Kerns suddenly needed to take over and take out all the teens.
Are THESE addressed in other books?? I Don't know!
I'm left utterly confused.
I gave the story a 2.5 because the ideas were all there, the execution was just confusing and meh
read on Netgalley
This is part of a totally interconnected story, go all the way back to the beginning or it will all be confusing. It's unfortunately not marked anywhere, but I wish I had known.
There are so many players it's hard to keep track of them all, I mean there are at least 5 male names that start with B seems like we could have avoided that confusion pretty easily.
The cops use their last names and first names interchangeably, sometimes in the same paragraph. Just when I think I know who we're talking about they throw in a new name. I said out lout "Who's Paul?" "Who's Greg" ect, more times than I can count. It's unnecessarily confusing. For the reader's sake, sticking to one name probably would have been better.
You're thrown into this world with all these people talking about all these things happening. You only even hear about the back story to the others 30% into the book, that's a long time to be confused.
I kind of wondered if this was a YA story because it appears the villains and the heroes (who you never really know their ages, just that they're probably high schoolers) are more the focus than the cops doin their jobs.
The book doesn't really have a main character, the story flies all over the place. Including the intimate lives of the teenagers which doesn't even remotely touch on the plot or mean anything to any of the story or character development.
The author/stalker portion of the story felt like a convoluted sidequest, it may have been dotting T's and crossing i's from a previous book, but I don't know 'cause I wasn't aware I needed to read the others first.
And finally ........... maybe spoilers...........
.
.
.
.
.
.
The ending was anti climactic AF.
You don't know what Soraya's motivation was, why she needed to know SO BADLY what happened
You don't find out why Kerns suddenly needed to take over and take out all the teens.
Are THESE addressed in other books?? I Don't know!
I'm left utterly confused.
I gave the story a 2.5 because the ideas were all there, the execution was just confusing and meh
read on Netgalley
November 22, 2024
Using his love for David Baldacci, Lee Child and Tom Clancy, author Joseph Lewis has created a relatable character in Jeff Limbach. Jeff is an author in Lewis’ books, writing thrillers, and having made a name for himself as an international celebrity and famous author. With his money Jeff has made a comfortable home for himself and his son, Danny. Next door, on Jeff’s property, Vicky, Jeremy and their seven boys live in a more modest but no less comfortable home.
Jeff has remained a prominent figure throughout Lewis’ prior books, however “Black Yé’ii” is the first in which we open our story with him. Jeff is no stranger to fans and critics. At his most recent local book signing he’s taken along detective Lisa Vickers to play the role of babysitter, ensuring Jeff’s event goes off without a hitch. However, never one to shy away from action, death, and despair Joseph Lewis opens his newest read with new, yet familiar pulse pounding villains.
Weaving family and friendship with gangs and murder, Lewis has a flair for packing spine-chilling action into his world of high school boys, brothers, and small-town Wisconsin. Set amongst Waukesha, Wisconsin and the lakes north of Crivitz the boys are back as they are threatened once again by Chicago gang, MS-13.
Picking up where he left off, Lewis throws readers right back into the action as MS-13 isn’t buying the story the cops put out to protect those previously involved. With a personal vendetta and more lives on the line, O’Connor, Eiselmann, Graff, and the rest of the team are committed to keeping everyone safe. Introducing both new characters and old, “Black Yé’ii” takes on the darkness as it threatens to overcome. Seamlessly winding culture, commitment, loyalty, and love, Lewis’ newest is an exciting and thrilling addition to his family of reads in this most recent coming of age fictional suspense.
Jeff has remained a prominent figure throughout Lewis’ prior books, however “Black Yé’ii” is the first in which we open our story with him. Jeff is no stranger to fans and critics. At his most recent local book signing he’s taken along detective Lisa Vickers to play the role of babysitter, ensuring Jeff’s event goes off without a hitch. However, never one to shy away from action, death, and despair Joseph Lewis opens his newest read with new, yet familiar pulse pounding villains.
Weaving family and friendship with gangs and murder, Lewis has a flair for packing spine-chilling action into his world of high school boys, brothers, and small-town Wisconsin. Set amongst Waukesha, Wisconsin and the lakes north of Crivitz the boys are back as they are threatened once again by Chicago gang, MS-13.
