Review: The River is Waiting

The River is Waiting

Author: Wally Lamb

Simon & Schuster/Marysue Rucci Books, 2025

ISBN: 9781668006399 (hardcover)
9781668006412 (EPUB)

$39.99 CAD (hardcover)
$20.99 CAD (EPUB)

480 pages

Ages: Adult

The River Is Waiting begins with a tragic event that immediately sets a heavy tone. Corby Ledbetter’s life takes a sharp turn after one terrible decision. As he adjusts to life in prison, the novel explores themes of addiction, guilt, and the complexity of forgiveness. Wally Lamb portrays the bleakness of incarceration with care, while also focusing on moments of human connection (friendship, reflection, and the possibility of healing). At times, the emotional beats can feel a little saccharine, with some redemptive moments landing too neatly given the gravity of the story. Still, Corby’s inner journey is compelling, and Lamb creates a nuanced portrait of a man reckoning with grief and regret. Relationships are messy, and forgiveness is far from guaranteed. While not always subtle, the novel invites reflection on justice, remorse, and the weight of second chances. Readers looking for a character-driven story with emotional depth will likely find much to sit with here.