Born on May 27, 1925, Tony Hillerman was an American author best known for his detective novels set in the American Southwest. He was raised in Sacred Heart, Oklahoma, and served as a soldier in World War II before attending the University of Oklahoma.
Hillerman worked as a journalist and eventually became an editor for the United Press International. However, his passion for writing fiction led him to create some of the most beloved mysteries of our time. A lot of his books have been adapted into Movies and TV shows. Hillerman passed away in 2008, and his daughter Anne Hillerman is currently continuing his series.
Exploring the Mystery Genre of Tony Hillerman
Hillerman’s novels primarily fall into the mystery genre. They focus on Navajo tribal police officers solving crimes on the Navajo reservation. His writing is famous for its vivid descriptions of the Southwest landscape, rich cultural details, and intricate plots. The readers would keep guessing until the very end. Hillerman’s works offer thrilling mysteries and insights into Navajo culture, spirituality, and way of life.
Top 10 Tony Hillerman Books In Order
The Blessing Way (1970)
When the body of a Navajo man is discovered, Tribal Police Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn is called to investigate. As he investigates the case, he uncovers a complex web of Navajo witchcraft and tribal politics. With the help of an anthropologist, Leaphorn searches the rugged landscape of the American Southwest.
Dance Hall of the Dead (1973)
Officer Jim Chee of the Navajo Tribal Police is drawn into a puzzling case that involves the disappearance of two young boys from different tribes. Chee faces a clash of cultures and a tangled web of secrets as he follows the trail across the vast Navajo reservation. With the help of Leaphorn, Chee must unravel the mystery before more lives are lost.
Listening Woman (1978)
Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn is called to investigate the murder of a Navajo “listening woman.” She was known for her ability to diagnose illness through traditional methods. As Leaphorn investigates the tight-knit community, he discovers long-buried secrets and ancient customs that may hold the key to solving the crime.
People of Darkness (1980)
Officer Jim Chee is tasked with finding a missing Navajo Tribal official. This leads him into a world of political intrigue and corruption. As Chee follows the trail of clues, he must understand the complex relationships within the Navajo Nation. All this while he has to uncover the truth behind the disappearance.
Skinwalkers (1986)
Officer Jim Chee is thrust into a supernatural mystery when a fellow officer is murdered, and signs point to a shape-shifting witch known as a “skinwalker.” As Chee tries to understand the Navajo folklore and tradition, he must confront his own beliefs.
A Thief of Time (1988)
Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn and Officer Jim Chee join forces to investigate the theft of ancient artifacts and a series of murders on the Navajo reservation. As they follow the trail of clues, they uncover a dangerous smuggling operation that threatens to destroy priceless cultural treasures.
Talking God (1989)
When a Smithsonian researcher studying Navajo culture is murdered, Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn and Officer Jim Chee are called to investigate. As they enter the anthropology and sacred ceremonies world, they uncover a conspiracy that reaches far beyond the reservation.
Coyote Waits (1990)
Officer Jim Chee must confront a vengeful spirit from Navajo legend while investigating a series of murders on the reservation. As Chee battles supernatural forces and human greed, he must rely on his knowledge of tribal customs and traditions to solve the case.
Sacred Clowns (1993)
Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn and Officer Jim Chee are drawn into a case involving stolen artifacts and political corruption within the Navajo Nation. As they grasp these tribal politics and sacred ceremonies, they must uncover the truth before ancient traditions are lost forever.
The Sinister Pig (2003)
Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn and Officer Jim Chee are called to investigate the disappearance of a high-profile politician amidst a land dispute. As they follow the trail of corruption and greed, they uncover dark secrets that threaten to tear apart the Navajo Nation.
Tony Hillerman Books in order
To fully immerse yourself in the world of Tony Hillerman’s mysteries, it’s best to start with his first novel, “The Blessing Way,” and then follow the chronological order of publication. This will allow you to appreciate the character development of Navajo police officers Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee. Here is how you must read the books.
1 The Blessing Way (1970)
2 Dance Hall of the Dead (1973)
3 Listening Woman (1978)
4 People of Darkness (1980)
5 The Dark Wind (1982)
6 The Ghostway (1985)
7 Skinwalkers (1986)
8 A Thief of Time (1988)
9 Talking God (1989)
10 Coyote Waits (1990)
11 Sacred Clowns (1993)
12 The Fallen Man (1996)
13 The First Eagle (1998)
14 Hunting Badger (1999)
15 The Wailing Wind (2002)
16 The Sinister Pig (2003)
17 Skeleton Man (2004)
18 The Shape Shifter (2006)
In the end, Tony Hillerman’s mystery books are exceptional. They show us a lot about the Navajo Nation’s culture and land. His stories contain exciting plots, detailed descriptions, and interesting characters. People love his books, whether they’ve read them before or are just starting.
If you want a fun read that takes you into the heart of the American Southwest, try one of Hillerman’s books. You’ll be in for a thrilling adventure, discovering mysteries and learning about Navajo culture.
Garima Bais, a content creator since 2015, delivers unmatched quality with a personal touch. She is an expert in niches like beauty, fashion, digital marketing, health, parenting, travel, and home improvement. An Extremely positive person, she wishes to extend a helping hand to people dealing with problems who have no one to share them with.
