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Cork O'Connor #20
Spirit Crossing
A disappearance and a dead body put Cork O’Connor’s family in the crosshairs of a killer in the twentieth book in the New York Times bestselling series from William Kent Krueger, “a master storyteller at the top of his game” (Kristin Hannah, #1 New York Times bestselling author).
The disappearance of a local politician’s teenaged daughter is major news in Minnesota. As a huge manhunt is launched to find her, Cork O’Connor’s grandson stumbles across the shallow grave of a young Ojibwe woman—but nobody seems that interested. Nobody, that is, except Cork and the newly formed Iron Lake Ojibwe Tribal Police. As Cork and the tribal officers dig into the circumstances of this mysterious and grim discovery, they uncover a connection to the missing teenager. And soon, it’s clear that Cork’s grandson is in danger of being the killer’s next victim.
The disappearance of a local politician’s teenaged daughter is major news in Minnesota. As a huge manhunt is launched to find her, Cork O’Connor’s grandson stumbles across the shallow grave of a young Ojibwe woman—but nobody seems that interested. Nobody, that is, except Cork and the newly formed Iron Lake Ojibwe Tribal Police. As Cork and the tribal officers dig into the circumstances of this mysterious and grim discovery, they uncover a connection to the missing teenager. And soon, it’s clear that Cork’s grandson is in danger of being the killer’s next victim.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published August 20, 2024
About the author
William Kent Krueger
96 books13.5k followersRaised in the Cascade Mountains of Oregon, William Kent Krueger briefly attended Stanford University—before being kicked out for radical activities. After that, he logged timber, worked construction, tried his hand at freelance journalism, and eventually ended up researching child development at the University of Minnesota. He currently makes his living as a full-time author. He’s been married for over 40 years to a marvelous woman who is an attorney. He makes his home in St. Paul, a city he dearly loves.
Krueger writes a mystery series set in the north woods of Minnesota. His protagonist is Cork O’Connor, the former sheriff of Tamarack County and a man of mixed heritage—part Irish and part Ojibwe. His work has received a number of awards, including the Minnesota Book Award, the Loft-McKnight Fiction Award, the Anthony Award, the Barry Award, the Dilys Award, and the Friends of American Writers Prize. His last five novels were all New York Times bestsellers.
"Ordinary Grace," his stand-alone novel published in 2013, received the Edgar Award, given by the Mystery Writers of America in recognition for the best novel published in that year. "Windigo Island," number fourteen in his Cork O’Connor series, was released in August 2014.
Krueger writes a mystery series set in the north woods of Minnesota. His protagonist is Cork O’Connor, the former sheriff of Tamarack County and a man of mixed heritage—part Irish and part Ojibwe. His work has received a number of awards, including the Minnesota Book Award, the Loft-McKnight Fiction Award, the Anthony Award, the Barry Award, the Dilys Award, and the Friends of American Writers Prize. His last five novels were all New York Times bestsellers.
"Ordinary Grace," his stand-alone novel published in 2013, received the Edgar Award, given by the Mystery Writers of America in recognition for the best novel published in that year. "Windigo Island," number fourteen in his Cork O’Connor series, was released in August 2014.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 363 reviews
July 8, 2024
4.5 stars
William Kent Krueger is an author I automatically know I want to read. His words, his story, his way of telling is what brings me back to anything he writes.
This is the twentieth book in the Cork O'Connor series and each one I have read have proved to be winners.
In this outing, We see that a young woman, daughter of a politician, has gone missing, but there seems to be no trace of her. Many police organizations have been searching to no avail. Then Cork's young grandson, a boy who can perceive things, while searching for a blueberry patch, stumbles upon a grave of an Ojibwe woman, but the same agencies that are so interested in the politician's daughter, show little interest in this Ojibwe girl. Cork's grandson, perceives evil revolving around a deserted cabin near by and from that point on his little life is in danger.
As Cork and the tribal officials investigate, it becomes a very sinister place and the very people Cork loves are in danger of death.
Thank you to William Kent Krueger, Atria Books, and NetGalley for an early copy of this mesmerizing story due out this August.
William Kent Krueger is an author I automatically know I want to read. His words, his story, his way of telling is what brings me back to anything he writes.
This is the twentieth book in the Cork O'Connor series and each one I have read have proved to be winners.
In this outing, We see that a young woman, daughter of a politician, has gone missing, but there seems to be no trace of her. Many police organizations have been searching to no avail. Then Cork's young grandson, a boy who can perceive things, while searching for a blueberry patch, stumbles upon a grave of an Ojibwe woman, but the same agencies that are so interested in the politician's daughter, show little interest in this Ojibwe girl. Cork's grandson, perceives evil revolving around a deserted cabin near by and from that point on his little life is in danger.
As Cork and the tribal officials investigate, it becomes a very sinister place and the very people Cork loves are in danger of death.
Thank you to William Kent Krueger, Atria Books, and NetGalley for an early copy of this mesmerizing story due out this August.
July 16, 2024
A shallow grave in a blueberry patch, spirits, a missing local politician's daughter, and a pipeline set the stage in this gripping and shocking book by William Kent Krueger. The body in the grave is that of a young Ojibwe woman. As the search for the truth begins, tension, danger, and new questions emerge. Cork O'Connor is at the center of the investigation along with the Iron Lake Ojibwe Tribal Police. I enjoyed this book featuring Cork O’Connor and his family. His daughter Annie has come home with her girlfriend. Annie didn't just bring her luggage; she came home with a secret as well. I enjoyed the mystery, the focus on family, spirits, love, and the search for the truth. The book tackles heavy subjects but with care.
With all of William Kent Krueger's books, I found this book to be wonderfully written, well thought out and moving. I was fully invested in the mystery, worried about several of the characters, rooting for them, and being moved by them.
Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
*A Wiches Words buddy read with Dorie. Please read her review as well to learn her thoughts on this book.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
With all of William Kent Krueger's books, I found this book to be wonderfully written, well thought out and moving. I was fully invested in the mystery, worried about several of the characters, rooting for them, and being moved by them.
Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
*A Wiches Words buddy read with Dorie. Please read her review as well to learn her thoughts on this book.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
May 29, 2024
The search is on…
⏰ 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫: Missing girls. One white, the other indigenous and the powers that be care only about one. One is found dead and the search continues for the other. Cork O’ Connor and the newly found tribal police force jump into the fray, working to determine who the killer is and if the two cases are connected. Another wrinkle for Cork - his grandson, little Waboo who is gifted with spiritual sight, has been set firmly in a killer’s crosshairs.
💡𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬: I have read EVERY Cork novel and this was a perfect addition. I would say I do NOT recommend reading this as your first Cork Book or be prepared to track a lot of characters. Being a big fan? No issues! Love that everyone came together in this one… the whole family, but no spoilers. Nope.
