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Wind River Reservation #19
The Man Who Fell from the Sky
New York Times bestselling author Margaret Coel returns to Wind River with Arapaho attorney Vicky Holden and Father John O’Malley investigating a lethal link between legendary outlaw Butch Cassidy and a present-day murder…
When Robert Walking Bear’s body is found in the Wind River mountains, his death appears to be accidental—except for the fact that he had been hunting for Butch Cassidy’s buried loot with a map he had gotten from his grandfather, a map believed to have been drawn by the leader of the Hole in the Wall gang himself.
It isn’t long before rumors circulate that Robert was murdered by his own cousins to get the map and find the treasure themselves. Despite there being no evidence of foul play, the gossip gains credibility when both Arapaho attorney Vicky Holden and Father John O’Malley are contacted by an anonymous Arapaho claiming to have witnessed Robert’s killing.
When one of Robert’s cousins falls prey to another deadly accident, Vicky and Father John are convinced the victim is the witness who confided in them, and the hunt for the killer is on in earnest—before more die in search of Cassidy’s cache.
When Robert Walking Bear’s body is found in the Wind River mountains, his death appears to be accidental—except for the fact that he had been hunting for Butch Cassidy’s buried loot with a map he had gotten from his grandfather, a map believed to have been drawn by the leader of the Hole in the Wall gang himself.
It isn’t long before rumors circulate that Robert was murdered by his own cousins to get the map and find the treasure themselves. Despite there being no evidence of foul play, the gossip gains credibility when both Arapaho attorney Vicky Holden and Father John O’Malley are contacted by an anonymous Arapaho claiming to have witnessed Robert’s killing.
When one of Robert’s cousins falls prey to another deadly accident, Vicky and Father John are convinced the victim is the witness who confided in them, and the hunt for the killer is on in earnest—before more die in search of Cassidy’s cache.
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 1, 2015
128 people are currently reading
341 people want to read
About the author
Margaret Coel
64 books504 followersMargaret Coel is the New York Times bestselling, award-winning author of the acclaimed novels featuring Father John O'Malley and Vicky Holden, as well as several works of nonfiction. Originally a historian by trade, she is considered an expert on the Arapaho Indians.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
February 8, 2017
THE MAN WHO FELL FROM THE SKY is book 19 in the Wind River Reservation series and it's also the first book I have read in the series. And, as a newbie must I say that I had no problem whatsoever getting into the book. The only drawback is that there is a lot of history between Arapaho attorney Vicky Holden and Father John O'Malley. They have been through a lot of things since they met years ago. But, reading this book just made me interested in getting the previous books to get to know them better.
READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW OVER AT FRESH FICTION!
READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW OVER AT FRESH FICTION!
September 15, 2015
Combining history, Arapaho culture and mystery is what author Margaret Coel does best.
THE MAN WHO FELL FROM THE SKY is a great example of how she blends all these elements, and much more, into an enthralling murder mystery that will hold you captive from beginning to end.
Coel’s eye for detail and vivid descriptions quickly draw you into the story. Her well-developed characters are likable and realistic adding layers to the story. It’s Coel’s way of relating history and Arapaho traditions with fiction that enhances the story making it come alive.
In this latest installment, Coel draws on the legend of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid to heighten the intrigue. Her main characters, Arapaho attorney Vicky Holden and Father John O’Malley, deal with murder and secrets as a lost treasure of Butch Cassidy’s plays a key role in a murder on the Wind River Reservation.
It appears Robert Walking Bear may have died accidentally when his body is found in a lake in the Wind River mountains. However, the victim had been searching for Butch Cassidy’s buried loot and he was using a map believed to have been drawn by the legendary Hole in the Wall gang leader himself. It seems there’s a lot of people who want to find that treasure too.
Weaving the present with the past, Coel takes readers on a wild ride filled with suspense, secrets and historical tidbits. She also mixes in a dash of romantic undertone.
THE MAN WHO FELL FROM THE SKY is a fascinating mystery that moves at a quick pace. This is a story that will be hard to put down once you turn that first page.
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
THE MAN WHO FELL FROM THE SKY is a great example of how she blends all these elements, and much more, into an enthralling murder mystery that will hold you captive from beginning to end.
Coel’s eye for detail and vivid descriptions quickly draw you into the story. Her well-developed characters are likable and realistic adding layers to the story. It’s Coel’s way of relating history and Arapaho traditions with fiction that enhances the story making it come alive.
In this latest installment, Coel draws on the legend of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid to heighten the intrigue. Her main characters, Arapaho attorney Vicky Holden and Father John O’Malley, deal with murder and secrets as a lost treasure of Butch Cassidy’s plays a key role in a murder on the Wind River Reservation.
