The Pusherman

Pinter P.I. #3

by Lisa Boyle

Private Investigator James Pinter has been working closely with the Navajo tribal police for nearly a year when a woman dies at the Shiprock Hospital under questionable circumstances. Threatened only weeks before, the woman was a member of WARN, a group known on the reservation to loudly, and sometimes violently, air political grievances.

The victim’s husband refuses an autopsy, and though the surgeon suspects sepsis, he will not rule out poisoning. When James and his partner find out that the victim’s peyote—a hallucinogen allowed on the reservation for ceremonial purposes—has been contaminated, they draw up a list of the victim’s enemies. At the top? Cecil Cody. One of the reservation’s most notorious criminals and supplier of peyote to the Native American Church.

Chasing the psychedelic plant’s origins, James finds himself back in Texas where a visit to an old friend leads him to the desert hills where the peyote is harvested, and eventually, to a lab known for its experimental research. As James starts to dig deeper, one thing seems certain: this sacred tradition is turning deadly, and its next victim could be someone close to James. Someone for whom he would do anything. Even kill.

348 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 8, 2025

About the author

Lisa Boyle is the award-winning author of three historical fiction novels. Her debut, Signed, A Paddy, won the 2022 Eric Hoffer Historical Fiction Award and the 2022 Eric Hoffer First Horizon Award. Lisa is originally from Finksburg, MD, but now lives in South Carolina with her husband, her daughter, and their goofy looking dog named Lloyd. In the Silence of Decay is Lisa’s first crime fiction novel.

Reviews

[Nursebookie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lisa Boyle’s The Pusher Man is everything I want in a mystery. It is gritty, soulful, and deeply human. From the very first page, I was pulled into the haunting beauty of the Southwest and the moral complexities that pulse beneath its surface. Private Investigator James Pinter isn’t just chasing a case. he is chasing truth, justice, and redemption in a world where every choice cuts deep.

Boyle’s storytelling is masterful. The pace is sharp, but her prose lingers rich with cultural depth, reverence for Native traditions, and the kind of emotional weight that stays with you long after you close the book. The mystery of the poisoned peyote is compelling on its own, but what truly elevates this novel is how Boyle blends suspense with humanity. She captures grief, loyalty, and love with such tenderness that I found myself rereading passages.

The tension builds beautifully, the twists are earned, and the ending left me breathless, that are equal parts heartbreaking and hopeful. Boyle’s gift is her ability to create characters who feel real: flawed, brave, and unforgettable.

If you love mysteries that go beyond the surface and stories that explore the sacred and the profane, the personal and the political—The Pusher Man is a must-read. It’s a novel that reminds us how thin the line can be between justice and vengeance, and how love can push us to both extremes.

[Colleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was book 3 in the Pinter P.I. series, so it was easy to jump right in since I already knew the world and characters. I really liked the case this one is centered around, and thought it was incredibly well researched. I didn’t have much prior knowledge of how Native Americans have used peyote as part of their faith, but it was fascinating to learn about. I also had no idea about the history of population control of Native Americans in the mid 20th century. I thought Boyle did a great job of balancing the intense parts of the case - a woman dying under suspicious circumstances in the hospital after admitting to ingesting peyote - with plenty of light-hearted moments between Molly, James, Wayne, and Kay. I thought the ending was great too!! I would definitely recommend this series if you like historical fiction (it takes place in the 1970s/early 1980s) and if you like true crime or detective style novels. Another solid book in this series!!

[David Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

With each book in this series I learn something new about life on a reservation. I love that not only do I get a great character driven story but some education along the way. Although this is the third book in the series, I think it does well as a stand-alone. Once again the writing is stellar making it easy to read and the short chapters make for a quick pace. The characters are well fleshed out and feel like friends at this point and I look forward to seeing what case they solve next.

Thank you to the author and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy and including me on this tour.

[Air · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been able to enjoy the previous books in this series and I’m still loving the way the author writes her stories. I really love the setting of these books and the culture it’s filled with. Detective characters are fun because you get to watch the twists unravel at the same time. I definitely recommend!

Thank you to Suzy approved book tours!

[Cathy Geha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Pusherman by Lisa Boyle
Pinter P.I. #3

~ Impactful, immersive, interesting but also sad and difficult to read at times ~ Wished more than once that I could go back in time and change history ~

