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Shelterwood
Oklahoma, 1909. Eleven-year-old Olive Augusta Radley knows that her stepfather doesn’t have good intentions toward the two Choctaw girls boarded in their home as wards. When the older girl disappears, Ollie flees to the woods, taking six-year-old Nessa with her. Together they begin a perilous journey to the rugged Winding Stair Mountains, the notorious territory of outlaws, treasure hunters, and desperate men. Along the way, Ollie and Nessa form an unlikely band with others like themselves, struggling to stay one step ahead of those who seek to exploit them . . . or worse.
Oklahoma, 1990. Law Enforcement Ranger Valerie Boren O’dell arrives at Horsethief Trail National Park seeking a quiet place to balance a career and single parenthood. But no sooner has Valerie reported for duty than she’s faced with local controversy over the park’s opening, a teenage hiker gone missing from one of the trails, and the long-hidden burial site of three children deep in a cave. Val’s quest to uncover the truth wins an ally among the neighboring Choctaw Tribal Police but soon collides with old secrets and the tragic and deadly history of the land itself.
In this emotional and enveloping novel, Lisa Wingate traces the story of children abandoned by the law and the battle to see justice done. Amid times of deep conflict over who owns the land and its riches, Ollie and Val traverse the wild and beautiful terrain, each leaving behind one life in search of another.
Oklahoma, 1990. Law Enforcement Ranger Valerie Boren O’dell arrives at Horsethief Trail National Park seeking a quiet place to balance a career and single parenthood. But no sooner has Valerie reported for duty than she’s faced with local controversy over the park’s opening, a teenage hiker gone missing from one of the trails, and the long-hidden burial site of three children deep in a cave. Val’s quest to uncover the truth wins an ally among the neighboring Choctaw Tribal Police but soon collides with old secrets and the tragic and deadly history of the land itself.
In this emotional and enveloping novel, Lisa Wingate traces the story of children abandoned by the law and the battle to see justice done. Amid times of deep conflict over who owns the land and its riches, Ollie and Val traverse the wild and beautiful terrain, each leaving behind one life in search of another.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2024
About the author
Lisa Wingate
43 books11.9k followersLisa Wingate is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller Before We Were Yours, which remained on the bestseller list for over two years. Her award-winning works have been selected for state and community One Book reads, have been published in over forty languages, and have appeared on bestseller lists worldwide. The group Americans for More Civility, a kindness watchdog organization, selected Lisa and six others as recipients of the National Civics Award, which celebrates public figures who work to promote greater kindness and civility in American life. She lives in Texas and Colorado with her family and her deceptively cute little teddy bear of a dog, Huckleberry. Find her at www.lisawingate.com, on Facebook at LisaWingateAuthorPage, or on Instagram @author_lisa_wingate
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May 29, 2024UPDATE: The publisher's book club kit is now live and it's gorgeous! Shelterwood behind-the-scenes tour, historical photos, location pics, recipes and book club materials now at this link: https://www.randomhousebooks.com/wp-c... (**If you haven't read Shelterwood yet, stop when you reach the last few pages of the kit with *spoiler warnings* in the header. Save those until after.)
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Release day is 6-4-2024. Shelterwood is up for order at all retailers -- info and list of links here: https://www.randomhousebooks.com/book...
The publisher has an incredible book club kit/reader's guide in the works with historical and location photos plus more of the story behind the story. I'll update and drop a link here when I have it.
Can't wait to see this book out there in the wild!
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Release day is 6-4-2024. Shelterwood is up for order at all retailers -- info and list of links here: https://www.randomhousebooks.com/book...
The publisher has an incredible book club kit/reader's guide in the works with historical and location photos plus more of the story behind the story. I'll update and drop a link here when I have it.
Can't wait to see this book out there in the wild!
July 9, 2024
Meticulously researched and immersive Shelterwood by Lisa Wingate is a heart-wrenching and immensely thought-provoking read.
Set in and around the Winding Stairs Mountains region, the story is rooted in the history of Oklahoma and the division of natural resource-rich Native American lands into allotment parcels assigned to individual members in the late 1800s. Orphaned Indigenous children were exploited and cheated of their rights, abandoned and forced to fend for themselves by “guardians” who were responsible for their welfare. The story also sheds light on the efforts of women pioneers who fought for the rights of these children - namely the Oklahoma Federation of Women’s Clubs and Kate Barnard, the first woman to be elected as a state official in Oklahoma.
