The River King by Alice Hoffman explores a mystery in a small Massachusetts town after a student drowns in the local river. School and town officials claim it was a suicide, but police officer Abel Gray, haunted by past family trauma, suspects foul play. Alongside photography teacher Betsy, Abel uncovers hidden truths and confronts his own haunted past. Suitable for readers sensitive to themes of suicide.

Alice Hoffman's The River King is praised for its atmospheric writing and intricate character development, capturing the ethereal essence of a small town. However, some reviews critique its pacing and the occasionally confusing plot twists. The blend of mysticism with a realistic setting generally receives high marks, appealing to readers who enjoy layered, evocative narratives.

A reader who enjoys The River King by Alice Hoffman is likely drawn to atmospheric, character-driven stories with elements of magical realism. Similar to fans of Hoffman's other works or Practical Magic, this reader appreciates nuanced emotional landscapes and small-town mysteries. Comparable titles include The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern and Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen.

Mysterious / Melancholic / Fantastical / Contemplative / Bittersweet

- The River King was published in 2000 and continues Alice Hoffman's exploration of magical realism, mixing everyday life with supernatural elements in a small Massachusetts town.
- The setting of The River King, the fictional Haddington College, draws inspiration from real New England boarding schools, where tradition and dark secrets intertwine.
- This novel was selected by Oprah's Book Club, bringing Hoffman's storytelling to a broader audience and solidifying her place in popular contemporary fiction.

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