Shadow of the Solstice

A Leaphorn, Chee & Manuelito Novel

By: Anne Hillerman

Narrated by: Jessica Matten

“Anne Hillerman deserves recognition as one of the finest mystery authors currently working in the genre.”—New York Journal of Books

In this gripping chapter in New York Times bestselling author Anne Hillerman’s Leaphorn, Chee & Manuelito series, the detectives must sort out a save-the-planet meditation group connected to a mysterious death and a nefarious scheme targeting vulnerable indigenous people living with addiction.

The Navajo Nation police are on high alert when a U.S. Cabinet Secretary schedules an unprecedented trip to the little Navajo town of Shiprock, New Mexico. The visit coincides with a plan to resume uranium mining along the Navajo Nation border. Tensions around the official’s arrival escalate when the body of a stranger is found in an area restricted for the disposal of radioactive uranium waste. Is it coincidence that a cult with a propensity for violence arrives at a private camp group outside Shiprock the same week to celebrate the summer solstice? When the outsiders’ erratic behavior makes their Navajo hosts uneasy, Officer Bernadette Manuelito is assigned to monitor the situation. She finds a young boy at grave risk, abused women, and other shocking discoveries that plunge her and Lt. Jim Chee into a volatile and deadly situation.

Meanwhile, Darleen Manuelito, Bernie’s high spirited younger sister, learns one of her home health clients is gone–and the woman’s daughter doesn’t seem to care. Darleen’s curiosity and sense of duty combine to lead her to discover that the client’s grandson is also missing and that the two have become ensnared in a wickedly complex scheme exploiting indigenous people. Darleen’s information meshes with a case Chee has begun to solve that deals with the evil underside of human nature.

Supplemental enhancement PDF accompanies the audiobook

Well done!!

The story is relevant to what is happening today and so well done and read. Can't wait for the next one! Loved it.

Interesting story line with the main characters

I liked the story line but the narrator mispronounced many Navajo words, per previous recorded books I’ve listened to.

Incredible work

This book is outstanding so well written I couldn’t stop listening until I finished it. Very well researched and a fascinating read.

Another Fine Mystery

This continuation of the Leaphorn, Chee and Manuelito story is a delight. The Southwest cultures merge into solving 3 different crimes on the Navajo Nation. The characters are so well defined you find yourself remembering their past stories and understanding the situations they face. There is tension in Bernadette's confrontation with criminals and fear for Chee's safety.

I like that the book continues the characters stories and moves forward on a personal level. Bernie
relates to children, Darlene becomes more responsible and Chee is in charge of the Police station. Mama is always loved and cared for.

The characters are in modern situations now. I hope Anne Hillerman continues her books they are the best.

Based on a true story

Thank you Ms Hillerman for bringing this story to light for me and many others. And thank you to all who stopped this scam and for your hard work in bringing the criminals to justice.