Windigo Island

David Chandler narrates this riveting installment in the Cork O'Connor mystery series in the manner of an empathetic but detached observer. He strikes just the right chord as Cork attempts to find 15-year-old Mariah Arceneaux. Aided by well-developed and likable characters--such as his daughter, Jenny; his good friend, Rainy; wise, old Henry Meloux; and Daniel English--Cork stumbles onto a sex-trafficking ring and Native American teenagers who are searching for a better life than the reservations offer. Chandler's laconic, vaguely disillusioned tones are perfect to capture the veteran sheriff, who is now a private investigator. Few men can portray young and old women with such skill and charm, too. The tense plot and wonderful narration will grip listeners. S.C.A Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine

Starred review from June 30, 2014
Edgar-winner Krueger highlights the vulnerability of Native American youth in his excellent 14th Cork O’Connor novel (after 2013’s Tamarack County). PI Cork, a former Minnesota sheriff, reluctantly investigates the disappearance of 14-year-old Mariah Arceneaux, who left her home near Bad Bluff, Wis., a year earlier. The battered body of the friend who accompanied her, Carrie Verga, recently washed ashore on Windigo Island in Lake Superior. A plea for help from Mariah’s diabetic mother, Louise, to the sage Henry Meloux ends with Cork’s older daughter, Jenny, rashly vowing to help save Mariah. This move forces Cork’s hand, putting him on the trail of a ruthless man called Windigo. Jenny, Louise, and centenarian Henry play key roles as the mission tests both spiritual and physical powers. Krueger paints a vivid picture of the sordid cycle of poverty, abuse, alcoholism, and runaway (or throwaway) children on the reservation, and reminds us of the evil of men all too willing to exploit the innocent. Agent: Danielle Egan-Miller, Browne & Miller Literary Associates.