In the bleak midwinter of Gallup, New Mexico, where poverty and violence paint the landscape as starkly as the snow, Ramona Emerson’s “Exposure” picks up the compelling thread left by her National Book Award-longlisted debut “Shutter.” This sophomore installment in the Rita Todacheene series weaves a chilling tapestry of supernatural insight and earthly horror, establishing Emerson as a powerful voice in Native American crime fiction.
The Story: A Dance of Death and Justice
Rita Todacheene, a forensic photographer for the Albuquerque Police Department, carries a gift that’s both blessing and curse—she sees the ghosts of murder victims. Following the events of “Shutter,” Rita finds herself at a crossroads. Her ability has been exposed, making her a pariah among many colleagues, while those who do believe her view her gift with uncomfortable fascination.
When a series of brutal murders rocks Gallup, Rita is drawn into a sinister web spun by Brother Gabriel, a seemingly benevolent outreach worker whose twisted religious fervor has birthed a deadly mission. Through alternating perspectives, we witness Gabriel’s descent into madness while following Rita’s investigation, creating a taut psychological thriller that examines the thin line between faith and fanaticism.
Strengths: Where the Novel Shines
Atmospheric Excellence
Emerson’s portrayal of winter in New Mexico is masterful. The harsh landscape becomes a character itself, with snow-laden scenes that crunch under the reader’s feet and wind that howls through every page. The author’s intimate knowledge of the region lends authenticity to every description.
Cultural Depth
The novel delves deep into Navajo traditions and modern Native American life without feeling didactic. Emerson weaves cultural elements naturally into the narrative, from Mr. Bitsilly’s healing ceremonies to the complex dynamics of reservation life.
Character Development
Rita’s character growth from “Shutter” is substantial yet believable. Her struggle to balance her gift with her professional life, while maintaining connections to her community and grandmother, creates a richly layered protagonist. The introduction of Charley, a potential love interest, adds warmth to counterbalance the darkness.
Areas for Improvement
Pacing Inconsistencies
The dual narrative structure, while effective in building tension, occasionally leads to uneven pacing. Some of Brother Gabriel’s chapters, particularly his lengthy backstory, could have been tightened to maintain momentum.
Ghost Mechanics
While the supernatural elements are generally well-handled, the rules governing Rita’s ability remain somewhat unclear. Greater clarification about the limitations and implications of her gift would strengthen the narrative framework.
Secondary Character Development
Some supporting characters, particularly within the police department, could benefit from deeper development. Their motivations and reactions to Rita’s ability sometimes feel superficial.
Thematic Resonance
The novel explores several powerful themes:
- The intersection of traditional beliefs and modern justice
- The weight of generational trauma
- The complex relationship between faith and madness
- The struggle for identity in a world that often demands conformity
Literary Craftsmanship
Emerson’s prose is lean and effective, with moments of haunting beauty punctuating the darkness. Her background as a filmmaker shows in her vivid visual descriptions and careful attention to detail in crime scene photography. The technical aspects of forensic work are handled with confidence and clarity.
Series Context
“Exposure” by Ramona Emerson builds effectively on the foundation laid in “Shutter,” deepening the mythology while maintaining accessibility for new readers. The sequel expands the supernatural elements while grounding them more firmly in Navajo tradition, creating a richer narrative tapestry.
Impact and Significance
In a genre often dominated by non-Native voices, Emerson’s work stands out for its authentic portrayal of contemporary Native American life and its seamless integration of traditional beliefs with modern crime fiction elements. The novel contributes meaningfully to the growing body of Indigenous noir literature.
Final Verdict
“Exposure” by Ramona Emerson is a worthy successor to “Shutter,” offering a unique blend of supernatural thriller and police procedural that will satisfy fans of both genres. While some elements could be refined, the novel’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
Recommended for:
- Fans of Native American literature
- Readers who enjoy supernatural elements in their crime fiction
- Those interested in culturally rich mysteries
- Followers of character-driven thrillers
Similar Works:
- “Winter Counts” by David Heska Wanbli Weiden
- “The Only Good Indians” by Stephen Graham Jones
- “Trail of Lightning” by Rebecca Roanhorse
Looking Forward
With “Exposure,” Ramona Emerson has solidified her place as a vital voice in contemporary crime fiction. The Rita Todacheene series shows tremendous promise for future installments, with plenty of room to explore both the supernatural elements and the rich cultural landscape of the Southwest. Readers will eagerly await the next chapter in Rita’s journey, hoping for further exploration of her unique gift and its implications for both her personal life and professional career.