Quick Take

Officer Bernadette Manuelito found the dead man slumped over in the cab of a blue pickup abandoned in a dry gulch off a dirt road--with a rich ex-con's phone number in his pocket ... and a tobacco tin nearly filled with tracer gold. It's her initial mishandling of the scene that spell trouble for her supervisor, Sgt. Jim Chee of the Navajo Tribal Police--but it's the echoes of a long ago crime that call the legendary former Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn out of retirement. Years earlier, Leaphorn followed the trail of a beautiful, young, and missing wife to a dead end, and his failure has haunted him ever since. But ghosts never sleep in these high, lonely Southwestern hills. And the twisted threads of craven murders past and current may finally be coming together, thanks to secrets once moaned in torment on the desert wind.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: The Wailing Wind (Leaphorn & Chee, #15)

Introduction

"The Wailing Wind" by Tony Hillerman is the 15th installment in the Leaphorn and Chee series. In this book, Officer Bernadette Manuelito finds a dead body in a truck, leading to a complex web of crimes and secrets that span decades. As Bernie navigates the challenges of her job and her personal life, she seeks redemption and self-respect. Meanwhile, retired Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn and Sergeant Jim Chee, two legendary police officers, join forces to solve the mystery. With their unique perspectives and expertise, they unravel the twisted threads of past and present crimes.

About Tony Hillerman

Tony Hillerman, the author of "The Wailing Wind," was a decorated combat veteran from World War II and a bestselling author known for his Navajo Tribal Police series. Born in Sacred Heart, Oklahoma, Hillerman served as a mortarman in the 103rd Infantry Division and earned numerous accolades for his bravery. After his military service, he worked as a journalist and later taught journalism at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. Hillerman's extensive knowledge of the Southwest region and its diverse cultures shines through in his writing, making him a beloved figure among readers.

Analysis of Views

Engaging Mystery: Readers praise the book for its engaging mystery plot that keeps them on the edge of their seats. The interwoven threads of past and present crimes create a complex and intriguing narrative that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
Well-Developed Characters: Hillerman's characters are widely praised for their depth and complexity. Readers appreciate the development of Bernie's character as she navigates her personal struggles while working on the case. The relationship between Bernie, Chee, and Leaphorn adds depth and nuance to the story.
Navajo Culture: Hillerman's portrayal of Navajo culture is highly commended by readers. The book incorporates elements of Navajo beliefs, traditions, and rituals, providing a unique perspective on the Southwest region. Readers appreciate the authenticity and cultural richness that Hillerman brings to the story.
Interpersonal Relationships: The interpersonal relationships between the characters are another highlight of the book. Readers enjoy watching Bernie's relationship with Chee evolve, as well as the interactions between Leaphorn and Chee. The tension and chemistry between these characters add depth to the story.
Suspenseful Pacing: The pacing of the book is described as suspenseful and well-balanced. Hillerman expertly builds tension throughout the story, keeping readers engaged from beginning to end. The plot twists and turns keep readers guessing until the very end.

Reasons for Recommendation

Engaging Mystery: The mystery plot in "The Wailing Wind" is highly engaging, keeping readers invested in the story from start to finish. The interwoven threads of past and present crimes create a complex narrative that keeps readers on their toes.
Well-Developed Characters: Hillerman's characters are praised for their depth and complexity, making them relatable and memorable. Readers appreciate the development of Bernie's character as she navigates her personal struggles while working on the case. The relationships between Bernie, Chee, and Leaphorn add depth to the story.
Navajo Culture: Hillerman's portrayal of Navajo culture adds a unique and authentic flavor to the story. Readers appreciate learning about Navajo beliefs, traditions, and rituals through the eyes of Bernie and other characters in the book. This cultural richness enriches the overall reading experience.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Predictable Plot: Some readers find the plot of "The Wailing Wind" to be predictable, particularly in relation to certain aspects of the mystery. While the overall mystery is engaging, some readers feel that certain elements are easily guessed or telegraphed.
Lack of Resolution: A few readers feel that certain plot points are left unresolved or underdeveloped in "The Wailing Wind." They express disappointment in certain aspects of the story, such as unanswered questions or unsatisfying conclusions for certain characters.

Conclusion

"The Wailing Wind" by Tony Hillerman is a highly recommended addition to the Leaphorn and Chee series. With its engaging mystery plot, well-developed characters, portrayal of Navajo culture, and suspenseful pacing, this book offers readers an immersive reading experience set against the stunning backdrop of the Southwest region. While some readers find certain aspects predictable or lacking in resolution, overall "The Wailing Wind" is praised for its ability to captivate readers with its intricate storytelling and richly drawn characters. If you enjoy crime novels with a touch of cultural depth, this book is definitely worth adding to your reading list.