ISBN: 0-06-054448-1 Order from:
Enjoyable but predictable mystery, with likable characters, evocative background, and occasionally biting humor.
Reviewed by David on August 18, 2005
Genre: Mystery (Police Procedural, Amerind, Biology)
Synopsis: This is an unabridged recording of The Sinister Pig. Navajo Tribal Police Sergeant Jim Chee gets both puzzled and angry when an investigation of a murder on tribal lands is mishandled—or deliberately hushed—by the FBI.
With support of his mentor, retired but still active Joe Leaphorn, and his colleagues in law enforcement, Jim continues to pursue the investigation through informal channels.
Full Review: While the main characters are both likable and well drawn, the villain is rather standard in this predictable police procedural. While the mystery itself is lackluster, there is still significant enjoyment in the character development of Chee, Leaphorn and their friends; and as in much of this series, the Indian reservations of the Southwest provide a stark and enticing frame for the plot.
The ending is satisfying, and while the main mystery is straightforward, there are enough minor variations and dry humor to keep the reader's attention.
The result is a very readable, enjoyable book, that while not being memorable itself, helps develop some favorite characters.
Overall: 5.5; Plot: 5; Characters: 6; Style: 6; World-building: 6.5; Originality: 5.5;
Copyright date 2003, HarperCollins (Harper Audio), 2003, Audio CD, 5 discs
ISBN: 0-06-054448-1 Order from: