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Winner of New Mexico-Arizona Book AwardsLacey and Sam are on the job again. This time, the ex-cop and the Navajo medium have been called out to the Navajo reservation to investigate the suspicious death of Sam’s cousin. What they uncover leads them into a realm of the supernatural beyond anything Lacey ever imagined; her years on the LAPD did nothing to prepare her for dealing with witches and shapeshifters. With clues few and far between, can they determine who the murderer is before they themselves become the target of deadly curses and feral shapeshifter beasts?
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 28, 2017
389 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Bowersock
83 books128 followersMelissa Bowersock is an eclectic, award-winning author who writes in a variety of fiction and non-fiction genres: paranormal, biography, western, action, romance, fantasy, spiritual, and satire. She has been both traditionally and independently published and is the author of the popular Lacey Fitzpatrick and Sam Firecloud Mystery Series. She has a tattoo on the inside of her left wrist that says IMAGINE. In her next life, she plans to be an astronaut. She also writes under the pen name Amber Flame. You can visit her website, www.newmoonrising.net. Follow her blog at http://mjb-wordlovers.blogspot.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
October 1, 2019
audio book:
Lacey and Sam are at it again! I enjoyed this one just as much as the first book, Ghost Walk. Lacey and Sam make a great team without any romance involved (yet). The author's notes at the beginning of the book were interesting. Don't worry, i totally believe. I knew from the title what the book would be about but i won't spoil it for people who wouldn't know. Sam and Lacey go to Arizona, to the reservation to investigate his cousin's death. What they find there is some scary shit! They scare me to death! I loved meeting all of Sam's family and especially his Grandfather.
Laura Wilson read this and did a great job. I love her narration.
I would like to thank Melissa Bowerstock for the audio book. i requested it in exchange for a honest review. thank you very much!
Lacey and Sam are at it again! I enjoyed this one just as much as the first book, Ghost Walk. Lacey and Sam make a great team without any romance involved (yet). The author's notes at the beginning of the book were interesting. Don't worry, i totally believe. I knew from the title what the book would be about but i won't spoil it for people who wouldn't know. Sam and Lacey go to Arizona, to the reservation to investigate his cousin's death. What they find there is some scary shit! They scare me to death! I loved meeting all of Sam's family and especially his Grandfather.
Laura Wilson read this and did a great job. I love her narration.
I would like to thank Melissa Bowerstock for the audio book. i requested it in exchange for a honest review. thank you very much!
May 1, 2017
It was easy to glide into this book…I thoroughly enjoyed the introductory adventure of Lacey and Sam, the oddly matched couple who have joined forces as a PI team. Lacey is an ex LAPD cop and Sam a Navajo medium.
Their investigation for this second instalment is a little more personal as Sam is asked to look into the death of his cousin…the circumstances are sitting well with Sam’s grandfather.
But this isn’t a straightforward piecing-together of clues. Witches, curses and shapeshifters are added to the mix…and Lacey and Sam find themselves conducting a dangerous investigation.
This sequel certainly lived up to its predecessor. I enjoyed the development of the couple as they grow more comfortable with each other as a team. They’re chalk and cheese, but are gradually settling into each other’s lifestyles. I think I’m looking forward to the progress of their relationship as much as the cases they’re commissioned to solve.
Roll on Case no. 3!
Their investigation for this second instalment is a little more personal as Sam is asked to look into the death of his cousin…the circumstances are sitting well with Sam’s grandfather.
But this isn’t a straightforward piecing-together of clues. Witches, curses and shapeshifters are added to the mix…and Lacey and Sam find themselves conducting a dangerous investigation.
This sequel certainly lived up to its predecessor. I enjoyed the development of the couple as they grow more comfortable with each other as a team. They’re chalk and cheese, but are gradually settling into each other’s lifestyles. I think I’m looking forward to the progress of their relationship as much as the cases they’re commissioned to solve.
Roll on Case no. 3!
May 3, 2021
Thoroughly enjoyable!
I enjoyed this 2nd book as much as I did the first.........have already purchased the next 3 so excuse me while I carry on reading!
I enjoyed this 2nd book as much as I did the first.........have already purchased the next 3 so excuse me while I carry on reading!
December 24, 2019
I received this book for free. I am voluntarily posting this review and all opinions expressed herein are my own.
This is the second book in the Lacey Fitzpatrick and Sam Firecloud mystery series. It is a standalone book - but I highly recommend that you start with the first book in the series "Ghost Walk." Part of the enjoyment of this series is learning about the characters and in particular, Sam's culture.