The story touches on so many issues - missing girls (and trafficking issues with indigenous peoples I was not aware of), but also spirituality, the environment… there’s much to unpack but all are issues currently happening, making the novel relevant and a catalyst for me to read more about these problems.
Because I’m fascinated with spirituality, I’ve read a bit on that and admire that Krueger is like me - just a non-indigenous person who has admiration and respect for Native people. He’s done his research and written a deferential and engaging tale that has continued throughout all 20 books. I appreciate the knowledge and the fantastic writing that has me missing Michigan and summers in the north.
📚𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Mystery
😍𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨: All the mystery peeps and WKK fans, but especially if (like me) you grew up in the North. Krueger will make you miss home, even with all the pesky murders.
🙅♀️ 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨: Those who don’t like some education in their novels.
Thank you to the author, NetGalley and Atria Books for my advanced copy in exchange for my always-honest review and for the education I always appreciate in these novels. And for the good cry I needed.
(I follow back bookish peeps!): IG @ ScrappyMags
⏰ 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫: Missing girls. One white, the other indigenous and the powers that be care only about one. One is found dead and the search continues for the other. Cork O’ Connor and the newly found tribal police force jump into the fray, working to determine who the killer is and if the two cases are connected. Another wrinkle for Cork - his grandson, little Waboo who is gifted with spiritual sight, has been set firmly in a killer’s crosshairs.
💡𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬: I have read EVERY Cork novel and this was a perfect addition. I would say I do NOT recommend reading this as your first Cork Book or be prepared to track a lot of characters. Being a big fan? No issues! Love that everyone came together in this one… the whole family, but no spoilers. Nope.
The story touches on so many issues - missing girls (and trafficking issues with indigenous peoples I was not aware of), but also spirituality, the environment… there’s much to unpack but all are issues currently happening, making the novel relevant and a catalyst for me to read more about these problems.
Because I’m fascinated with spirituality, I’ve read a bit on that and admire that Krueger is like me - just a non-indigenous person who has admiration and respect for Native people. He’s done his research and written a deferential and engaging tale that has continued throughout all 20 books. I appreciate the knowledge and the fantastic writing that has me missing Michigan and summers in the north.
📚𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Mystery
😍𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨: All the mystery peeps and WKK fans, but especially if (like me) you grew up in the North. Krueger will make you miss home, even with all the pesky murders.
🙅♀️ 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨: Those who don’t like some education in their novels.
Thank you to the author, NetGalley and Atria Books for my advanced copy in exchange for my always-honest review and for the education I always appreciate in these novels. And for the good cry I needed.
(I follow back bookish peeps!): IG @ ScrappyMags
August 29, 2024
Missing Voices
“To the far too many who have been murdered or are still missing. Let them never be forgotten.” – Epigraph to Spirit Crossing
In his twentieth installment of the Cork O’Connor family, in a fictitious murder-mystery, William Kent Krueger shines a light on a horrifyingly ignored issue– the disappearances and murders of indigenous women. Set in rural Minnesota, the white daughter of a state senator has been missing and when a body is discovered it causes a commotion– until it is determined the body is “only” a native girl. Now the federal government shows only a passing interest.
Cork O’Connor is a retired cop, part Irish and Anishinaabe Indian, who makes himself available to the Lake Ojibwe Tribal Police, where his son-in-law Daniel works. Daniel’s seven-year-old son, Waaboo, is the one who discovered the corpse. The boy is blessed, or cursed, with the gift of seeing and seeing the dead.
“She can’t find the path of souls,” Waaboo said.
Unfortunately, Waaboo is drawing the attention of the press. They want to run with the sensational story of the boy’s supernatural gift. Someone else is watching, too– the murderer who sees Waaboo as a threat to be eliminated.
The O’Connor family is also involved in tense demonstrations against the construction of an oil pipeline running through land sacred to the Ojibwe people, a place called Spirit Crossing.. land sacred to the Ojibwe people. The swelling presence of construction workers turns out to be a factor in the disappearance of some of the women.
There is another important theme. A family member has to face mortality, to come to grips with their own spirit crossing, to deal with their approaching journey down the path of souls. As the family reels from this news, they look to an old man for guidance. Henry Meloux, over a hundred years old, is a Mide– a healer. He is also there to counsel Waaboo with the boy's visions and voices.
This is an enjoyable murder-mystery chock full of solid characters and issues significant to Native Americans. The book’s importance is magnified by the voice it gives to thousands of victims both in the United States and Canada. A Canadian national inquiry labeled the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women a Canadian genocide. “4 out of 5 Native women are affected by violence today and American Indian women face murder rates that are more than 10 times the national average.” – Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women.
I have read and enjoyed a few of William Kent Krueger’s books– not sure I can add the previous 19 Cook O’Connor books to my TBR list, but there is the temptation…
Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review. #SpiritCrossing #NetGalley #MMIW
“To the far too many who have been murdered or are still missing. Let them never be forgotten.” – Epigraph to Spirit Crossing
In his twentieth installment of the Cork O’Connor family, in a fictitious murder-mystery, William Kent Krueger shines a light on a horrifyingly ignored issue– the disappearances and murders of indigenous women. Set in rural Minnesota, the white daughter of a state senator has been missing and when a body is discovered it causes a commotion– until it is determined the body is “only” a native girl. Now the federal government shows only a passing interest.
Cork O’Connor is a retired cop, part Irish and Anishinaabe Indian, who makes himself available to the Lake Ojibwe Tribal Police, where his son-in-law Daniel works. Daniel’s seven-year-old son, Waaboo, is the one who discovered the corpse. The boy is blessed, or cursed, with the gift of seeing and seeing the dead.
“She can’t find the path of souls,” Waaboo said.
Unfortunately, Waaboo is drawing the attention of the press. They want to run with the sensational story of the boy’s supernatural gift. Someone else is watching, too– the murderer who sees Waaboo as a threat to be eliminated.
The O’Connor family is also involved in tense demonstrations against the construction of an oil pipeline running through land sacred to the Ojibwe people, a place called Spirit Crossing.. land sacred to the Ojibwe people. The swelling presence of construction workers turns out to be a factor in the disappearance of some of the women.
There is another important theme. A family member has to face mortality, to come to grips with their own spirit crossing, to deal with their approaching journey down the path of souls. As the family reels from this news, they look to an old man for guidance. Henry Meloux, over a hundred years old, is a Mide– a healer. He is also there to counsel Waaboo with the boy's visions and voices.
This is an enjoyable murder-mystery chock full of solid characters and issues significant to Native Americans. The book’s importance is magnified by the voice it gives to thousands of victims both in the United States and Canada. A Canadian national inquiry labeled the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women a Canadian genocide. “4 out of 5 Native women are affected by violence today and American Indian women face murder rates that are more than 10 times the national average.” – Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women.