It appears Robert Walking Bear may have died accidentally when his body is found in a lake in the Wind River mountains. However, the victim had been searching for Butch Cassidy’s buried loot and he was using a map believed to have been drawn by the legendary Hole in the Wall gang leader himself. It seems there’s a lot of people who want to find that treasure too.
Weaving the present with the past, Coel takes readers on a wild ride filled with suspense, secrets and historical tidbits. She also mixes in a dash of romantic undertone.
THE MAN WHO FELL FROM THE SKY is a fascinating mystery that moves at a quick pace. This is a story that will be hard to put down once you turn that first page.
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
December 19, 2020
I just dearly love the Wyoming setting for some of my favorite mystery/thriller series...Whether its Craig Johnson's Walt Longmire series, C.J. Box's Joe Pickett series or Margaret Coel's Wind River Reservation series, I can envision the locales, having spent some wonderful times in Wyoming...I also appreciate the respect and sensitivity all three series give to our great Native American cultures and the problems faced by reservation life...In this one, Fr. John O'Malley and Vicky Holden are drawn into the investigations of murders that seem to be tied to the legends of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid's buried treasure...Good Stuff!!!
September 10, 2015
Better than Buffalo Bill book More believable ,better paced. anyone who enjoys tales of those old West should enjoy this one. would. Have chosen a different title however as this title is misleading.
I have read and collect almost of Margaret Coel's books.
ooks . I prefer series with recurring characters and settings . Good read.
I have read and collect almost of Margaret Coel's books.
ooks . I prefer series with recurring characters and settings . Good read.
September 13, 2015
I really have to stop reading these. Every recent one has disappointed and irritated me. And please, how many times can you listen to one opera, no matter how good? How about broadening your musical appreciation, Father John?
September 26, 2015
I am a big fan of the Windy River Mystery series, but I'm afraid this book just wasn't as good as others in this series. I had figured out the whole premise of the book as well as the killer before I was a a quarter of the way through. I liked the Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid folklore that was the driving force behind the story. It has long been rumoured that Cassidy left a treasure behind and a map to locate it, but it's never been proved and no treasure has ever turned up. The search for the treasure and human greed are what drive this story. Vicky and Father John get pulled into the web of a cold-hearted killer and Vicky almost loses her life because of the deceit of one man who cares about nothing and no one except the treasure he's after. I liked catching up with Vicky Holden and Father John, but the book wasn't as exciting as the others in this series.
Read
September 21, 2015Butch Cassidy Map
A Documentary on Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid is being filmed on the Wind River Reservation when Robert Walking Bear's body is found by a lake. Father John and Vicky meet at his wife's house to aide her. Also Cutter Walking Bear who has return to Reservation recently. Cutter comes on strong to Vicky who feels something is wrong. Father John tries to help the widow. These various themes are brought together skillfully in one story. The ending will surprise you.
A Documentary on Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid is being filmed on the Wind River Reservation when Robert Walking Bear's body is found by a lake. Father John and Vicky meet at his wife's house to aide her. Also Cutter Walking Bear who has return to Reservation recently. Cutter comes on strong to Vicky who feels something is wrong. Father John tries to help the widow. These various themes are brought together skillfully in one story. The ending will surprise you.
November 26, 2017
Arapaho Lawyer Vicky Holden finds herself in the middle of a mystery surrounding the death of Robert Walking Bear while he was out searching for Butch Cassidy's buried treasure. It seems there is quite a story around Butch's friend ship with the residents on and near the reservation and including
a number of Arapahos. This story is build around the Butch Cassidy story and myths and at one point puts Vicky's life in jeopardy. Chalk up another good visit to the Wind River country.
a number of Arapahos. This story is build around the Butch Cassidy story and myths and at one point puts Vicky's life in jeopardy. Chalk up another good visit to the Wind River country.
September 13, 2015
I did not get very far before I became bored with the formulaic nature of the theme. Same old - same old. Maybe something different would develop between Vicky and the priest, maybe a new love interest for her but none of that is much different either.
October 1, 2015
It is interesting how Margaret Coel can write such good mysteries that include historical figures.
In this case the historical people are Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. These men are such icon figures in the old west, their story is well known and yet Margaret Coel gives it a new twist.
In this case the historical people are Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. These men are such icon figures in the old west, their story is well known and yet Margaret Coel gives it a new twist.
November 9, 2015
interesting historical facts and lore can't make up for the seriously mopey female mc. formulaic with an overall depressing tone. done with this series.
February 14, 2021
Father John O'Malley (Jesuit Mission Priest) and Vicky Holden (Arapaho lawyer) once again find themselves seeking answers to a crime on the reservation from different angles to the conclusion bringing them together.
This story provides a backstory involving Butch Cassidy and his time on Wind River Reservation in 1899 as he hid from the law. After a Union Pacific robbery and hiding out with friends near the reservation, it was believed he hid his share in the mountains and left a map to its location. The search for the treasure became legendary in the region with many maps appearing over the century.