In this story, you get to learn some of the Navajo traditions, which I found very interesting. You also get to meet Sam's family who live on the reservation. They are there to investigate the death of Sam's cousin. In order to do so, Lacey has to learn about the Navajo belief system when it comes to death and the paranormal. I really enjoy Lacey and Sam's relationship and their interactions. This is a well-written mystery with very likeable and relatable characters. Highly Recommend.
The narrator, Laura Wilson, does a terrific job.
This is the second book in the Lacey Fitzpatrick and Sam Firecloud mystery series. It is a standalone book - but I highly recommend that you start with the first book in the series "Ghost Walk." Part of the enjoyment of this series is learning about the characters and in particular, Sam's culture.
In this story, you get to learn some of the Navajo traditions, which I found very interesting. You also get to meet Sam's family who live on the reservation. They are there to investigate the death of Sam's cousin. In order to do so, Lacey has to learn about the Navajo belief system when it comes to death and the paranormal. I really enjoy Lacey and Sam's relationship and their interactions. This is a well-written mystery with very likeable and relatable characters. Highly Recommend.
The narrator, Laura Wilson, does a terrific job.
April 22, 2017
Skin Walk by Melissa Bowersock
Lacey seems to be settling in to her new profession as a private investigator. However she misses bouncing ideas and thoughts off Sam. So, when Sam calls and asks if she is interested in going to Arizona with him to investigate his cousin’s suspicious death on the Navajo reservation, she jumps at the chance. Lacey has no idea what she has gotten herself into and tries to rely on her police training. She quickly learns that things that happen on the reservation stay on the reservation. When she is faced with accepting Navajo mysticism she is unnerved and almost frantic trying to come to terms with Navajo reality and the white world reality in which she was raised. She knows she is out of her element and must defer to Sam.
However, she is not willing to let her police training go by the wayside and defies Sam. If she learns her efforts are for naught, then there is no reason for Sam to ever know… The problem is clues are scarce and getting natives to speak about their case is tricky. After saying that, I have to say that I love the mutual respect these two have for each other. I know it sounds like I’m contradicting myself, but their actions and dialogue are realistic, honest, and convincing.
I was surprised at the amount of Navajo lifestyle and beliefs that were revealed in Skin Walk. Sam’s grandfather, Ben, is a treasure. He lives alone in a traditional Hogan away from the family. At Ben’s fire pit, Lacey learns about the name Firecloud. It’s a touching scene full of feels. Since Ben speaks primarily Navajo, it’s thoughtful of Sam to translate for Lacey so she stays in the loop. It was also nice to meet Sam’s brother, Gabe, his wife, Roxanne, their two sons, Carson – twelve, and Griff - ten. Since Sam and Lacey are staying in their house, we get to see what a modern Navajos’ family life is like. This also gave Sam and Lacey the opportunity to bounce ideas and scenarios around about the crime.
There are many twists to the plot, some I found harrowing and fascinating at the same time. Being familiar with Native American traditions and stories I had no problem buying into the premise. That does not mean I am comfortable with the paranormal factor. Even Sam, with his abilities, would admit this experience tested his limits. I also found this an emotional tale about family, cultural diversity, loyalty, and human values. I sure hope Ms. Bowersock has more story ideas for Sam Firecloud and Lacey Fitzpatrick. I’m loving this series.
FYI: “Skin Walk” is the second book in A Lacey Fitzpatrick and Sam Firecloud Mystery series. The first book is titled “Ghost Walk.” **Originally written for "BigAl’s Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** April 11, 2017
Format/Typo Issues: My review is based on a beta, pre-release version. I am unable to judge the final version in this area.
Lacey seems to be settling in to her new profession as a private investigator. However she misses bouncing ideas and thoughts off Sam. So, when Sam calls and asks if she is interested in going to Arizona with him to investigate his cousin’s suspicious death on the Navajo reservation, she jumps at the chance. Lacey has no idea what she has gotten herself into and tries to rely on her police training. She quickly learns that things that happen on the reservation stay on the reservation. When she is faced with accepting Navajo mysticism she is unnerved and almost frantic trying to come to terms with Navajo reality and the white world reality in which she was raised. She knows she is out of her element and must defer to Sam.
However, she is not willing to let her police training go by the wayside and defies Sam. If she learns her efforts are for naught, then there is no reason for Sam to ever know… The problem is clues are scarce and getting natives to speak about their case is tricky. After saying that, I have to say that I love the mutual respect these two have for each other. I know it sounds like I’m contradicting myself, but their actions and dialogue are realistic, honest, and convincing.
