Wynn and Jack are college buddies whose friendship is born from their mutual love of the mountains, fishing, camping, canoeing, and books.

During summer break, they embark on an ambitious canoe and camping trip in the remote parts of Northern Canada.

Early in the trip, they encounter a man and woman in a heated argument, so they quietly move along, not wanting to interfere with what appears to be a marital spat.  Shortly after witnessing the couple’s heated argument, Wynn and Jack realize a massive forest fire is heading in their direction.

Should they go back and warn the couple? Should they mind their own business? They decide to think it over, but the next day run across the distraught man paddling in his canoe WITHOUT the woman. He seems desperate to find her.

In the meantime, the fire is approaching and it’s larger and faster-moving than they feared.  Wynn and Jack offer to go back and search for the woman. Will they find her? Was the man involved in her disappearance?

This wilderness survival tale is a page-turner whether or not you participate in adventurous outdoor activities or if your idea of roughing it is staying at the Holiday Inn.

“Utter joy . . . A suspenseful tale told with glorious drama and lyrical flair.”

-Denise Mina, The New York Times Book Review

Happy Reading! If you’ve read “The River” let me know in the comments. I’d love to know your thoughts.