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Firekeeper's Daughter #Sneak Peek
Firekeeper's Daughter Sneak Peek
Download a FREE sneak peek of Firekeeper's Daughter by Angeline Boulley.
In Firekeeper's Daughter, debut author Angeline Boulley crafts a groundbreaking YA thriller about a Native teen who must root out the corruption in her community, for readers of Angie Thomas and Tommy Orange.
As a biracial, unenrolled tribal member and the product of a scandal, eighteen-year-old Daunis Fontaine has never quite fit in, both in her hometown and on the nearby Ojibwe reservation. Daunis dreams of studying medicine, but when her family is struck by tragedy, she puts her future on hold to care for her fragile mother.
The only bright spot is meeting Jamie, the charming new recruit on her brother Levi’s hockey team. Yet even as Daunis falls for Jamie, certain details don’t add up and she senses the dashing hockey star is hiding something. Everything comes to light when Daunis witnesses a shocking murder, thrusting her into the heart of a criminal investigation.
Reluctantly, Daunis agrees to go undercover, but secretly pursues her own investigation, tracking down the criminals with her knowledge of chemistry and Ojibwe traditional medicine. But the deceptions—and deaths—keep piling up and soon the threat strikes too close to home.
Now, Daunis must learn what it means to be a strong Anishinaabe kwe (Ojibwe woman) and how far she'll go to protect her community, even if it tears apart the only world she’s ever known.
In Firekeeper's Daughter, debut author Angeline Boulley crafts a groundbreaking YA thriller about a Native teen who must root out the corruption in her community, for readers of Angie Thomas and Tommy Orange.
As a biracial, unenrolled tribal member and the product of a scandal, eighteen-year-old Daunis Fontaine has never quite fit in, both in her hometown and on the nearby Ojibwe reservation. Daunis dreams of studying medicine, but when her family is struck by tragedy, she puts her future on hold to care for her fragile mother.
The only bright spot is meeting Jamie, the charming new recruit on her brother Levi’s hockey team. Yet even as Daunis falls for Jamie, certain details don’t add up and she senses the dashing hockey star is hiding something. Everything comes to light when Daunis witnesses a shocking murder, thrusting her into the heart of a criminal investigation.
Reluctantly, Daunis agrees to go undercover, but secretly pursues her own investigation, tracking down the criminals with her knowledge of chemistry and Ojibwe traditional medicine. But the deceptions—and deaths—keep piling up and soon the threat strikes too close to home.
Now, Daunis must learn what it means to be a strong Anishinaabe kwe (Ojibwe woman) and how far she'll go to protect her community, even if it tears apart the only world she’s ever known.
86 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 4, 2021
42 people are currently reading
576 people want to read
About the author
Angeline Boulley
7 books5,993 followersAngeline Boulley, an enrolled member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, is a storyteller who writes about her Ojibwe community in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. She gained attention from the We Need Diverse Books Mentorship Program. Angeline was the former Director of the Office of Indian Education at the U.S. Department of Education. Her agent is Faye Bender at The Book Group. Firekeeper's Daughter has been optioned for a Netflix series by the Obamas' Higher Ground production company.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 24, 2020
— thanks to #NetGalley and the publisher Henry, Holt and Co. for providing me with an e-ARC of a sneak peek of #FirekeepersDaughter in exchange for an honest review.
i was so excited to pick this book up, and i was eternally grateful for even a sneak peak. but i have to say i expected more than what i got.
please not that from the sneak peek that i read, i can only judge on the first few chapters. i really loved how Anishinaabe this book (sneak peek) was, i liked how it doesn’t let you forget the existence of indigenous people and native tribes. it doesn’t treat that culture weirdly, just naturally and head-on and i liked seeing that in a YA book.
however, and i’m sure my opinion can be changed if i read the complete book, but the writing was just not for me. the number of times daunis called jamie “buddy” is impossible to count. some/most of the relationships felt forced and unnatural; like daunis’ relationship with her friends and her auntie. also, nobody texts like that! this books was trying so hard to be, idk, YA? in one word, everything was really forced and it often pulled me out of the story (or lack thereof) because of how misplaces or awkward the interactions and the characters were.
all in all, i wish i could love this. the premise is GREAT, the underlying theme is GREAT. but i just felt like the writing fell short of all that. would the progressing plot have made up for it in the next chapters outside the excerpt i just read? absolutely possible. i might just have to pick up the book when it’s released march 2021!
