There are a few people whose recommendations on books, I trust implicitly. There are some I can go to for a good book in a certain subgenre, others for something character-driven, but one thing they all seem to have in common is Coyote Songs.

Coyote Songs is a mosaic novel. For those unfamiliar with the concept, the story is told in a nonlinear fashion. The reader spends a chapter getting to know a little piece of the story, in the case of this book’s first chapter, one that is both beautifully written and horrifying in its tragedy. The following chapter begins a different story, the next another. I’ll keep details scarce, but what makes a mosaic novel different than a story collection is the interconnection between the stories being told. You have to really give up your attention for the payoff.

Iglesias asks the reader to keep certain threads straight, as we return to check in on the characters and see where their story leads to next. This is a tough ask. Less because of the nature of the novel, and more because of Gabino’s immersive style of writing. Diving into each page, I found that Iglesias doesn’t waste a word. The action is fast-paced, the dialogue is crisp, and the word choice is second-to-none. Regarding the last bit, Iglesias seems to subscribe to the idea that you don’t need 1,000 words to describe something if you can find the absolute perfect one.

I found myself looking forward to some characters more than others, namely Jaime and the Coyote. None of the points of view are easy reads. They all have a certain grit and realness that go a long way toward establishing a view of the climate along the U.S./Mexico border. Iglesias writes in a way that paints a vivid portrait of this region, but also captures the way that current events and the oft-referenced nitwit in charge impact day-to-day life in a far more affecting way than how it affects someone living in, say, Massachusetts.

The storytelling is top-notch, and is very well-served by Iglesias’ writing style. By way of compliment/recommendation, I can offer three things. First, this novel has been on my shelf for a year and I’m sincerely disappointed that I didn’t make time for it sooner. Second, I started reading Iglesias’ other novel - Zero Saints - almost the moment I finished Coyote Songs. Third, I will be rereading this book. I regret that I read it alongside other stories. When I do reread, I will be devoting my full attention, as I think this story has even more to share with me than it already has. Five stars and my highest recommendation for Coyote Songs.