Many thanks to my friends at @bookclubfavorties @atriaboooks and @simon.audio for the #gifted copies of this book.  

 

Nostalgic.  Lyrical.  Thought provoking.

 

There is something about the way Krueger tells a story.  A true master of the art.  

 

That fateful summer of 1958.  When Jimmy Quinn is found floating in the Alabaster River, there’s little doubt that it was murder.  Given that Quinn was the most hated man in town, Sherriff Brody Dern finds no shortage of suspects.  But rampant judgment and mistrust threaten to hinder Dern’s efforts and muddle the truth.

 

With closely guarded secrets meticulously unveiled, the plotting of this mystery was expertly layered and imbued with suspense.   

 

But this is so much more than a police procedural seeking justice. 

 

At its heart, this is a story about broken people and a small town in turmoil.  It’s a reflection on the ravages of war and the unfairness of life.  It’s also an incisive examination of prejudice and racism.  But mostly, it’s a moving portrait of humanity and healing.  

 

Though ambitious in scope, it’s Krueger’s understanding of the soul and its connection to nature that solidifies this effortless execution and makes the story so compelling.   

 

There’s a quietness… an ease… with which Krueger hones this narrative.  His writing brims with tenderness, even as it exposes the most sordid.  As such, forgiveness outweighs judgment and redemption is embraced in the end.  

 

Once again, Krueger delivers a powerful read that I won’t soon forget. 

 

🎧 The audiobook, narrated by CJ Wilson, is a strong performance that perfectly captures the time and place while also enhancing the emotion and suspense.  Given the large cast of characters, I recommend partnering the audio with the print.