A heart-pounding crime thriller
Packed with relentless suspense and masterfully combining chilling violence, moral complexity, and cultural depth, ‘Black Yéʼii’ is a psychological thriller and crime drama steeped in Navajo spirituality.
Set in the quiet backdrop of small-town Wisconsin, the story unfolds after a chilling double murder reawakens a cycle of violence tied to the infamous MS-13 gang. The crime dredges up buried secrets in Angel Benevides’s family. A year earlier, his brother Manny and others were involved in a deadly clash with gang members, swearing silence to survive. But the past refuses to stay buried. When MS-13 seeks revenge, Angel and his mother, Carmen, become victims of brutal violence, triggering a desperate race against time. Law enforcement scrambles to protect those now in the gang’s sights, including Angel’s brothers and former allies. As George and his adoptive brothers are drawn into the gang’s wrath, detectives O’Connor, Graff, and Eiselmann must uncover the truth before more lives are lost.
Joseph Lewis’s writing is precise, evocative, and emotionally charged. His descriptions bring the Wisconsin town and Navajo landscapes to life, while his characters are deeply human, struggling with trauma, loyalty, and justice. The integration of Navajo spirituality adds a unique layer, enriching the narrative and offering readers a rare cultural perspective. The dialogue is authentic, and the pacing is relentless, ensuring every scene is impactful. Lewis’s ability to balance suspense with profound emotional resonance makes this novel stand out in its genre.
With its compelling mix of suspense, cultural insight, and morally complex characters, this novel is sure to keep you hooked from the first page to the last. It’s a thrilling ride that offers both entertainment and a profound look at the enduring battle between good and evil. For fans of thrillers that go beyond surface-level action to explore the psychological and emotional intricacies of their characters, ‘Black Yéʼii’ is a must-read. Highly recommended for lovers of intelligent and character-driven crime fiction. 5 stars!
