Search for a Sanctum

Native American traditions are beautiful, a piece of heritage that will hopefully never be lost. Yet, in Search for a Sanctum, R.H. Shimer introduces the reader to a Hopi coming of age ceremony that goes sadly awry. When a participant of the ceremony falls ill to rabies, the fear is that the boys who participated are also at risk. The town must break tradition, and find the sanctum where the initiates are at, or risk the boys falling victim to the same disease. Only, the boys are hidden well and it will take all their resources and ingenuity to find them in time.

Search for a Sanctum blends the traditional with the very modern in an effective, suspenseful plot. R.H. Shiner sprinkles the story with authentic characters that keep the story moving nicely. The main characters, Gerry and Ric, offer a unique perspective to readers. Gerry is from New York, so much of the culture and nuances of Native American life are new to her. Ric is an oddity among them. He breaks the stereotypes Gerry previously held. As these two work together to find the missing boys, readers will be treated to glimpses of Native American culture and how there is a blend of the old with the new. The manner in which the search is concluded will surprise readers with its ingenuity. R.H. Shimer displays a talent for creating characters and situations that are a reflection of the present and a joy for readers to experience.

Reviewed by: Amanda