Picking up where he left off, Lewis throws readers right back into the action as MS-13 isn’t buying the story the cops put out to protect those previously involved. With a personal vendetta and more lives on the line, O’Connor, Eiselmann, Graff, and the rest of the team are committed to keeping everyone safe. Introducing both new characters and old, “Black Yé’ii” takes on the darkness as it threatens to overcome. Seamlessly winding culture, commitment, loyalty, and love, Lewis’ newest is an exciting and thrilling addition to his family of reads in this most recent coming of age fictional suspense.
January 2, 2025
Overall Rating = 4.25
Storyline & Concept = 4.25
Writing & Delivery = 4
Editorial = 4.5
Joseph Lewis continues his series with the return of MS-13, a ruthless and far-reaching gang. A member is searching for information about a past event involving George Tokay and his friends and will go to any length to get the answers to the secret that has been protected by the police and all those present that fateful night. Unfortunately, a trail of bodies is left behind as the perpetrators get dangerously closer to reaching their goal.
The author masterfully weaves together a complex plot filled with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations. The characters are well-developed and believable, although they are numerous, which take a while to sort out and put in their proper place. As this is one of many in the series, there are references to backstories, but they are well-handled and do not detract from the narrative. The tension builds steadily throughout the book, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the detectives race against time to prevent further bloodshed. Black Yé’ii explores both the darker side of human nature and the positive theme of family and friendship. The author's vivid descriptions of the brutal nature of gang violence create a truly immersive reading experience. If you're a fan of crime thrillers with a twist, this novel is a must-read. It's a captivating story that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Sublime line: “A dark secret from the past resurfaces, unleashing a wave of violence as a ruthless gang seeks revenge in this fast-paced thriller.”
Storyline & Concept = 4.25
Writing & Delivery = 4
Editorial = 4.5
Joseph Lewis continues his series with the return of MS-13, a ruthless and far-reaching gang. A member is searching for information about a past event involving George Tokay and his friends and will go to any length to get the answers to the secret that has been protected by the police and all those present that fateful night. Unfortunately, a trail of bodies is left behind as the perpetrators get dangerously closer to reaching their goal.
The author masterfully weaves together a complex plot filled with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations. The characters are well-developed and believable, although they are numerous, which take a while to sort out and put in their proper place. As this is one of many in the series, there are references to backstories, but they are well-handled and do not detract from the narrative. The tension builds steadily throughout the book, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the detectives race against time to prevent further bloodshed. Black Yé’ii explores both the darker side of human nature and the positive theme of family and friendship. The author's vivid descriptions of the brutal nature of gang violence create a truly immersive reading experience. If you're a fan of crime thrillers with a twist, this novel is a must-read. It's a captivating story that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Sublime line: “A dark secret from the past resurfaces, unleashing a wave of violence as a ruthless gang seeks revenge in this fast-paced thriller.”
January 26, 2025
Here is my review for Black Ye’ii by Joseph Lewis
I found this to be a really enjoyable read with a good crime story included with some gory details. It seems to be a mixture of horror and crime story combined which I enjoy reading. I liked the author’s writing style which was easy to read and get into. The plot was well thought out and very well written. It all stems from when the police forged a story about a night four members of MS-13 died on a quiet street in the city nearly two years ago. George Tokay and his friends were not supposed to share the secret of what happened that night. It looks like someone talked and MS-13 have heard so are back in town looking for revenge. They are on a killing spree and it’s up to the cops to stop them. Could it be they are after the cops involved from the original night? A great read and intriguing novel, I was hooked.
Blurb :
“On one side, unconditional familial love supported by the camaraderie of law enforcement. On the other? Guns, drugs, and hatred. Black Ye’ii stages an epic battle between good and evil.” –Cam Torrens, award-winning author of the Tyler Zahn thriller series
The police fabricated a story about the night four members of MS-13 died in a tiny home on a quiet city street almost two years previous. George Tokay and his friends were not supposed to share the secret about what really happened that night. No one was to know the truth. But someone talked, and now MS-13, ruthless and wanting revenge, is back in town, and people are dying.
Can Detectives Graff, O'Connor, and Eiselmann find the killers and put a stop to the killing before anyone else dies?
I found this to be a really enjoyable read with a good crime story included with some gory details. It seems to be a mixture of horror and crime story combined which I enjoy reading. I liked the author’s writing style which was easy to read and get into. The plot was well thought out and very well written. It all stems from when the police forged a story about a night four members of MS-13 died on a quiet street in the city nearly two years ago. George Tokay and his friends were not supposed to share the secret of what happened that night. It looks like someone talked and MS-13 have heard so are back in town looking for revenge. They are on a killing spree and it’s up to the cops to stop them. Could it be they are after the cops involved from the original night? A great read and intriguing novel, I was hooked.
