Compelling.  Emotional.  Powerful.  

To simply say this book is important and necessary undercuts the fullness of its essence and messaging.  This book is that and so much more.  It’s VITAL.  It’s empowering.  It’s an education and a call to action.  It’s a cry for mercy and a haunting look at the trauma Indigenous women continue to face.  

It’s also utterly engrossing and totally bingeable.  The sense of urgency in the writing made it hard for me to put the book down.  Dread loomed over each scene painting a sinister picture while also showcasing fierce, strong female characters that I respected and rooted for.  

With each new detail, Rendon showcased the complexity of the situation.  The utterly horrifying details mixed with palpable emotion.  The danger.  The absolute NEED to see justice.  And most telling, the way the female characters responded in juxtaposition to the men, loved ones and authorities.  

It felt utterly intense.  My heart raced.  And the further into the storyline I got, the more I felt solidarity with the community of women—raging at this unnecessary epidemic of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.  

Truly, I’m shocked this read isn’t getting more attention.  It’s both a solid thriller and profound look at the ongoing issues faced by Indigenous women.  

🎧 Indigenous voice actor, Erin Tripp has become a favorite for me.  As a member of the White Earth Nation of Minnesota, I find that her performances always exemplify the narrative and give credence to the storyline.  Here, Tripp well depicted the complexity of the emotion—ranging from anger to grief to fear—felt by both our main character, Quill, and the community at large. Tripp’s nuanced and quiet tone embodied the haunting tone of this novel.    

Many thanks to my friends at @penguinerandomhouse @prhaudio and @tandemcollectiveglobal for the free #gifted copies of this book.