The narrative is presented in dual timelines in alternating chapters. In 1909, Pushmataha County, Oklahoma, we meet eleven-year-old Olive “Ollie” Augusta Peele, who flees from her abusive stepfather. With her is Nessa, a Choctaw child whom her deceased father had sheltered in their home along with Nessa's older sister Hazel. Olive is sure that her stepfather was responsible for Hazel’s disappearance and running is the only way she believes she can protect them both from meeting the same fate. Along her way to her family’s old home in the mountains, she meets other runaways and orphans who inhabit the woods and form their own community – a community she names “Shelterwood”. The narrative follows Ollie, Nessa and their friends as they fight for survival amid much adversity.
The current timeline (Talihina, Oklahoma, 1990) is presented from the perspective of Valerie Boren-Odell, the new park law enforcement Ranger at Horsethief Trail National Park who has only recently moved to the area with her young son. On her first day on the job, she is informed of the recent discovery of the remains of three children in a cave. However, before Valerie can pursue her investigation, her superiors see to it that the bones are removed and the crime scene is closed off. Valerie is also approached by twelve-year-old Sydney for help locating her missing older brother Braden and her ailing grandmother, former state representative Budgie Blackwell. Sydney often frustrates Valerie, withholding information and manipulating the truth, but Valerie can’t deny that there is more to the disappearances than meets the eye.
As the narrative progresses, we follow Valerie’s investigation, which takes into the dark history of the area a story of exploitation, greed and corruption that is far from over.
Both timelines are well-developed and the narrative flows well. The pacing is slightly uneven, but I liked how the author brings all the threads of the story together. Ollie is a memorable character and I admired her courage and resourcefulness. The rich historical context, vivid settings and well-thought-out characters render this novel a compelling read.
Please read the informative Author’s Note where she discusses the history, people and events that inspired this novel.
Many thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This novel was published on June 4, 2024.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
Set in and around the Winding Stairs Mountains region, the story is rooted in the history of Oklahoma and the division of natural resource-rich Native American lands into allotment parcels assigned to individual members in the late 1800s. Orphaned Indigenous children were exploited and cheated of their rights, abandoned and forced to fend for themselves by “guardians” who were responsible for their welfare. The story also sheds light on the efforts of women pioneers who fought for the rights of these children - namely the Oklahoma Federation of Women’s Clubs and Kate Barnard, the first woman to be elected as a state official in Oklahoma.
The narrative is presented in dual timelines in alternating chapters. In 1909, Pushmataha County, Oklahoma, we meet eleven-year-old Olive “Ollie” Augusta Peele, who flees from her abusive stepfather. With her is Nessa, a Choctaw child whom her deceased father had sheltered in their home along with Nessa's older sister Hazel. Olive is sure that her stepfather was responsible for Hazel’s disappearance and running is the only way she believes she can protect them both from meeting the same fate. Along her way to her family’s old home in the mountains, she meets other runaways and orphans who inhabit the woods and form their own community – a community she names “Shelterwood”. The narrative follows Ollie, Nessa and their friends as they fight for survival amid much adversity.
The current timeline (Talihina, Oklahoma, 1990) is presented from the perspective of Valerie Boren-Odell, the new park law enforcement Ranger at Horsethief Trail National Park who has only recently moved to the area with her young son. On her first day on the job, she is informed of the recent discovery of the remains of three children in a cave. However, before Valerie can pursue her investigation, her superiors see to it that the bones are removed and the crime scene is closed off. Valerie is also approached by twelve-year-old Sydney for help locating her missing older brother Braden and her ailing grandmother, former state representative Budgie Blackwell. Sydney often frustrates Valerie, withholding information and manipulating the truth, but Valerie can’t deny that there is more to the disappearances than meets the eye.
As the narrative progresses, we follow Valerie’s investigation, which takes into the dark history of the area a story of exploitation, greed and corruption that is far from over.
Both timelines are well-developed and the narrative flows well. The pacing is slightly uneven, but I liked how the author brings all the threads of the story together. Ollie is a memorable character and I admired her courage and resourcefulness. The rich historical context, vivid settings and well-thought-out characters render this novel a compelling read.
