The Red Canoe thriller

In The Red Canoe, Buck Fineday (Miskwa’ doden, “Red Deer”) is a man on the edge, grappling with the collapse of his marriage and the emotional weight of a savior complex that’s jeopardized his life. Recently served with divorce papers by his wife, Naomi, Buck’s struggle with isolation on the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community reservation becomes more complex when a semi-feral girl named Lucy, aka Gage’ bineh (“Everlasting Bird”), enters his life. Living in a trailer with her father, a local policeman suffering from PTSD, Lucy has experienced years of abuse. Together, Buck and Lucy uncover a disturbing network of power and corruption while forming a bond rooted in their shared Ojibwe heritage.

Filled with suspense, emotional depth, and a gripping mystery, The Red Canoe is a tale of survival, courage, and the healing power of connection. Perfect for fans of crime thrillers and mysteries, this book dives into the complexities of human nature and the scars left by trauma.

9Expert Score

Why The Red Canoe is a Must-Read Ojibwe Mystery Thriller

Wayne Johnson’s The Red Canoe is an emotionally charged mystery that intertwines Ojibwe heritage with the pursuit of justice. Buck Fineday and Lucy’s journey through pain, discovery, and resilience will keep readers hooked from start to finish.

PROS

• Rich cultural context of Ojibwe heritage
• Engaging, suspenseful plot with deep emotional layers
• Strong character development and themes of healing

CONS

• Some readers may find the pacing slow at times
• The intensity of the emotional content may be challenging for some