Order of Charlie Moon Book Series

The "Charlie Moon" series by James D. Doss is a captivating blend of mystery, adventure, and Native American culture, centered around the intriguing character of Charlie Moon, a Shaman and a private investigator. Set against the stunning backdrop of Colorado's San Juan Mountains, the series delves into the rich folklore and traditions of the Ute tribal community, weaving elements of spirituality, humor, and suspense into each story.

Charlie Moon possesses a unique perspective shaped by his cultural heritage, allowing him to navigate both the spiritual and the tangible world. As he takes on various cases, often intertwined with the supernatural, readers are drawn into a world where the past meets the present, and the line between reality and the mystical is blurred.

The stories are characterized by Doss's masterful storytelling, engaging dialogue, and vivid descriptions that bring the landscape and characters to life. With an array of quirky supporting characters, including Moon’s spirited aunt and his trusty dog, the series offers a delightful mixture of charm and intrigue.

Each installment in the "Charlie Moon" series offers a new mystery that challenges Charlie’s skills and deepens his connection to his cultural roots, making it a compelling read for fans of cozy mysteries, thrillers, and anyone interested in the intersection of culture and crime-solving. Perfect for those who enjoy rich character development and immersive settings, the "Charlie Moon" series captivates with its unique voice and storylines that resonate with readers on multiple levels.

Order of Charlie Moon Series

# Title Year Rating Book Link
1The Shaman Sings
By: James D. Doss
19944.2Amazon.com
2The Shaman Laughs
By: James D. Doss
1995Amazon.com
3The Shaman's Bones
By: James D. Doss
1997Amazon.com
4The Shaman's Game
By: James D. Doss
1998Amazon.com
5The Night Visitor
By: James D. Doss
1999Amazon.com
6Grandmother Spider
By: James D. Doss
2001Amazon.com
7White Shell Woman
By: James D. Doss
2002Amazon.com
8Dead Soul
By: James D. Doss
2003Amazon.com
9The Witch's Tongue
By: James D. Doss
2004Amazon.com
10Shadow Man
By: James D. Doss
2005Amazon.com
11Stone Butterfly
By: James D. Doss
2006Amazon.com
12Three Sisters
By: James D. Doss
2007Amazon.com
13Snake Dreams
By: James D. Doss
2008Amazon.com
14The Widow's Revenge
By: James D. Doss
2009Amazon.com
15A Dead Man's Tale
By: James D. Doss
2010Amazon.com
16Coffin Man
By: James D. Doss
2011Amazon.com
17The Old Gray Wolf
By: James D. Doss
2012Amazon.com

Charlie Moon Series Books Description

The "Charlie Moon" series by James D. Doss is a collection of mystery novels featuring a unique blend of Native American culture, humor, and supernatural elements. The protagonist, Charlie Moon, is a a Cheyenne Indian and a sometimes-skeptical private investigator who often finds himself entangled in mysteries that involve elements of his heritage.

Here’s a brief overview of the series:

  1. "Bear Dead" (1997) - The first book in the series introduces Charlie Moon as he investigates the mysterious death of a local bear, which is a significant animal in Cheyenne culture. This case leads him into a larger web of intrigue involving the local community.

  2. "The Shaman Sings" (1998) - In this installment, Charlie Moon is drawn into a case involving the mysterious death of a shaman. The exploration of spiritual themes and cultural practices adds depth to the investigation.

  3. "The Night the Bear Ate Goombaw" (1999) - Charlie unravels a mysterious incident involving a bear and a community event that spirals into chaos. This story showcases Doss's trademark humor alongside the mystery.

  4. "The Ghosts of the Grand Canyon" (2000) - This book takes Charlie Moon on an adventure to the Grand Canyon, where he encounters historical figures and ghosts from the past that complicate his investigation.

  5. "Deadly Nightshade" (2001) - As Charlie investigates the death of a local, he uncovers connections to a rare and deadly plant. This story intertwines elements of botany, murder, and Native American traditions.

  6. "The Coyote's Song" (2002) - This novel delves into Native American folklore, as Charlie investigates the disappearance of a man connected to ancient songs and customs, revealing deep-seated tensions in the community.

