R. Allen Chappell, the author of thirteen novels and a collection of short stories, grew up with the Navajo, went to school with them and later worked alongside—forging enduring friendships along the way. "Those friendships," the author recalls, "became the inspiration for this series." Each book is a stand-alone story that can be read out of sequence, though many readers believe it best to start at the beginning for a fuller sense of the characters. As in life, the people age and change as they grow older, and reservation culture itself evolves.
Chappell notes, "My writing focuses on the people of the Four Corners region past and present. I tend not to romanticize my characters, preferring instead to paint them as I find them. They have much the same qualities, good and bad, as the rest of us."
At home in Western Colorado, Chappell continues to pursue a lifelong interest in the prehistory of the Four Corners region and its people. Though his books are works of fiction, a concerted effort is made to maintain the accuracy of the culture and people as he has come to know them.
For the curious: the author’s random thoughts on each book in the series are listed below in the order of their release.
Navajo Autumn
It was not my original intent to write a series but this first book was so well received, and with many readers asking for another, I finally decided to write a sequel—after that, there was no turning back. I’m sure I made every mistake a writer can possibly make in a first novel, but I had the advantage of a dedicated little group of detractors, quick to point out its many deficiencies...and I thank them. Without their help, this first book would doubtless have languished, eventually sinking into the morass, and there would be no series. This book has, over the years, been through many edits, editions, and updates. This is the one that keeps me centered.
Boy Made of Dawn
A sequel I very much enjoyed writing and one that attracted many new readers. So many, in fact, I quit my day job to pursue writing these stories full time—not a course I would ordinarily recommend for an author new to the process. In this instance, however, it proved to be the right move. As I learn, I endeavor to make each succeeding book a little better...and to keep their prices reasonable enough that people like me can afford to read them.
Ancient Blood
The third book in the series and the initial flight into the realm of southwestern archaeology. This book introduces Harley Ponyboy—a character who quickly carved out a major niche for himself in the stories that followed. Harley remains the favorite of reservation readers to this day. Also debuting in this novel: was Professor George Armstrong Custer, noted archaeologist and Charlie Yazzie’s mentor at UNM. He, too, has a pivotal role in later books.
Mojado
This book was a departure for the series in cover art, subject matter, and its move to thriller status on Amazon. A story built around a local tale heard many years ago in Mexico. In the first three months following its release, this book sold more copies, and faster, than any of my others to that time. It’s still a personal favorite of mine.
Magpie Speaks
A mystery/thriller that goes back to the traditional roots of the series and exposes the past of several major characters, some of which play pivotal roles in later books. Steeped in Navajo culture, this book has become another favorite of Navajo friends who follow these stories.
Wolves of Winter
As our readership attained a solid base in the genre, I decided to tell the story I had, for many years, envisioned. I am pleased with its success on several levels and in very different genres. I hope one day to revisit this story in one form or another.
The Bible Seller
Another cultural departure in which Harley Ponyboy, once again, wrests away the starring role. A story of attraction and deceit told against a backdrop of wanton murder and reservation intrigue. It too, has become another canyon-lands favorite.
The Collector
A longer story with a more complex plot, one that brings our regular characters into deadly conflict with powerful outside forces. A personal acquaintance and retired FBI Agent inspired a new look at the Bureau's unsung role on the reservation. A book that's proving very popular with readers , and one I found a great deal of pleasure in writing. I count this another one of my personal favorites
Falling Girl
This book was somewhat of a milestone for the series, both as the tenth book, and as a story generated by thoughts and emails from long time followers. The redoubtable Harley Ponyboy once again comes front and center, as he seeks to renew a lost infatuation with a woman reviled by his fellow characters. Even our readers clamored for another shot at the woman. Who knew what lay in store for poor Harley?
Yellow Dirt
A story that reveals the long ignored curse of abandoned tailing piles and open digs forgotten by the Government. A story that Plunges readers into a mystery within a mystery. The residue left behind by the Uranium mining industry on the reservation has brought decades of sickness and death to the miners and their families...and still affects the people of the Diné Bikeyah. The inimitable characters, both old and new will linger on long after the story is told.
DeadFall
The 12th book in the series is the long awaited sequel to the best selling "Wolves of Winter" and invites readers to ride along in the timeless world of the Diné, where the "Four Corners " marks the often secretive Dinétah. Meet the people whose spirits still linger in the shadows of forgotten cliffside dwellings. And see the younger generation of our characters emerge to take a greater part in the ongoing stories of the Navajo Nation Mystery series.
Audio Books
Readers may be pleased to know they can preview the Audible editions for the Navajo Nation Series directly on our book pages. These are also available in public libraries, on Audible, and at many retail outlets. The audio books are narrated by Kaipo Schwab, a wonderful storyteller. I am pleased Kaipo felt these books worthy of his considerable talent.
I hope you enjoy these stories as much as I enjoy bringing them to you. We remain available to answer questions and welcome your comments at rachappell@yahoo.com