This story then centers on the discovery of an Arapaho man floating in the lake. With no apparent physical injuries aside from drowning, it is initially believed to be accidental drowning. That the man was known to be fixed on finding the buried Butch Cassidy loot raised questions, though. Solving this case once again comes together only by the separate information and details discovered by John and Vicky and not until that information finally comes together. And, it is not until Vicky finds herself in harm's way in a very real sense does all the pieces truly fall into place.
Once again, Margaret Coel weaves a good mystery with a good historical backstory and continued devotion to the life and culture of the Arapaho people. A very enjoyable read.
This story provides a backstory involving Butch Cassidy and his time on Wind River Reservation in 1899 as he hid from the law. After a Union Pacific robbery and hiding out with friends near the reservation, it was believed he hid his share in the mountains and left a map to its location. The search for the treasure became legendary in the region with many maps appearing over the century.
This story then centers on the discovery of an Arapaho man floating in the lake. With no apparent physical injuries aside from drowning, it is initially believed to be accidental drowning. That the man was known to be fixed on finding the buried Butch Cassidy loot raised questions, though. Solving this case once again comes together only by the separate information and details discovered by John and Vicky and not until that information finally comes together. And, it is not until Vicky finds herself in harm's way in a very real sense does all the pieces truly fall into place.
Once again, Margaret Coel weaves a good mystery with a good historical backstory and continued devotion to the life and culture of the Arapaho people. A very enjoyable read.
February 11, 2023
Really about a 3.7. This was my first in the series, so talk about coming in late! Good sense of place and setting; enjoyed the information and Butch Cassidy, especially because at the end the author gives her sources, what she made up and what is considered factual (or at least debated-- did George survive Bolivia and come back to visit friends?) Also enjoyed the look at Arapaho culture. I figured out the mystery pretty early, though there was a point that was a bit off but to go into it would mean spoiler territory.
October 28, 2015
http://openbooksociety.com/article/th...
The Man Who Fell from the Sky
Wind River Reservation, Book #19
By Margaret Coel
ISBN: 9780425280300
Author Website: www.margaretcoel.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
New York Times bestselling author Margaret Coel returns to Wind River with Arapaho attorney Vicky Holden and Father John O’Malley investigating a lethal link between legendary outlaw Butch Cassidy and a present-day murder…
When Robert Walking Bear’s body is found in the Wind River mountains, his death appears to be accidental—except for the fact that he had been hunting for Butch Cassidy’s buried loot with a map he had gotten from his grandfather, a map believed to have been drawn by the leader of the Hole in the Wall gang himself.
It isn’t long before rumors circulate that Robert was murdered by his own cousins to get the map and find the treasure themselves. Despite there being no evidence of foul play, the gossip gains credibility when both Vicky and Father John are contacted by an anonymous Arapaho claiming to have witnessed Robert’s killing.
When one of Robert’s cousins falls prey to another deadly accident, Vicky and Father John are convinced the victim is the witness who confided in them, and the hunt for the killer is on in earnest—before more die in search of Cassidy’s cache. (Goodreads)
Review:
What a great read! The Wind River Reservation series, of which ‘The Man Who Fell from the Sky�� is #19, has quickly become one of my new favorite series – AKA ones that I look forward to the next release and hope to catch up on it’s earlier mysteries. Margaret Coel’s descriptions of life on the Reservation, the incredible vast wilderness, and the pragmatic outlook of those who live there is, for me, a series I could get lost in regularly. She brings the history of the American West to life, interspersing a fictional account of actual people and events. Add a mysterious death and the ability of an attorney and a priest in recovery to work together to find the bad guy/ gal, and I’m there. This can be read as a stand-alone or as part of the series. While I have only read one other in the series, my appetite has absolutely been whetted for more.
The mystery was intriguing; a man died in what appeared to be an accidental drowning. There was no evidence of any foul play, just the little doubt planted by an anonymous caller led Arapaho attorney Vicky Holden to contact the local FBI investigator, Ted Gianelli, to see if further investigation was warranted. It seemed that the dead man, Robert Walking Bear, had “the” map left to his family by Butch Cassidy and passed down through generations. He had spent much of his free time since his grandfather passed hunting the treasure that George “Butch” Cassidy had buried in the area. There were concerns that perhaps Robert had found the treasure and someone killed him and stole it. Ruth, his widow, wanted the investigation to be completed so her husband could be buried properly; she didn’t believe there was a treasure..
A couple months before Robert’s death, distant cousin Jimmy “Cutter” Walking Bear had returned to the rez to reconnect with his family and spending time with them. He had begun to make a play for Vicky – but perhaps he was a little close to the widow, too?
While the investigation was being conducted, a documentary about Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid was being filmed in the area, which fueled the idea that the deceased had possibly found the treasure – at least among those who thought there really was a treasure.
