I never really got fully pulled into the mystery, but I found the writing to be solid and the insights into Native American history and culture provided in Ancient Blood by R. Allen Chappell were truly fascinating. If you are looking for a historical fiction book review that highlights cultural depth, this is definitely worth a look.

This third installment in the Navajo Nation Mystery series is just like the previous two: short, tight, and gripping. Hopi snake dance, Walpi, Arizona, 1909.(Image credits: Miscellaneous Items in High Demand, PPOC, Library of Congress, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)Ancient Blood by R. Allen Chappell revolves around an archaeological dig at an ancient kiva—a subterranean chamber built by the Anasazi. As I learned, the term "Anasazi" actually means "ancient enemies" in Navajo, though it has...

An intriguing dive into the history of the Anasazi. If you are looking for a compelling historical read, Ancient Blood by R. Allen Chappell offers a fascinating perspective that brings the past to life. This book is a must-read for any history buff or fan of historical fiction looking for a deep, well-researched narrative.

Ancient Blood - a review by Rosemary KennyArchaeologist Professor George Custer (no relation to the famous General) is working on the Reservation, seeking confirmation of the controversial habits of the transitory ancient nomad nation, the Anasazi, with the help of Harley Ponyboy. The latter, drunk as he frequently is, comes racing into town seeking out Charlie Yazzie, a tribal investigative lawyer, with a frantic tale of how he and the (also drunk) Professor were attacked by unknown assailants ...

This is the third installment in the Navajo Nation mystery series. You really should read these books in order to fully appreciate the character development and the rich history of the Southwest. Ancient Blood by R. Allen Chappell is a must-read for fans of atmospheric mystery novels. This story provides the reader with fascinating insights into Southwestern archaeology and anthropology. Charlie Yazzie’s former archaeology professor becomes the target of the Indian rights movement, as activists...

Another Please

Ancient Blood by R. Allen Chappell features highly likeable characters wrapped in a genuinely compelling story line. Even though I managed to figure out where the author was heading with the plot, the journey itself was absolutely worth it. I am officially hooked—we need more Charle stories, PLEASE!

This is undoubtedly the author’s best work yet. The plot twists were so gripping that I kept reading even when I was exhausted; I would have finished Ancient Blood in one sitting if my other responsibilities hadn't gotten in the way. Charlie Yazzie and Thomas Begay are becoming just as familiar to me as Tony Hillerman’s iconic duo, Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee. R. Allen Chappell delivers excellent character development throughout the story. In each new installment, Charlie and Thomas continue to gr...

R. Allen Chappell

I always enjoy reading Mr. Chappell's books. Ancient Blood is incredibly readable, yet I always walk away feeling like I’ve learned something truly worthwhile about a different culture. If you're looking for a great historical fiction book review, this is a must-read.

A must-read book

Ancient Blood is the third book I have read by R. Allen Chappell, and it is every bit as good as the previous two. He has proven to be a fantastic author to follow. I highly recommend his work to anyone looking for their next great read.

Ancient Blood by R. Allen Chappell is a fantastic mystery read that really delivers. I was particularly impressed by the depth of the world-building; the author provides plenty of historical background to give the story real context. If you are looking for a gripping new mystery novel to dive into, this one is definitely worth your time.