I have read and enjoyed a few of William Kent Krueger’s books– not sure I can add the previous 19 Cook O’Connor books to my TBR list, but there is the temptation…
Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review. #SpiritCrossing #NetGalley #MMIW
July 23, 2024
Reading the Cork O’Connor series for the first time was enjoyable but heavy. Despite that, I had no problem turning the pages. Spirit Crossing revealed my ignorance about Native American life and their struggles. The racism portrayed in Spirit Crossing is eye-opening and hard to swallow. The strength shown is awe-inspiring. I plan to read more of the Cork O’Connor series in the near future.
Thank you Atria Books for the advanced copy of Spirit Crossing via NetGalley.
Thank you Atria Books for the advanced copy of Spirit Crossing via NetGalley.
July 18, 2024
I received a copy for review purposes; all opinions are honest and mine alone.
Consummate storyteller, William Kent Krueger, delivers a multi arc’d tale with well crafted characters, lush settings and contemporary issues in need of a voice. My suggestion is to read the author’s note prior to starting the story. It will provide statistical information and his point of reference, not a political rant. Kudos Mr. Krueger.
Altho' this series features Cork O'Connor, he has an expansive family and network of close friends, many of whom he works closely with. This installment features his 7 year old grandson, who has a special gift, and his daughter, Annie, who has a secret she's hiding from almost everyone, and spiritually gifted Henry, “past his century mark”, but vital to the lives of everyone, especially Waaboo, the 7 year old, learning to understand his gifts.
Some family members are involved in working to peacefully protest and protect sacred land from a pipeline project. It’s summer and there will be a wedding and the young couple moving away for schooling at the conclusion. Cork, Waboo and his parents plus others are embroiled finding lost and believed dead Indian girls. Tribal police are paying attention to all clues. The alphabets are focused on a white senator’s daughter; inequity personified. Krueger is masterful at weaving these storylines together.
There is a strong spiritual theme running thru this story. Some of the roots spring from the O’Connor Irish Catholic traditions but most come from the Indian beliefs. I didn’t get any feelings of “supernatural” or “magical powers” but rather a nature application to Godly things that have been in place for thousands of years by a people that didn’t have the written Word.
Human trafficking and murder along with abuse, alcoholism, rape and other crimes of violence are part of the story. One of the greatest examples of WKK’s prowess of prose is his ability to tell a tale without assaulting the senses of his readers. Foul language and explicit imagery is not necessary for good storytelling.
Not an easy read but one that will educate and perhaps provide an awareness to what’s happening with missing children, especially girls and young indigenous women in our country and Canada📚
Read and Reviewed from a NetGalley eARC, with thanks
Consummate storyteller, William Kent Krueger, delivers a multi arc’d tale with well crafted characters, lush settings and contemporary issues in need of a voice. My suggestion is to read the author’s note prior to starting the story. It will provide statistical information and his point of reference, not a political rant. Kudos Mr. Krueger.
Altho' this series features Cork O'Connor, he has an expansive family and network of close friends, many of whom he works closely with. This installment features his 7 year old grandson, who has a special gift, and his daughter, Annie, who has a secret she's hiding from almost everyone, and spiritually gifted Henry, “past his century mark”, but vital to the lives of everyone, especially Waaboo, the 7 year old, learning to understand his gifts.
Some family members are involved in working to peacefully protest and protect sacred land from a pipeline project. It’s summer and there will be a wedding and the young couple moving away for schooling at the conclusion. Cork, Waboo and his parents plus others are embroiled finding lost and believed dead Indian girls. Tribal police are paying attention to all clues. The alphabets are focused on a white senator’s daughter; inequity personified. Krueger is masterful at weaving these storylines together.
There is a strong spiritual theme running thru this story. Some of the roots spring from the O’Connor Irish Catholic traditions but most come from the Indian beliefs. I didn’t get any feelings of “supernatural” or “magical powers” but rather a nature application to Godly things that have been in place for thousands of years by a people that didn’t have the written Word.
Human trafficking and murder along with abuse, alcoholism, rape and other crimes of violence are part of the story. One of the greatest examples of WKK’s prowess of prose is his ability to tell a tale without assaulting the senses of his readers. Foul language and explicit imagery is not necessary for good storytelling.
Not an easy read but one that will educate and perhaps provide an awareness to what’s happening with missing children, especially girls and young indigenous women in our country and Canada📚
Read and Reviewed from a NetGalley eARC, with thanks
August 17, 2024
I am a big fan of William Kent Krueger's standalone novels, but I've only read the last two mysteries in his Cork O'Conner series--there are now 20! I have to admit that there were a few times I felt a little lost with the complicated family history. I might have to go back one of these days and start from the beginning of the series.
There's a lot going on in this book: there's a Native protest over sacred grounds that are being desecrated with oil pipeline construction, a son is getting married, and a daughter returns home after years in Guatemala...with her partner Maria, and a secret she's not ready to share.
Cork and his family are picking blueberries when his young grandson Waaboo discovers a mound in the dirt and says he hears her spirit speaking to him. Because the teenaged daughter of a local politician has been reported missing recently, they fear the worst for her. But the boy says no, this is a Native girl's spirit and her name is Fawn...and she says there's another lost spirit.
When word gets out that there might be a psychic element to the discovery of the body, the news media is all over that story, and a murderer, who thought his crimes were hidden, starts to get nervous...
Very well written mystery which at its heart is about the many missing or murdered Indigenous people (mostly young women) whose cases are often ignored or poorly investigated.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new mystery by one of my favorite writers. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
There's a lot going on in this book: there's a Native protest over sacred grounds that are being desecrated with oil pipeline construction, a son is getting married, and a daughter returns home after years in Guatemala...with her partner Maria, and a secret she's not ready to share.
Cork and his family are picking blueberries when his young grandson Waaboo discovers a mound in the dirt and says he hears her spirit speaking to him. Because the teenaged daughter of a local politician has been reported missing recently, they fear the worst for her. But the boy says no, this is a Native girl's spirit and her name is Fawn...and she says there's another lost spirit.
When word gets out that there might be a psychic element to the discovery of the body, the news media is all over that story, and a murderer, who thought his crimes were hidden, starts to get nervous...
Very well written mystery which at its heart is about the many missing or murdered Indigenous people (mostly young women) whose cases are often ignored or poorly investigated.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new mystery by one of my favorite writers. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
August 16, 2024
Once again, William Kent Krueger has won my heart and mind with his latest book, Spirit Crossing. This latest in the Cork O’Connor series has several story lines but the core involve missing young Indian women, who have disappeared over weeks, months, even years with little attention from law enforcement. Now the daughter of a rich white politician is missing and all levels of national, local and reservation enforcement are engaged. Then Cork’s grandson discovers a body.
