The only person willing to
talk to them is a Shaman named Nikolai Adelman. The families of the missing
children truly believe in him. Despite his surprising attraction to charismatic
young man, Miguel firmly believes that he is either crazy or a very unusual
conman. The more Miguel learns about the case the less sense it makes. As he
spends time with the shaman he begins to experience things he can’t explain.
Having no other options available to him Miguel reluctantly begins to believe
Nikolai’s claims that spirits are some how involved in the disappearances.
URBAN SHAMAN by Lyn Gala is
not the average mystery novel. I knew this novel would be different from the
first page. Miguel’s problems with the reporters immediately had me curious
about what he had done to deserve such notoriety. The mystery also grabbed my
attention right away. One child missing under mysterious circumstances is sinisterly intriguing but the discovering that seven children have gone
missing ratcheted up the tension to a whole new level. I couldn’t wait to find
out more about the case.
Nikolai is one of the most
unique characters I have ever come across. He often seems bigger than life and
sometimes like Miguel I felt a little overwhelmed by his exuberance. He is very
funny and he provided some relief from the pressure of the mystery. As I got to
know him I realized that he has his problems as well. His responsibilities to
his people weigh very heavily on him. He has also resigned himself to being
alone until he meets Miguel. Miguel is going through a very difficult time. His
current troubles bring up many unpleasant memories and he is hurt that so many
people are willing to believe the worst of him. Nikolai helps him to begin the
healing process.
The romance in this novel
is very subtle. There is an obvious and strong connection between the two
heroes. The tension between them is palpable at times but they don’t get together
until close to the end of the novel. It left me hoping there will be a sequel.
I would like to see these two as a couple. URBAN SHAMAN is a distinctive and
thrilling mystery novel.
