Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the Kindle ARC in exchange for an honest review. Wally Lamb has long been one of my favorite authors. His book, I Know This Much is True," is in my top five favorite books of all time. The River is Waiting is one of the best books I've read in 2024 and I encourage everyone to read this book when it is published. Corby and Emily are a young married couple with twins - a boy, Niko and a girl, Maisie. Corby is an artist who lost his job due to downsizing and Emily is a school teacher. Corby becomes the stay at home parent while looking for a job. Unfortunately to numb the pain and humiliation of not working, he begins day drinking and relying on prescription pain killers to make the days go by. When a tragic accident happens that affects the entire family Corby ends up going to prison for what he's done and the family starts to splinter. Mr. Lamb's description of the broken family, the prison experience and the eventual outcome are some of the most touching and painful chapters I've read in any book. The River Is Waiting is an excellent story and a worthwhile read.

In The River is Waiting, Wally Lamb explores the themes of redemption, forgiveness, and transformation through the life of Corby Ledbetter. Corby is a new father whose life spirals after losing his job and struggling with a hidden addiction, leading to a tragic incident that devastates his family. Sentenced to prison, he navigates a brutal and dehumanizing environment where he encounters both violence and unexpected kindness. The support of a compassionate prison librarian, a gentle-hearted cellmate, and a young inmate searching for guidance helps Corby to find slivers of hope and purpose in his confined life, encouraging his journey toward self-forgiveness and reconciliation with his family and himself​.

An uplifting book about redemption, hope, and forgiveness. If this was made into a movie, I imagine it would be a cross between 'Shawshank Redemption', and 'The Green Mile'.

I recently read that Lamb had spent a lot of time with prison writing programs, which informs this narrative, lending authenticity to Corby’s experiences within the correctional system. Through his decades-long work with incarcerated writers, Lamb brings a compassionate yet unflinching view to prison life, portraying its harsh realities while also illuminating the resilience and humanity that can persist within its confines.

Corby and Emily Ledbetter are a young married couple with a set of twins. Life has been complicated by Corby losing his job and leaving Emily to support their young family.
As a stay at home dad, Corby tries to do his best, but alcohol and downers help him take the edge off his feelings of depression.
This substance abuse slowly escalates and leads to a tragic outcome.
Wally Lamb follows Corby's path through a prison sentence where Corby tries to regain his family, and make amends.

This is a must-read if you are as fascinated by the prison system as I am. A tragedy leads to a father being imprisoned and he has to learn to navigate new relationships while on the inside. This is a story about humanity and how people treat one another when the unthinkable happens.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you to NetGalley for the privilege to read Wally Lamb’s newest work of fiction before it’s available more broadly. This book is a gift. I’ve been waiting years for this and it was worth the wait.
Like Lamb’s novels before this one, this book is heart wrenching. My eyes might be swollen tomorrow at my daughter’s soccer game from reading part four. I loved these characters. Not loved them like I really enjoyed them-I truly loved and cared for them. Their grief became my own and their successes had me crying happy tears.
The book starts with how the main character, Corby, and his wife, Emily’s, relationship began. Just the right amount of time is spent developing that relationship, those first characters we meet. Then comes the big event and the consequences. The bulk of the book takes place in the correctional facility. There are some really ugly scenes and I offer trigger warnings related to suicide, self harm, and assault. But is that ugliness not part of that experience? It’s brutal. But there are so many more redeeming moments and characters, so many moving descriptions of interactions.
It all unfolds flawlessly. I honestly believe Wally Lamb is one of the greatest writers of our times. You do not see all of what’s coming in the story and sometimes things are dumped on you in such a way that you know it was very intentional to make you feel the way you do.
I sincerely hope I do not have to wait so long for the next book from one of my favorite authors but I will use some of that time to emotionally recover and to process the layers of perspective I was just honored to read.
BRAVO!!

