J.A. Jance, the prolific writer behind numerous mystery series, brings together characters from her Joanna Brady and Walker Family worlds in “Blessing of the Lost Girls.” This novel tackles a ripped-from-the-headlines issue: violence against Indigenous women.
The story opens with a chilling prologue that reveals Charles Milton, a drifter, as the murderer of six women. We then rewind to 2019, where Milton abducts Rosa Rios, a young Indigenous woman, from a Tucson bar. Her remains are later discovered, prompting a determined investigation led by Arizona Department of Public Safety officer Dan Pardee.
What makes “Blessing of the Lost Girls” unique is that readers know the killer’s identity from the start. The suspense lies in witnessing Pardee, with his own Native American background, and seasoned investigator Joanna Brady race against time to find the missing victims and bring Milton to justice.
While Goodreads reviewers acknowledge a well-written story with a strong social message, some felt the plot itself wasn’t exceptional. Knowing the killer’s identity from the outset takes away some of the traditional mystery elements. However, the focus on the real-world crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women resonates deeply.
Another point of discussion is the inclusion of flashbacks and afterwords that delve into the killer’s backstory. While Jance offers an explanation for these choices, some readers found them distracting from the main narrative.
Despite the mixed feelings about the plot structure, many reviewers lauded the well-developed characters. Dan Pardee emerges as a strong protagonist, and Joanna Brady’s presence offers a familiar face for fans of Jance’s other series. The portrayal of the often-overlooked issue of violence against Indigenous women is also commended.
The ending, however, left some readers wanting more. The resolution regarding the killer is seen as unbelievable for some, while others found it a missed opportunity.
Overall, “Blessing of the Lost Girls” is a compelling read that sheds light on a critical social issue. While the plot might not be as twisty as some Jance fans expect, the strong characters and timely message make it a worthwhile journey.
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Blessing of the Lost Girls by J.A. Jance | Goodreads
