Tony Hillerman

Tony Hillerman was an American author best known for his Navajo Tribal Police mystery novels. His works often featured Navajo culture and traditions, and he received numerous awards for his contributions to literature.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Dance Hall Of The Dead

    Cover of 'Dance Hall Of The Dead' by Tony Hillerman

    In this mystery novel, two Native American boys disappear, leading a seasoned Navajo Tribal Police lieutenant to investigate their fate amidst the sacred Zuni and Navajo lands. The search for the truth takes him deep into the religious and cultural traditions of the Southwestern tribes, where he uncovers a complex web of ancient rituals, personal vendettas, and secrets that are as old as the arid landscape itself. As the lieutenant delves further into the case, he must navigate the delicate balance between upholding the law and respecting tribal customs, all while racing against time to solve the crime before the killer strikes again.

    The 4846th Greatest Book of All Time

  2. 2. A Thief Of Time

    Cover of 'A Thief Of Time' by Tony Hillerman

    In this gripping mystery novel set in the American Southwest, two Navajo Tribal Police officers investigate a series of puzzling crimes linked to the illegal excavation and theft of Native American artifacts. As they delve deeper into the case, they encounter a cast of characters with conflicting interests, including anthropologists, collectors, and looters. The officers must navigate a landscape steeped in history and spiritual significance while racing against time to solve the crimes and bring the perpetrators to justice, all while contending with the personal and cultural challenges that arise during their quest.

    The 4971st Greatest Book of All Time

  3. 3. Coyote Waits

    Cover of 'Coyote Waits' by Tony Hillerman

    The novel revolves around Navajo Tribal Police officers Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee as they investigate the murder of a fellow officer, Delbert Nez. The case becomes complex when a seemingly obvious suspect, a Navajo shaman named Ashie Pinto, is arrested but maintains his innocence. As Leaphorn and Chee delve deeper into the investigation, they uncover a web of deception, cultural conflicts, and hidden motives that challenge their understanding of justice and tradition within the Navajo community. The story intricately weaves elements of Navajo culture and beliefs with a gripping mystery, highlighting the personal and professional struggles of the two detectives.

    The 11331st Greatest Book of All Time