William Kent Krueger delivers another phenomenal adventure his readers will devour ... Though this is the 19th book in Krueger’s series, newcomers to the Cork franchise should have no trouble at all jumping in and following along. And oh what a trip William Kent Krueger has in store for them here, with this mysterious yet adrenaline-pumping story packed with twists, action, and a setting that lends itself perfectly to all of it ... easily one of the most talented pure writers on the scene today. Few authors are able to build their series around a distinct location, and constantly use that setting to their advantage the way Krueger does with Northern Minnesota ... Krueger’s books are a completely different flavor profile, flush with Native American culture, supernatural-like elements, and hidden, thought-provoking plot devices that, though going into too much detail would be considered a spoiler, touch on numerous issues facing the world today. Moreover, Krueger’s character development is second to none, and even as he nears the twenty-book mark, the author continues to flesh out his protagionist, who is tested in new ways here, as he attempts to track a band of killers through the wilderness. All of it works so well, but it’s hard to imagine anyone else being able to pull it off ... With its quick pacing and multi-layered plot, William Kent Krueger’s Fox Creek dazzles early, sucking readers in, before giving way to a heart-thumping final act that delivers one hell of a reading experience.
This genuinely thrilling and atmospheric novel brims with characters who are easy to root for. The pacing isn’t perfect — I could have done with fewer chapters in the bad guys’ heads — but when Cork, Henry and the others faced mortal danger, my heart leaped into my throat. For those new to the series, Fox Creek is a strong entry point.
Krueger wastes no time plunging into the action, using present tense to maintain immediacy and ratcheting up the tension through interspersed points of view in short, taut chapters ... Krueger has exhibited a mastery and control that can't be denied.
As usual in a Krueger novel, the prose is elegant, the landscape of Minnesota’s northeastern triangle is vividly portrayed, the character development is superb, and Henry’s Native American mysticism is treated with understanding and respect.
... the most suspenseful and intense book in the series that I have read thus far ... both a mystery novel and a mysterious novel wherein the native Ojibwe lore permeates the story, and readers can almost feel the mysticism dripping off the page. This is a welcome and memorable departure for Cork O’Connor and his little world.
Newcomers to Krueger’s long-running series will be easily drawn into Cork’s warm family circle and Tamarack County’s lush forest setting. Krueger balances taut suspense with well-crafted alternating narratives and thoughtful big-picture considerations. A sure bet for readers who enjoy exploring Native cultures and eco-thrillers.
... outstanding ... Krueger skillfully blends an evocative look at nature’s beauty and peril with Native American lore. Not just regional mystery fans will be enthralled.
