this is the 228th in my series of forgotten or seldom read books
Iron Lake by William Kent Kruger, © 1998, Pocket books 1999 paperback, 1st Corcoran “Cork” O’Connor, mystery
I was at George Easter’s presentation of Barry Awards at the 1999 Milwaukee Bouchercon, at which this won best first novel. I bought the paperback and put it on the TBR pile, and I read it a few months later, when it worked it’s way to the top. What a pleasure.
Part Irish, part Anishinaabe Indian, Cork O’Conner was once Sheriff of Aurora, Minnesota but was recalled after a shooting in which circumstances were against him. He didn’t fight the recall because he didn’t have the heart to.
Now estranged from his wife and family, he lives in and runs a seasonal burger stand on the shore of Iron Lake. When the county judge is murdered, Cork is caught up in the investigation which eventually leads him to the murderer, and some bitter facts.
This is the beginning of the excellent series, and if you haven’t read this and the books that follow it you’ve missed a real treat.
The book got quite a bit of praise at the time, and deservedly so. I’m impressed by the skill with which Kruger paints the characters and landscape, as well as his storytelling. This is a good one, and the series gets even better as it progresses. Read these in order to follow the lives and changes the characters go through!
Very good, highly recommended. The latest Cork O’Conner novel, Manitou Canyon, will be out in September.
Tip the Wink 
I’ve enjoyed hearing Kent talk at conventions, but so far all I’ve read of his was the non-series book.
I’m really surprised you haven’t read any of this excellent series, Jeff. You’ve got a lot of good reading to look forward to. I think you’ll really enjoy them. They must be read in order, however.
I really liked ORDINARY GRACE, so this may be next.
William Kent Kruger books occupy one of my shelves. Maybe this summer I’ll read one or two. Nice review.
I’m really surprised you also haven’t read any of this excellent series. You’ve got a lot of good reading to look forward to.
I’ve not heard of this one. Looks good though.
I know you read more fantasy than mystery fiction, Charles, but this is a good series and Cork O’Conner a great character who develops as the series progresses.
I’ve never read these, Richard, though I’ve heard of the main character and had heard good things about the series. But you know how it is, so many books, SO little time. But maybe if I begin at the beginning with IRON LAKE. Thanks for the reminder.
This one of my favorite series, I eagerly await the next, always get excited when a new one is announced. I think you’d like these, Yvette.
Richard – Thanks for the review. IRON LAKE is going on my stack of summer reading.
I think you’ll like it. Comment back here to say what you think.
I will, but it may be a while. I have books stacked up, hovering over me in a holding pattern. But I might just land this one ahead of the others. Thanks again.
I have had this book for three years and haven’t gotten to reading it yet. I will try to pull it out of its hiding place and push it closer to the top of the TBR pile.
Tracy, I think you’ll be glad you did.
I’m surprised that so many people who read a lot of mysteries haven’t read Krueger’s Cork O’Conner series. I have read every book since Iron Lake and think the series rates right up there with the best presently being published.
I couldn’t agree more, Kent. I’m eager for the next book.