Eliot Pattison's novel is historically interesting and feels well-researched, but I found his writing style to be less than intriguing. For instance, his overuse of the phrase "into the shadows" lent his storyline an unfortunately schlocky impression.

Overall, Bone Rattler is an engaging mystery that also novelizes the fascinating relationship between the Highland Scottish immigrants and the native Iroquois Indians. It was an enjoyable read.