Corby Ledbetter, who faces a profound crisis marked by fatherhood, job loss, and a secret addiction that threatens his marriage to Emily. Following a tragic event, Corby is sentenced to prison, where he confronts the harsh realities of confinement alongside moments of unexpected kindness from fellow inmates and a compassionate librarian. The narrative explores themes of isolation, redemption, and the power of love and support, particularly through Corby’s relationship with his mother and his connections with other inmates. The prose is poignant, inviting readers to empathize with Corby’s struggles and the possibility of forgiveness. Ultimately, the book serves as a moving exploration of resilience, mercy, and the enduring capacity for healing and hope, making it a compelling read for those seeking a thoughtful and emotional journey.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC. I am a huge Wally Lamb fan and couldn’t wait to read this.

The tragedy in this story happens in the first chapter but was not included in the book description so skip this review if you don’t want to know what it is.

I can not think of anything more tragic than the loss of a child, except for when it is the parent’s fault. This follows the story of that parent, the father Corby, and the aftermath of the death. It is such a heartbreaking story told from Corey’s point of view. He doesn’t have an easy time of it, and it can be frustrating with some of his setbacks. The story also delves into the impact on his wife, daughter, and parent.

Bring the tissues, I was bawling in several parts.

Wally Lamb is an exceptional storyteller. The River is Waiting is another example of his ability to put the reader right in the midst of his characters’ lives. You will cry, you will cringe, and you will really root for Corby.

When Corby lost his job, he became a stay-at-home dad to his twins. He began to drink too much and became addicted to pills. What happened to his family due to his addiction is horrifying. It will change his and his family’s lives forever.

This book covers many tough subjects such as death, addiction, marriage woes and prison. It is written so beautifully, and with so much care and tenderness, that you’ll need a box of tissue handy at all times. I can highly recommend this. I loved it as much as I loved his other books. It is simply amazing.

Wally Lamb will forever be one of my favorite authors, he is a literary genius!

The River is Waiting is a story of grief, loss, heartbreak, perseverance, forgiveness, and love. What Corby went through and what he overcame is an inspiration to those who have been affected by addiction and loss. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride of emotions as you embark on a journey of one man's path to redemption.

Through hard work and determination, we can conquer our darkest demons.

It’s been awhile since I have read a book by Wally Lamb. He is simply amazing. He can take the most difficult life altering hardships and circumstances and turn them into something so deep and profound and meaningful. Please don’t take that lightly, though. This is a heavy, heavy book and will dredge up every emotion possible. This book was beautifully written with well crafted characters. It’s not a book you will forget and it’s certainly a book that takes time to process. I’m in awe of Wally’s writing. This one will definitely be on my mind for awhile.

Many thanks to NetGalley and also the publisher for the ARC.

The River is Waiting is a book that took me by surprise.  

Corby has recently lost his job which lands him at home with his young twins while his wife, Emily, is the breadwinner.  As he struggles to find something else in his field, he turns to prescription drugs and alcohol to cope.  As his secret day drinking and overuse of his prescription grows, an incredible tragedy occurs that lands him in prison and rips apart his family.

The River is Waiting is a book centered around grief, forgiveness of others and self, and the aftershock of tragedy and the way it impacts everyone surrounding it.  Wally Lamb composes an incredible story that touches on many sensitive topics that are relevant today.  Corby's incarceration exposes him to a world of injustice in many different forms; some at his own expense.  The injustices within the justice system are heartbreaking and the way Lamb exposes the readers to this perspective reminds us that nothing is simply black and white.  You can be a convict and a victim, and your skin color can determine your fate.

There are heartwarming moments and characters throughout that provide hope and continue to remind the reader that we're all human.  Corby consistently tries to do the right thing, perhaps to make amends for what brought him to prison in the first place.  The ending of this novel took me by complete surprise but beautifully wrapped up this tragic story.  I had no idea what to expect when I started reading this novel, but I'm certainly glad I did.  4.5 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley and Simon Element for this ARC.

