Former FBI agent Ella Clah is now a Special investigator with the native police force. her brother, Clifford, a medicine man, says that her investigative skills are gifts from the spirits who guard and guide the Navajo, but Ella insists it’s her training that has her honed her instincts.
The Navajo are in turmoil. the tribal police are spread thin throughout the vast reservation, trying to rein in gang violence, murderous drunk drivers, and race riots.
Ella’s newest assignment is to solve the murder of an old friend’s fiancee. Ella is shocked to discover signs of skinwalker activity in the woman’s home–was her friend’s fiancee a Navajo witch, a hereditary enemy of Ella’s family.
Ella must solve the murder, do something to stop drinking and driving on the Rez, and keep Navajo teenagers from killing each other, while trying to find and fight her oldest enemies.
Embark on a thrilling journey into the heart of the Navajo Nation with "The Enemy Way: An Ella Clah Novel" by acclaimed authors Aime and David Thurlo. This gripping mystery seamlessly blends police procedural elements with rich Native American culture and suspenseful supernatural undertones, delivering a captivating read that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Ella Clah, a former FBI agent now serving as a Special Investigator for the Navajo police, finds herself caught between two worlds. While her brother, Clifford, a respected medicine man, attributes her sharp investigative skills to spiritual gifts bestowed by Navajo guardian spirits, Ella firmly believes in the power of her training and honed instincts. This fascinating dynamic between tradition and modernity forms the core of Ella's character and fuels the unique blend of realism and mysticism that defines the series. The vast Navajo reservation is a land steeped in ancient traditions, but also plagued by modern challenges. Gang violence, deadly drunk driving incidents, and simmering racial tensions stretch the tribal police force to its limits. Amidst this turmoil, Ella is assigned to investigate the murder of an old friend's fiance. The case quickly takes a chilling turn when Ella uncovers unsettling signs of skinwalker activity within the victim's home. Could the murdered woman have been a Navajo witch, an ancestral enemy of Ella's own family? As Ella delves deeper into the investigation, she must confront not only the immediate threat of a cunning killer but also the long-standing conflict between the Navajo people and the dark forces that haunt their land. She wrestles with the possibility that the victim was involved in witchcraft, a deeply taboo subject within the Navajo community, forcing her to navigate complex social dynamics and deeply rooted beliefs. "The Enemy Way" is more than just a mystery; it's a nuanced exploration of Navajo culture, spirituality, and the challenges faced by its people. Aime and David Thurlo masterfully weave together intricate plotlines, compelling characters, and authentic cultural details, offering readers a glimpse into a world rarely seen in mainstream fiction. Ella Clah is a strong, intelligent, and fiercely independent protagonist who embodies the strength and resilience of the Navajo people. Her journey is a testament to the power of tradition, the importance of community, and the enduring battle between good and evil. Prepare to be captivated by the rich tapestry of Navajo life, the pulse-pounding suspense, and the unforgettable character of Ella Clah. "The Enemy Way" is a must-read for fans of mystery, thriller, and Native American fiction alike. Discover why the Ella Clah series has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted following. This mass market paperback edition from Forge Books, originally published in 1999, offers a perfect entry point into this enthralling world. Delve into the heart of the Navajo Nation and experience a mystery unlike any other.