Another pressure on the reserve is the pipeline about to pass through one of their sacred springs. Demonstrations are held to try to slow what seems inevitable. Meanwhile there is the undercurrent of more crime behind the one discovered dead mystery woman.
Throughout the novel, Krueger weaves in Ojibwa beliefs and culture and its clashes and melding with 21st century America. I enjoyed the use of native words and phrases and application of some ideas to life. Krueger writes meaningfully about some of his inspiration in an afterword.
I highly recommend this book and series to all. I have only recently begun reading the series along with some of Krueger’s standalone novels. All have been excellent.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for an eArc of this book.
Another pressure on the reserve is the pipeline about to pass through one of their sacred springs. Demonstrations are held to try to slow what seems inevitable. Meanwhile there is the undercurrent of more crime behind the one discovered dead mystery woman.
Throughout the novel, Krueger weaves in Ojibwa beliefs and culture and its clashes and melding with 21st century America. I enjoyed the use of native words and phrases and application of some ideas to life. Krueger writes meaningfully about some of his inspiration in an afterword.
I highly recommend this book and series to all. I have only recently begun reading the series along with some of Krueger’s standalone novels. All have been excellent.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for an eArc of this book.
August 15, 2024
As always, to sit in a quiet place to read a book written by William Kent Krueger is a lot like preparing for a long-awaited family member to return home. Etchings of joy dance around your spirit in anticipation, a soothing light fills your eyes, and the melodious and cacophony of music threaded through this novel both soothe and disturb your soul.
People often concern themselves only with the world around them, rarely venturing out to investigate the goings-on outside their purview. It’s like walking out of a Walmart store and gazing at the black and white posters of the missing, pausing slightly, before moving on to put your keys in the ignition.
Something inside you changes after reading Spirit Crossing. It’s profound. Provocative. Unsettling. Repetitive. Mindful. Disturbing. Could it be the realism coming from the events surrounding the story?
Indeed.
By the time the story ended, I was left with this one question: How can I solve the problem of prejudice, sexual abuse, other’s murderous intent, children who have lost their way? The question is so overwhelming I almost lost perspective on what I could do, which is to work with one individual at a time. When I see something, say something; not walk away helpless.
The ending of Spirit Crossing was as moving as its beginning, leaving you with a myriad of emotions you can’t control or identify until days later. The story moves fast, filled with action-packed events. There are too many characters to count, and I almost needed to create a ledger to keep up with them. Krueger doesn’t waste time overloading you with feely-touchy thoughts. He’s on a mission … to exploit the facts … that we are prejudice and bent on putting others beneath ourselves for the sole purpose of supporting the misguided theory that we are superior.
He also doesn’t shy away from exposing the carelessness of grownups who have changed the hopeful future of precious children. The ill behavior of grown people who are commissioned to care for the helpless can often weave webs of confusion and anger, leaving these precious babies without an outlet—except to impose their trauma upon others, which they sometimes do, which is why some are psychological disturbed, addicted, incarcerated, or killed.
At the end of Spirit Crossing, you will undoubtedly face your prejudice and be left to deal with it. Surprisingly, you’ll find yourself at a crossroad. Wait for it— Whatever you feel toward others will also be reciprocated toward you. If you don’t nurture your children, they will in turn absorb and impose your evil behavior upon others. And there lies the world’s dilemma ... a repetitive conundrum we can’t seem to break.
Though I do not consider the writing to be Krueger’s best, the substance of the story saves. And that’s the point.
People often concern themselves only with the world around them, rarely venturing out to investigate the goings-on outside their purview. It’s like walking out of a Walmart store and gazing at the black and white posters of the missing, pausing slightly, before moving on to put your keys in the ignition.
Something inside you changes after reading Spirit Crossing. It’s profound. Provocative. Unsettling. Repetitive. Mindful. Disturbing. Could it be the realism coming from the events surrounding the story?
Indeed.
By the time the story ended, I was left with this one question: How can I solve the problem of prejudice, sexual abuse, other’s murderous intent, children who have lost their way? The question is so overwhelming I almost lost perspective on what I could do, which is to work with one individual at a time. When I see something, say something; not walk away helpless.
The ending of Spirit Crossing was as moving as its beginning, leaving you with a myriad of emotions you can’t control or identify until days later. The story moves fast, filled with action-packed events. There are too many characters to count, and I almost needed to create a ledger to keep up with them. Krueger doesn’t waste time overloading you with feely-touchy thoughts. He’s on a mission … to exploit the facts … that we are prejudice and bent on putting others beneath ourselves for the sole purpose of supporting the misguided theory that we are superior.
He also doesn’t shy away from exposing the carelessness of grownups who have changed the hopeful future of precious children. The ill behavior of grown people who are commissioned to care for the helpless can often weave webs of confusion and anger, leaving these precious babies without an outlet—except to impose their trauma upon others, which they sometimes do, which is why some are psychological disturbed, addicted, incarcerated, or killed.
At the end of Spirit Crossing, you will undoubtedly face your prejudice and be left to deal with it. Surprisingly, you’ll find yourself at a crossroad. Wait for it— Whatever you feel toward others will also be reciprocated toward you. If you don’t nurture your children, they will in turn absorb and impose your evil behavior upon others. And there lies the world’s dilemma ... a repetitive conundrum we can’t seem to break.
Though I do not consider the writing to be Krueger’s best, the substance of the story saves. And that’s the point.
June 10, 2024
Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. The book will be published on August 20th, 2024.
Writing: 3/5 Characters: 4/5 Plot: 3.5/5
This is my first foray into the Cork O’Connor, Minnesota Ojibwe territory mystery series. Obviously I’m way behind because this is the 20th in the series! In this story, a body “felt” by O’Connor’s 7-year old grandson on a berry picking expedition turns out not to be the missing daughter of a local (white) politician, causing the FBI and BCA to lose interest rapidly. But through his grandson’s “visions” they quickly identify the body as belonging to a local native girl, missing for some time. And O’Connor, along with the tribal police and local sheriff, do not lose interest. Danger ratchets up for everyone as more grim discoveries are made and the grandson (among others) appears to be the next target.
There were several other storylines not directly related to the plot. Members of O’Connor’s family are part of a large, and sometimes violent protest at the Stockbridge pipeline. One of his daughter’s has just returned from Guatemala with a pretty deep secret that she isn’t quite ready to share. And there is plenty of depressing stories of trafficking, runaway Native girls, alcoholism, and other stereotypical Native problems. A strong theme of forgiveness, even for people who commit heinous acts, with the blame laid squarely on their bad childhoods. To be honest, this always rubs me the wrong way. Not everyone who has a bad childhood becomes a cold hearted killer, and regardless of the problem’s origin, people who are or who have become sociopaths need to be stopped. But I digress.
