Winter Counts

Winter Counts cover
Good Books rating 4.25
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Technical
  • ID: 7040
  • Added: 2025-12-09
  • Updated: 2025-12-13
  • ISBN: 9781398509313
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2021-09-30
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Virgil Wounded Horse is the local enforcer on the Rosebud Native American Reservation, known for delivering his own brand of justice when the American legal system or tribal council fails. His vigilantism becomes personal when heroin infiltrates the reservation and ensnares his nephew. Teaming up with his ex-girlfriend, Virgil follows a lead to Denver, uncovering the terrifying alliances of drug cartels. Back on the reservation, a new tribal council initiative raises questions about power and money, forcing Virgil to face his demons and reclaim his Native identity. Winter Counts is a gripping crime fiction novel that offers a bracingly honest look at a long-ignored part of American life, blending thrilling suspense with a deep exploration of identity and justice. The novel has been widely acclaimed, winning multiple awards including the Anthony, Barry, Thriller, Lefty, and Macavity Awards for Best First Novel. It has been praised for its harrowing and heartfelt narrative, tight and tense pacing, and its eye-opening insight into Native American life. The story is both a satisfying mystery and a deeply rendered exploration of the cost of being a Native American in the twenty-first century.

Reviews
Finding Time to Write · Finding Time to Write · 2023-05-24
thought-provoking 4.25

The author doesn't shy away from portraying the harsh realities of life on the reservation, including corruption and drug abuse, but also highlights the community's strength and hope. The narrative is a deconstruction of the American Western genre, offering a fresh and compelling perspective.

Finding Time to Write's review notes that the author presents an unflinching look at the struggles on the reservation, including corruption, drunkenness, and drug abuse. However, the reviewer also highlights how the author balances these harsh realities with a sense of hope and strength within the community. The narrative is a deconstruction of the traditional American Western, offering a fresh and compelling perspective. The story is not just about the external conflicts but also about the internal struggles and the community's fight for justice and survival. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to weave together a complex and engaging story that challenges stereotypes and offers a nuanced portrayal of Native American life. It's a powerful and thought-provoking read that stays with you long after you've finished it.


Quick quotes

    The author doesn't sugarcoat the corruption, drunkenness, drug-taking and sense of hopelessness on the reservation.

    The narrative is a deconstruction of the American Western, offering a fresh and compelling perspective.

    The story is not just about the external conflicts but also about the internal struggles and the community's fight for justice and survival.

Jen Med's Book Reviews · Jen Med · 2022-03-30
thought-provoking 4.00

This thriller blends mystery and action with sharp social commentary, offering a gripping narrative that highlights historical and contemporary issues. The protagonist's journey is both thrilling and thought-provoking, making it a standout read.

Jen Med's review highlights how Winter Counts masterfully combines elements of a thriller with deep social commentary. The story is not just about action and mystery but also about the struggles and resilience of Native American communities. The protagonist's mission to track down the source of a heroin influx is both gripping and emotionally resonant. Jen Med appreciates the way the author weaves in historical context and social issues, making the narrative both engaging and enlightening. The character development is strong, and the pacing keeps the reader hooked throughout. It's a book that stays with you long after you've turned the last page, offering a unique perspective on justice and community.


Quick quotes

    This is a fine thriller, one which blends mystery and action with cutting social commentary and a good deal of history.

    The protagonist's journey is both thrilling and thought-provoking.

    The author weaves in historical context and social issues, making the narrative both engaging and enlightening.

Vol 1 Brooklyn · 2020-09-22
powerful 4.50

The novel is a violent yet touching story that explores the opioid pandemic's impact on a Native American reservation. It celebrates the strength and resilience of the community while delivering a haunting and layered narrative.

Vol 1 Brooklyn's review emphasizes the dual nature of Winter Counts as both a violent and touching story. The novel delves into the devastating effects of the opioid crisis on a Native American reservation, portraying the struggles and resilience of the community. The reviewer appreciates how the author balances the harsh realities with moments of hope and strength. The narrative is haunting and layered, offering a deep and nuanced exploration of the characters and their environment. The story is not just about the external conflicts but also about the internal struggles and the community's fight for justice and survival. It's a powerful and moving read that leaves a lasting impact.


Quick quotes

    A violent, touching story about the effects of the opioid pandemic in a Native American reservation.

    A celebration of the strength and resilience of the community.

    The narrative is haunting and layered, offering a deep and nuanced exploration.