Black Water Rising by Attica Locke

This gripping novel is set in 1980s Houston, Texas, and follows Jay Porter, a struggling African American lawyer who becomes embroiled in a complex murder investigation after he hears a woman scream and subsequently rescues her from the bayou. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of corruption and deceit that stretches from the oil industry to the highest levels of political power. The protagonist's past as a civil rights activist and his determination to seek justice in a society rife with racial tension add layers of depth to this thrilling narrative, making it not just a compelling mystery but also a poignant exploration of race, power, and the quest for redemption.

The 9500th greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 60

Since this book was first published in 2009, there is a penalty of 56.0%. The age adjusted score is 26.4.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.