Overall, I liked the characters. I found the writing acceptable though a little choppy, sometimes making deep sentiments come off as saccharine when they really aren’t. The plot moved at a good pace, though I didn’t appreciate the preachiness (and the fact that all but one white man were “bad” while all Natives and women were “good.”) I did enjoy the depiction of Native philosophy and positive ways of life when we weren’t focusing on those afflicted by alcoholism, abandonment, etc.
Writing: 3/5 Characters: 4/5 Plot: 3.5/5
This is my first foray into the Cork O’Connor, Minnesota Ojibwe territory mystery series. Obviously I’m way behind because this is the 20th in the series! In this story, a body “felt” by O’Connor’s 7-year old grandson on a berry picking expedition turns out not to be the missing daughter of a local (white) politician, causing the FBI and BCA to lose interest rapidly. But through his grandson’s “visions” they quickly identify the body as belonging to a local native girl, missing for some time. And O’Connor, along with the tribal police and local sheriff, do not lose interest. Danger ratchets up for everyone as more grim discoveries are made and the grandson (among others) appears to be the next target.
There were several other storylines not directly related to the plot. Members of O’Connor’s family are part of a large, and sometimes violent protest at the Stockbridge pipeline. One of his daughter’s has just returned from Guatemala with a pretty deep secret that she isn’t quite ready to share. And there is plenty of depressing stories of trafficking, runaway Native girls, alcoholism, and other stereotypical Native problems. A strong theme of forgiveness, even for people who commit heinous acts, with the blame laid squarely on their bad childhoods. To be honest, this always rubs me the wrong way. Not everyone who has a bad childhood becomes a cold hearted killer, and regardless of the problem’s origin, people who are or who have become sociopaths need to be stopped. But I digress.
Overall, I liked the characters. I found the writing acceptable though a little choppy, sometimes making deep sentiments come off as saccharine when they really aren’t. The plot moved at a good pace, though I didn’t appreciate the preachiness (and the fact that all but one white man were “bad” while all Natives and women were “good.”) I did enjoy the depiction of Native philosophy and positive ways of life when we weren’t focusing on those afflicted by alcoholism, abandonment, etc.
June 6, 2024
Sometimes dreams are wiser than waking.
Black Elk
I have missed these characters so much! I immediately felt as though I had wrapped myself in a soft blanket and visited with my old friends as I played flute music softly in the background.
A huge manhunt has been launched to find a local politician’s teenage daughter. Cork O’Connor’s grandson stumbles across the shallow grave of a young Ojibwe woman but no one seems to care about her. Ah, but one does. Cork's grandson, Waaboo. (Little Rabbit.) He's only seven years old but reminds me a lot of Henry.
I love that Spirit Crossing has some gentle reminders about some of what has happened in previous books in the Cork O'Connor Series. That is quite helpful to those who started the series years ago!
I happy dance every time a new book is released in this series and I hope it never ends!!
HUGE thanks to both #AtriaBooks and #NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of Spirit Crossing!! This book is #20 in the Cork O'Connor series, with an expected publication date of August 20, 2024.
#WilliamKentKrueger #IndigenousPeoples
Black Elk
I have missed these characters so much! I immediately felt as though I had wrapped myself in a soft blanket and visited with my old friends as I played flute music softly in the background.
A huge manhunt has been launched to find a local politician’s teenage daughter. Cork O’Connor’s grandson stumbles across the shallow grave of a young Ojibwe woman but no one seems to care about her. Ah, but one does. Cork's grandson, Waaboo. (Little Rabbit.) He's only seven years old but reminds me a lot of Henry.
I love that Spirit Crossing has some gentle reminders about some of what has happened in previous books in the Cork O'Connor Series. That is quite helpful to those who started the series years ago!
I happy dance every time a new book is released in this series and I hope it never ends!!
HUGE thanks to both #AtriaBooks and #NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of Spirit Crossing!! This book is #20 in the Cork O'Connor series, with an expected publication date of August 20, 2024.
#WilliamKentKrueger #IndigenousPeoples
June 23, 2024
I love how Kent Krueger keeps churning out book after book, all set in his beloved northern mid-west, many with the continuing story of Cork O'Connor and his family and neighbors, and lately with the same themes, and yet making them fresh and informative. His recurring themes are subjects close to his heart, the mistreatment of indigenous people by their colonizers and most particularly the vulnerability of young women trafficked, many times abused and murdered, and not given the same respect in their deaths as white women suffering the same fate. His rage at the system is placated by his good-guy protagonists.
August 30, 2024
WKK takes readers on a heart wrenching journey as the O'Connor family endures another tragic development...
During an innocent outing picking blueberries, 7yo Wabu senses a soul that's not at rest. Cork looks around and discovers a shallow grave. Most folks think it'll contain a missing white girl whose picture is all over town; Wabu thinks the spirit was Anishinaabe. I guess Steven isn't the only O'Connor with the gifts of a Mide! The story of Wabu's vision spreads and bad guys desperately want to hush him up.
Steven is graduating from college and all set to marry his sweetheart, whom I didn't remember from before. Cork's eldest daughter Annie comes home for the wedding after a few years away, and the family couldn't be happier to have her home. What they don't know is that she's keeping secrets. The first is that the female friend she brought home from Guatemala is the love of her life; the other you'll have to read the book to find out.
Catching up on this series was a huge effort since I pretty much read the whole series back-to-back. The several-month break did a lot of good! I feel much less fatigued with this strait-laced family and their tiny, murderous town. It was kinda nice to get back to them, especially Henry Meloux - he's 105 years young and still kicking around! I'll check in with the O'Connors again when the next book comes out.
During an innocent outing picking blueberries, 7yo Wabu senses a soul that's not at rest. Cork looks around and discovers a shallow grave. Most folks think it'll contain a missing white girl whose picture is all over town; Wabu thinks the spirit was Anishinaabe. I guess Steven isn't the only O'Connor with the gifts of a Mide! The story of Wabu's vision spreads and bad guys desperately want to hush him up.
Steven is graduating from college and all set to marry his sweetheart, whom I didn't remember from before. Cork's eldest daughter Annie comes home for the wedding after a few years away, and the family couldn't be happier to have her home. What they don't know is that she's keeping secrets. The first is that the female friend she brought home from Guatemala is the love of her life; the other you'll have to read the book to find out.
Catching up on this series was a huge effort since I pretty much read the whole series back-to-back. The several-month break did a lot of good! I feel much less fatigued with this strait-laced family and their tiny, murderous town. It was kinda nice to get back to them, especially Henry Meloux - he's 105 years young and still kicking around! I'll check in with the O'Connors again when the next book comes out.
August 31, 2024
Disappointing...
After waiting two years for the next installment of the Cork O'Connor series, I was disappointed in this one. I finished the book, but...
For one thing, too many secondary characters added little or nothing to the story. Also, it had too many storylines - Stephen's upcoming wedding (which got very little attention), Annie O'Connor's return to Aurora, and pipeline protests at a place called Spirit Crossing (hence the name of the book).
But the main focus was the murder of two girls, who turned out to be victims of human trafficking. This had nothing to do with the book's title. It's like the author couldn't decide what he wanted to write about. He has also started to weave his politics into his stories. While I respect people's views, I don't care to read about them in the books I select for entertainment. I can read and hear about politics every time I turn on the news or open my laptop.
Also, the story lacked the depth of many of his earlier books. I missed the vivid descriptions of the north country. If this was my first time reading Kreugar, it would be my last. However, because I'm invested in the series, I'll read another O'Connor story, but I wonder if he needs to bring this series to an end.
And if Henry ever goes... that's it for me.
After waiting two years for the next installment of the Cork O'Connor series, I was disappointed in this one. I finished the book, but...
For one thing, too many secondary characters added little or nothing to the story. Also, it had too many storylines - Stephen's upcoming wedding (which got very little attention), Annie O'Connor's return to Aurora, and pipeline protests at a place called Spirit Crossing (hence the name of the book).
But the main focus was the murder of two girls, who turned out to be victims of human trafficking. This had nothing to do with the book's title. It's like the author couldn't decide what he wanted to write about. He has also started to weave his politics into his stories. While I respect people's views, I don't care to read about them in the books I select for entertainment. I can read and hear about politics every time I turn on the news or open my laptop.
Also, the story lacked the depth of many of his earlier books. I missed the vivid descriptions of the north country. If this was my first time reading Kreugar, it would be my last. However, because I'm invested in the series, I'll read another O'Connor story, but I wonder if he needs to bring this series to an end.
And if Henry ever goes... that's it for me.
August 25, 2024
Another book of his that made me cry!
August 10, 2024
William Kent Krueger is no doubt an extremely talented writer. I have enjoyed his Cork O'Connor series, but a few years ago, the tone of the books moved from excellent police procedural to pacifistic mysticism with a side of environmental consciousness.
There's a lot going on here. Cork's son is trying to fit in a wedding amidst the protests he and his fiancée are involved in against the big bad corporation digging a pipeline through the area. Cork's daughter - the former nun novice - comes home with her girlfriend and a secret. Cork's grandson is seeing dead people. Plus there is a rich white girl who has been missing for two weeks, but no one cares about the missing native girls. While I would never doubt the racism faced by some, this is like being beaten over the head by a two-by-four.
This book is sad, filled with agenda items, and has a dreary tone. While I appreciate the beauty of the writing, this was a miss for me. It will be the last one of this series I read.
Not family friendly due to subject matter.
Thanks to Netgalley and Atria. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
There's a lot going on here. Cork's son is trying to fit in a wedding amidst the protests he and his fiancée are involved in against the big bad corporation digging a pipeline through the area. Cork's daughter - the former nun novice - comes home with her girlfriend and a secret. Cork's grandson is seeing dead people. Plus there is a rich white girl who has been missing for two weeks, but no one cares about the missing native girls. While I would never doubt the racism faced by some, this is like being beaten over the head by a two-by-four.
This book is sad, filled with agenda items, and has a dreary tone. While I appreciate the beauty of the writing, this was a miss for me. It will be the last one of this series I read.
Not family friendly due to subject matter.
Thanks to Netgalley and Atria. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 29, 2024
The 20th book in Krueger’s Cork O’Connor series is the best one yet. Cork’s son Stephen and his civil rights attorney fiancé are planning their wedding while at the same time trying to help the Ojibwe and other native people stop the building of an oil pipeline sure to damage the land, the water and their way of life. Anne and her partner Maria have come home from Guatemala for the wedding. Everything seems calm until the day Cork takes his grandson Waaboo blueberry picking on some abandoned farmland and Waaboo finds a grave and he is able to hear her spirit. Meanwhile the daughter of a local politician has disappeared as have several native girls. As Cork and local authorities look into these strange disappearances and find some clues that hint at human trafficking, Henry Meloux tries to keep Waaboo, Anne and other members of the O’Connor family safe, it becomes apparent that Anne may have a secret too.
I have read all the books in this series but this is the only one that had me crying at the end. As only Krueger can, he digs deep into the human condition - at its best and at its worst.
I have read all the books in this series but this is the only one that had me crying at the end. As only Krueger can, he digs deep into the human condition - at its best and at its worst.
July 13, 2024
4 ⭐️Even though this book is #20 in the Cork series, it works as a stand alone. This is the first book by this author for me! I read this in one day and loved it!
I was totally absorbed in this tale of murder, mystery, and the hunt for a killer/killers set on an Ojibwa reservation in MN.
I thought the plot was good, quick moving and engrossing. I loved the characters of Annie & Maria, 100 year old Uncle Henry and seven year old psychic Waboo. Many topics touched on, murdered /missing Native American women, child trafficking, Native customs, spiritual issues, and environmental causes.
I will read more in this series of books as well as the authors others.
Thanks to NetGalley, William Kent Krueger and Atria Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I was totally absorbed in this tale of murder, mystery, and the hunt for a killer/killers set on an Ojibwa reservation in MN.
I thought the plot was good, quick moving and engrossing. I loved the characters of Annie & Maria, 100 year old Uncle Henry and seven year old psychic Waboo. Many topics touched on, murdered /missing Native American women, child trafficking, Native customs, spiritual issues, and environmental causes.
I will read more in this series of books as well as the authors others.
Thanks to NetGalley, William Kent Krueger and Atria Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 20, 2024
Spirit Crossing is my initial encounter with the captivating world of Cork O'Connor, although I have previously read works of William Krueger. This particular masterpiece stands apart from his other creations that I have immersed myself in. One aspect that truly resonated with me was the exploration of Native American culture. While I commend the author's skill in crafting intricate characters, I must admit that the abundance of characters occasionally led to moments of confusion. Despite this minor drawback, I found great pleasure in immersing myself in the narrative and wholeheartedly recommend it to others. Krueger, a gifted storyteller, consistently delivers enthralling tales that leave a lasting impression.
Thank you to Net Galley and Atria Books for the ARC to read and review.
Thank you to Net Galley and Atria Books for the ARC to read and review.
August 2, 2024
This is a wonderful series I wish I'd learned about sooner; this book, the 20th, is only the fourth for me. Former Chicago cop Corcoran "Cork" O'Connor, who's part Irish and part Anishiaabe Indian, early on left the Windy City for remote Aurora, Minnesota; his wife, Rainy, is a Native American who maintains close ties to the local reservation - including to her great uncle, Ojibwe healer Henry Meloux (is he really 100 years old or older? Well, I for one believe it).
These days, Cork still runs a local burger joint and helps with the new Iron Lake Ojibwe Tribal Police. His three children are grown, and his young grandson Aaron, a.k.a. "Waaboo," already is showing signs of becoming a healer like the elder Meloux. His abilities are evident as he visits a hidden blueberry patch with his grandfather and "sees" a shallow grave amid the bushes that turns out to be connected to the missing teenage daughter of a local politician. Cork, ever helpful, thinks Waaboo may be helpful in ferreting out more details; Waaboo's mother, though, is less than enthusiastic about encouraging her son's newfound talents.
Into the mix come Cork's daughter, Annie, who's visiting for a while for her brother's upcoming wedding. She's brought her partner, Maria Lopez, a nurse with whom she lives in Guatemala. But the wedding isn't the only reason for her visit; she's got a secret she doesn't want to share with anyone, let alone her family - yet she knows she must.
The plot turns timely as locals stage ongoing protests against construction of a pipeline that would carry crude oil over local sacred wetlands of Spirit Crossing to a refinery on Lake Superior. The highly charged situation brings with it the real possibility that someone will get hurt - perhaps even someone from Cork's family. And once word gets out about the grave Waaboo sensed, the child's life also may be in danger from the person or persons who are afraid he'll be able to "see" them as well. Other issues of the day such as human trafficking and police investigations that go nowhere when the victims aren't lily white rear their ugly head as well, making for even more nasty and life-threatening situations.
As always, books in this series are a pleasure to read (well, given the topics, perhaps "pleasure" isn't quite the right word, but you get my drift). I heartily thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy of this one. Well done once again!
These days, Cork still runs a local burger joint and helps with the new Iron Lake Ojibwe Tribal Police. His three children are grown, and his young grandson Aaron, a.k.a. "Waaboo," already is showing signs of becoming a healer like the elder Meloux. His abilities are evident as he visits a hidden blueberry patch with his grandfather and "sees" a shallow grave amid the bushes that turns out to be connected to the missing teenage daughter of a local politician. Cork, ever helpful, thinks Waaboo may be helpful in ferreting out more details; Waaboo's mother, though, is less than enthusiastic about encouraging her son's newfound talents.
Into the mix come Cork's daughter, Annie, who's visiting for a while for her brother's upcoming wedding. She's brought her partner, Maria Lopez, a nurse with whom she lives in Guatemala. But the wedding isn't the only reason for her visit; she's got a secret she doesn't want to share with anyone, let alone her family - yet she knows she must.
The plot turns timely as locals stage ongoing protests against construction of a pipeline that would carry crude oil over local sacred wetlands of Spirit Crossing to a refinery on Lake Superior. The highly charged situation brings with it the real possibility that someone will get hurt - perhaps even someone from Cork's family. And once word gets out about the grave Waaboo sensed, the child's life also may be in danger from the person or persons who are afraid he'll be able to "see" them as well. Other issues of the day such as human trafficking and police investigations that go nowhere when the victims aren't lily white rear their ugly head as well, making for even more nasty and life-threatening situations.
As always, books in this series are a pleasure to read (well, given the topics, perhaps "pleasure" isn't quite the right word, but you get my drift). I heartily thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy of this one. Well done once again!
August 19, 2024
This is the first book I've read by this author, but I've been wanting to try one of his books for a while. The book takes place in northern Minnesota and the main plot involves missing women. One young woman is the daughter of an influential state politician and her disappearance gets extensive media coverage and the resources of several different law enforcement agencies to look for her. Meanwhile a young indigenous woman has been missing for six months, but her case hasn't received any attention. When Cork O'Connor's grandson accidentally finds a shallow grave of a young woman, the boy is now in danger of becoming the next victim.
There are a lot of characters in this book! Most are friends or family members of Cork O'Connor, a former sheriff and current private detective. Since I'm new to the series, it took me a while to keep all the relationships straight. This didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story, although a subplot relating to one of Cork's children would be more impactful for longtime readers. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and the setting.
I learned a lot about the Ojibwe tribe's beliefs and customs that I wasn't aware of. There is a spiritual side of the book, too. Part of the reason Cork's grandson is in danger is because he has visions of the deceased women whose grave he found, and killers are afraid he'll be able to identify them. I enjoyed this aspect of the story. The book deals with important topics and don't miss the author's note that talks about part of his inspiration for this bittersweet story. Fans of either Tony or Anne Hillerman would enjoy this book, and I plan to read more in this series.
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and Atria Books, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
There are a lot of characters in this book! Most are friends or family members of Cork O'Connor, a former sheriff and current private detective. Since I'm new to the series, it took me a while to keep all the relationships straight. This didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story, although a subplot relating to one of Cork's children would be more impactful for longtime readers. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and the setting.
I learned a lot about the Ojibwe tribe's beliefs and customs that I wasn't aware of. There is a spiritual side of the book, too. Part of the reason Cork's grandson is in danger is because he has visions of the deceased women whose grave he found, and killers are afraid he'll be able to identify them. I enjoyed this aspect of the story. The book deals with important topics and don't miss the author's note that talks about part of his inspiration for this bittersweet story. Fans of either Tony or Anne Hillerman would enjoy this book, and I plan to read more in this series.
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and Atria Books, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
August 22, 2024
When a new William Kent Krueger novel comes out, I set everything else aside and move this to the top of my stack. While this would work fine as a stand alone, I'd recommend starting at the beginning of the series. In this installment, two bodies of young women are found - one is white, the other is Native. Far more media attention is paid to one than the other. Cork O'Connor 's family is pulled into the search for the truth and secrets are both kept and revealed. These novels are certainly well crafted mysteries, but what stands out about them is the strong sense of family and identity as well as the connection to the Anishinaabe culture and beliefs. Highly recommend this series.
July 28, 2024
William Kent Kruegar is a favorite author of mine. I am usually not a fan of murder mystery novels but I really enjoy his writing. The Cork O’Connor series deals with Native American culture and injustices. These books are always suspenseful and interesting. I enjoyed revisiting some of the characters in his prior novels and I look forward to more Cork O’Connor stories.
July 30, 2024
This eARC was given to me by Netgalley.com and I am providing an unbiased review.
Krueger's Cork O'Connor series has been one I have enjoyed over the past couple years, and this newest installment just drops me back into their lives and world. The writing style and character world the author has built is just wonderful to read about. A continuing storyline based on previous books (not really what I could call a stand-alone read) is something I just really enjoy. Krueger has a way to bring attention to events that may be fictional in the story, but real issues in our world: oppression of the Native Americans, and how they are treated not just by general public, but Law Enforcement as well; oil pipe-lines and how they could destroy nature, and the fight against the companies that want to build them.
