Book excerpt: Native American psychologist Ben Pecos has returned to the New Mexico pueblo of his birth as an intern with the Indian Health Service. Still struggling with the demons of his past, he is plunged into the nightmare rampage of a mysterious illness that is killing the residents of the pueblo, including his own grandmother. One of the victims, the powerful tribal governor, had made powerful enemies, and Ben suspects his murder was premeditated—but that doesn't explain the insidious killer now stalking the innocent. Undaunted, Ben digs deep into the motives of power and greed to root out a killer whose deadly agenda is spiraling out of control. Newly edited e-book edition Praise for The Pumpkin Seed Massacre: “… a gripping novel.” –Tony Hillerman “This is a wonderful book with loveable heroes.” –Library Journal “… Ben Pecos—raised far from New Mexico’s Tewa Pueblo—could become as lasting a fictional presence as Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee.” – Chicago Tribune “Solid characters, fascinating atmosphere, and authentic setting—The Pumpkin Seed Massacre is a book you will enjoy. Ben Pecos is a star in the detective firmament. I predict a big future for Susan Slater.” – Barbara D’Amato “Slater’s first novel holds the reader’s interest with its brisk pace, well-rendered New Mexico landscape and challenging plot … [T]his promising first novel heralds a series to watch.” –Booklist