I was surprised at the amount of Navajo lifestyle and beliefs that were revealed in Skin Walk. Sam’s grandfather, Ben, is a treasure. He lives alone in a traditional Hogan away from the family. At Ben’s fire pit, Lacey learns about the name Firecloud. It’s a touching scene full of feels. Since Ben speaks primarily Navajo, it’s thoughtful of Sam to translate for Lacey so she stays in the loop. It was also nice to meet Sam’s brother, Gabe, his wife, Roxanne, their two sons, Carson – twelve, and Griff - ten. Since Sam and Lacey are staying in their house, we get to see what a modern Navajos’ family life is like. This also gave Sam and Lacey the opportunity to bounce ideas and scenarios around about the crime.
There are many twists to the plot, some I found harrowing and fascinating at the same time. Being familiar with Native American traditions and stories I had no problem buying into the premise. That does not mean I am comfortable with the paranormal factor. Even Sam, with his abilities, would admit this experience tested his limits. I also found this an emotional tale about family, cultural diversity, loyalty, and human values. I sure hope Ms. Bowersock has more story ideas for Sam Firecloud and Lacey Fitzpatrick. I’m loving this series.
FYI: “Skin Walk” is the second book in A Lacey Fitzpatrick and Sam Firecloud Mystery series. The first book is titled “Ghost Walk.” **Originally written for "BigAl’s Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** April 11, 2017
Format/Typo Issues: My review is based on a beta, pre-release version. I am unable to judge the final version in this area.
March 20, 2022
I love all the books in this series but this is my favourite so far. Its more mystical then the others but I love it because of that.
August 13, 2019
I really enjoyed learning some of the Navajo traditions. I have read about skinwalkers before and this story provided some new info. Sam and Lacey seem to be coming closer. So it will be interesting to see what transpires. I am looking forward to more books in this series.
November 27, 2022
skin walk
A death in the family. Navaho traditions and modern times. Throw in a troubled past and let our two sleuths find the connection. Recommended reading
A death in the family. Navaho traditions and modern times. Throw in a troubled past and let our two sleuths find the connection. Recommended reading
November 21, 2022
A dead cousin, a suspicious Grandfather, and the need to know why bring Lacey and Sam to the Navaho reservation in Arizona. A thriller with paranormal aspects. I love learning more about the Navaho culture with each book.
October 31, 2023
Loving this series. So happy to have the first 4 to read. Now onto #3
January 14, 2023
Great!
After a death in Sam’s family, he and Lacey go to the Navajo Reservation to investigate. Lacey is challenged by the Navajo traditions and beliefs which turn out to be far more scary then she could imagine. I’m looking forward to the next book!
After a death in Sam’s family, he and Lacey go to the Navajo Reservation to investigate. Lacey is challenged by the Navajo traditions and beliefs which turn out to be far more scary then she could imagine. I’m looking forward to the next book!
January 9, 2023
Skinwalkers always an interesting read
Lacey and Sam mix their skills, she as a Crackerjack investigator and he as a medium to solve intricate crimes. 36 in the series and I'm only on three. As always So many books and so little time. This time family on the Navajo Reservation have a problem. Lacey and Sam to help find the answer.
Lacey and Sam mix their skills, she as a Crackerjack investigator and he as a medium to solve intricate crimes. 36 in the series and I'm only on three. As always So many books and so little time. This time family on the Navajo Reservation have a problem. Lacey and Sam to help find the answer.
April 7, 2021
I'm really loving this set, this adventure takes place at Sam's childhood home. It involves a witch and a great mystery. I do love how close Lacey and Sam are, however I thought the issues that are in this book are really sad as unfortunately they do happen and you can see to a certain level why the witch would want the revenge that she goes for.
October 29, 2022
Having traveled the Four Corners region more than a few times I was especially excited to read this book. It felt so immediate and honest, it brought out my own memories, the scents, the colors, the sounds and the senses I'd felt when I was there.
The atmosphere and the characters are woven together so beautifully with the environment of that area that the tale is one of the most complete stories for this reader.
The atmosphere and the characters are woven together so beautifully with the environment of that area that the tale is one of the most complete stories for this reader.
April 3, 2019
This second book in the Lacey Fitzpatrick and Sam Firecloud Mystery series takes us out of Lacey’s city cop comfort zone and deep into Sam Firecloud’s personal background. Set on the reservation where most of his family still live, we get better acquainted with Sam’s culture, history and beliefs in a setting where he feels comfortable.
