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Reviewed by Maalin Ogaja for Readers' Favorite
Peace Like A River by Scott Gould explores the sometimes difficult yet intense relationship between fathers and sons. Gould's story is so beautiful that words cannot fully capture its depth, grace, and impact in a world where the emotional vulnerability and nuances of this filial bond are rarely emphasized. Elwin is traveling to Kingstree to visit his critically ill father. Accompanying him is his thirteen-year-old son, Thom, whom he is hesitant to bring on this trip. To Elwin, this is not the ideal time for Thom to meet his grandfather; however, he is surprised by the unexpected connection when they meet. As the visit unfolds, long-buried memories and emotions surface, revealing truths that challenge Elwin’s understanding of his father and the nature of their bond.
In Peace Like A River, Scott Gould uses humor to reveal the quirks of his characters and deepen the emotional connection between them and the reader. For me, Thom is such an adorable character whose sincerity and off-the-cuff remarks serve as both an icebreaker and a source of heartfelt humor, making his presence in the story unforgettable. He is also a unifying figure throughout the narrative, forming connections with everyone he meets. The contrast in the relationships between Thom and Elwin and Elwin and his father is very distinct, highlighting the different ways generations express love, understanding, and vulnerability. For Elwin, the epiphany during this journey becomes a profound lesson about scars and how his father sought to teach him about pain and healing. Along the way, he begins to grasp the deeper significance of the Black River in his father’s life. Readers who enjoy stories with rich emotional layers and unforgettable characters will find Peace Like a River truly special.