Please read the informative Author’s Note where she discusses the history, people and events that inspired this novel.
Many thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This novel was published on June 4, 2024.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
May 2, 2024
Lisa Wingate in telling heartbreaking stories of children touches me and teaches me about parts of our history that l knew nothing about. In dual time lines, 1909 and 1990 in Oklahoma, Wingate skillfully executes this as she has done in other stories of historical significance. In the 1909 part of the story I was drawn to eleven year old Olive Radley who is caring and smart and tries her best to save and protect six year old Nessa, a Choctaw girl from the abuse of her vile stepfather. Their journey reflects on the a time when Native American children were robbed of their land rights and highlights the strong women who worked to protect them. In the 1990 part of the story, Valerie Boren-O’Dell , a young widow and park ranger, is as tenacious and strong as Olive as she attempts to solve the mystery of bones discovered. As usually happens though, I was more drawn to the historical time.
Highly recommend for those who loved Before We Were Yours , and actually anyone who enjoys good historical fiction which transports you to a place and time that will inform you of things we need to remember and move you in ways that will at the same time break your heart and raise your spirit with the resilience and strength of the characters.
I received a copy of this book from Ballantine Books through NetGalley.
Highly recommend for those who loved Before We Were Yours , and actually anyone who enjoys good historical fiction which transports you to a place and time that will inform you of things we need to remember and move you in ways that will at the same time break your heart and raise your spirit with the resilience and strength of the characters.
I received a copy of this book from Ballantine Books through NetGalley.
April 18, 2024
Shelterwood is Lisa Wingate’s latest book, again about children in trouble. Told in dual timelines, both stories take place in eastern Oklahoma, in the Winding Stair Mountains.
In 1909, an eleven year old girl and her family’s six year old Choctaw ward run away from her stepfather, a man who had evil intentions. Trying to get to her parents' old cabin, they encounter other children living wild and form a community.
In 1990, a new female park ranger arrives looking to start her life over. Her husband is dead and she’s looking for somewhere quiet for her and her young son. But she’s immediately immersed in the search for a missing teenager and a coverup of the long hidden burial site of three children in a cave.
It took me a while to become invested in the book. The older story was initially more of a cliche and took awhile to get to the meat of the story, which was the stealing of land from Indian orphans. Part of the problem is that the story is told from the perspective of a young white girl so there’s no easy way to introduce the “issue”. The book is half over before Wingate uses a political rally to even begin to discuss the problem of the Indian children.
I always wonder when an historical fiction handles a political topic whether the author is also casting a light on the present day. “It is an abomination, Hazel, that our society can muster the wit and will to create such magnificence, yet not resolve to do right by a child, don’t you think?”
The more contemporary storyline is more of a standard “police procedural”, with a kind of Nevada Barr feel. This story moved at a faster pace. I did become more invested in both stories for the second half. And Wingate does a good job of bringing the stories together.
My personal preference is to have historical fiction that teaches me something. That means I wanted more facts than this story provides, but Wingate does provide those details in her Author’s Note. Go into this one for the story and the characters.
My thanks to Netgalley and Penguin Random House for an advance copy of this book.
In 1909, an eleven year old girl and her family’s six year old Choctaw ward run away from her stepfather, a man who had evil intentions. Trying to get to her parents' old cabin, they encounter other children living wild and form a community.
In 1990, a new female park ranger arrives looking to start her life over. Her husband is dead and she’s looking for somewhere quiet for her and her young son. But she’s immediately immersed in the search for a missing teenager and a coverup of the long hidden burial site of three children in a cave.
It took me a while to become invested in the book. The older story was initially more of a cliche and took awhile to get to the meat of the story, which was the stealing of land from Indian orphans. Part of the problem is that the story is told from the perspective of a young white girl so there’s no easy way to introduce the “issue”. The book is half over before Wingate uses a political rally to even begin to discuss the problem of the Indian children.
I always wonder when an historical fiction handles a political topic whether the author is also casting a light on the present day. “It is an abomination, Hazel, that our society can muster the wit and will to create such magnificence, yet not resolve to do right by a child, don’t you think?”
