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Iron Lake

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1998

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Book Brief

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William Kent Krueger

Iron Lake

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1998
Book Details
Pages

330

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Minnesota • Late 20th century

Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Iron Lake by William Kent Krueger follows former sheriff Cork O'Connor as he investigates the disappearance of a boy named Paul LeBeau and the apparent suicide of Judge Parrant in a Minnesota community. As Cork delves deeper, he uncovers corruption, murder, and personal betrayal, while grappling with his own grief and strained relationships. The narrative includes depictions of suicide, murder, alcohol use disorder, and racism toward Indigenous cultures and peoples.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Dark

Emotional

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Krueger’s Iron Lake captivates with its richly drawn small-town setting and compelling protagonist, Cork O’Connor. The novel’s blend of mystery and Native American culture is lauded, though some find the pacing uneven. Engaging yet occasionally slow, it remains a strong debut for mystery enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Iron Lake?

Ideal for fans of atmospheric, character-driven mysteries, readers of Iron Lake by William Kent Krueger often enjoy novels like Louise Penny’s Still Life and C.J. Box’s Open Season. They appreciate rich storytelling, complex protagonists, and the rugged, evocative settings of rural America.

Book Details
Pages

330

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Minnesota • Late 20th century

Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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