Shelterwood by Lisa Wingate

Lisa Wingate has a heart for orphans and their untold stories. Once again she pursues a story of the forgotten as she presents a tale of orphaned children that will break your heart as it gives you insight into a shameful part of American history.

As a huge fan of Killers of the Flower Moon, any novel that delves into the issues of ‘guardianship’ and land as it relates to indigenous peoples in the early 20th century is a must-read for me. This one doesn’t disappoint.

Wingate’s book is presented in dual POV/dual timeline format drawing you into two worlds–1909 and 1990 Oklahoma.

The 1990 timeline follows ranger Valerie Boren-O’Dell as she navigates the world of the National Park Service as one of the few female rangers.

She is intrigued by the mystery of bones found in the newly established park, but it is swiftly covered up and brushed aside.

The 1909 timeline focuses on a set of orphans who must flee terrible circumstances, but their journey takes them into more danger. They soon realize there is no safe refuge for orphans.

The characters and the settings in both timelines were wonderful. Another fascinating subject and heartwrenching tale by Lisa Wingate.

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