In The River Is Waiting, Wally Lamb crafts a poignant and introspective narrative that delves into themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human connection. Known for his ability to weave intricate characters and emotional depth into his stories, Lamb's latest work does not disappoint, offering readers a profound exploration of the human experience.

Set against the backdrop of both a small-town community and the vast, reflective landscape of nature, the novel follows the intertwined lives of its characters as they navigate their personal struggles and relationships. Lamb’s prose is rich and evocative, painting vivid imagery that immerses the reader in both the physical and emotional landscapes of the story.

One of the book's strengths lies in its character development. Lamb has a remarkable talent for creating multifaceted individuals who grapple with their own demons while seeking connection with others. As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into the characters’ inner worlds, experiencing their joys and heartbreaks alongside them. This deep emotional resonance is a hallmark of Lamb’s writing, making the characters feel relatable and real.

The thematic exploration of grief and healing is particularly compelling. Lamb examines how the past shapes our present, and how we can find solace in the memories of those we have lost. The river itself serves as a powerful metaphor throughout the novel, symbolizing both the flow of time and the possibility of renewal. It is a place where characters confront their pasts and begin to forge new paths forward, offering a sense of hope amidst the struggles.

Additionally, the novel touches on broader societal issues, including the impact of trauma and the importance of community support. Lamb's narrative encourages readers to reflect on their own connections to others and the ways in which empathy can bridge divides. This layered approach adds depth to the story, making it resonate beyond the individual experiences of the characters.

While the pacing may occasionally meander, much like the river that serves as a central motif, this can also be seen as a deliberate choice that allows for reflection and contemplation. Lamb invites readers to pause and consider the moments that shape our lives, emphasizing the importance of presence in a fast-paced world.

In conclusion, The River Is Waiting is a beautifully crafted novel that showcases Wally Lamb’s skill in storytelling and character development. With its exploration of love, loss, and the journey toward healing, the book is both a heart-wrenching and uplifting read. It encourages readers to embrace their own narratives and to find beauty in the connections we share with one another, making it a meaningful addition to Lamb’s impressive body of work.

Wow! Amazing! Touching! I honestly had no clue what I was diving into, but from the get-go, I was pulled in. There was a scene that had me gasping and going OMG while I was in bed, my heart broke. I couldn't imagine the pain and the guilt. While in prison he learns the system he learns how to survive and he sees the corruption that can happen to the officers. It broke my heart to see things happen through his eyes. When you give a book five stars you know it is because it was one you couldn't put down this is one of those books. It was amazing to see how Corby wanted to fight his addiction and how he tried so hard to overcome his addiction and do right. The story, the emotions, the characters, and the plot all made for a story that is unforgettable. When I tell you to rush and buy this book I totally mean it. I don't believe that you will be disappointed.
There is growth within this book and we see Corby grow it is hard, but necessary.

I was so excited for this book, I am a huge fan of Wally Lamb. This book did not disappoint. He is able to draw so much emotion with his words, this book brought me to tears several times. The unthinkable happened to parent in this book, and the heart wrenching drama was impossible to put down. I would say I Know This Much is True is still my favorite, but this is a close second.

Thank you to NetGalley and Simon Element for gifting me this ARC in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are my own.

First let me say that I am a huge fan of Wally Lamb’s books and I was so excited for the chance to read and review this one. The story is so tragic, I am not going to give too much away, just that an addiction to pain meds and alcohol causes an unthinkable accident that sends Corby to prison, leaving behind his wife and daughter. There is a STRONG focus on AA and religion both before Corby’s sentence and during his time in prison. This was a DNF for me for that reason, I personally do not identify with this topic and I found it to be a bit too much for me. That being said, I can see why others have given this book so many glowing reviews. While this was not for me, I would still recommend it. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the arc. All opinions are my own.

