61 pages • 2 hours read
William Kent KruegerIron Lake
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1998A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
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.
Reviews & Readership
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 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.