The plot: Anna Horn's life is not easy -- she's bullied and tormented at school, she doesn't seem to fit on the rez either, and she's haunted by a ravenous, mythological entity her uncle told her about when she was seven. The tribal stories she once knew are being forgotten, her parents are arguing, her 15-year-od sister, Grace, is sneaking out at night, and there's something mysterious going on in suite 808 at the casino/hotel where she works. And young women from the reservation are disappearing. As Anna struggles to put all the pieces together, Grace goes missing, too. Now it's a race against time if Anna is going to save her sister.
My thoughts: This novel is both a coming of age story and a mystery with hints of Native American lore and a touch of supernatural horror. The chapters alternate between the days leading up to Grace's disappearance, and the hours afterwards. It was a little confusing at first, but once I got used to the switches in time, I found the narrative to be very compelling. And I really liked Anna and sympathized with all her struggles. And I liked the Native American myths and stories she remembers and tells. But it's also a dark story at times. The plight of young Native American women who go missing or are murdered every year is a heartbreaking one, and Medina does a good job of highlighting this crisis. This novel is propulsive, suspenseful and very well-written.
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Happy Reading!
I've been looking to add an indigenous thriller to my TBR this year, so this is perfect! I don't mind switching timelines, though good to have a heads-up!
ReplyDeleteJust keep track of the chapter headers because they alert you as to when you are in the story. And Medina's book is a great look at Native American lives and cultures. I will definitely be reading his other books. :D
DeleteThis sounds like something I'd really enjoy. Thanks for the heads up about the alternating chapters.
ReplyDeleteThanks for what you shared about this book, Lark. It's not one that I knew of, but I'm intrigued. Especially interesting with the Native American culture.
ReplyDeleteThe disappearance of young Native American women is a very troubling issue. Kudos to this author for highlighting it with this book.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds creepy and poignant at the same time. I will have to look for this one.
ReplyDeleteThis does sound super creepy, but also good!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds interesting. I’ve read several novels about the disappearance of young Native American women from reservations and how difficult it is to coordinate between the different investigating agencies. It seems to be too big a job for the tribal police, and the FBI doesn’t always take it completely seriously until several women are gone. Sad.
ReplyDeleteThat does sound like a compelling story--and timely.
ReplyDeleteI am always intrigued to hear about stories set in a Native American community. Thank you for sharing this book with us.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds good. Happy Valentine's Day to you
ReplyDeleteThis sounds terrific. Great review!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a really good novel. I love mysteries and also the setting on the rez and Anna Horn who is not having a good time in school but takes on the project of finding out what has happened to the missing women is compelling.
ReplyDeleteThis author is on my list to read at some point. I'm glad you enjoyed it!
ReplyDelete