RED HANDS | AMAZON REVIEWS
Steven Max Finkelstein
A Mystery with Heart and Plenty of Action
Reviewed in the United States on November 15, 2024
The inimitable Mary Macintosh is back with another adventure. This time, the prosecutor from the county of Sheridan, Wyoming must figure out whether a murdered Indigenous woman has been the latest victim of the infamous Zodiac Killer. This ruthless butcher was last thought to be active in the 1960s and 70s. It’s impossible that he is still pursuing his blood-drenched hobby. Or is it? One thing is certain: a woman is dead, and it has rocked Sheridan to its core. Mary feels this murder deeply, and she is convinced that she is the only one who can set things right. Trying to get justice for the victim, though, could put her squarely in the line of fire.
Red Hands, by Maureen Anne Meehan, is a suspenseful mystery story that might call to mind similar works by Clive Cussler or Janet Evanovich. There are numerous revelations and plot twists that take this tale in directions the reader might not have expected.
Meehan is gifted at tying historical events to the fictional elements that compose this inventive story. Her protagonist, the feisty Mary Macintosh, may be made up, but the Zodiac Killer was all too real, and his murder spree was never solved conclusively. Adding that element works well in this context, as the author has done her research into this horrific American legend. The detail she uses makes this narrative more compelling.
Mary is also fun to spend some time with, as her quest for the truth takes her into dangerous situations involving a well-developed supporting cast. It’s also appropriate that Meehan draws attention to the problem of violence against Native American women, an underserved community that has been cruelly used throughout the years. The reality is that the abuse and neglect of these women continues into the present day, and more authors should try to draw attention to it.
All the elements present are working well in this story, though the author manages to avoid making it preachy. This makes for suitable vacation reading that will keep the reader guessing, as you try to uncover who is behind the shocking crime that serves as the action’s lynchpin.
Michael Cavacini
A Novel Illuminating the Plight of Indigenous Women
Reviewed in the United States on November 20, 2024
Red Hands by Maureen Anne Meehan is a gripping and poignant novel that tackles the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women in the United States. This powerful narrative is set against the backdrop of systemic marginalization and the lack of proper law enforcement response that has plagued Native American communities for generations. Meehan expertly weaves together a suspenseful thriller with deep social commentary, making Red Hands a must-read book.
The red handprint, a symbol often painted across the mouths of advocates, represents the silenced voices of Indigenous women who have been victims of violence, kidnapping, or murder. In this novel, Meehan introduces an intriguing twist by connecting this modern crisis to the notorious Zodiac Killer. The inclusion of this infamous serial killer, who leaves behind cryptic letters and ciphers related to the missing and murdered women, adds an extra layer of mystery and urgency to the story.
Mary Macintosh, the tenacious prosecutor in Sheridan County, Wyoming, is at the heart of this tale. She is tasked with solving the murder of a Native woman that may be linked to the Zodiac Killer. Meehan’s portrayal of Macintosh’s relentless pursuit of justice is both inspiring and heart-wrenching. The novel delves into the complex challenges faced by Indigenous communities, from jurisdictional issues to the pervasive neglect by authorities, highlighting the importance of addressing these systemic problems.
What makes Red Hands particularly compelling is Meehan’s ability to balance the thriller elements with a profound exploration of social issues. The mystery surrounding the Zodiac Killer—whether it is truly him or a copycat—is expertly crafted, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. As Macintosh races against time to prevent another tragedy, readers are drawn into a narrative that is both suspenseful and thought-provoking.
Red Hands by Maureen Anne Meehan is a remarkable novel that combines the intrigue of a classic mystery with a powerful message about justice and advocacy for Indigenous women. Meehan’s skillful storytelling and rich, multi-dimensional characters make this book an unforgettable read. It shines a light on a critical issue while delivering a thrilling and emotionally resonant story. Whether you are a fan of mystery novels or passionate about social justice, Red Hands is a book that should not be missed.
Lenore
Mary Macintosh tackles a harrowing and urgent issue in Red Hands, weaving the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women with a chilling mystery.
Set in Sheridan County, Wyoming, the story follows Macintosh as she unravels a trail of cryptic letters and ciphers left by a killer targeting Native women.
Is this the infamous Zodiac Killer of decades past or a ruthless copycat?
Through a lens of suspense, Macintosh sheds light on systemic injustices and silenced voices.
A thought-provoking and heart-pounding read, Red Hands balances social awareness with masterful storytelling.