The characters who are typically in the story, Vicky Holden and Father John O’Malley and those immediately around them in their respective places of work, are fully three-dimensional. Their respective histories are outlined as necessary, as are their friendships and/ or working relationships. While they do not speak about themselves very much, they are an open book to the reader. I like both Vicky and Father John; they have both been through very tough times and did what was necessary to go forward and contribute to the lives of others. While I would like to see Vicky adopt either the faith she was raised in at the Mission school or the Native American ways of her family, I think that her indecision contributes to the personality of the attorney we know and love. Some of the minor or short-term characters are defined as well as needed for their roles. I do enjoy the stories from the elderly, and seeing the interplay of family members (vultures) after Robert’s death. Cutter seemed almost too forceful for me to enjoy, as did Bernie and her husband Big Man.
This novel was made even more enjoyable when I recognized the phrase “fell from the sky” in the prose and saw who and what situation was related to the reference. I haven’t read enough of the series yet to be accustomed to the play on words used in the titles. There were sufficient plot twists to rival the mountain roads and increase the suspense. There was no shortage of suspects, and no proof that the man was murdered. At some point the reader has to decide – murder or accident? If murder, whodunit and why? This is a very skillfully written mystery that I highly recommend to fans of Margaret Coel and Native American lands and history of the US western states.
The Man Who Fell from the Sky
Wind River Reservation, Book #19
By Margaret Coel
ISBN: 9780425280300
Author Website: www.margaretcoel.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
New York Times bestselling author Margaret Coel returns to Wind River with Arapaho attorney Vicky Holden and Father John O’Malley investigating a lethal link between legendary outlaw Butch Cassidy and a present-day murder…
When Robert Walking Bear’s body is found in the Wind River mountains, his death appears to be accidental—except for the fact that he had been hunting for Butch Cassidy’s buried loot with a map he had gotten from his grandfather, a map believed to have been drawn by the leader of the Hole in the Wall gang himself.
It isn’t long before rumors circulate that Robert was murdered by his own cousins to get the map and find the treasure themselves. Despite there being no evidence of foul play, the gossip gains credibility when both Vicky and Father John are contacted by an anonymous Arapaho claiming to have witnessed Robert’s killing.
When one of Robert’s cousins falls prey to another deadly accident, Vicky and Father John are convinced the victim is the witness who confided in them, and the hunt for the killer is on in earnest—before more die in search of Cassidy’s cache. (Goodreads)
Review:
What a great read! The Wind River Reservation series, of which ‘The Man Who Fell from the Sky�� is #19, has quickly become one of my new favorite series – AKA ones that I look forward to the next release and hope to catch up on it’s earlier mysteries. Margaret Coel’s descriptions of life on the Reservation, the incredible vast wilderness, and the pragmatic outlook of those who live there is, for me, a series I could get lost in regularly. She brings the history of the American West to life, interspersing a fictional account of actual people and events. Add a mysterious death and the ability of an attorney and a priest in recovery to work together to find the bad guy/ gal, and I’m there. This can be read as a stand-alone or as part of the series. While I have only read one other in the series, my appetite has absolutely been whetted for more.
The mystery was intriguing; a man died in what appeared to be an accidental drowning. There was no evidence of any foul play, just the little doubt planted by an anonymous caller led Arapaho attorney Vicky Holden to contact the local FBI investigator, Ted Gianelli, to see if further investigation was warranted. It seemed that the dead man, Robert Walking Bear, had “the” map left to his family by Butch Cassidy and passed down through generations. He had spent much of his free time since his grandfather passed hunting the treasure that George “Butch” Cassidy had buried in the area. There were concerns that perhaps Robert had found the treasure and someone killed him and stole it. Ruth, his widow, wanted the investigation to be completed so her husband could be buried properly; she didn’t believe there was a treasure..
A couple months before Robert’s death, distant cousin Jimmy “Cutter” Walking Bear had returned to the rez to reconnect with his family and spending time with them. He had begun to make a play for Vicky – but perhaps he was a little close to the widow, too?
While the investigation was being conducted, a documentary about Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid was being filmed in the area, which fueled the idea that the deceased had possibly found the treasure – at least among those who thought there really was a treasure.
The characters who are typically in the story, Vicky Holden and Father John O’Malley and those immediately around them in their respective places of work, are fully three-dimensional. Their respective histories are outlined as necessary, as are their friendships and/ or working relationships. While they do not speak about themselves very much, they are an open book to the reader. I like both Vicky and Father John; they have both been through very tough times and did what was necessary to go forward and contribute to the lives of others. While I would like to see Vicky adopt either the faith she was raised in at the Mission school or the Native American ways of her family, I think that her indecision contributes to the personality of the attorney we know and love. Some of the minor or short-term characters are defined as well as needed for their roles. I do enjoy the stories from the elderly, and seeing the interplay of family members (vultures) after Robert’s death. Cutter seemed almost too forceful for me to enjoy, as did Bernie and her husband Big Man.