  7. "The Bone Lady" (2004) - An intriguing tale where Charlie encounters a local "bone lady," a woman who is believed to communicate with the dead. This installment emphasizes the supernatural while addressing themes of loss and memory.

  8. "Hunting for Bears" (2005) - In this adventure, Charlie learns that not all hunts are about the physical pursuit, as he ties together the threads of human desire and the instinctual nature of bear hunting.

Each book in the series blends mystery with cultural elements, showcasing Doss's ability to combine humor, the supernatural, and rich Native American traditions. The character of Charlie Moon serves as both a detective and a cultural bridge, making the series unique in its approach to both storytelling and the representation of Native American life.

Who are the main characters of Charlie Moon Series

The "Charlie Moon" series by James D. Doss features a cast of intriguing characters, primarily revolving around Charlie Moon himself, a flatlander and a member of the Ute tribe. Here are the main characters in the series:

  1. Charlie Moon: The protagonist and a tribal police officer who often finds himself solving mysteries that intertwine with his Native American heritage. He is characterized by his deep respect for Ute traditions, his keen intuition, and a strong sense of justice. Charlie often navigates the complexities of modern life alongside the cultural aspects of his background.

  2. Marianne (Merry) Moon: Charlie's savvy and resourceful aunt, who is a significant influence in his life. She often provides insight into Ute culture and traditions, and her wisdom helps guide Charlie in both personal and professional matters.

  3. Scott Parris: A friend and sometimes confidant to Charlie, Scott is a local private investigator who assists in solving cases. His character adds a layer of camaraderie and partnership as they work together to unravel mysteries.

  4. The Ute Tribe: While individual tribal members are not always in the spotlight, the Ute tribe's customs and beliefs play a crucial role in the series, influencing the plot and Charlie’s perspective as he carries out his duties.

  5. Other deputies and law enforcement: Various characters from the law enforcement community recur throughout the series, introducing additional dynamics and challenges for Charlie as he balances his duties as a police officer and his connections to the Ute culture.

The series blends elements of mystery with cultural heritage, showcasing not only the protagonists but also the vibrant backdrop of the Ute community.

Interesting facts about Charlie Moon Series

The "Charlie Moon" series, written by James D. Doss, is a collection of mystery novels that blend elements of Native American culture, folklore, and the charm of the Colorado landscape. Here are some interesting facts about the series:

  1. Setting: The series is set in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, which is known for its stunning scenery and rich Native American history. This beautiful backdrop plays a significant role in the atmosphere and plot development of the stories.

  2. Protagonist: The main character, Charlie Moon, is a Ute Indian who works as a private investigator. His background and cultural heritage influence his investigative methods and the stories’ narratives, integrating traditional Native American beliefs and practices.

  3. Mystery Genre: The series is a unique blend of mystery, humor, and cultural insights. Each book typically involves a murder mystery or a crime that Charlie must solve, often incorporating quirky characters and engaging plot twists.

  4. Spiritual Elements: Doss infuses the narratives with spiritual themes derived from Ute traditions, often revealing how these beliefs impact the characters' actions and decisions. The presence of spirits and the significance of land and nature often come to the forefront in the storylines.

  5. Critically Acclaimed: The series has received positive reviews for its originality, engaging storytelling, and well-developed characters. Critics often praise Doss for his ability to weave a rich narrative tapestry that respects and represents Native culture.

  6. Standalone Books: While the "Charlie Moon" series consists of interconnected stories, each book can also be enjoyed as a standalone novel. This makes it accessible for new readers who may want to jump into the series without starting from the very beginning.

  7. Cultural Representation: James D. Doss, who is of Caucasian descent, has been noted for his respectful portrayal of Native American culture, striving to accurately represent the experiences, traditions, and challenges faced by the Ute people.

  8. Book Titles: Titles in the series often reflect the mystery at the heart of the plot or highlight elements of Ute culture. Notable entries include "The Shaman Sings," "Old Indian Tricks," and "The Spirit of the Bear."

Overall, the "Charlie Moon" series offers readers an engaging mix of mystery, cultural depth, and humor, making it a unique addition to the genre of crime fiction.