There is also a switch in morality, from Lacey’s straight-laced legal approach to Sam’s more visceral and intuitive sense of justice. I like how the partners are beginning to find a balance between the two very different styles which involves respecting those inherent differences without compromising their own personal integrity and values. This is a working relationship of equality, so the hints of deepening chemistry are very exciting.
The supernatural ‘flavour’ is stronger in this novel than in the previous. Sam’s visions of ghosts have already been established in the first book, so they feature less centrally here. Instead we get witches, magic, shapeshifting and curses… plenty of excitement to keep our two sleuths guessing.
I was a tiny bit disappointed that after such a mysterious and tense build up, the reveal was a little too brief and direct. I would have liked a few final twists to keep me on my toes!
That minor quibble aside, this is shaping up to be a really excellent series, comprising my favourite elements of cosy mystery and urban fantasy, and I have already downloaded Book 3 to add to my personal book mountain.
She clicked off the video and glanced around her empty apartment. It would be nice to have someone to talk to about this. She trusted her instincts, but felt better when she had a partner for a quick reality check. Two heads were always better than one.
But this job didn’t have any ghosts in it.
– Melissa Bowersock, Skin Walk
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
There is also a switch in morality, from Lacey’s straight-laced legal approach to Sam’s more visceral and intuitive sense of justice. I like how the partners are beginning to find a balance between the two very different styles which involves respecting those inherent differences without compromising their own personal integrity and values. This is a working relationship of equality, so the hints of deepening chemistry are very exciting.
The supernatural ‘flavour’ is stronger in this novel than in the previous. Sam’s visions of ghosts have already been established in the first book, so they feature less centrally here. Instead we get witches, magic, shapeshifting and curses… plenty of excitement to keep our two sleuths guessing.
I was a tiny bit disappointed that after such a mysterious and tense build up, the reveal was a little too brief and direct. I would have liked a few final twists to keep me on my toes!
That minor quibble aside, this is shaping up to be a really excellent series, comprising my favourite elements of cosy mystery and urban fantasy, and I have already downloaded Book 3 to add to my personal book mountain.
She clicked off the video and glanced around her empty apartment. It would be nice to have someone to talk to about this. She trusted her instincts, but felt better when she had a partner for a quick reality check. Two heads were always better than one.
But this job didn’t have any ghosts in it.
– Melissa Bowersock, Skin Walk
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
October 17, 2022
I love this series, it was really good to get a view of Sam's family life and different cultural view point. I really enjoy the dynamic between Lacey and Sam, already started the next book Star walk ❤️❤️
May 14, 2020
4.5
Book source ~ Kindle Unlimited
Lacey Fitzpatrick used to be a detective for the LAPD, but now she’s a private investigator. Sam Firecloud works construction, but he’s also a medium who works on the side to release ghosts from their Earthly prison. An unusual partnership formed at the end of book 1, slowly starts to gel as Sam and Lacey feel their way around each other (not that way, you pervs) and mesh how each likes to work to solve a case.
This particular case takes them to Sam’s family on the Navajo reservation. Sam’s cousin has died in what his grandfather believes is not a natural way. The clues are hard to come by, but they chip away at it until the culprit is revealed. Wow. I did not see that coming. Great story!
Book source ~ Kindle Unlimited
Lacey Fitzpatrick used to be a detective for the LAPD, but now she’s a private investigator. Sam Firecloud works construction, but he’s also a medium who works on the side to release ghosts from their Earthly prison. An unusual partnership formed at the end of book 1, slowly starts to gel as Sam and Lacey feel their way around each other (not that way, you pervs) and mesh how each likes to work to solve a case.
This particular case takes them to Sam’s family on the Navajo reservation. Sam’s cousin has died in what his grandfather believes is not a natural way. The clues are hard to come by, but they chip away at it until the culprit is revealed. Wow. I did not see that coming. Great story!
August 29, 2019
It's a big difference from ordinary ghosts in LA to the spirit problems of the Navajo, but that's where this partnership has to go to help Samuel's cousin find peace. Meeting Sam's grandfather was the best part, but most of the rest of the family were friendly if a bit overwhelming. So was the murder investigation. Accustomed to regular law and order, finding out that the murderer is a witch is a bit mind boggling, and seeing for herself some manifestations are absolutely terrifying. Excellent read and obviously well researched!
Laura Wilson is a very good narrator, but needs a better sound booth.
Laura Wilson is a very good narrator, but needs a better sound booth.