What I liked:
*James Pinter: single father, ex-military, private investigator, bonding with his daughter through their working together, newly we to Kay, assists police on and off the reservation, finds this case hits close to home
* Molly Pinter: James’s daughter, bright, intrepid, seems settled with her father and likes Kay, capable, loving, artistic, good friend, absorbs new information like a sponge, curious, enjoys living on the reservation, has a first boyfriend
* Kay: James’s new wife, high school teacher on the reservation, married in the past, had a previous miscarriage, is trying with James to have a baby, tied to her ancestral beliefs, loves James & Molly
* Sergeant: the Pinter family dogt, supportive, there for them, might be up for a promotion
* Paula: Molly’s best friend, helps out at the police station, has a plan for her future
* Joey: Molly’s first boyfriend, interested in how this storyline will develop.
* Wayne: Chief of police on a reservation, educated, wise, professional, grandfather was a code talker in WWII, married to Barbara who is known for her baking and cooking skills, strong leadership abilities, friendly, good man
* The police procedural aspects with research, trips, clues, and more
* Learning the cause of the deaths of four women on the reservation and that those responsible were caught
* Learning historical facts about peyote and also wrongs done on the reservation
* Catching up with the characters
* Knowing there will be another book and looking forward to finding out what happens next

Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes

Thank you to the author and BookSirens for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

[Susan Ballard (subakkabookstuff) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this series! I was so happy to be back with these characters. James Pinter has become a favorite fictional detective of mine.

What sets this series apart is its unique setting - the Navajo reservation in New Mexico. The tribal ceremonies, laws, and traditions are not just a backdrop, but integral to the stories, adding a layer of cultural authenticity to the narrative.

In 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐧, James is once again working closely with the tribal police, as a woman who was a member of a women’s activist group on the reservation, known to be aggressive and against the tribal police, died at the reservation hospital under suspicious circumstances.

The story has James chasing down the source of contaminated peyote found in the victim's home. This is a hallucinogen commonly used and allowed by the Dinè, especially women in childbirth and the Native American Church. James’s hunt leads down a dark rabbit hole, only to find that someone he loves could be in danger.

Not only was this fascinating - I always learn something new in Lisa’s books - but I felt like this story had even more family vibes. James and his daughter, Molly, are working closely together now, and I loved seeing more of that dynamic. The story also explored some deeply emotional topics, drawing on real-life events. [𝘚𝘦𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳’𝘴 𝘕𝘰𝘵𝘦].

While it is possible to read this as a standalone, I encourage you to read the first two. Knowing these characters’ backstories is so worth it, and makes each story all the more like coming back to friends.


Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @lisaboylewrites for the #gifted book.

[Jacqueline · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am an ARC reader for Book Sirens and this is my honest opinion. This is the third book in the series featuring James Pinter, Vietnam veteran and ex army police officer, and his daughter Molly who only came to live with James when her mother, his estranged wife, died. James is now a private investigator working with the tribal police on a Diné Navajo reservation. Molly and her Diné friend Paula, are eager and useful part time investigative assistants. The previous two books in this series have James, Molly and the Diné police lieutenant investigating crimes on the reservation and James and Molly have made their home there. James is now married to a Diné woman. The subject matter of this story, which begins with a young woman dying at the reservation hospital, eventually tackles a very disturbing subject. I like that the author brings the world she writes about to life and explains, in her Author's notes at the end, the real life facts her writing is based on. For anyone interested not only in a good detective story, but the reality of the history of Native Americans - this book is a good read

[Debbie Rozier · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book which is set in 1980 combines the mystery itself of a young Native American woman who dies unexpectedly with events happening on and near the reservation at the time. The author does a great job on integrating the factual part of the time period with the fictional mystery.

I learned a lot in this book about the Native American Church’s peyote rituals and use. There is also an organization WARN (Women of All Red Nations) that has a focus in this read.
It was a powerful group of young Native American women at the time.

The book is told in multiple points of view but it is never confusing. The book is also the third part in the James Pinter, P.I. series which is about a white man helping consult with the Navajo tribal police.

You can read this book as a stand alone, but I enjoyed the character development throughout the series in many of the returning characters.

[Gee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series keeps getting better, with the characters developing nicely, especially Molly and her friend Paula, & the parts they play in the investigations. This is well researched, with a great writing style, bringing to life the Dine Navajo reservation where the book is set. It’s late 1970s-early 80s, and is based on things that occurred in the country at that time, which was still reeling from the aftermath of the effects of soldiers who fought in the Vietnam War. As with most series, it’s better to have read the first two books in order to get the background to this family unit. However, really good read, which is emotional at times especially with a couple of the subjects it deals with.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kim Wilch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 3 in this series totally hooked me—even though I haven’t read the first two (yet). Don’t worry, you can jump right in and still follow along just fine. Now I’m extra curious about how James’ P.I. business and his relationship with Molly began, so guess who’s starting from book one next?

This story dives into their latest investigation with plenty of detail and clear, well-researched writing. I especially appreciated the glimpse into life on the reservation—it’s both eye-opening and respectful. The character development shines, and the family moments had my heart feeling all warm and fuzzy. A thoughtful, engaging mystery with heart, culture, and just the right dose of curiosity to keep you turning pages.

