In Spirit Crossing, the 20th installment of William Kent Krueger’s Cork O’Connor series, the story dives into themes of Native trauma, family bonds, and the environmental impact of Big Oil. When a politician’s daughter vanishes in Minnesota, sparking a huge search, Cork’s grandson finds the grave of an unidentified Ojibwe woman. This discovery sets off an intense investigation led by Cork and the Iron Lake Ojibwe Tribal Police, revealing a tangled web of connections and dangers, including a link to the missing girl.
Krueger skillfully intertwines real social issues with a compelling mystery, navigating the complexities of Indigenous rights and human trafficking with sensitivity and insight. The story treads into supernatural themes and introduces a multitude of characters that may overwhelm some readers. Despite a few cumbersome subplots, the heart of the mystery remains engaging, driven by Cork’s strong moral compass and his relentless pursuit of justice.
Spirit Crossing exemplifies Krueger’s talent for blending meaningful cultural discussions with thrilling mystery elements. This installment not only promises a gripping read but also reflects on significant societal issues, making it a noteworthy addition to the series. I recommend reading these books in order. 4 stars.
** Thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for a review copy. The opinions are my own.
*** A production company has optioned the Cork O’Connor series… I hope it comes to pass!