i was so excited to pick this book up, and i was eternally grateful for even a sneak peak. but i have to say i expected more than what i got.
please not that from the sneak peek that i read, i can only judge on the first few chapters. i really loved how Anishinaabe this book (sneak peek) was, i liked how it doesn’t let you forget the existence of indigenous people and native tribes. it doesn’t treat that culture weirdly, just naturally and head-on and i liked seeing that in a YA book.
however, and i’m sure my opinion can be changed if i read the complete book, but the writing was just not for me. the number of times daunis called jamie “buddy” is impossible to count. some/most of the relationships felt forced and unnatural; like daunis’ relationship with her friends and her auntie. also, nobody texts like that! this books was trying so hard to be, idk, YA? in one word, everything was really forced and it often pulled me out of the story (or lack thereof) because of how misplaces or awkward the interactions and the characters were.
all in all, i wish i could love this. the premise is GREAT, the underlying theme is GREAT. but i just felt like the writing fell short of all that. would the progressing plot have made up for it in the next chapters outside the excerpt i just read? absolutely possible. i might just have to pick up the book when it’s released march 2021!
April 13, 2022
Magnificent. A must-read YA. This book sucks you in and can’t be put down. I read 200+ pages in one sitting because I had to know what what happened next. Its heartbreaking, shocking, thrilling, informative, beautiful and unique. Often times I would think “this would make a great movie” and I hope the Netflix series does it justice. I loved this book and would read 100 more exactly like Fire Keeper’s Daughter - I hope Boulley writes more.
December 28, 2021
"Gramma Pearl fixed my earache with my pee!
GrandMary recoiled and, a heart-beat later, glared at my mother as if this was her fault. Something split inside me when I saw my mother's embarrassment. I learned there were times when I was expected to be Fontaine and other times when it was safe to be a Firekeeper."
This quote really encapsulates the whole identity of this book. The main character is struggling with her mixed identity that cause conflict with how she sees the world and how the world sees her. While every high schoolers works to find their own identity, it is so much harder for Daunis because her culture is such a huge part of who she is.
" All of these dancers. Imagine that each one is an atom, forming molecules of dancers fore each category: Traditional, Fancy, Grass, Jingle. You see the whole identity... Now focus on just one dancer-say, a Jingle Dress dancer...Every atom has subatomic parts. Her regalia includes a dress, belt, moccasins, and a lot of other items. Dancers don't start out with their full regalia; they get it bit by bit. Each piece is a connection to her family, her teachers, and even to ancestors generations back. If you know the story of her regalia-who and where and why each item came to be-then you know her."
My favorite part of the whole book was learning more about Native American culture. It was really broken down so well that even if you don't know anything about their history or culture, you can follow along.
However, I really didn't like this book because it felt very forced. Conversations did not feel natural at all instead felt like the author wanted to talk about certain issues and was using conversations to talk about. Which is fine but it was just too manufactured. It also made it impossible to connect with any of the characters because they just exist to push along the plot. The whole book felt like it was confused about its identity because the author is trying to make it young adult but it didn't read like that. We just don't talk like that. And don't even get me started on the texting!!
Like what the author is trying to do, I just was not a fan of its excecution
GrandMary recoiled and, a heart-beat later, glared at my mother as if this was her fault. Something split inside me when I saw my mother's embarrassment. I learned there were times when I was expected to be Fontaine and other times when it was safe to be a Firekeeper."
This quote really encapsulates the whole identity of this book. The main character is struggling with her mixed identity that cause conflict with how she sees the world and how the world sees her. While every high schoolers works to find their own identity, it is so much harder for Daunis because her culture is such a huge part of who she is.
" All of these dancers. Imagine that each one is an atom, forming molecules of dancers fore each category: Traditional, Fancy, Grass, Jingle. You see the whole identity... Now focus on just one dancer-say, a Jingle Dress dancer...Every atom has subatomic parts. Her regalia includes a dress, belt, moccasins, and a lot of other items. Dancers don't start out with their full regalia; they get it bit by bit. Each piece is a connection to her family, her teachers, and even to ancestors generations back. If you know the story of her regalia-who and where and why each item came to be-then you know her."
My favorite part of the whole book was learning more about Native American culture. It was really broken down so well that even if you don't know anything about their history or culture, you can follow along.