Blurb :
“On one side, unconditional familial love supported by the camaraderie of law enforcement. On the other? Guns, drugs, and hatred. Black Ye’ii stages an epic battle between good and evil.” –Cam Torrens, award-winning author of the Tyler Zahn thriller series
The police fabricated a story about the night four members of MS-13 died in a tiny home on a quiet city street almost two years previous. George Tokay and his friends were not supposed to share the secret about what really happened that night. No one was to know the truth. But someone talked, and now MS-13, ruthless and wanting revenge, is back in town, and people are dying.
Can Detectives Graff, O'Connor, and Eiselmann find the killers and put a stop to the killing before anyone else dies?
January 18, 2025
I'm reviewing this as part of a tour with Zooloo's Book Tours.
This is a crime thriller, and from the beginning, I enjoyed the dark, gritty tone of the writing. It created an atmosphere, and I was drawn into that atmosphere. I felt that some of the characters had dangerous energy, but that was something that made me want to go on reading.
I thought the characters were very well written, and the author wrote in a way that made me take an interest in each character, almost as though each character had their own story. The character that I identified with the most was probably Vicky. I also enjoyed the close bonds of love and friendship between the male characters, as they all looked out for each other. Brian and Tony warmed my heart, and Brett was also an awesome character.
It took me a few hours to read this in its entirety, but it was a page turner, and I enjoyed it.
Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
This is a crime thriller, and from the beginning, I enjoyed the dark, gritty tone of the writing. It created an atmosphere, and I was drawn into that atmosphere. I felt that some of the characters had dangerous energy, but that was something that made me want to go on reading.
I thought the characters were very well written, and the author wrote in a way that made me take an interest in each character, almost as though each character had their own story. The character that I identified with the most was probably Vicky. I also enjoyed the close bonds of love and friendship between the male characters, as they all looked out for each other. Brian and Tony warmed my heart, and Brett was also an awesome character.
It took me a few hours to read this in its entirety, but it was a page turner, and I enjoyed it.
Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
January 13, 2025
When four boys hide a massive secret about a gang shooting they think they’re safe. And they are until someone talks. Now the MS-13 have returned and it’s up to the three detectives involved in what previously happened to stop the gang and prevent any more deaths.
I did enjoy this story and how close all boys are to each other. It comes across very strongly that they all care deeply for one another and are prepared to do anything to keep them each other safe. I have to admit I did find myself reading parts of the story back again as there are a lot of references to what happened previously but that didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment of the story. There were a couple of twists I didn’t expect and at times the tension was built up well.
After reading Black Ye’ii I will be going through Joseph’s back catalogue as I’ve seen his previous books involve the detectives in this book and I’m curious to find out more about them.
I did enjoy this story and how close all boys are to each other. It comes across very strongly that they all care deeply for one another and are prepared to do anything to keep them each other safe. I have to admit I did find myself reading parts of the story back again as there are a lot of references to what happened previously but that didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment of the story. There were a couple of twists I didn’t expect and at times the tension was built up well.
After reading Black Ye’ii I will be going through Joseph’s back catalogue as I’ve seen his previous books involve the detectives in this book and I’m curious to find out more about them.
January 10, 2025
Huge thanks to the author for providing an eARC, and to Zoé at Zooloo's Book Tours for organising. This is my unbiased review.
With a wealth of characters to get your teeth into, Black Yé'ii demands your full attention. Even so, to keep track of them, you may just need to be as skilled as Detectives Graff, O'Connor, and Eiselmann to keep everything clear in your mind. Alternatively, you could make one of those crime boards like you see in all the police dramas!
However you manage it, you'll soon forget any woes. This slick crime thriller will grab you hook, line, and sinker, conjuring up images of the Navajo Yé'ii spirit deities the title references. The author's beautifully paced prose flows around the twists, adding extra light and the darkest shade.
Crime thriller fans should appreciate this slightly unusual take on the genre.
With a wealth of characters to get your teeth into, Black Yé'ii demands your full attention. Even so, to keep track of them, you may just need to be as skilled as Detectives Graff, O'Connor, and Eiselmann to keep everything clear in your mind. Alternatively, you could make one of those crime boards like you see in all the police dramas!
However you manage it, you'll soon forget any woes. This slick crime thriller will grab you hook, line, and sinker, conjuring up images of the Navajo Yé'ii spirit deities the title references. The author's beautifully paced prose flows around the twists, adding extra light and the darkest shade.
