Skinwalker (Jane Yellowrock, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Faith Hunter's Skinwalker introduces Jane Yellowrock, a contemporary urban fantasy protagonist who is a skinwalker – a powerful shapeshifter – of the Cherokee nation. Haunted by her past and struggling with the inherent darkness of her abilities, Jane operates as a monster hunter for hire in Memphis, Tennessee. Her life is a precarious balancing act between her human identity and the wild, predatory nature of her skinwalker form.

The main plot revolves around a series of increasingly brutal murders. The victims are all connected to a powerful, malevolent entity – a rogue preternatural being known as a Nuwal. These creatures are ancient and exceptionally dangerous, capable of manipulating and feeding off fear. The Nuwal in question is actively hunting and killing within Memphis, leaving behind a trail of gruesome carnage. Jane’s unique abilities make her uniquely qualified to track and possibly defeat it, but she’s not initially certain she wants the job.

Jane's investigation takes her into the dark underbelly of Memphis, forcing her to confront both the human and supernatural criminal elements. She encounters various characters throughout her investigation: Rick LaFleur, a gruff and cynical but ultimately reliable police detective, who becomes a reluctant ally; Johnny, a former lover and fellow shape-shifter, whose loyalty is questionable; and various other preternatural creatures and magical beings, both helpful and hostile. The relationships with these characters highlight Jane's complex social life as she tries to balance her professional life with her personal demons.

As Jane delves deeper, she uncovers a conspiracy that extends far beyond the immediate murders. The Nuwal's actions are connected to a larger, more sinister plot involving ancient magic and powerful supernatural beings. Her investigation exposes the vulnerability of the human world to such entities and the price paid by those who attempt to control supernatural forces for their own gain.

Throughout the novel, a significant theme is Jane's struggle with her own identity and the moral ambiguities of her profession. She grapples with the darkness within herself and the consequences of using her power. The conflict between her human desire for connection and the inherently solitary nature of her existence adds another layer of complexity to her character. The overarching theme is the delicate balance between the human and supernatural worlds, emphasizing the consequences of neglecting or disrespecting the preternatural forces that operate alongside humanity. By the end, Jane, though wounded, has triumphed in her fight against the Nuwal, proving her strength and resolve while solidifying her place in the burgeoning urban fantasy landscape.