Hillerman often highlights the long history of the Native American cultures that inhabit the southwest setting of the novel by describing the effects of the long passage of time on the landscape. These same descriptions, admirable examples of Hillerman's craft in their own right, also point to the apparent difference in significance between man and nature—if nature, being so large and diverse, can remain in harmony with itself, there exists a certain irony in the fact that humanity so often can remain in harmony neither with itself nor with nature. In fact, setting almost takes on the role of another character, albeit a whimsical one, the dry climate sometimes aiding in Leaphorn's tracking, the rain at other times washing away what could be important clues.

Hillerman generally shows, rather than tells. He never seems "teachy" or "preachy" in his writing, and therefore his writing appeals to...