The more contemporary storyline is more of a standard “police procedural”, with a kind of Nevada Barr feel. This story moved at a faster pace. I did become more invested in both stories for the second half. And Wingate does a good job of bringing the stories together.
My personal preference is to have historical fiction that teaches me something. That means I wanted more facts than this story provides, but Wingate does provide those details in her Author’s Note. Go into this one for the story and the characters.
My thanks to Netgalley and Penguin Random House for an advance copy of this book.
September 15, 2024
3⭐️ This is a hard review to write. Lisa Wingate is a phenomenal author and Before We Were Yours has a special place in my heart. I was cautiously optimistic about Shelterwood because I know Wingate’s stories can rip your heart into a million pieces.
Sadly, this one didn’t work for me. The writing is strong and the research was clearly thorough. I just struggled with the pacing. A lot of the book felt like a slog and then an important detail was kind of glossed over or retold in a way that didn’t make sense to me. I’d be waiting for a certain piece of information or for someone to realize something and all of a sudden, the character would tell you that conversation happened and now a day had gone by.
I usually love dual POV but the back and forth between timelines here was jarring for me. I would be really invested in the past storyline and then have to get totally reacquainted with what was going on when things switched back to the chapters set in the 90s.
Overall this was a really interesting, and eye opening, plot but it was too slow for me. I was invested enough in the characters and the mystery to finish but it was a bit of a struggle to get to the end.
Thank you to the publisher for allowing me to be an early reader. All opinions are my own!
Sadly, this one didn’t work for me. The writing is strong and the research was clearly thorough. I just struggled with the pacing. A lot of the book felt like a slog and then an important detail was kind of glossed over or retold in a way that didn’t make sense to me. I’d be waiting for a certain piece of information or for someone to realize something and all of a sudden, the character would tell you that conversation happened and now a day had gone by.
I usually love dual POV but the back and forth between timelines here was jarring for me. I would be really invested in the past storyline and then have to get totally reacquainted with what was going on when things switched back to the chapters set in the 90s.
Overall this was a really interesting, and eye opening, plot but it was too slow for me. I was invested enough in the characters and the mystery to finish but it was a bit of a struggle to get to the end.
Thank you to the publisher for allowing me to be an early reader. All opinions are my own!
June 25, 2024
*** Now Available ***
"Shelterwood" masterfully intertwines the lives of two resilient women separated by nearly a century but connected by their courage and determination. The novel’s title is a tribute to the old shelterwood trees, which protect and nurture the forest, much like the protagonists do for their communities.
In 1909, Olive Augusta Radley, or Ollie, escapes from an abusive stepfather and finds refuge with Native American children in an area she names Shelterwood. This sanctuary becomes a haven for runaway children who have been neglected by their court appointed guardians who have stolen from them. These children survive by hunting, fishing, and performing odd jobs in nearby Talihina, Oklahoma. Despite being dubbed elves or spirits by the locals, they are merely children fighting for survival and freedom.
Fast forward to 1990, and we meet Valerie Boren-Odell, a widow and single mother who has moved to Talihina to work as a Park Ranger at the new Horsethief Trail National Park. Valerie faces her own battles against the entrenched male chauvinism in law enforcement. Her investigation into the discovery of three children's bodies in a cave, the disappearance of a local boy, a suspicious rock slide, and a drowned unknown person brings her story full circle with Ollie's past.
The novel's strength lies in its poignant portrayal of both Ollie and Valerie’s struggles and their quest for justice and a new beginning. Their stories, though set in different times, converge in a powerful and meaningful conclusion.
Despite its compelling narrative, the book’s structure—alternating chapters between 1909 and 1990—can be jarring at times. This abrupt shift occasionally disrupts the flow, but the rich, interwoven tales of survival and resilience make up for this minor flaw.
Overall, "Shelterwood" is a captivating read, deserving of 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5 for its emotive storytelling and the profound connection it draws between its characters across time.
"Shelterwood" masterfully intertwines the lives of two resilient women separated by nearly a century but connected by their courage and determination. The novel’s title is a tribute to the old shelterwood trees, which protect and nurture the forest, much like the protagonists do for their communities.
