In the haunting landscape of Laurie L. Dove’s debut mystery thriller, Mask of the Deer Woman, the line between reality and myth seems to blur as ex-Chicago detective, Carrie Starr, returns to her Native American roots as new tribal marshall after the murder of her own daughter. In the process, she confronts not only a missing person case but also the shadows of her own past—and perhaps, something far more ancient.
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Yet, Starr discovers during her investigation on the reservation that the old ways might hold the key to a present-day mystery–and a terrifying truth. The disappearance of local college student, Chenoa Cloud sets Starr on a path that intertwines with the unsolved cases of other missing women from the reservation. The legendary Deer Woman, a figure from her father’s stories who offers both protection and vengeance, soon has Starr questioning whether she is a guide, a threat, or a manifestation of the ingrained fears and traumas that haunt the community.
Themes of Grief, Identity, and Tradition
Mask of the Deer Woman delves into several powerful themes that resonate throughout the narrative, adding depth and complexity to the central mystery. These include:
A Daughter’s Memory
Carrie Starr’s grief over her daughter’s murder is the driving force behind her return to the reservation. This loss permeates her every action, fueling her determination to find Chenoa Cloud and bring justice to the missing women. Dove skillfully portrays the many layers of grief, showing how it can manifest in different ways: as burning anger, a crushing weight of guilt, and a constant yearning for the past. This personal loss makes her connection to the other missing women’s families even more profound, as she understands their pain on a deeply personal level. The memory of her daughter is not just a source of pain; it’s also a source of strength, pushing her forward even when the investigation becomes overwhelming.
Reclaiming a Heritage
Carrie’s mixed heritage has always been a source of internal conflict. Growing up away from the reservation, she felt disconnected from her Native American roots. When Starr returns as tribal marshal to the reservation, she’s forced to address this neglected part of her identity. The reservation becomes a place of both challenge and discovery, as she begins to understand the traditions and stories that shaped her father and, by extension, a part of herself. This journey of her self-discovery is intertwined with the investigation, as she learns that the answers she seeks may lie within the very culture she has been separated from.
The Power of the Old Ways
The traditions and legends of the tribe play a crucial role in Mask of the Deer Woman. The stories passed down through generations, particularly those about the Deer Woman, are not just entertaining tales; they are living testaments to the enduring power of the past. These “old ways” offer insights into the present-day mystery, suggesting that the answers may be found in the wisdom of the ancestors. Dove effectively contrasts these traditions with the intrusions of modern society, highlighting the challenges faced by Indigenous communities in preserving their culture and the importance of respecting their spiritual beliefs.
Carrie Starr’s return to the reservation is deeply intertwined with her grief over her daughter’s murder. This personal loss fuels her determination to find Chenoa and bring justice to the missing women, creating a powerful emotional undercurrent throughout the narrative.
With its atmospheric setting, compelling characters—even in their imperfections—and exploration of important themes, Mask of the Deer Woman is a strong debut from Laurie L. Dove. Carrie Starr’s flaws make her a more believable and relatable heroine, adding depth to the narrative. This is a highly recommended read for anyone seeking a mystery that is both thrilling and deeply moving. You will find this book compelling. Check it out!
If you read as much as I do, then you know how quickly those beloved treasures can accumulate. Many are fortunate enough to have the space to accommodate them all. However, I don’t have that luxury of all that space. If you have the same problem after you read those books and are wondering what to do with them, I have a few helpful suggestions you might want to read.
Thanks to Berkley for the #gifted book for this review.
