S. M. Hulse

Still waters run deep.

This book was simply stunning.

Wes Carver is a stoic man. After spending most of his life as a Corrections Officer at a prison in Black River, Montana, Wes has returned to the area from Spokane, WA to spread his late wife's ashes. His visit coincides with the timing of a parole hearing for an inmate who left an indelible impression on Wes's life.

"Black River" is the story of a marriage, of faith, of relationships, of hurt, of acceptance, and of painful memories. For me the book had a bit of a slow start, but once I was 1/4 of the way in I was entranced. One of the best books I've read this year.… (altro)

A story of loss, in so many senses of the word, and the possibility of connection. Wesley, a former corrections officer and former fiddle player, watches his wife die of leukemia, and tries to connect with his stepson, all the while dealing with the trauma of a prison riot and the prospect of parole for the man responsible. Not a spoiler - you can learn this in the first chapter or two. But oh, how it plays out, how Hulse builds each character and the rhythm of small town Montana, gives us such close access to Wesley and others. A stellar, intimate story. Not to be missed.… (altro)