In 1909, Olive Augusta Radley, or Ollie, escapes from an abusive stepfather and finds refuge with Native American children in an area she names Shelterwood. This sanctuary becomes a haven for runaway children who have been neglected by their court appointed guardians who have stolen from them. These children survive by hunting, fishing, and performing odd jobs in nearby Talihina, Oklahoma. Despite being dubbed elves or spirits by the locals, they are merely children fighting for survival and freedom.
Fast forward to 1990, and we meet Valerie Boren-Odell, a widow and single mother who has moved to Talihina to work as a Park Ranger at the new Horsethief Trail National Park. Valerie faces her own battles against the entrenched male chauvinism in law enforcement. Her investigation into the discovery of three children's bodies in a cave, the disappearance of a local boy, a suspicious rock slide, and a drowned unknown person brings her story full circle with Ollie's past.
The novel's strength lies in its poignant portrayal of both Ollie and Valerie’s struggles and their quest for justice and a new beginning. Their stories, though set in different times, converge in a powerful and meaningful conclusion.
Despite its compelling narrative, the book’s structure—alternating chapters between 1909 and 1990—can be jarring at times. This abrupt shift occasionally disrupts the flow, but the rich, interwoven tales of survival and resilience make up for this minor flaw.
Overall, "Shelterwood" is a captivating read, deserving of 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5 for its emotive storytelling and the profound connection it draws between its characters across time.
June 19, 2024
Imagine a story so gripping it feels like a roller coaster ride. That's what you get with this book, which cleverly switches between two different timelines. The first few chapters? They grab you and don't let go!
Meet Olive and Nessa, the heart of this tale. Their journey will tug at your heartstrings, maybe even make you shed a tear. But don't worry, you'll find yourself unable to stop reading, eager to see what happens next.
It's a slow burn, but that's part of its charm. This book isn't about rushing to the end; it's about savoring every moment. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a compelling, emotional read.
Meet Olive and Nessa, the heart of this tale. Their journey will tug at your heartstrings, maybe even make you shed a tear. But don't worry, you'll find yourself unable to stop reading, eager to see what happens next.
It's a slow burn, but that's part of its charm. This book isn't about rushing to the end; it's about savoring every moment. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a compelling, emotional read.
April 5, 2024
“Because according to the way Whittles told the story, what he saw in that cave as a kid haunted him the rest of his life.”
This historical fiction story is told from two timelines, 1909 and 1990, based on true historical events.
Valerie is beginning her job as a Park Law Enforcement Ranger in Oklahoma. On her first day at the Ranger Station one of the tribal officers says to her…
“They tell you about the bones yet?”
“Bones?”
“Figures,” he grumbles, and then he’s gone.
We soon learn that bones are buried in the caves and there is a story here. But there is also someone trying to keep the Rangers out. Why? Does it have to do with the past? Or is there something going on now in the forest that needs protecting?
What is the story of the bones? What happened?
This is a complex story. Painful at times because it involved the rights and lives of children. And the corruption. Especially to the Natives, their land and their children. And…what the people of the past did and why.
Readers will want to unravel the mystery along with Valerie. To bring peace to the bones. To those who were left behind.
But there is also a mystery happening now – what is it and why?
So, Valerie working alongside Curtis, head of the Chocktaw Tribal Police, also have a job to protect and bring justice to the land from those who would want to take from it.
This story took me a while to get in to it. Especially with the dual timelines. I am not always a fan of dual timelines. Part of the reason is just as I am getting in to what is happening in one period, the author ends the chapter and takes us to a different timeline with the next chapter, breaking the momentum…for me.
Still, there was much to appreciate with this story.
When reading a heart-wrenching story of this nature, readers are reminded of a time not learned in our history books. But one that must now, not be forgotten.
I want to thank the publisher, Penguin Random House for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I have provided an honest review.
Please note: This is an Advanced Readers Edition. The book will be released on June 4, 2024!
This historical fiction story is told from two timelines, 1909 and 1990, based on true historical events.
Valerie is beginning her job as a Park Law Enforcement Ranger in Oklahoma. On her first day at the Ranger Station one of the tribal officers says to her…
“They tell you about the bones yet?”
“Bones?”
“Figures,” he grumbles, and then he’s gone.
We soon learn that bones are buried in the caves and there is a story here. But there is also someone trying to keep the Rangers out. Why? Does it have to do with the past? Or is there something going on now in the forest that needs protecting?
