On the surface this is a predictable 'who dun it' thriller, in which the person 'who dun it' is pretty predictable, but this isn't a story just about solving/identifying a crime/criminal. This is a story that explores issues of poverty, violence against women, addiction; as well as the complicated nature of law and justice on the reservation.

A character driven thriller featuring a fascinating indigenous protagonist. The novel is rich with detail, cultural observations, a strong sense of place, and complicated relationships. An intense, intriguing, satisfying, and surprisingly touching read.

craig johnson thumbs up. indian reservation law officer.

This was a very good mystery where a Lakota "enforcer", his girlfriend, and his nephew try to identify the source of heroin appearing on the reservation. The characters were well developed. The storyline rang true. The pace was quite good. I understand this is the author's first book. I saw the opportunity at the end of this book for a sequel and I certainly hope he writes it. He has talent and I expect the writing to improve even more with future books. I will definitely be looking forward to them.

I read this on the recommendation of Craig Johnson (author of the Longmire series). The book is excellent. Interesting and well developed characters, an engaging plot and all while being immersed in the modern Lakota experience. This should be a worthwhile read for fans of crime fiction, those interested in the Native American experience and anyone who enjoys ‘meeting’ engaging characters. Thanks to Craig Johnson for the recommendation.

On Native American land, enforcers are often hired to serve justice on police cases that fall through the rather large cracks. Virgil is asked to take care of a man who is bringing heroin onto the reservation, and the job is complicated by his nephew's overdose, a police investigation, and his desire to make sure the charges are true before he acts. I was drawn in by the characters and the glimpse of reservation life and stayed because I had to know what happened.

NB this is an ebook. paper copies all express.

David Heska Wanbli Weiden has written a satisfying mystery as well as giving us a community member’s view of living on the Rosebud Indian Reservation. Virgil Wounded Horse, the protagonist, is a mixed-race Indian, who scoffs at the native religious beliefs and has found himself the guardian of him 14-year-old nephew. Virgil is a tough guy. He handles the issues that law enforcement refuses to deal with. When his nephew nearly dies because of a drug overdose, Virgil gets involved in the hunt for who is bringing the dope onto the reservation. It’s not a pretty life Virgil lives in. The reader will be immersed in the storyline, but along with that the view of living on a reservation is impressive as Virgil recounts his life and shares his insight into what it means to be a Native American. I hope Virgil returns to set more lives on the correct path and teach us readers more about his life.