This novel was made even more enjoyable when I recognized the phrase “fell from the sky” in the prose and saw who and what situation was related to the reference. I haven’t read enough of the series yet to be accustomed to the play on words used in the titles. There were sufficient plot twists to rival the mountain roads and increase the suspense. There was no shortage of suspects, and no proof that the man was murdered. At some point the reader has to decide – murder or accident? If murder, whodunit and why? This is a very skillfully written mystery that I highly recommend to fans of Margaret Coel and Native American lands and history of the US western states.
May 20, 2020
Good airplane read...oh, wait....
April 7, 2025
I like the way the author, Margaret Coel, ties historical events and people into her mysteries. In this novel, Father John and Vicky Holden look into the death of a man who was supposedly searching for a treasure buried in 1899 by George "Butch" Cassidy. The author develops interesting characters and gives the reader a wonderful sense of place.
September 2, 2015
Margaret Coel continues the Wind River series with her latest book, The Man Who Fell From the Sky. Coel is first and foremost a historian and it shows in this series. She is considered an expert on the Arapaho which lends a lot of authenticity to her stories. Coel blends the past and the present in her new book, taking readers on a journey into the legends surrounding Butch Cassidy and his partner, the Sundance Kid. Did they escape to Bolvia? Was loot buried in 'them there hills'? And how does it all tie into a present day murder... The reader is sure to find this one appealing on a lot of levels.
What I liked:
This series has only been on my radar for the last few years. Margaret Coel's new book, The Man Who Fell From the Sky is actually the nineteenth book in this series following the antics of a Jesuit priest and an Arapaho attorney, as they solve mysteries on the Wind River Reservation. I don't know how I missed this one for so long. It's such a well written and historically accurate series. Margaret Coel's background in history is well showcased in every book in this series. Readers who like their mysteries with a little more depth will love these books. Cozies tend to be light, even though the subject is murder, but Coel just delves a little deeper into the story than most and it gives her books a different kind of feel to them that is quite addictive.
This book takes on the legend of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, by making the current murder investigation surround the possible money hidden on the Wind River Reservation buried long ago. Readers get everything from treasure maps to film crews. From a possible suicide to a murder among family members. It's quite the ride and Coel never ceases to add in historical tidbits which make the reader want to go beyond the book and learn more about the infamous leader of the Hole in the Wall gang.
The relationship between Vicky and Father John is always evolving in this series. You can certainly feel that undercurrent of tension in this book. It gives the story a different layer for readers to consider and think about beyond the actual mystery. One of the things that I find so alluring about cozy mysteries is the personal interest the reader can take in the reoccurring characters. Father John is one of those characters you wish you knew in real life and Vicky is one smart lady. Coel does an exceptional job with her characters from the leading roles to the secondary roles. Excellent characterizations.
What I Didn't Like:
There really wasn't too much I didn't like about this one except the fact that I wish I read them all in order. I think the reader misses out on a lot of the little nuances of the story when they haven't read the previous books. This is certainly a series I want to back track on and get caught up with before the next one comes out.
Bottom Line:
What more could you ask for from a great mystery? Historical detail, authentic Arapaho knowledge and the legend of Butch Cassidy. This was a top notch cozy that went a beyond the average cozy in terms of detail and characterizations. I liked the duo of the priest and the lawyer and found the mystery aspects of the book to be spot on. I had this one figured out, but it didn't go down quite how I thought it would. A series to try if you've never read one that balances history and mystery. A great addition to the series.
What I liked:
This series has only been on my radar for the last few years. Margaret Coel's new book, The Man Who Fell From the Sky is actually the nineteenth book in this series following the antics of a Jesuit priest and an Arapaho attorney, as they solve mysteries on the Wind River Reservation. I don't know how I missed this one for so long. It's such a well written and historically accurate series. Margaret Coel's background in history is well showcased in every book in this series. Readers who like their mysteries with a little more depth will love these books. Cozies tend to be light, even though the subject is murder, but Coel just delves a little deeper into the story than most and it gives her books a different kind of feel to them that is quite addictive.
This book takes on the legend of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, by making the current murder investigation surround the possible money hidden on the Wind River Reservation buried long ago. Readers get everything from treasure maps to film crews. From a possible suicide to a murder among family members. It's quite the ride and Coel never ceases to add in historical tidbits which make the reader want to go beyond the book and learn more about the infamous leader of the Hole in the Wall gang.
The relationship between Vicky and Father John is always evolving in this series. You can certainly feel that undercurrent of tension in this book. It gives the story a different layer for readers to consider and think about beyond the actual mystery. One of the things that I find so alluring about cozy mysteries is the personal interest the reader can take in the reoccurring characters. Father John is one of those characters you wish you knew in real life and Vicky is one smart lady. Coel does an exceptional job with her characters from the leading roles to the secondary roles. Excellent characterizations.
