Discover the emotionally powerful novel that became an Oprah's Book Club Pick from #1 New York Times bestselling author Wally Lamb. The River Is Waiting is a deeply moving standalone work of literary fiction that explores grief, addiction, redemption, forgiveness, and the enduring strength of hope. Richly layered with unforgettable characters and profound emotional depth, this bestselling novel examines how compassion and second chances can emerge even after unimaginable loss.

The River Is Waiting is a standalone novel.

Corby Ledbetter never imagined his life could unravel so completely.

The challenges of new fatherhood, unemployment, and a growing addiction place tremendous strain on his marriage to Emily. Then, one tragic mistake changes everything, leaving Corby to face devastating consequences and a future he never could have imagined.

Sentenced to prison, Corby must navigate a harsh and unforgiving world where violence and despair are constant threats. Yet amid the darkness, he discovers unexpected acts of kindness through a compassionate prison librarian, a loyal cellmate, a troubled young inmate seeking guidance, and the unwavering love of his mother.

As Corby confronts his past and struggles toward healing, he begins to wonder whether redemption is possible—and whether those he loves can ever forgive him.

Heartbreaking, compassionate, and ultimately uplifting, The River Is Waiting is a powerful story about guilt, grace, resilience, and the extraordinary possibility of hope even in life's darkest moments.

The River Is Waiting – A Standalone Literary Fiction Bestseller

Perfect for fans of Kristin Hannah, Fredrik Backman, Ann Patchett, Elizabeth Strout, John Irving, and James McBride, this emotionally resonant novel features family relationships, redemption, forgiveness, addiction recovery, prison life, literary fiction, and inspiring personal transformation.

Product Details

Title: The River Is Waiting

Author: Wally Lamb

Format: Hardcover

Series: Standalone Novel

Genre:

• Literary Fiction
• Contemporary Fiction
• Family Drama
• Women's Fiction
• Book Club Fiction

Pages: 480

Dimensions: 1.4 x 9 x 6.3 inches

Publication Date: June 10, 2025

Features:

• Oprah's Book Club Pick
• #1 New York Times Bestseller
• USA Today Bestseller
• Standalone novel
• Literary fiction
• Family drama
• Redemption and forgiveness
• Addiction and recovery themes
• Emotional contemporary fiction
• Book club favorite

Author Biography

Wally Lamb is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The River Is Waiting, She's Come Undone, I Know This Much Is True, The Hour I First Believed, We Are Water, Wishin' and Hopin', and I'll Take You There. Three of his novels have been selected for Oprah's Book Club, earning him widespread acclaim for his emotionally rich storytelling and unforgettable characters. In addition to writing, Lamb spent two decades leading writing workshops at York Correctional Institution in Connecticut. He lives in Connecticut with his wife and family.