However, I really didn't like this book because it felt very forced. Conversations did not feel natural at all instead felt like the author wanted to talk about certain issues and was using conversations to talk about. Which is fine but it was just too manufactured. It also made it impossible to connect with any of the characters because they just exist to push along the plot. The whole book felt like it was confused about its identity because the author is trying to make it young adult but it didn't read like that. We just don't talk like that. And don't even get me started on the texting!!
Like what the author is trying to do, I just was not a fan of its excecution
November 23, 2021
I would give this book wičháȟpi opáwiŋǧe — 100 stars! — if I could. This book evoked every kind of emotion imaginable from me - I cackled out loud, I cried, I became furious, disgusted, joyful, and so much more. I am Lakota (my partner is Ojibwe) and easily saw my teen self reflected in this story that meticulously blended/expertly wove a modern Indigenous experience with traditional teachings without feeling like it was being too NDNer-than-you preachy or trying to pander to the wyt gaze. I’m not sure why it was set in the early 2000s except to stay away from tricky tech questions that might pop up in a more contemporary setting (eg teens on social media). But that really didn’t effect the story, which, btw, was only made better (impossible, I know!) by Isabella LaBlanc’s narrating (of course, I’m not sure how she did on the Anishinaabemowin pronunciations, but they sounded great to me!). Ugh - I can’t say enough good things here. Everyone needs to read it so we can get this amazing kwe storyteller to share more with us! EDIT: I listened to the full audiobook - not the sneak peek I apparently clicked on…
December 12, 2022
Disclaimer, I didn't finish this book, and this review is of the first 20%. I just couldn't torture myself with this book anymore. It is so boring! It reads like it was written by a teenager for other teenagers. Nothing is happening. There's some random foreign language thrown in to make it look more intelligent... It doesn't work. I fully expect there's a story in there somewhere, other than a girl who has a crush on a new guy, and some hints of a family secret. Oh, and, it's way too preachy right off the bat. "This is how you pronounce this, blah blah blah". Just no.
May 3, 2022
I listened to this book in order to get the Ojibwe language correctly. I would say this is one of my all time favorite books! Highly recommend!
June 3, 2022
I was hooked from the first page. The story line was riveting and couldn’t put the book down. I do think the author dragged the story along too far which is why I gave the review 4 stars.
October 2, 2022
A story every woman should read. Absolutely incredible! No words can begin to describe the status of this story ❤️
March 2, 2023
Audiobook. Stopped listening. Not my style. Also YA book and I am a senior citizen.
January 3, 2022
This young adult novel focuses on the life of an adolescent mixed blood female of Ojibwa mixed descent. She grapples with issues of sexual identity, romantic identity, and cultural identity. She is thrust into a criminal investigation and the novel focuses on her perspectives an attitude surrounding the events and circumstances of the investigation and her half brother Levi. The book is descriptive and the characters are developed to appoint that assist the reader and understanding the context of the novel. Unfortunately, much of the book reads almost as a lecture… The author using the text as a prop to teach people about Ojibwa culture. The forced text and lecture mode distract from the actual story and I feel the book would’ve been better if that had been left out completely. Learning the culture naturally through the storyline would have been far more effective. I feel this would keep adolescents from enjoying the story as much as if it had been more authentic. Some of the conversations also felt forced and not real. How about the story drags on in parts, it is an interesting read and it’s a quite simple book to finish.
December 29, 2024
I enjoyed this story and it was so interesting to go beyond the novel. I found myself looking information about Ojibwe. Author‘s brief note at the end of the book informs about the violence that is still present against Native women. There were sad parts but also hope. I don‘t know but the pace was a little slow and found some parts disconnected. I don‘t know how to explain it: interesting, liked it but not loved it.
3.5/3.8⭐️
3.5/3.8⭐️
June 5, 2022
This book is so well-written and I enjoyed learning about the traditions, beliefs of the main character’s Native American tribe. The author does a wonderful job showing the characters live modern day lives; while keeping up with the traditions of their community. The mystery/crime part of the story was quick and interesting.
October 26, 2021
Very interesting book. The story and characters were very well developed. I especially liked the Indian customs and all the details about the Michigan upper peninsula since I live in MI and have been there.
June 14, 2022
4.5
I was confused at first and it began a little slow but it was worth the wait. There is the obligatory curse word in the beginning chapters which makes me cringe since it wasn't necessary and I'm still a bit unsure of the ending, but the story was great and I'm glad I read it.