There comes a book or two every year that stays with you. "The River Is Waiting" is such a book. The title hints at the surprise coming together at the end of the novel, but it is just a hint. I was so engrossed in reading this story I missed some clues about what was happening.
The book touched me on many levels. It is the story of the tribulations and trials of one man, Corby Ledbetter. The horrible unthinkable happens and he spends the rest of his life trying to make himself a better man. He, like the rest of humanity, is flawed. He keeps trying. The reader gets inside his head and wants him to succeed in his quest so badly that the story becomes emotional. Corby's need to love and be loved is the story of everyone. Wally Lamb could not have told it better.
The book starts in the recent present and meanders back, returning in the end to the here and now It is told in both first person and third person. Its settlings are gloomy and horrible, offset on occasion by the natural beauty that surrounds us all. Characters don't get any richer than that of Corby Ledbetter, his wife Emily, his friend Manny, and the plethora of others in the world of Mr. Ledbetter. They are the best and the worst of us.
My only complaint about the book is the occasional insertion of politics. It is a little distracting from the story and unnecessary to the telling of this very beautiful tale of humanity.
This book is a must read for 2025. It goes beyond 5 stars. Thanks to #NetGalley#WallyLamb#theRiverIsWaiting for the opportunity to read and review this book.

This was an easy read. My first from the author, I plan to check out more of their work. Thank you for the ARC

Unputdownable!

If you are a fan of Wally Lamb, or if you just want a book that will keep you turning the page, rush out and get this book as soon as it drops! After 6 years of working on his latest novel, The River is Waiting, Lamb has written the tremendous, heartbreaking and all-too-realistic story of Corby, a seemingly happily married man with 2 year old twins. When tragedy hits one morning, Corby eventually finds himself in prison, with a three year sentence.

As it is for most, prison, at first, is horrible for Corby. His addictions continue to keep him in a fragile state of mind, and his unfathomable guilt over what has happened is relentless. With the help of some of the people with whom he is incarcerated, he is finally able to make strides toward recovery and self-realization, but trouble still looms large in his life: his wife is distant and struggles with forgiving him, and two COs in the prison have it out for him.

There is not a lot more to tell about this book without ruining it for those who choose to read it. This book ambitiously yet successfully takes on a number of themes: addiction and recovery, the fragile state of family relationships, loss, forgiveness, and life in prison. I especially appreciated that the book humanizes those who are incarcerated, and shows that no matter what they have done to end up in prison, they are full human beings who are, like anyone else, capable of love, care, support and concern. Finally, the topic of hope in the face of tragedy is perhaps the most overarching theme.

#netgalleyarc

Oh My Goodness! The River is Waiting is the highly emotional story of a man who is paying his "debt" for a horrific tragedy that he inflicted. Author Wally Lamb knows how to write in a way that draws his reader into the drama. From the first chapter, I was completely involved, to the degree that I couldn't just leave this story and live my life throughout the day. My mind kept going back to Corby and what he had done.

That being said, I read this book in record time - I couldn't wait to find out what would happen to Corby as he faced his life after the tragedy. The first part of the book was quite a bit more engaging than the last part. I did get a tad bogged down with the history of the Native Americans, as well as some of the day to day life experiences of those who have been incarcerated. The ending was surprising. I guess I didn't really want it to end that way, but I suppose it had to in order for resolution to happen. Highly recommend!

Thanks to NetGalley for allowing me to read and review The River is Waiting.

Wally Lamb is one of my favorite authors, his books really pack a punch and The River is Waiting is no exception. Corby Ledbetter's life has taken an unexpected turn and he has become the stay at home dad caring for young twins while his wife works as a teacher. Low self esteem and failure to find work turns him into a daytime drinker and prescription drug user. When a horrible tragedy occurs Corby owns up and takes responsibility, therefore, is sentenced to three years in prison. The majority of the book takes place while Corby is incarcerated. The book deals with relationships between Corby and the other prisoners the jailhouse workers and with his wife. The ending took me by surprise, but offered closure. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a roller coaster ride of emotions to read The River Is Waiting.