Sand Creek Book

I liked Prof Mapstone's historical frame of reference in all of his observations about human nature, politics, the land-grab around Phoenix, modern America, his choice of reading matter, quotes that go through his head from historic personages, etc. Being an intellectual in a very philistine setting is this author's way of making Mapstone an outsider, the often necessary stance for an effective crime-solver. I appreciate how the relationship with his wife is portrayed, with so much respect and affection. The Southwest has a mystique that is communicated well in the author's descriptions, and that is what I liked best about the book, feeling like I have had a trip to Arizona's heat, long Indian past, Mexican food, and the endless open spaces full of cactus, buttes, washes, caves etc. I want to find and read the rest of the series now.