What is the story of the bones? What happened?
This is a complex story. Painful at times because it involved the rights and lives of children. And the corruption. Especially to the Natives, their land and their children. And…what the people of the past did and why.
Readers will want to unravel the mystery along with Valerie. To bring peace to the bones. To those who were left behind.
But there is also a mystery happening now – what is it and why?
So, Valerie working alongside Curtis, head of the Chocktaw Tribal Police, also have a job to protect and bring justice to the land from those who would want to take from it.
This story took me a while to get in to it. Especially with the dual timelines. I am not always a fan of dual timelines. Part of the reason is just as I am getting in to what is happening in one period, the author ends the chapter and takes us to a different timeline with the next chapter, breaking the momentum…for me.
Still, there was much to appreciate with this story.
When reading a heart-wrenching story of this nature, readers are reminded of a time not learned in our history books. But one that must now, not be forgotten.
I want to thank the publisher, Penguin Random House for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I have provided an honest review.
Please note: This is an Advanced Readers Edition. The book will be released on June 4, 2024!
February 24, 2024
The story takes place in Oklahoma in two time frames 1909 and 1999. The earlier story tells of Olive Augusta Radley, an eleven year old, and her concern for two Choctaw children who are boarding in their home. Olive flees with the younger girl, Nessa, after the older girl disappears. They run to the outlaw ridden Winding Stair Mountains, and while along the way meet up with other exploited children and they form a band.
In 1999, Ranger Valerie Boren O’dell, a new hire meets controversy when a teen goes missing on a hike The park opening is causing some worries and then a cave is discovered with the skeletons of three young girls.
The story is all tied up with the land, the oil, and other minerals, and the ownership of such land is the cause of the children's plight.
Once again, Lisa Wingate explores deeply a topic that I was not aware of. I always like that her concern is and has been the children and this story is proof that in times past children were a target of the worst kind.
Thank you to Lisa Wingate, Ballantine Books, and NetGalley for a copy of this amazing story.
In 1999, Ranger Valerie Boren O’dell, a new hire meets controversy when a teen goes missing on a hike The park opening is causing some worries and then a cave is discovered with the skeletons of three young girls.
The story is all tied up with the land, the oil, and other minerals, and the ownership of such land is the cause of the children's plight.
Once again, Lisa Wingate explores deeply a topic that I was not aware of. I always like that her concern is and has been the children and this story is proof that in times past children were a target of the worst kind.
Thank you to Lisa Wingate, Ballantine Books, and NetGalley for a copy of this amazing story.
May 11, 2024
Slow and draggy for at least two thirds of the book, it became an effort to finish reading, which I would not have done had I not promised to write a review. I expected more from Lisa Wingate, an author whose previous books I’ve enjoyed and whose future books I will read.
Set in Oklahoma in two timelines, the very dawn of the 20th century and again in 1990, the two separate stories felt extremely disjointed and made for difficult reading. Eventually , far into the book, things came together but I had already tired of working so hard to finish and found myself merely speed reading until the end.
The topic is an important one, revealing the lives of Native American children, and the greedy land grabbers around them. When remains of three young children are unearthed in 1990, an investigation into the past uncovers a horrifying history. Sounds important. Sounds compelling. Yet it was a chore to read. . I so wanted to like this better but I promised an honest review. Two measly stars for a book I plodded through with no enthusiasm. My thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine books for gifting me an advance readers copy. Publication date is April 10, 2024.
September 4, 2024
Lisa Wingate has become a favorite author of mine over the years. I always get excited when I find out that she has written a new book. That was how I felt when I saw that she had written Shelterwood. I always enjoy that she depicts strong and resilient women in her books. Shelterwood was no exception. It portrayed two very strong and determined female protagonists, one that grew up in Oklahoma in the early 1900’s and one who recently moved to Oklahoma for a new job in the 1990’s. Neither of these protagonists could be easily dissuaded from doing what they believed was necessary and right. Lisa Wingate delved into what was known as The Guardian System in her book, Shelterwood. She allowed her readers to learn about those who took advantage of orphaned Indigenous children for the sole purpose of profiting off of their ignorance and innocence. I had little to no knowledge of Oklahoma’s turbulent history of wealthy white men who preyed on these trusting and vulnerable children. I switched between reading Shelterwood on my kindle and listening to the audiobook. The cast of narrators for the audiobook did an excellent job portraying the many characters. Shelterwood was written in a dual timeline and told from the perspective of the two protagonists.
