Bearskin
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2020
352
Book • Nonfiction
Virginia • Contemporary
2020
Adult
18+ years
1030L
In James A. McLaughlin’s thriller, Bearskin (2018), the forest caretaker Rick Morton, using the alias Rice Moore, fights to stop bear poaching in Appalachian Virginia while evading his criminal past. Communing with nature, he uncovers a local illegal wildlife trade, confronting poachers and grappling with his history and trauma as the cartel seeks revenge. Topics include graphic violence and sexual assault.
Mysterious
Dark
Gritty
Suspenseful
Contemplative
8,407 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
James A. McLaughlin's Bearskin is lauded for its atmospheric prose and suspenseful narrative, blending crime thriller with deep environmental themes. Critics appreciate its vivid depiction of nature and morally complex protagonist. Some find the pacing uneven and the plot occasionally predictable. Nevertheless, it remains a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Bearskin by James A. McLaughlin captivates readers who enjoy gritty, atmospheric thrillers and richly woven narratives. Fans of rural noir and suspense novels like Daniel Woodrell's Winter's Bone or Ron Rash's Serena will find the blend of tense action and deep ecological awareness compelling.
8,407 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
352
Book • Nonfiction
Virginia • Contemporary
2020
Adult
18+ years
1030L
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