Cork O'Connor Books in Order
A thrilling series of novels featuring the Irish-American sheriff, Cork O'Connor, set in the rugged and beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin, by author William Kent Krueger.
In chronological order of publication:
The Sheriff's Children (2006)
The series opener introduces Cork O'Connor, a man struggling to reconcile his Irish heritage with his life in the heartland. When a young woman is found dead in the woods, Cork is drawn into a case that involves a Native American community, family secrets, and a brutal murder.
Iron Lake (2007)
Cork's investigation into a missing boy leads him to a decades-old crime. The case uncovers a trail of hidden secrets and deep-rooted tensions within the community, pushing Cork to the limits of his own moral compass.
This Tender Land (2012)
A standalone novel, but still a must-read for fans of the series. This Tender Land is a sweeping story about four orphaned children who embark on a perilous journey through the Great Depression-era Midwest, offering a moving exploration of resilience, family, and the power of hope.
Ordinary Grace (2013)
A standalone novel, similar in style and tone to the Cork O'Connor series. This story about the impact of a shocking tragedy on a small Minnesota town delves into themes of faith, forgiveness, and the fragility of innocence.
Little Orphan of the Wilderness (2014)
This heartwarming novella is a prequel to the Cork O'Connor series, offering a glimpse into Cork's childhood. It explores the origins of his love for the Northwoods and the profound impact of his family's legacy.
The Silent Wife (2015)
Cork is forced to confront his own past as he investigates the disappearance of a woman whose husband is a suspect. This case brings to light a web of secrets and lies, forcing Cork to confront his own demons and the ghosts of his past.
The Road to Mercy Falls (2016)
A series of chilling events leads Cork to investigate a mysterious cult that has settled in the region. The case takes him down a dark path, leading him to face dangerous individuals and unsettling truths about himself and the world around him.
The Hunted (2018)
Cork is drawn into a high-stakes case involving the illegal poaching of wolves. This hunt leads him into the depths of the Northwoods, confronting a shadowy organization that will stop at nothing to protect their secrets.
This Tender Land (2019)
A standalone novel set in the same world as the Cork O'Connor series, but with a different set of characters. This story about four orphaned children who embark on a perilous journey through the Great Depression-era Midwest, offering a moving exploration of resilience, family, and the power of hope.
The Edge of Sorrow (2021)
Cork is forced to confront his own demons as he investigates the murder of a woman whose life was intertwined with his past. This case brings to light a web of secrets and lies, forcing Cork to confront his own demons and the ghosts of his past.
The Cork O'Connor series is known for its captivating characters, its exploration of the complexities of human relationships, and its breathtaking portrayal of the Northwoods. William Kent Krueger's unique blend of mystery, suspense, and literary depth makes this series a must-read for fans of crime fiction and anyone who enjoys a good story with a sense of place.