In 1909, eleven year old Olive (Ollie) Augusta Radley Peele was living with her mama and stepfather. Her biological father had left them but Ollie had fond memories of him. Before he disappeared from her and her mama’s lives, he had brought home two Choctaw orphans who became wards of Ollie’s family. Hazel was eleven years old and Nessa was six years old. After Ollie’s father left her and her mama, Ollie’s mother became more dependent on drugs. Ollie soon learned that her stepfather was a dangerous and evil man. Ollie suspected that her stepfather was somehow responsible for Hazel’s disappearance. When Ollie witnessed her stepfather luring over Nessa’s bed one night,Ollie knew that she and Nessa had to escape before it was too late for them. Ollie was wise and observant beyond her years. Her’s and Nessa’s journey, although not without danger, obstacles and challenges, led them to the Winding Stair Mountains.
Life doesn’t always go as planned and that was true for widowed and single mother Valerie Boren O’dell. In 1990, Valerie Boren O’dell found herself with a new role. Valerie recently accepted the position as a Law Enforcement Ranger at Horsethief Trail National Park. She and her young son, Charlie, were going to call Talihina, Oklahoma home for the inevitable future. On Valerie’s first day on the job, she was befriended by a young girl who asked Valerie to keep an eye out for her brother. Her brother was supposed to come and get her and together they were supposed to go to their grandmother’s home. According to this young girl, her brother never showed up and she was worried about him. His distinguishing feature was that he had red hair. Valerie later learned that this young girl had a reputation for stretching the truth. Her “tall tales” had made people doubt her concerns and pleas for help. On that very first day of Valerie’s new role as Ranger, she was confronted with not only the possibility of the girl’s missing brother but with a drowning and the discovery of skeletal remains of young children in a secluded cave. Valerie also had to figure out who she could trust in her new job. It was an uphill battle for Valerie to try and earn the respect from the people she was now working with. Those were not going to be easy tasks but Valerie was not going to give in. How would Valerie be able to put the pieces of the puzzle clues together in order to solve all these occurrences?
Shelterwood by Lisa Wingate was a very captivating book. I enjoyed the dual timeline and admired both protagonists. They both had so much to prove and were unrelenting in their efforts. Until reading Shelterwood, I had no prior knowledge about how innocent young Indigenous children were taken advantage of by scheming and evil white men back in the early 1900’s in Oklahoma. I really enjoyed how the ending of Shelterwood wove the two timelines and important characters together to create a very strong and satisfying conclusion. Although, Shelterwood was not my favorite book by Lisa Wingate, I did enjoy it, appreciate the new information that I learned and feel good about recommending it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction that featured two very strong female protagonists.
Thank you to Ballantine Books Random House Audio for allowing me to read and listen to Shelterwood by Lisa Wingate through Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
In 1909, eleven year old Olive (Ollie) Augusta Radley Peele was living with her mama and stepfather. Her biological father had left them but Ollie had fond memories of him. Before he disappeared from her and her mama’s lives, he had brought home two Choctaw orphans who became wards of Ollie’s family. Hazel was eleven years old and Nessa was six years old. After Ollie’s father left her and her mama, Ollie’s mother became more dependent on drugs. Ollie soon learned that her stepfather was a dangerous and evil man. Ollie suspected that her stepfather was somehow responsible for Hazel’s disappearance. When Ollie witnessed her stepfather luring over Nessa’s bed one night,Ollie knew that she and Nessa had to escape before it was too late for them. Ollie was wise and observant beyond her years. Her’s and Nessa’s journey, although not without danger, obstacles and challenges, led them to the Winding Stair Mountains.
