Plot Summary

Coyote Waits

Tony Hillerman
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Coyote Waits

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1990

Book Brief

Tony Hillerman

Coyote Waits

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1990
Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Navajo Nation • 1980s

Publication Year

1990

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

720L

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Super Short Summary

Coyote Waits by Tony Hillerman follows Navajo Tribal Police officers Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee as they investigate the murder of Officer Nez on a Native American reservation, exploring connections between the crime and local individuals with complex pasts, including a suspect named Ashie Pinto, and involving elements of desert mysticism, historical secrets, and post-Vietnam War trauma.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Dark

Gritty

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

13,528 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Coyote Waits by Tony Hillerman skillfully blends suspense and cultural depth, drawing readers into the Navajo Nation's mysteries. Reviewers praise Hillerman's rich depiction of Native American traditions and strong character development. However, some criticize the plot's pacing and occasional predictability. Overall, it remains a compelling read for fans of intricate crime fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Coyote Waits?

A reader who enjoys Coyote Waits by Tony Hillerman is likely a fan of engaging mysteries interwoven with Native American culture. Comparable to readers who appreciate P.D. James’ Cover Her Face or Louise Erdrich’s The Round House, they seek nuanced storytelling and cultural depth within their crime fiction.

4.3

13,528 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Navajo Nation • 1980s

Publication Year

1990

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

720L

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