A review by elishasbookreview
Never Name the Dead by D.M. Rowell

mysterious slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

I was excited to discover this book since I am also interested in Native American beliefs and cultures. However the pacing felt off. It was hard to believe this entire story took place over the course of a single day/evening. I felt like we'd make an inch of progress, and then do info dumping about the Mud/Mae's heritage and their traditions/beliefs. Rinse and repeat that with her constantly having to remind us of all that she's learned thus far and it started getting on my nerves.  Also caught a few historical inaccuracies. Nothing that affects the story, but they did make be google to double check. By the time we found out who the bad guy was, I didn't really care anymore. I just wanted to get it over with. 

Side Note: I checked by biases whether subconscious or unrealized at the door when I'm writing this.