(#partner @aaknopf) • The River by Peter Heller was exactly what I was looking for - a quick engrossing read that kept me drawn in and emotionally invested.

The River is set in the wilderness on the border of Canada, following Wynn and Jack on their long planned canoe trip. Things quickly go awry as a wildfire starts approaching, and get more sinister after they hear a man fighting with his wife in the fog. A couple of days later, they encounter the man, alone, claiming that he can’t find his wife.

This book has elements that I love - a wild setting, a thrilling plot, likable characters, and high stakes. You get to learn more about Wynn and Jack’s background, and they’re both bookish which makes it kind of fun. My fiancé works in wildfire, so I enjoyed the details of the wildfire element too.

This book had more going for it than just a good plot, too. The friendship between Wynn and Jack, their similarities and differences, and the way they each looked at the world and situation differently made their relationship and characters seem real. Also parts of it def made my eyes fill with tears.

If you’re looking for a fast-paced book that’s more than your traditional thriller, and if you like books set it the wilderness, I’d highly recommend giving this one a try!