Cork O’Connor, a retired police chief from Aurora, Minnesota, finds himself in the midst of trouble once again in William Kent Krueger’s latest novel, “Spirit Crossing.” Cork, who is half Native American and married to a full-blooded Ojibwe woman, now runs a fast-food place but is still drawn into solving mysteries and protecting his community when danger arises.
In this 20th installment of the Cork O’Connor series, the disappearance of a politician’s daughter sets off a chain of events that bring the FBI, state law enforcement agencies, and the media to Aurora. Simultaneously, tensions rise as oil pipeline construction threatens the sacred wetlands of Spirit Crossing, a place of significance to the Native American community. Protesters and counter-protesters gather, setting the stage for conflict and potential violence.
Adding to the complexity of the situation is Cork’s daughter, Annie, who returns home from her work as an aide worker in Central America. Accompanied by a Guatemalan nurse named Maria, Annie carries a troubling secret that she is hesitant to share with her family. As Cork navigates these personal and professional challenges, a new mystery unfolds that tests his investigative skills and puts his loved ones in danger.
The novel kicks off with a seemingly innocent outing to a blueberry patch with Cork’s family, including his young grandson Waaboo. However, their discovery of a shallow grave near an abandoned shack leads to a chilling revelation – Waaboo claims to hear the spirit of a sad girl calling out to him. This eerie encounter sets off a chain of events that will uncover dark truths and test the limits of Cork’s abilities as a protector and investigator.
As the investigation into the missing girl and the mysterious deaths of Native American girls unfolds, Cork teams up with Aurora Police Chief Marsha Dross and the Iron Lake Ojibwe Tribal Police to unravel the truth. Suspicions fall on the pipeline workers, and as tensions escalate, a sinister force targets Waaboo, putting the entire community at risk.
Krueger’s storytelling shines in “Spirit Crossing,” as he weaves together elements of Native American culture, mysticism, and the rugged beauty of Minnesota’s north woods. His attention to detail and character development bring the story to life, immersing readers in a world filled with suspense, intrigue, and moral dilemmas.
Overall, “Spirit Crossing” is a gripping and thought-provoking addition to the Cork O’Connor series, showcasing Krueger’s talent for crafting compelling narratives that blend mystery, drama, and cultural richness. Fans of the series and newcomers alike will find themselves captivated by Cork’s latest adventure and the challenges he faces in a world where justice and tradition collide.