What I Didn't Like:
There really wasn't too much I didn't like about this one except the fact that I wish I read them all in order. I think the reader misses out on a lot of the little nuances of the story when they haven't read the previous books. This is certainly a series I want to back track on and get caught up with before the next one comes out.
Bottom Line:
What more could you ask for from a great mystery? Historical detail, authentic Arapaho knowledge and the legend of Butch Cassidy. This was a top notch cozy that went a beyond the average cozy in terms of detail and characterizations. I liked the duo of the priest and the lawyer and found the mystery aspects of the book to be spot on. I had this one figured out, but it didn't go down quite how I thought it would. A series to try if you've never read one that balances history and mystery. A great addition to the series.
May 2, 2021
I read one review that was critical of Margaret Coel's "same-old-same-old", forgetting, quite obviously that any series with the same characters and situation will have a degree of repetitiveness. Father John is, after all, a Jesuit priest on an Arapahoe Reservation. Vicky Holden is a lawyer working on behalf of her people who, after all live on that reservation and experience the comfort of their culture but disadvantaged by the sub-surface racism of the Whites and their systems. The Native Americans do suffer from the same ills any indigenous peoples suffer from; lack of sense of pride, of alcoholism, of marriages in trouble... a host of ills. Father John is a recovering alcoholic who loves opera. He and Vicky have feeling for each other that they work very hard at keeping in their place. These things are the stage upon which Margaret Coel works.
What I like about Margaret Coel's books is that Father John and Vicky act as anchors for us. We see this world through their eyes; the landscape, the culture, the history and the problems. There will be many normal days when nothing untoward happens... We're not present on those days. We arrive when something has gone particularly wrong and, this being America (and detective literature), its invariably when someone has died in mysterious circumstances.
Every detective writer does the same thing. We get to know the core characters and go along for the ride.
We also have to remember that Margaret Coel, like all those who have gone before her, isn't just writing for her fans... she's writing for that individual who picked the book up and decided to read it having never read any other in the series. Thus, Margaret, like all other writers has to place the cards on the table, and sometimes remind us of the permutations she has created. It was quite some time into this particular book that she reminded me of Father John's fight against the demon drink... I'd forgotten.
This is an interesting story. A body is found drowned in a Lake. It is a fortune hunter searching for Butch Cassidy's hidden loot... and there's the hook on which the story hangs.
It's good, like all of Margaret Coel's books. It's gripping and informative and interesting.
What I like about Margaret Coel's books is that Father John and Vicky act as anchors for us. We see this world through their eyes; the landscape, the culture, the history and the problems. There will be many normal days when nothing untoward happens... We're not present on those days. We arrive when something has gone particularly wrong and, this being America (and detective literature), its invariably when someone has died in mysterious circumstances.
Every detective writer does the same thing. We get to know the core characters and go along for the ride.
We also have to remember that Margaret Coel, like all those who have gone before her, isn't just writing for her fans... she's writing for that individual who picked the book up and decided to read it having never read any other in the series. Thus, Margaret, like all other writers has to place the cards on the table, and sometimes remind us of the permutations she has created. It was quite some time into this particular book that she reminded me of Father John's fight against the demon drink... I'd forgotten.
This is an interesting story. A body is found drowned in a Lake. It is a fortune hunter searching for Butch Cassidy's hidden loot... and there's the hook on which the story hangs.
It's good, like all of Margaret Coel's books. It's gripping and informative and interesting.
November 2, 2015
This is the first book I have read by this author.
Margaret Coel is considered an expert on the Arapaho Indians. She deftly incorporates the history of Butch Cassidy and his gang into the history of the Arapaho on the reservation in this suspenseful mystery.
An Indian is found dead in a lake, apparently drowned. But was it an accident? Or did someone "help" him drown? And if so, who and why? The answers reveal themselves slowly. What was Robert Walking Bear looking for or what did he have that someone else wanted?
Vicky Holden is a local "Rap" attorney. She is asking these questions. The mission padre is also a main character, caring for his flock and bringing solace to the bereaved. Into the mix comes a long lost cousin of the deceased. A young, charming and helpful man, he ingratiates himself into the community, trying to learn more about his family and his past since his father moved the family to Oklahoma when he was young.
But there is something "off" about his recollections and attitude as he pursues Vicky with romantic interest.
The author cleverly alternates current events on the rez with the historical character of Butch Cassidy and his love interest, crimes, attitude towards the Indians, many of whom he counted as his friends. It was well known that he and his gang robbed a train and made off with a great deal of money. Supposedly he buried some of it in the mountains and gossip had it that he left a map with Mary, his former lover and wife of a friend. Did the map exist? If so who had it in their possession and could it lead to treasure?
