"A good addition to this delightul series"
The shared mythos centers on the Anasazi priests
sacrificing innocent lives in hopes of gaining favor from
the WHITE SHELL WOMAN (moon) and her twin chidlren
(Colorado rock formations). Now a millennium later, a Zuni
girl discovers what is apparently an ancient petroglyph
that leaves the experts totally divided on what the find
means. Not long afterward, an archeologist dies at the
treasure site. Ute Shaman Daisy Perika believes the modern world has
once again stepped where it does not belong and knows more
ill is to come from stomping on the ancient secrets.
Still, needing capital for his herd of cattle, her nephew
former Ute policeman rancher Charlie Moon ignores her dire
warning and begins to investigate the murder and the
archeological treasure. He does not yet realize the danger
he faces from what seems a spiritual source as his aunt
describes, but may actually prove mundane and deadly. The latest war between heritage and modernization,
WHITE SHELL WOMAN, is an exciting entry due to the charming
cast (including curmudgeon Daisy) that retains a freshness
about them. The story line is filled with Native American
mythos and offers the typical collision between two worlds
that culminate in mayhem and murder. Fans of the sub-genre
will relish James D. Doss' latest encounter, but though
well written and perceptive the plot lose some of its
luster as it contains a déjà vu feel to it. Harriet Klausner
Reviewed by PNR Group Member
Posted December 29, 2001
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