In the Lake of the Woods
Book • 1996
In 'In the Lake of the Woods', Tim O'Brien crafts a mesmerizing tale of mystery and psychological suspense set against the backdrop of a serene Minnesota lake.
The story revolves around John Wade, a Vietnam veteran and aspiring politician, and his wife Kathy, whose sudden disappearance unravels a web of secrets and hidden traumas.
O'Brien masterfully interweaves elements of political intrigue, personal tragedy, and the lingering shadows of the Vietnam War. The novel explores themes of memory, guilt, and the elusive nature of truth, challenging readers to question the reliability of perception and the complexities of human relationships.
'In the Lake of the Woods' is a haunting exploration of the darkness that can lie beneath the surface of even the most idyllic settings.
The story revolves around John Wade, a Vietnam veteran and aspiring politician, and his wife Kathy, whose sudden disappearance unravels a web of secrets and hidden traumas.
O'Brien masterfully interweaves elements of political intrigue, personal tragedy, and the lingering shadows of the Vietnam War. The novel explores themes of memory, guilt, and the elusive nature of truth, challenging readers to question the reliability of perception and the complexities of human relationships.
'In the Lake of the Woods' is a haunting exploration of the darkness that can lie beneath the surface of even the most idyllic settings.
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when reflecting on how to write about peace.


Alex Vernon

Alex Vernon, "Peace Is a Shy Thing: The Life and Art of Tim O'Brien" (St. Martin's Press, 2025)
Referenced by 

as an example of Tim O'Brien's fiction writing, differing from his war-focused narratives.


Jenna Pittman

Alex Vernon, "Peace Is a Shy Thing: The Life and Art of Tim O'Brien" (St. Martin's Press, 2025)