This was a fascinating read by a talented author.
I will lo0ok for more of her books.
Margaret Coel is considered an expert on the Arapaho Indians. She deftly incorporates the history of Butch Cassidy and his gang into the history of the Arapaho on the reservation in this suspenseful mystery.
An Indian is found dead in a lake, apparently drowned. But was it an accident? Or did someone "help" him drown? And if so, who and why? The answers reveal themselves slowly. What was Robert Walking Bear looking for or what did he have that someone else wanted?
Vicky Holden is a local "Rap" attorney. She is asking these questions. The mission padre is also a main character, caring for his flock and bringing solace to the bereaved. Into the mix comes a long lost cousin of the deceased. A young, charming and helpful man, he ingratiates himself into the community, trying to learn more about his family and his past since his father moved the family to Oklahoma when he was young.
But there is something "off" about his recollections and attitude as he pursues Vicky with romantic interest.
The author cleverly alternates current events on the rez with the historical character of Butch Cassidy and his love interest, crimes, attitude towards the Indians, many of whom he counted as his friends. It was well known that he and his gang robbed a train and made off with a great deal of money. Supposedly he buried some of it in the mountains and gossip had it that he left a map with Mary, his former lover and wife of a friend. Did the map exist? If so who had it in their possession and could it lead to treasure?
This was a fascinating read by a talented author.
I will lo0ok for more of her books.
September 7, 2016
Once again, Margaret Coel brings a novel of suspense, centered on the Arapaho Indians, this time featuring Butch Cassidy. When a film crew arrives to tell Butch’s story, centering on Butch’s visit to the area around Wind River Reservation, added interest in Butch’s legendary stash peaks. One of many treasure seekers is Robert Walking Bear, who believes the map handed down through his family was drawn by Butch himself. When Robert is found face down in a lake, police suspect suicide, but Arapaho attorney Vicky Holden and Father John O’Malley have their doubts. Robert’s cousins are certain Robert possessed Butch’s real map. Could one of them killed Robert for it? What about Robert’s cousin Cutter, who returned from Oklahoma shortly before Robert’s death? He claimed he wanted to connect with family, but did he? Did Robert’s wife, Ruth, know where the map was hidden? And could the burnt corner piece of paper Vicky found in the ashes near where Robert died be the remains of the legendary map?
The Man Who Fell from the Sky is a tightly-woven mystery, with surprises and enough tension to keep me on the edge of my seat – and reading well into the night. One of Ms. Coel’s best!
Read my full review at: http://myshelf.com/mystery/15/manwhof...
The Man Who Fell from the Sky is a tightly-woven mystery, with surprises and enough tension to keep me on the edge of my seat – and reading well into the night. One of Ms. Coel’s best!
Read my full review at: http://myshelf.com/mystery/15/manwhof...
September 8, 2015
This is another good offering by Margaret Coel in her Wind River Mystery series. If you have any interest at all in western history and good murder mysteries, I think you will find these books interesting as well as entertaining.
The main characters and the setting remain the same from book to book. They all take place on the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming and feature the St. Francis Mission Priest Father John O'Malley and Arapaho Indian Lawyer Vicky Holden.
Each book usually focuses on or involves an historical figure or event. This particular story involves several murders committed by a person searching for a treasure rumored to have been hidden on the reservation by Butch Cassidy. The money was obtained during the robbery of a Union Pacific express train at Wilcox, WY ("Think you used enough dynamite there Butch?"). The story is complex, exciting, and believable.
I enjoy the interactions between Father John and Vicky (an unusual relationship to say the least) and the interactions between Father John and his Indian parishioners. There are some excellent descriptions of native culture.
The main characters and the setting remain the same from book to book. They all take place on the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming and feature the St. Francis Mission Priest Father John O'Malley and Arapaho Indian Lawyer Vicky Holden.
Each book usually focuses on or involves an historical figure or event. This particular story involves several murders committed by a person searching for a treasure rumored to have been hidden on the reservation by Butch Cassidy. The money was obtained during the robbery of a Union Pacific express train at Wilcox, WY ("Think you used enough dynamite there Butch?"). The story is complex, exciting, and believable.
I enjoy the interactions between Father John and Vicky (an unusual relationship to say the least) and the interactions between Father John and his Indian parishioners. There are some excellent descriptions of native culture.
July 11, 2016
When a morning of fishing turns up a body in Bull Lake, Vicky Holden is drawn to the deceased man's wife, Ruth, trying to help. She identifies with Ruth, who feels out of place on the Arapaho Reservation, not really part of the family any more. As a lawyer now, Vicky feels out of place on the res and since her divorce from Ben, she feels somewhat ostracized.
