The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger

*** Review ***

In the heart of 1958, a quaint Minnesota town called Jewel finds itself ensnared in a web of mysteries and emotions as it grapples with the shocking murder of its most influential resident, Jimmy Quinn. The tapestry of this riveting standalone novel, penned by the masterful storyteller William Kent Krueger, unfolds against the backdrop of post-World War II America. This tender exploration of human scars, both visible and concealed, immerses readers in a tale that deftly combines a spellbinding mystery with a poignant portrait of American life in midcentury.

The River We Remember introduces us to Jewel, where the citizens gather on Memorial Day to commemorate the valor of those lost to past wars. However, this year’s solemn occasion is marred by the discovery of Quinn’s lifeless body, half-clothed and drifting in the Alabaster River, a gunshot wound claiming his life. The enigmatic murder thrusts Sheriff Brody Dern, a decorated war hero, into a challenging investigation, complicated by the haunting remnants of his own wartime traumas. Krueger artfully unravels the narrative, weaving together the lives of diverse characters, each harboring their own hidden histories and intricate secrets.

The crux of this multifaceted novel lies in its exploration of families and small-town dynamics. Krueger’s eloquent prose captures the essence of Jewel’s community, where emotions run deep and the wounds of history are never forgotten. Amid the turmoil, we encounter a war widow and her resilient son, a steadfast newspaper publisher, an aging deputy, and a determined lawyer, all struggling to reconcile their pasts with the tumultuous present. Krueger’s evocative storytelling brings forth the resilience of these characters, as they navigate the storm of suspicions and accusations ignited by Quinn’s murder.

With a deft touch, the author delves into themes that resonate with timeless human struggles: racism, love, abuse, loss, and the enduring shadows of post-traumatic stress disorder. The town’s atmosphere, as meticulously crafted by Krueger, comes alive with vibrant descriptions, offering readers a window into the everyday lives and struggles of its inhabitants. The nuanced handling of PTSD, exemplified through the varying personas of the characters, resonates as an insightful exploration of the scars left by both external and internal battles.

At the narrative core stand Sheriff Brody Dern and Charlotte, a valiant attorney intent on exonerating the Native American WWII veteran, Noah Bluestone, whom the town suspects of Quinn’s murder. Their perspectives provide the lens through which we observe the town’s evolution, its secrets unfurling layer by layer. Among these captivating personas, the indomitable Scott shines as a beacon of inspiration, embodying resilience in the face of adversity.

Krueger’s command over prose is commendable, transporting readers effortlessly to a bygone era. While the pacing might occasionally seem measured, it mirrors the deliberate tempo of life in the 1950s. The narrative is elevated by the author’s adept characterization, which breathes life into each persona, endearing them to readers and making their experiences tangible.

In a world where storytelling serves as a salve for wounds, The River We Remember offers a testament to the power of narratives in healing. Krueger’s exploration of small-town dynamics, his ability to evoke emotions, and his portrayal of the struggles that bind communities make this novel a compelling read.

As a longtime admirer of William Kent Krueger’s work, I was drawn into The River We Remember by the promise of another intricately woven mystery. While I found myself enchanted by the narrative, I must admit a partiality towards his previous works, such as This Tender Land and Ordinary Grace, where the character cast was more intimate.

For those uninitiated into the realm of Krueger’s standalone novels, this book is a remarkable starting point. His signature formula shines through, yet each work remains distinct, a testament to his mastery of storytelling. The River We Remember offers a rich ensemble of characters in the enigmatic town of Jewel, Minnesota, their lives intertwined in the aftermath of a brutal murder.

Krueger’s portrayal of PTSD, racism, love, and resilience serves as a reflection of the multifaceted human experience. As readers, we are invited to witness the ebb and flow of emotions, the struggle to reconcile with the past, and the enduring quest for redemption.

In conclusion, The River We Remember is a captivating mystery that transports us to a time when wounds were etched deep into the hearts of a community. William Kent Krueger’s narrative prowess shines as he takes us on a journey through small-town life, painting a vivid picture of the 1950s while unraveling the enigma that lies at the heart of Jewel. With its rich cast of characters, poignant themes, and eloquent prose, this novel stands as a tribute to the enduring power of stories in shaping our understanding of home and healing.