It’s the summer of 1963 in Aurora, Minnesota when Corcoran (Cork) O’Connor was 12-years old. He and friend Jorge were exploring an area around the Boundary Waters of Iron Lake when they came upon the area called Lightning Strike. To their horror, they discovered the remains of Big John Manydeeds, a man they both revered, hanging from a tree. Cork’s father, Liam, is the country sheriff who comes to the scene, which at first appearance looks to be a suicide. However, as Liam proceeds with the investigation, that preliminary assessment may have been premature. The case also highlights the divide within the community between the indigenous people and the white residents.
I’m current in this series so to go back in time and learn more about who and what helped shape Cork O’Connor was a gift. For those who haven’t started the series, this is the perfect place to begin. Throughout the series, Cork has often reminisced about his parents but seemed especially impacted by his father. This story provides an excellent illustration of who Liam O’Connor was, his relationship with his son and his sense of justice. He’s sorely challenged as the pressures from all sides was awful. Despite it all, he stayed true to himself and the law.
The tension was high from the onset and only intensified as the investigation progressed. What saddened me was how many of the cultural issues of that era haven’t improved much and are still manifesting themselves today. But what was heartening was the friendship between young Cork and his two friends, one a Latino and the other an Anishinaabe, who provide a primer for how to manage through difference. This is an incredible story with many, many layers, made even more wonderful by the outstanding narration of David Chandler. If you’re considering this series, please listen to the books because he elevates Krueger’s superior storytelling skills into the stratosphere. It’s one of my top ten series and this prequel put me in a very, very happy place.
Book Info
- Release Date: August 24, 2021
- Series: Cork O’Connor #0
- Narrator: David Chandler
- Audio Length: 11 hours, 37 minutes
- Publisher: Recorded Books
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(Thanks to Recorded Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Blue Mood Café 
This does sound like a story with many layers, and the fact that you put it as one of your too ten series speaks volumes. Excellent review, Jo! Definitely, one I will keep my eye on. ❤️
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Thank you, Tessa💜 It’s the best storytelling I’ve ever come across that is consistent with every book. It’s rich in history with strong characterization. If you decide to dip your toe in it, do it via audio. Chandler is incredible.
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He’s an amazingly fine, nuanced writer.
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That’s a perfect description of Krueger’s skills, Angela💜
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I am beyond thrilled that you loved this story and the series. Lovely review, Jo!
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Thank you, Marialyce💜 Krueger is such a gifted writer.
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Yes it’s stellar. Excellent review. I’ve given up and started buying them even though I can get them at the library. They are just so amazing.
Anne – Books of My Heart
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Thank you, Anne💜 I keep thinking he can’t keep this level of writing up and he just keeps delivering.
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I’ve heard only good things about this series!
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You can believe the hype, Carol💜 I’m forever grateful to my Goodreads friends who pushed me to start this series.
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Would you read Lightening Strike before you started the series? Or in publication order?
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I absolutely recommend reading it first!
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Great! 🙌
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Excellent review, Jonetta!! Sounds like a great series!
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Thank you, Julie💜 It’s definitely one of the best series out there.
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Fab review Jo!
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Thank you, Nicki💜
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I’ve heard such wonderful things about this author. I really need to try one of his books. Fabulous review Jonetta 💕📚
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Thank you, Kaceey💜 You’ll definitely want to start here. I guarantee you a great reading experience.
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Can this be read without having read the main series? I just read my first William Kent Krueger this year (This Tender Land) and loved it, and had the absolute pleasure of having him meet with my book group via Zoom. We’re going to read ORdinary Grace in a few months as well, but I like the sound of this book too.
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Even though this is the most recent book, it is truly a prequel. Definitely start here before proceeding with the rest of the books in the series. There’s character progression so it should be read in order. This book is positioned at the beginning.
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Great to know, thanks!
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I just finished This Tender Land from this author last month and thought it was such a beautifully written story. I loved how his stories have so many layers to them. I didn’t realize he wrote series as well though so I’ll definitely have to check it out since you love it so much.
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You’re in for a treat if you begin this series. Layering seems to be his writing style as each book has so many angles. I listened to This Tender Land and it is a fine example of his skills and the books in this series.
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This sounds like a great series. I think I would enjoy it. I’m gonna have to add this series to my TBR. I’ve been looking for more mystery/thriller stories.
Melanie @ Books of My Heart
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Melanie, you will love this series💜💜💜 I see you added this book on Goodreads and can’t wait to see what you think.
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I listened to This Tender Land, my only William Kent Krueger book and loved it. This series sounds so good, I don’t know how I never heard of it before. This audiobook is available at my library, so I am definitely going to listen to it, then start working my way through this series. You have hooked me, Jo. Wonderful review.
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