The First Eagle

In the high, dry land of the American Southwest, a deadly killer lurks, reminiscent of the plague that devastated Europe in the fourteenth century. Navajo Tribal policeman Jim Chee and his mentor, Joe Leaphorn, confront a chilling case when Chee catches a Hopi eagle poacher over the body of a young Navajo officer. Initially, it seems like an open-and-shut case, with even federal authorities in agreement. However, Leaphorn, now retired and hired to locate a missing biologist, Cathy Pollard, complicates matters. Pollard vanished on the same day as the Navajo officer's murder, raising questions about her fate—suspect or victim? Adding to the mystery is a report of a skinwalker—a Navajo witch—sighted in the area. To unravel these complexities, Chee and Leaphorn delve into the world of scientists searching for a potent strain of bubonic plague. This narrative weaves a finely crafted plot with rich descriptions of the high desert, nuanced character portrayals, and profound insights into the wisdom and challenges faced by the Southwest's native people.