April 30, 2017
Great Series
Great stories. Excellent character development. Makes you care about the people in the stories. Cannot wait for the next book in this series. Read Ghost Walk, the first book in this series and had to immediately download Skin Walk. So glad I did. If you enjoy Native American culture and mysteries, this is a great series for you.
Great stories. Excellent character development. Makes you care about the people in the stories. Cannot wait for the next book in this series. Read Ghost Walk, the first book in this series and had to immediately download Skin Walk. So glad I did. If you enjoy Native American culture and mysteries, this is a great series for you.
January 14, 2020
Excellent
I enjoyed ghost walk so much that I decided to read the next book in the series. I was not disappointed.
Murder, supernatural causes, shapeshifters, witches and Indian folklore.
The book hooked me and I read it in one go. I can’t wait to start the next one!
I enjoyed ghost walk so much that I decided to read the next book in the series. I was not disappointed.
Murder, supernatural causes, shapeshifters, witches and Indian folklore.
The book hooked me and I read it in one go. I can’t wait to start the next one!
August 7, 2020
audible:This was a very good book!Lacey and Sam head to the reservation to visit his family after a relative is found dead.Laur Wilson was a fine narrator.I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.'
January 19, 2022
A great follow up to ghost walk. I loved that it took place at the reservation and we get to meet Sam's family and the dynamic there.
I figured out whodunnit quite quickly, which made the ending unsurprising but it was still interesting to see how the witch was dealt with. Very unusual!
I figured out whodunnit quite quickly, which made the ending unsurprising but it was still interesting to see how the witch was dealt with. Very unusual!
July 3, 2022
ENJOYED THIS STORY
Just finished the second book in the Lacey Fitzpatrick and Sam Firecloud series and am planning to read the rest of the series in the near future. The characters and story lines are fun and page turning. Well worth an enjoyable mystery read.
Just finished the second book in the Lacey Fitzpatrick and Sam Firecloud series and am planning to read the rest of the series in the near future. The characters and story lines are fun and page turning. Well worth an enjoyable mystery read.
October 15, 2019
Loved this book can't wait to start the 3rd in the series
May 22, 2020
Good
This is part of a series that shows how the two people who work together are in the Navajo reservation
This is part of a series that shows how the two people who work together are in the Navajo reservation
March 9, 2021
Better than book 1
I'm enjoying reading this series very much. I especially enjoy reading about the Navajo traditions and beliefs. I'm going to read the next book in this series.
I'm enjoying reading this series very much. I especially enjoy reading about the Navajo traditions and beliefs. I'm going to read the next book in this series.
May 4, 2023
"Skin Walk", second in the 'Lacey Fitzpatrick and Sam Firecloud' series takes an unexpected turn as Sam explores the death of his cousin on the Navajo reservation.
While the paranormal was somewhat downplayed in 'Ghost Walk', this time Lacey's investigative skills, while useful, play second fiddle to very real dark magic and Sam's abilities come to the fore.
By the end Lacey cannot deny that magic is real and very dangerous.
One new character, Sam's grandfather Ben, rarely speaks but an impressive appearance. I'd like to hope that he features in further books.
Sam's extended family also play their part.
The relationship between Lacey and Sam is sometimes strained, he's not very social and she finds it difficult to communicate with him. But they muddle along and do their best to make things work.
After a string of books in which the main male and female characters fall in lust with each other in short order, it is a pleasant change to find two people who like each other, work together, but don't plan on a deeper relationship. Maybe they will, maybe they won't - it's in the very capable hands of author Melissa Bowersock.
4 very solid Stars.
While the paranormal was somewhat downplayed in 'Ghost Walk', this time Lacey's investigative skills, while useful, play second fiddle to very real dark magic and Sam's abilities come to the fore.
By the end Lacey cannot deny that magic is real and very dangerous.
One new character, Sam's grandfather Ben, rarely speaks but an impressive appearance. I'd like to hope that he features in further books.
Sam's extended family also play their part.
The relationship between Lacey and Sam is sometimes strained, he's not very social and she finds it difficult to communicate with him. But they muddle along and do their best to make things work.
After a string of books in which the main male and female characters fall in lust with each other in short order, it is a pleasant change to find two people who like each other, work together, but don't plan on a deeper relationship. Maybe they will, maybe they won't - it's in the very capable hands of author Melissa Bowersock.
4 very solid Stars.
June 25, 2025
Ok this review is 100% bias. 100%. I say that, I mean that and I’m warning you this review is bias.