I was confused at first and it began a little slow but it was worth the wait. There is the obligatory curse word in the beginning chapters which makes me cringe since it wasn't necessary and I'm still a bit unsure of the ending, but the story was great and I'm glad I read it.
July 12, 2022
Such a good read. Injustice is everywhere and it really sucks.
October 6, 2022
I love this book. The protagonist is a strong, modern, indigenous girl. The language is woven in as well as relevant history. It's a worthwhile read.
March 22, 2023
Explores a lot of themes simultaneously. Enjoyed the look into Native American culture. Still thinking about the book months later!
July 24, 2023
Enjoyed very much. It was a little slow at times. Tells a very intriguing story. Looking forward to reading her next book.
November 17, 2023
I read this book in April but just finished listening on audio after hearing the author speak. I enjoyed it just as much listening as I did reading it.
August 18, 2021
4.5. Rich plots. Really enjoyed.
August 1, 2021
I read this book for a 2 week long readathon and this is our “buddy read”. I normally wouldn’t have picked this book on my own but I’m glad this readathon got me to read it. It was really good. A lot going on so you have to really pay attention but still good. The audiobook is great!
Want to read
September 6, 2021Wrong version selected can’t delete this.
December 27, 2020
“Whenever I fall, my dad’s voice is the thunder following the crack of lightning, telling me to get back up.”
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a sneak peek of Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley — here is my review of what I’ve read so far, with thoughts and opinions that are all my own!
Daunis has grown up having to straddle two different worlds — the ones of her mother and her father. When Daunis graduates from high school she’s ready to leave for college, but when back to back hardships hit her family she knows she’ll have to stay nearby for her freshmen year. While mentoring for a new player on her brother’s hockey team, Daunis witnesses a crime that will send her life spiraling in a new direction.
So, I’m very invested in this story! I’m dying to find out what happens to Daunis! This sneak peek definitely leaves me wanting more. There were a few times where the writing style felt a little rushed, but overall I think this is a great debut and I can’t wait to finish it when it’s released later this year!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a sneak peek of Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley — here is my review of what I’ve read so far, with thoughts and opinions that are all my own!
Daunis has grown up having to straddle two different worlds — the ones of her mother and her father. When Daunis graduates from high school she’s ready to leave for college, but when back to back hardships hit her family she knows she’ll have to stay nearby for her freshmen year. While mentoring for a new player on her brother’s hockey team, Daunis witnesses a crime that will send her life spiraling in a new direction.
So, I’m very invested in this story! I’m dying to find out what happens to Daunis! This sneak peek definitely leaves me wanting more. There were a few times where the writing style felt a little rushed, but overall I think this is a great debut and I can’t wait to finish it when it’s released later this year!
March 9, 2021
I enjoyed the sneak peek of the fire Keepers daughter. It was nice to see a different #ownvoices as I am yet to read many indigenous books. Angeline Boulley has a beautifully written debut of young adult Thrillers weaving and aspects of the Native American experience and issues and corruption within their community. I appreciate the author's insight without feeling like I was being lectured at or spoken down to about the problems and traditional practices.
thank you to #netgallery and #Henry Holt and Co. for providing me with an e-arc
thank you to #netgallery and #Henry Holt and Co. for providing me with an e-arc
March 22, 2021
This is a first novel. A young girl just graduated from high school is asked to help uncover a meth drug ring. She lives with her ,mother and is planning to go to college soon. She is held Indian but is not in the tribal council due to
Her scandalous birth, This book is written by a Native American so she knows the people and understands the situation. It is a marvelous book!
Her scandalous birth, This book is written by a Native American so she knows the people and understands the situation. It is a marvelous book!
July 9, 2021
A Native American teen goes undercover to help investigate a drug ring threatening her community.
It takes place on a Native American reservation. This book is rich in culture, history, and language of the Ojibwe Native American Tribe.
I love books that I learn or am reminded about the history and culture or other races of people.
It takes place on a Native American reservation. This book is rich in culture, history, and language of the Ojibwe Native American Tribe.
I love books that I learn or am reminded about the history and culture or other races of people.
May 31, 2021
A perfect 5 star murder mystery novel with so much more to offer, the debut novel and the writing is brilliant.
Read my full review here !!
https://avanikshah.wordpress.com/2021...
Read my full review here !!
https://avanikshah.wordpress.com/2021...
June 1, 2023
This was written for someone younger than me haha
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews