If I had to name my favorite novel of all time, it would be Ordinary Grace by William Kent Kreuger. For years I've been aware of Mr. Krueger's very successful and long-running mystery series featuring protagonist Cork O'Connor. I've considered reading the first book several times, but was reluctant for fear I wouldn't enjoy it. Plus it's a big commitment to begin a 20-book that's still being written!
Fortunately, my book club selected Iron Lake, book 1 in the Cork O'Connor series, for our April title so I finally read it. And of course, it was fabulous. It has the traits I love about Ordinary Grace:
- Midwestern sensibility
- excellent and approachable writing
- deeply flawed and relatable characters
- strong sense of place
- compelling and interesting mystery
Set in rural northern Minnesota, the police procedural features Cork O'Connor, a former Chicago police officer whose going through a rough patch. He recently lost his county sheriff position, his good friend died, his wife asked him to move out, and he misses his kids. His Irish and Anishinaabe Indian heritage uniquely enables him to build relationships with (most of) the members of his community.
Although he's no longer law enforcement, he uncovers several crimes by being in the wrong places at the wrong times. His lack of confidence in the new sheriff finds him investigating to find the truth. Along the way, we learn the basics of his backstory.
It's telling that a novel written 25 years ago still has a hold list for all formats at my local library. I look forward to many more visits to Cork O'Connor's world through the audiobook narration of David Chandler.
Fortunately, my book club selected Iron Lake, book 1 in the Cork O'Connor series, for our April title so I finally read it. And of course, it was fabulous. It has the traits I love about Ordinary Grace:
- Midwestern sensibility
- excellent and approachable writing
- deeply flawed and relatable characters
- strong sense of place
- compelling and interesting mystery
Set in rural northern Minnesota, the police procedural features Cork O'Connor, a former Chicago police officer whose going through a rough patch. He recently lost his county sheriff position, his good friend died, his wife asked him to move out, and he misses his kids. His Irish and Anishinaabe Indian heritage uniquely enables him to build relationships with (most of) the members of his community.
Although he's no longer law enforcement, he uncovers several crimes by being in the wrong places at the wrong times. His lack of confidence in the new sheriff finds him investigating to find the truth. Along the way, we learn the basics of his backstory.
It's telling that a novel written 25 years ago still has a hold list for all formats at my local library. I look forward to many more visits to Cork O'Connor's world through the audiobook narration of David Chandler.
Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details
