Member Review

Unburying Lives

Vanessa Lillie's novel, “Blood Sisters,” introduced readers to Syd Walker, a Native American archeologist employed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). Syd, who occupies a unique position linking the past and present, returned to her hometown of Pincer, Oklahoma, in the book to investigate a personal case. The narrative additionally integrated the critical issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), particularly following the disappearance of Syd's sister. "Blood Sisters" was a riveting read, and I was eager for Syd’s character to return.

"The Bone Thief" is the dynamic sequel in which Syd, having achieved a promotion within the Rhode Island BIA, undertakes the investigation of two interconnected mysteries. She is assigned to investigate the theft of 300-year-old female skeletal remains from a nearby summer camp. Simultaneously, a young Native woman and former intern of Syd’s named Naomi vanishes in the same area. Law enforcement is typically dismissive of Naomi's case, which compels Syd to take on both the disappearance and the theft investigation.

The summer camp is run by the Founders Society, a historical club whose members boast a direct bloodline to the original colonists and who hold claim to the property, which was formerly inhabited by the local Narragansett tribe. Although repulsed by the Founders' racist rituals and stereotypes, Syd ingratiates herself with the group, believing the key to her cases lies within the organization. She soon discovers a disturbing, generations-long series of disappearances—of both people and artifacts—all linked to the Founders Society.

The book compellingly addresses several significant themes, with the concept of archaeology and reclamation being central. Historically, the practice of acquiring indigenous remains as artifacts or curiosities for private ownership or public exhibition was frequently rationalized by the dehumanizing premise that indigenous peoples were somehow inferior.

Also highlighted is the ongoing obscenity of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. A major concern in these numerous unsolved cases is the perceived apathy of law enforcement. The deliberate targeting of this group of women is also a stark reflection of the little value assigned to their lives.

This is an exceptional book and a truly compelling series. Syd is a remarkable, albeit flawed, character whose primary motivation is consistently to ensure justice is achieved. The tempo of the mystery never slackens, as Lillie's social commentary enhances Syd's investigation.

Thank you to the Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review. #TheBoneThief #NetGalley.