[Lisa Albright · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series has become a favorite of mine and I absolutely love the way this author writes so much depth into her characters. James and Molly are back and seeing the progress made in their father/daughter relationship is heartwarming. The mystery gets intense and I love that we get several viewpoints while trying to figure it out. Peyote, tribal law, and unusual circumstances all come into play in this thriller leading to a satisfying conclusion, and me hoping for another Pinter P.I. novel soon.

I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.

[John Mccormick · Rating 5 out of 5]

My thanks to the Author publisher's and Book Sirens for providing me with a Kindle version of this book to read and honestly review.
This is the third book in this excellent series, set in the Navajo reservation beautifully written character driven stories, with the main characters being fleshed out more with each story. Though could still be read as a standalone story. Plenty of surprises and twists along the way. It is really hard to believe the Author is not Navajo.
Completely recommended.

[Katrina Freckleton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fantastic read by Lisa Doyle. James and Molly get more in depth and involved in their community and it feels like we know them from the previous books, however, you can read it as a stand alone.

As usual, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the Navajo and l always come away learning just that little bit more about the way of life, struggles and culture.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Miss W Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Pusherman is the third book in the Pinter P.I. series featuring PI James Pinter.

James is working with the tribal police on a Diné Navajo reservation.

The story is so good. I loved the mystery and the history of the Native Americans.
The author has done a fantastic job with the research and I appreciate the author's note.

The characters are complex, well developed and fleshed out.

Highly recommend the first two books in the series for some background.

Fantastic story!

[Christy Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a huge fan of this series! James is an intuitive investigator, and I love that he includes his daughter Molly in so much of the process. Each case they work is compelling, twisty, and keeps me guessing. I love catching up with them, both personally and professionally, in each book. I have really enjoyed learning more about Native American culture through this series! Lisa Boyle’s writing is so descriptive that I feel like I’m along for the ride as each mystery unfolds.

[Ruth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Pinter PI books are so good. The 1970's setting has a timeless feel to it. James Pinter once again, is helping to solve a mystery. It again will be much deeper than the surface appearance. At the end you again learn this actually happened to people. So sad. It happens to the character at the end of the book. I felt so sad for her. I received an ARC and I am leaving a review voluntarily.

[Sharmani Jayaram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Private Investigator James Pinter is on an unusual case where murder involves the use of a sacred ritual and dangerous plant. Full of suspense to make this an intriguing read. I received this ARC copy via Booksirans and recommend this book to other readers.

[Rev. Raymond G. Feyes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Darn Good Read

I found the story, as previous ones, very detailed which gave me a greater appreciation of the entire story. The characters were believable. Boyyom line, a darn good read.

[Aviraj Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the book and how the characters have developed especially Molly and Paula, even new characters provide a good ground for development.

[Judi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic mystery set on the navajo reservation in new mexico

[Chloe Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Pusherman is a gripping, intricately plotted mystery that blends suspense, cultural depth, and high-stakes investigation in a way that keeps readers on the edge of their seats

[Sarah W · Rating 4 out of 5]

One thing I love about this series is that even though it follows James and his P.I. business we get a handful of different perspectives. I love getting to follow Molly and seeing how her relationship with James has changed and blossomed. The way James and Molly tackle their investigations is informative and respectful. I really like how much research went into it. The balance between the investigation and learning more about life on the reservation was good. The character development is great, and I loved how heartwarming the family moments there were. I find the characters just as interesting as the cases they are trying to solve. I hope the series continues.

Thank you @lisaboylewrites @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.

[Lee Murray Brazos Booksellers · Rating 4 out of 5]

I usually enjoy Lisa Boyle’s work on the P.I. Pinter series. They’re tough, gritty, and highlight the Navajo community in the Southwest.

This book was not my favorite. Good plot, nice character development, and backstory on the lead characters are the highlights. The plot was a little thin and we spent a good portion of ink pushing a thread that totally unraveled at the end.

Good read. I still recommend it as she’s an excellent author.

[Terri Bain · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 3 of the PI Pinter series does not disappoint.

The Pusher Man - Lisa Boyle
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5

I always look forward to Lisa’s books. They flow well and are quick enjoyable books to read. This series is no different. They are well researched and a mash up between historical fiction, this one set in the late70’s/early 80’s, and crime investigation. You could read this as a stand alone, but the enjoyment level is greater having known the repeat character’s stories, which are covered in the two previous books.

Lisa also provides informative author notes to shed additional light on her research and subject matter at the end of her books.

Synopsis -
James and Kay have adjusted well to married life on the reservation. And James is continuing to partner with the Tribal Police to help investigate crimes in the Navajo community on and off the reservation. So when a relatively healthy young wife/mother dies unexpectedly from contaminated peyote, James and his assistant daughter Molly help to uncover who is responsible and the real reasons women are dying.

Thank you Lisa for once again providing me with a copy of your book. I’m excited to see Molly and Paula’s development in the next Pinter book.