I considered this t book to be well-written and interesting to read. I appreciate how easy it was to read, and become part of the main characters' lives again. Really recommend going back and starting at the beginning of the series for anyone interested in reading this one, and to also check out some of the author's other works as well.
Krueger's Cork O'Connor series has been one I have enjoyed over the past couple years, and this newest installment just drops me back into their lives and world. The writing style and character world the author has built is just wonderful to read about. A continuing storyline based on previous books (not really what I could call a stand-alone read) is something I just really enjoy. Krueger has a way to bring attention to events that may be fictional in the story, but real issues in our world: oppression of the Native Americans, and how they are treated not just by general public, but Law Enforcement as well; oil pipe-lines and how they could destroy nature, and the fight against the companies that want to build them.
I considered this t book to be well-written and interesting to read. I appreciate how easy it was to read, and become part of the main characters' lives again. Really recommend going back and starting at the beginning of the series for anyone interested in reading this one, and to also check out some of the author's other works as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2024
I received an ARC from goodreads and appreciate it ! Thank you ! I was excited to get the book because I am a big fan of the author- however I had never read his cork O’Connor series - it was a big disappointment! Didn’t seem to be written by the same author as his stand alone books. The characters were hard to keep track of and perhaps a glossary for the native words would have helped. The plot moved along but there were too many subplots. The author seems to have lots of white guilt and describes the continuous victimization of Native Americans which to me seems a bit exaggerated in 2024 with their own police, their own sovereign nations, casinos, etc you would think they would have stopped blaming white people for their issues with drugs, alcohol ,crime etc - these things are in every community white, black , brown etc …I just can’t keep hearing the same old story about the bad white man every time I pick up a book lately - sorry but that’s my personal opinion ! I don’t recommend this book.
June 9, 2024
SYNOPSIS
- Set in Minnesota. Some girls / young women are missing. One is white & a politician’s daughter, and the rest are Indigenous.
- Cork works along different folks to solve what is going on. Also, Cork’s 7 year old grandson, Waboo, has a spiritual connection, and he is able to make some connections in the case.
MY THOUGHTS
- This is the 2nd novel by Krueger I’ve read. I enjoyed The River We Remember more than this one, and I rated it 4 stars.
- There are a lot of characters, and it’s tough to keep them all straight.
- Apparently, this is book #20 in Krueger’s Cork O’Connor series, so I suspect I would have rated higher if I had read the prior 19 books. I would suggest not reading this as the first book in the series for that reason alone.
- The pacing is a little slow, and some parts are repetitive.
- I enjoyed how the book highlights important topics, like the epidemic of missing Indigenous women & violence against Indigenous women. I am glad the author is shedding light on these issues.
- Overall, the story was just okay to me. It was predictable in most aspects, including the ending. There wasn’t anything that made this one stand out to me.
TL;DR: ⭐️⭐️⭐️important topics + commendable for the author to shed light on the epidemic of missing Indigenous women and violence against Indigenous women. I hadn’t read the other books in series, so I don’t recommend it as THE introduction to the series. Overall, story was just okay & predictable in many ways.
Thanks to Atria and Netgalley for this digital ARC in exchanges for an honest review. This book will be published on August 20, 2024.
- Set in Minnesota. Some girls / young women are missing. One is white & a politician’s daughter, and the rest are Indigenous.
- Cork works along different folks to solve what is going on. Also, Cork’s 7 year old grandson, Waboo, has a spiritual connection, and he is able to make some connections in the case.
MY THOUGHTS
- This is the 2nd novel by Krueger I’ve read. I enjoyed The River We Remember more than this one, and I rated it 4 stars.
- There are a lot of characters, and it’s tough to keep them all straight.
- Apparently, this is book #20 in Krueger’s Cork O’Connor series, so I suspect I would have rated higher if I had read the prior 19 books. I would suggest not reading this as the first book in the series for that reason alone.
- The pacing is a little slow, and some parts are repetitive.
- I enjoyed how the book highlights important topics, like the epidemic of missing Indigenous women & violence against Indigenous women. I am glad the author is shedding light on these issues.
- Overall, the story was just okay to me. It was predictable in most aspects, including the ending. There wasn’t anything that made this one stand out to me.
TL;DR: ⭐️⭐️⭐️important topics + commendable for the author to shed light on the epidemic of missing Indigenous women and violence against Indigenous women. I hadn’t read the other books in series, so I don’t recommend it as THE introduction to the series. Overall, story was just okay & predictable in many ways.
Thanks to Atria and Netgalley for this digital ARC in exchanges for an honest review. This book will be published on August 20, 2024.
August 18, 2024
Masterful storytelling. William Kent Krueger returns to his 20-book saga of the saga of the Cork O'Connor family as it morphed from intelligent police procedurals to so much more. A missing white girl from a wealthy family is missing and all stops are pulled to find her. After the grave discovered by a young boy turns out to be a young Native American women instead, the federal law enforcement loses interest. But O'Connor, now a P.I., allied with local law enforcement to learn her identity, as well as what happened to her. Clarity of language and meditative tone combine with a crackling good mystery to make this special. The plight of missing, murdered and trafficked Native American women informs the whole story, as does the spirituality and connection to nature. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2024
Best of the series.
August 22, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy for Review purposes.
William Kent Krueger continues to turn out great stories with his Cork O'Conner character. This is a great edition in the long line of Cork books (20 now). It can be read as a stand alone book, but it does a great job of tying together all of the characters from his previous books. This book has lots of twists and turns in a fast paced read.
The author does a great job of introducing and educating the reader on a major issue facing indigenous people and their struggles. This is a well-written book featuring many different themes (spiritualism, indigenous struggles, mystery, crime action, and a great storyline). I would definitely recommend this book to any reader who enjoys mystery, crime, action, or thrillers. If you have not read the previous books, they are must read also.
William Kent Krueger continues to turn out great stories with his Cork O'Conner character. This is a great edition in the long line of Cork books (20 now). It can be read as a stand alone book, but it does a great job of tying together all of the characters from his previous books. This book has lots of twists and turns in a fast paced read.
The author does a great job of introducing and educating the reader on a major issue facing indigenous people and their struggles. This is a well-written book featuring many different themes (spiritualism, indigenous struggles, mystery, crime action, and a great storyline). I would definitely recommend this book to any reader who enjoys mystery, crime, action, or thrillers. If you have not read the previous books, they are must read also.
August 23, 2024
Wow.
Major plot points I never saw coming. (But I really like the development of Prophet!)
Major plot points I never saw coming. (But I really like the development of Prophet!)
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