The first book got a 3 star from me. Liked both characters, liked the plot, their personalities and how well they worked together. This one, was to me amazing and one of the best books I’ve ever read. I am 1/2 Native American and into lore, traditions and mythology history, so that’s why I say this one is based solely on my preference.
The attention to detail about their way of life was incredible, the way she blended the real world and the supernatural elements together while paying respect to the Native American customs was next level. Where the first book I figured out the bad guy from their introduction, this one I did not. I liked how the author introduced multiple characters to throw me off but in a very tactical way. Some authors throw random characters in to confuse the reader but this author did it in the way of using his big family, and that my friend was great reading.
I do worry that this series has 46 books, and that I’ll get bored or stop, if I do I will probably reread this book when I need a good book to clear my mind. Fantastic!!
The first book got a 3 star from me. Liked both characters, liked the plot, their personalities and how well they worked together. This one, was to me amazing and one of the best books I’ve ever read. I am 1/2 Native American and into lore, traditions and mythology history, so that’s why I say this one is based solely on my preference.
The attention to detail about their way of life was incredible, the way she blended the real world and the supernatural elements together while paying respect to the Native American customs was next level. Where the first book I figured out the bad guy from their introduction, this one I did not. I liked how the author introduced multiple characters to throw me off but in a very tactical way. Some authors throw random characters in to confuse the reader but this author did it in the way of using his big family, and that my friend was great reading.
I do worry that this series has 46 books, and that I’ll get bored or stop, if I do I will probably reread this book when I need a good book to clear my mind. Fantastic!!
May 25, 2024
For Lifetime/Hallmark channel viewers
I don't normally write reviews, but I will say a word or two here. While book one was a reasonably enjoyable novel, I was nevertheless not a huge fan. However, it had potential and wanted to see where it might lead. I was intrigued by the premise and I love the southwest and Native lore. This second story, while an interesting concept, just didn't have a lot of substance. The mystery was hardly that; very straightforward and no "who dunnit" guesses, no surprise ending. The characters are all pleasant enough if not cliché, but the dialogue too, well, Hallmark-y. Not a wholly bad book, perfectly fine enough for a particular reader.
But I am not that reader. Forgiving the narrow plot, and vanilla dialogue, the repetitive phrasing drove me bonkers and was very distracting. "Remember when I told you...", "he spoke softly", "his eyes glittered..." and a few choice others over and over again. Oy. Also, is that a wolf on the cover? Wolves were not a part of this story, just sayin'. ...It was a very fast read at least.
I don't normally write reviews, but I will say a word or two here. While book one was a reasonably enjoyable novel, I was nevertheless not a huge fan. However, it had potential and wanted to see where it might lead. I was intrigued by the premise and I love the southwest and Native lore. This second story, while an interesting concept, just didn't have a lot of substance. The mystery was hardly that; very straightforward and no "who dunnit" guesses, no surprise ending. The characters are all pleasant enough if not cliché, but the dialogue too, well, Hallmark-y. Not a wholly bad book, perfectly fine enough for a particular reader.
But I am not that reader. Forgiving the narrow plot, and vanilla dialogue, the repetitive phrasing drove me bonkers and was very distracting. "Remember when I told you...", "he spoke softly", "his eyes glittered..." and a few choice others over and over again. Oy. Also, is that a wolf on the cover? Wolves were not a part of this story, just sayin'. ...It was a very fast read at least.
July 7, 2025
A different kind of mystery
This was certainly a different kind of mystery, and yet of course it wasn't. There was a murder, Lacey and Sam do their thing to figure it out and bring balance. What I absolutely loved was the fact that Sam brought Lacey back to his family, back to the res. I have no idea truly how well the author is familiar with Navajo living on the res, but she did mention talking to some Navajo rangers/lawmen. I hope she did research on things other than how the law would respond. I enjoyed how Lacey responded to the strangeness around her. It is very close to my own experience in similar situations. Fantastic second book. I hope the rest of the series lives up to the promise.
This was certainly a different kind of mystery, and yet of course it wasn't. There was a murder, Lacey and Sam do their thing to figure it out and bring balance. What I absolutely loved was the fact that Sam brought Lacey back to his family, back to the res. I have no idea truly how well the author is familiar with Navajo living on the res, but she did mention talking to some Navajo rangers/lawmen. I hope she did research on things other than how the law would respond. I enjoyed how Lacey responded to the strangeness around her. It is very close to my own experience in similar situations. Fantastic second book. I hope the rest of the series lives up to the promise.
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