Crime thriller fans should appreciate this slightly unusual take on the genre.
January 15, 2025
Black Yéʼii: (The Evil One), by Joseph Lewis, is a police procedural thriller. Within the first minute of reading this story, it captures you with a brutal double murder that sets the pace for the entire novel. Blood thirsty revenge would be a charitable term, because when members of the MS-13 gang come back to town to avenge the deaths of four of their members, they are merciless killers. As police and detectives investigate the double murders, they start to connect the dots, and it becomes clear that the target of this revenge killing is a group of young men, one in particular, who apparently holds the secret to what happened on that night when four gang members were killed. We follow law enforcement, as they Sherlock the trail of blood, one that eventually culminates in a face-off. A cold-blooded thriller that will keep you reading to the end.
October 2, 2025
Joseph Lewis’s Black Yéʼii grabs you from the first page with a chilling home invasion that sets the stage for a dark, relentless thriller. The story follows Angel Benevides, his mother, and his adopted brothers as they become entangled in a web of violence and revenge driven by MS-13. The tension never lets up, and every chapter pushes the story forward with sharp dialogue and brutal twists.
What makes the book unique is how Lewis weaves Navajo mythology into the narrative, using Black Yéʼii as both a cultural symbol and a metaphor for inner darkness. The mythic undertones add depth to the crime-driven plot, creating a layered story about survival, loyalty, and the cost of secrets. It’s haunting, violent, and unforgettable.
October 2, 2025
Black Yéʼii is a psychological thriller that refuses to shy away from trauma, fear, and the uglier side of humanity. The violence is graphic and unflinching, but it never feels gratuitous—it serves the story and intensifies the stakes for the characters. The suspense builds naturally, with every chapter drawing you deeper into the nightmare unfolding in this quiet Wisconsin town.
Beneath the terror lies a story of family and brotherhood. The moments of connection between George Tokay, Angel, and the brothers provide balance, giving the novel an emotional weight that lingers. The contrast between the cruelty of the attackers and the love within this makeshift family elevates the novel from a thriller to a story about resilience and courage.
October 2, 2025
From the opening pages, Joseph Lewis immerses readers in a world of crime, secrets, and revenge. Black Yéʼii doesn’t waste time with filler—it’s tightly paced, every scene leading seamlessly into the next. The dialogue feels authentic, the villains are chilling, and the sense of dread builds steadily, pulling the reader toward a shocking finale.
What stands out most is the integration of Navajo beliefs into the story. Black Yéʼii, both as deity and metaphor, adds layers of meaning that go beyond a simple revenge plot. The novel forces us to confront the darkness within people as much as the evil that surrounds them. This balance of cultural depth and thriller intensity makes it a one-of-a-kind read.
January 27, 2025
The Black Ye’ii, besides having one of the most intriguing titles I’ve seen, is also a crime thriller full of intrigue and a memorable cast of good guys and bad guys. A slew of officers from the police department and the Sheriff's office collaborate to solve a rash of murders in time to stop further murders. One of the best parts of this book for me was the authentic dialogue, especially the banter amongst the cops. Also integral to the story is a family with five adopted, previously traumatized teenaged boys. The relationships between the brothers, and between the boys and some of the detectives, is warm and caring, adding a layer of comfort to this hard-nosed murder mystery.
October 2, 2025
This novel is raw, graphic, and deeply unsettling, but that’s exactly what makes it work. Joseph Lewis writes about violence and fear with startling clarity, drawing the reader into scenes that feel uncomfortably real. The opening home invasion scene is a perfect example—it’s terrifying, vivid, and impossible to look away from.
Yet within the darkness, there’s also light. The camaraderie among the brothers, their reflections at the lake, and the small moments of love and loyalty give the story heart. It’s this emotional contrast that makes Black Yéʼii so powerful—it’s not just about death and revenge, it’s about what we fight to protect in the face of evil.
October 2, 2025
Joseph Lewis’s storytelling is fast, sharp, and compelling. Black Yéʼii moves with relentless momentum, building suspense with each chapter. The action is brutal but precise, the dialogue feels real, and the characters are layered enough to make the reader care about their survival. It’s a story that doesn’t let you breathe until the final page.
Thematically, the book explores loyalty, trauma, and the haunting presence of evil. By weaving Navajo spiritual elements into a contemporary crime story, Lewis adds a cultural richness that sets this novel apart from others in the genre. It’s a thriller that entertains while also forcing readers to reflect.
