The River Is Waiting

AI Rating: 3/10 - Wally Lamb's forthcoming novel "The River Is Waiting" (2025) centers on family secrets, grief, and personal redemption in a small-town setting after a mother's death. While it touches on emotional trauma, mental health, and interpersonal dynamics—hallmarks of Lamb's empathetic style—it prioritizes character-driven storytelling over overt political messaging. Minor nods to inclusivity appear via diverse family backgrounds, but no heavy emphasis on identity politics, social justice agendas, or DEI preaching. Focus remains on universal human struggles rather than progressive ideology.