Daunis is a teenage girl looking for her place in the world. Raised under the direction of her white wealthy grandparents who attempted to separate her from her father, a Native American hockey star, Daunis struggles to find belonging, both in her wealthy family but also with her father’s tribe. When tragedies begin occurring centering around drug use, Daunis is pulled into an investigation that will bring out a darkness that lies within her communities.

I loved that this was a story centered on an indigenous community and explained some of the trauma and issues they have gone through and are still dealing with now. Complications between law enforcement, rules that vary whether you are on the reservation off, systematic racism, and sexual assault, Boulley clearly set out to tell the real story of modern life for Native Americans. I was very inspired by the bravery of Daunis as well as many of her female elders, as the story featured the strength of the community, as well as many of their practices and customs.

We read this in my own book club and it led to a great discussion. The story has a lot of inspiring female characters so I wanted a wine by a female winemaker, I ended up going with Apothic Red Blend, made by Debbie Juergenson. At the last minute I decided to grab a white wine as well, but with little time to research, I ended up going with Martha’s Chard by 19 Crimes. Yes, I did pick it because it had Martha Stewart’s face on the bottle, but it did not disappoint! It is buttery and full-bodied, a great recommendation for an oaky chard lover.

Firekeepers Daughter by Angeline Boulley
5 Stars
Wine pairings: Apothic Red Blend and/or Martha’s Chard by 19 crimes