October 2, 2025
Black Yéʼii is more than a crime thriller—it’s a cultural and psychological exploration of human darkness. Lewis blends the fearsome legend of Black Yéʼii with the very real violence of gangs and revenge, creating a story that feels both grounded and symbolic. The mythic presence enriches the narrative, reminding readers that evil exists both in the world and within ourselves.
The novel’s strength lies in this duality. It’s a gripping, edge-of-your-seat thriller that also asks deeper questions about morality, survival, and identity. George Tokay’s connection to his cultural heritage adds poignancy, giving the book a unique voice in the thriller genre
October 2, 2025
This is not a light read—it’s brutal, disturbing, and emotionally draining. Yet, Joseph Lewis manages to balance the horror with genuine humanity. The story of Angel and the brothers is heart-wrenching, especially as their vulnerability collides with the violence surrounding them. Their bond gives the reader something to hold onto amidst the darkness.
The narrative moves swiftly, with vividly drawn scenes that linger long after they’re read. It’s a book that shakes you, makes you uncomfortable, and yet keeps you glued to its pages. Black Yéʼii is a thriller that leaves scars, but also moments of unexpected tenderness.
October 2, 2025
Joseph Lewis writes with fearlessness in Black Yéʼii. He dives into trauma and violence with unflinching honesty, but he also takes the time to explore the psychology of his characters. George Tokay, in particular, is fascinating—caught between his heritage, his past, and the immediate danger threatening his community.
The result is a novel that is as much about identity and inner conflict as it is about crime. This depth makes the story richer and more thought-provoking than many thrillers. Black Yéʼii doesn’t just entertain; it challenges the reader to reflect on the nature of evil and resilience.
The result is a novel that is as much about identity and inner conflict as it is about crime. This depth makes the story richer and more thought-provoking than many thrillers. Black Yéʼii doesn’t just entertain; it challenges the reader to reflect on the nature of evil and resilience.
November 16, 2024
“Black Yéʼii (The Evil One) is a psychological thriller based in a small town in Wisconsin, featuring a group of young men recovering from traumatic events a year ago. Unfortunately, the past is coming back to haunt them, and hunt them down. This thriller features complex characters and relationships that evolve throughout the story, leading to a stunning conclusion. Lewis delivers in this story of police trying to protect the innocents from the evil that is hunting them.”
Gary Gerlacher, MD, MBA, author of Last Patient of the Night, Faulty Bloodline and Sin City Treachery
Gary Gerlacher, MD, MBA, author of Last Patient of the Night, Faulty Bloodline and Sin City Treachery
January 2, 2025
Beginning with a horrific murder, the story of how evil permeates through the gang world is unrelenting until the final shocking moments. Always in the shadow of stalking death, brothers learn that they are stronger together, the ties that bind will be the grace that saves them all. From the start, the reader is sucked into a world where even the bad guys can’t outrun the Evil One waiting for them. For fans of police thrillers and intrigue, Black Ye’ii will keep readers on the edge of their seats, wondering who will be the next victim, and who will find safety in family and friendship.
January 17, 2025
The book’s cover, y’all – have you seen the book’s cover? The breathtakingly gorgeous cover was what actually made me look at the book and see what it was about. And it didn’t disappoint!
It was not a quick or easy breezy read, but it was a good one. Navajo mythology is strongly integrated into the storyline of an emotionally loaded crime thriller, the hefty mythological/spiritual touch makes it stand out from other crime thrillers. Written in a way that makes every character feel like they come alive as you read and with some you even feel like you have started bonding as you read.
It was not a quick or easy breezy read, but it was a good one. Navajo mythology is strongly integrated into the storyline of an emotionally loaded crime thriller, the hefty mythological/spiritual touch makes it stand out from other crime thrillers. Written in a way that makes every character feel like they come alive as you read and with some you even feel like you have started bonding as you read.
March 8, 2025
Joseph Lewis's gripping crime thriller, "Black Yéʼii (The Evil One)," explores secrecy, revenge, and the timeless conflict between good and evil. The detectives, Graff, O'Connor, and Eiselmann confront the resurgent MS-13 gang in a narrative that explores hidden past events, seeking retribution. Immediately captivating, the story opens with a brutal double murder that sets the pace for the rest of the novel. Blending Native American cultural exploration and the intensity of a police procedural, the novel is a seamless read. Michelle Caffrey Author of "Desire in Dairyland."
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