Peace Like a River

Peace Like a River by Scott Gould
8/26/25; 222pages 
Regal House Publishing

Peace Like a River by Scott Gould is an exceptional literary Southern family drama that explores the relationships between fathers, sons, and grandfathers. It is very highly recommended.

Sixty-something Elwin McClennon learns that his father is dying from his father's friend Linda McCrea. Elwin hasn't seen his father, The Old Man, since his mother’s funeral 15 years earlier. Now he is heading to the small town of Kingstree by the Black River in South Carolina's Lowcountry with Thom, his precocious and on the spectrum thirteen-year-old son. Elwin never married Roma, Thom's mother, and his father's dying coincides with the two weeks he has Thom in the summer. The Old Man is meeting Thom for the first time.

On the drive to Kingstree, we meet both Elwin and Thom and observe their awkward interactions. Thom's numbering Elwin's stories immediately adds some humor to the novel and his comments and observations show that he is intelligent and clearly on the spectrum. While Elwin and his father struggle to make a final connection before his death, Thom quickly connects with The Old Man, Linda, and Lily, the daughter of the motel owner. It is clear that Elwin needs to find healing from his past and forgive himself and his father. 

The writing is excellent as both relationships are explored and complications arise. As the narrative quickly continues, the plot clearly takes on an emotional depth and insight into the sometimes uneasy relationship between fathers and sons, as well as other relationships. The week spent on the Black River is quite eventful. The ending provides an insightful look into handling pain, healing, understanding, and forgiveness. The river itself is an important element in the plot and adds atmosphere and difficulties.

Elwin is portrayed as a realistic, fully realized individual full of strengths and weaknesses. His character experiences the most emotional growth in the narrative. Thom is also well-developed character who experiences growth as he faces some challenges. The supporting characters are all memorable, unique individuals.

Peace Like a River is very highly recommended for anyone who appreciates well-written Southern family dramas. Thanks to Regal House Publishing for providing me with an advance reader's copy via Edelweiss. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.