Black Water Rising
Black Water Rising
Book Brief
384
Novel • Fiction
Houston, Texas • 1980s
2009
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Black Water Rising by Attica Locke follows Jay Porter, a struggling black lawyer in 1981 Texas, who becomes entangled in a murder case after rescuing a mysterious woman during a bayou boat trip. As he investigates, Porter confronts powerful oil executives and faces traumatic memories from his past as a radical activist, all while navigating complex personal relationships and societal tensions. The book contains depictions of racial violence and trauma.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Dark
Gritty
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
10,104 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Attica Locke's Black Water Rising is widely praised for its atmospheric depiction of 1980s Houston and its gripping, socially conscious mystery. Reviewers commend the complex protagonist and tight plotting but note occasional pacing issues and a dense narrative that sometimes hinders the story's flow. Overall, it’s an engaging, thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Black Water Rising?
Readers who enjoy legal and political thrillers interwoven with social issues will appreciate Black Water Rising by Attica Locke. Fans of John Grisham’s A Time to Kill or Walter Mosley’s detective novels will find Locke's complex characters and atmospheric setting compelling. This book is perfect for those interested in civil rights history and suspenseful storytelling.
10,104 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
*Black Water Rising* by Attica Locke was nominated for a 2010 Edgar Award for Best First Novel, showcasing its critical acclaim as a debut work in the crime fiction genre.
Beyond her novels, Attica Locke has also made significant contributions to television, having worked as a writer and producer on the series Empire and Little Fires Everywhere.
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The novel draws inspiration from real events and historical racial tensions in Houston, Texas, reflecting Locke's deep connection to her hometown and its complex history.
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384
Novel • Fiction
Houston, Texas • 1980s
2009
Adult
18+ years
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