Thunder Bay

This one rated a 5 Star review mostly because of the native lore and backstories. I love this series and so when it seemed to have a slow start (please find my 71 year old son, whom I’ve never met – – ho hum), I just kept on reading, trusting in Krueger to work his magic. And did he ever!! I’ve always loved the character Henry Meloux, the 90+ year old Okjibwe “midi” or medicine man/healer. He lets us know about his own back story in this wonderful and engaging novel. The “ho-hum” thoughts in the early pages are quickly replaced by “Wow!” as the tension increases and the pages must be turned faster and faster. Meloux has been Cork’s spiritual advisor most of his life, and now Cork tries to give back a little. The POV was Cork himself this time, and that was fine for me. The setting this time is more in the Canadian woods than Minnesota, but I loved it just as much or more. I could feel the danger and the suspense and cringed at the violence. The denouement and ending were perfectly executed….no “mercy Falls” cliffhanger this time (thanks). So, it’s on to #8.

I am a life long reader – and I read the whole genre of literature from Politics to basket weaving
with one exception, I dont read romance novels. Krugers books, all 18 + of them, are without
exception the overall best writer I have ever read. After reading the first one I was hooked – I now
have all of them. He tells the story in such a way you are there with him, walking in the woods,
or facing whatever obstacles he encounters. He has a sit on the front porch rocking chair demeanor
that comes thru in all of his novels. I have but one promise & that is you wont be disappointed.

I waffled between 3 and 4 stars. Krueger is a deft writer, plot lines flow, dialogue is readable, although a bit too precious at times. There is one disappointment in this book. The trick so many suspense writers use is to have the antagonist spill the evil plans to the protagonist as a way to fill in the blanks in the plot. I envision Snidely Whiplash curling his moustache and laughing behind his cape. I would have rather had more character development for the antagonist and let me figure it out. Overall it’s a good quick read, brain candy compared to what I normally choose. Krueger’s work always includes excellent background on Native American lore, traditions etc. Adding to the interest and depth. He has a strong sense of place which I find extremely interesting and makes for an enjoyable read as it adds depth to the story.

This is the 7th book in the Cork O’Connor series. I have read them in order (which I recommend), and have enjoyed all of them. This one, however, is the best. Multiple story lines, and the interesting back story of Henry Meloux. Krueger develops so many great characters and different stories. The setting in Minnesota and the Lake Superior area is quite interesting, not knowing anything about that part of the country.

I couldnt put this novel down. It is number seven in the series, and, in my opinion, the best yet. On the cover is a prepublication endorsement from Author Michael Connelly who says, Thunder Bay is William Kent Kruegers finest work. A strong story with a fast-beating heart. I agree completely. I highly recommend this book, and all the others in this series. David B. Crawley, M.D. author of

Steep Turn: A Physician’s Journey From Clinic to Cockpit

” and ”

A Mile of String: A Boy’s Recollection of His Midwest Childhood

.”

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