Cutter Walking Bear is determined to change that. A cousin of Robert (the deceased), he keeps turning up and trying to ingratiate himself to Vicky. She feels like there might be something off about him and tries to keep him at arm's length while dealing with the possibility Robert might've been murdered. Someone keeps calling to tell her that, at least, and the feds don't really have a clue why Robert might've been murdered - except there was always the possibility he'd actually found Butch Cassidy's hidden treasure.
A fun though somewhat sad read with two stories going on - current day and 1800s with Butch Cassidy.
Cutter Walking Bear is determined to change that. A cousin of Robert (the deceased), he keeps turning up and trying to ingratiate himself to Vicky. She feels like there might be something off about him and tries to keep him at arm's length while dealing with the possibility Robert might've been murdered. Someone keeps calling to tell her that, at least, and the feds don't really have a clue why Robert might've been murdered - except there was always the possibility he'd actually found Butch Cassidy's hidden treasure.
A fun though somewhat sad read with two stories going on - current day and 1800s with Butch Cassidy.
October 2, 2015
Not sure why I keep getting books from this series. It should be good, the plots usually are. It's the writing that bugs me.Lots of half-thoughts that go no where. Unfinished sentences that don't make sense until they're read several times. And sometimes the not-so-smart actions of who is supposed to be a smart lawyer...why would she take off on a miles-away drive, not telling anyone where she's going, the cell phones don't usually keep up, and she knows the situation is dangerous. I keep hoping she'll learn, but that doesn't happen. And the constant going over and over and over past things that cannot be changed. Maybe because it's condensed in a book to a small window of time, but sometimes these characters live more regretting the past than in trying to deal with the present.
January 20, 2017
This one really kept me reading all the way to almost the end, but there's always something not quite finished about her work for me. I understand not tying up every loose end, because it's a continuing series with continuing characters, but there's always something about the main plot left unanswered, imo. Unsettling. I'll probably read another one of her books - this isn't the first one I've read - but I'll get them from the library, if they're there, and not seek them out.
September 16, 2015
I enjoy Margaret Coel's Wind River books. They are easy to read and I always learn a little history.
May 13, 2016
why did i finish it?? thought i'd learn some 'old secrets'. per other reviews, maybe some of the earlier books in this series would be more compelling.
September 16, 2015
Margaret's latest. Pre-Ordered months ago. Worth the wait, as are all of her "Wind River" books.
October 14, 2019
One of the better books in the series. The focus for solving the murders seems to be shifting more toward Father O'Malley from Vicky Holden. She seems to be too busy focusing on cases that the reader will not care about and becoming the damsel in distress. I found the wife of the initial murder victim far too erratic a character and felt like some of the other secondary characters stories could have been better explained. I found the historical back story about Butch Cassidy to be fascinating. There was a lot there that I never knew. It was nice to see Adam Lone Eagle written out of this story as he really never added anything to the other stories except as a source of frustration. I would like to see the author make Father O'Malley's associate (the Bishop) a more three-dimensional character as were some of his associates in the earlier books in the series. Altogether, this was a good mystery, with several hints as to where the story might lead but with enough surprises to keep things interesting.
September 21, 2019
Very much in the style of previous books in this series, Margaret Coel does a great job of portraying the Arapaho reservation, the doomed relationship between Arapaho lawyer Vicky Holden and the Irish Jesuit Priest, Father John, and a murder mystery wrapped in the interactions between Native American and White Cultures. As with other books in the story, we also get some well-done historical fiction and I enjoyed hearing about Butch Cassidy and his rather heart-touching story of his relationship with a half-native American Mary. The story of the map is great the the portrayal of Cutter even better. I had also figured out "who done it" fairly early in the story, but it was a lot of fun nonetheless.
Why not 5 stars? Maybe my expectations are too high, but I would like to see the reservation, or the relationship, or something move on a little through the stories. It seems that the reservation has become more of a backdrop for the murder mystery. Which is fine, but not *****
Why not 5 stars? Maybe my expectations are too high, but I would like to see the reservation, or the relationship, or something move on a little through the stories. It seems that the reservation has become more of a backdrop for the murder mystery. Which is fine, but not *****
May 21, 2017
Father John and Lawyer Vicky are drawn again into a mystery that stretches back to the outlaw days when Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid roamed the land, robbing and bolting and (perhaps) dying in a far off land. Descendants of Cassidy or not, the group of characters are hunting for the dead man's treasure, the hunt causing death and mayhem in its wake.
This was well written, but because of the shift between centuries it was not a smooth read for me. Still, well done, with great research, good historical perspectives and a hint of a mystery for all of us - where and when did Cassidy die, and did he leave behind a buried treasure?
This was well written, but because of the shift between centuries it was not a smooth read for me. Still, well done, with great research, good historical perspectives and a hint of a mystery for all of us - where and when did Cassidy die, and did he leave behind a buried treasure?
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