Life doesn’t always go as planned and that was true for widowed and single mother Valerie Boren O’dell. In 1990, Valerie Boren O’dell found herself with a new role. Valerie recently accepted the position as a Law Enforcement Ranger at Horsethief Trail National Park. She and her young son, Charlie, were going to call Talihina, Oklahoma home for the inevitable future. On Valerie’s first day on the job, she was befriended by a young girl who asked Valerie to keep an eye out for her brother. Her brother was supposed to come and get her and together they were supposed to go to their grandmother’s home. According to this young girl, her brother never showed up and she was worried about him. His distinguishing feature was that he had red hair. Valerie later learned that this young girl had a reputation for stretching the truth. Her “tall tales” had made people doubt her concerns and pleas for help. On that very first day of Valerie’s new role as Ranger, she was confronted with not only the possibility of the girl’s missing brother but with a drowning and the discovery of skeletal remains of young children in a secluded cave. Valerie also had to figure out who she could trust in her new job. It was an uphill battle for Valerie to try and earn the respect from the people she was now working with. Those were not going to be easy tasks but Valerie was not going to give in. How would Valerie be able to put the pieces of the puzzle clues together in order to solve all these occurrences?
Shelterwood by Lisa Wingate was a very captivating book. I enjoyed the dual timeline and admired both protagonists. They both had so much to prove and were unrelenting in their efforts. Until reading Shelterwood, I had no prior knowledge about how innocent young Indigenous children were taken advantage of by scheming and evil white men back in the early 1900’s in Oklahoma. I really enjoyed how the ending of Shelterwood wove the two timelines and important characters together to create a very strong and satisfying conclusion. Although, Shelterwood was not my favorite book by Lisa Wingate, I did enjoy it, appreciate the new information that I learned and feel good about recommending it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction that featured two very strong female protagonists.
Thank you to Ballantine Books Random House Audio for allowing me to read and listen to Shelterwood by Lisa Wingate through Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
February 17, 2024
Lisa Wingate has become an auto-read author for me, ever since I read her book “Before We Were Yours”, which is utterly heartbreaking. So is this story. You can tell that Wingate does meticulous research on each subject she chooses to write about, and she always does these lost stories justice. In “Shelterwood”, she puts a spotlight on the corruption in Oklahoma regarding Native lands, Native peoples and orphans at the turn of the 20th century. We learn about Ollie and Nessa’s flight to escape a lecherous stepfather, but being on their own at 11 and 6 years old, respectively, puts them squarely in the path of other dangerous people. The timelines go back and forth between the girls in 1909 and a female park ranger’s investigation of three small sets of skeletons found recently in a cave in 1990. Who are the three children? And why are the higher-ups so against truly investigating what happened?
Your heart will be in your mouth as you read. These characters are undeniably deserving of compassion. Once again, Lisa Wingate brings buried history to life and ensures that these wrongdoings are never forgotten.
Your heart will be in your mouth as you read. These characters are undeniably deserving of compassion. Once again, Lisa Wingate brings buried history to life and ensures that these wrongdoings are never forgotten.
March 11, 2024
Shelterwood is a story arising from the history of Oklahoma which is told in two timelines. Abandoned and cast off children form the first one and the second involves a newly widowed park ranger. The two stories come together beautifully at the end and it is a very satisfying read.
My thanks to the author, Lisa Wingate, and the publisher, Ballantine Books, for my ARC of this book, which will be published on June 4, 2024. #Goodreads Giveaway
My thanks to the author, Lisa Wingate, and the publisher, Ballantine Books, for my ARC of this book, which will be published on June 4, 2024. #Goodreads Giveaway
April 29, 2024
"Shelterwood" is a historical novel about the plight of children in the southeastern Oklahoma area of the Winding Stair Mountains and a Choctaw Reservation. Timelines set in 1909 and 1990 come together at the end. In 1909, eleven-year-old Olive runs away from home with six-year-old Nessa to escape an abusive stepfather. Olive has "the gift of gab" and can concoct a story to get them out of most situations. They live in the woods with other unfortunate children who are thought to be "elves" because of their malnourished, ragged appearance. When a political rally comes to town featuring Kate Barnard, the truth about abused children comes out. Their guardians had forced these orphans to sign over their family plots of land on the reservation or the surrounding area. The children were exploited for the land's valuable timber, oil, and minerals. Other children were forced to work extremely long days so child labor laws and compulsory education laws were needed.
In 1990, Valerie Boren-Odell arrives in Talihina as a new ranger at the fictional Horsethief Trail National Park in Oklahoma. Valerie is a widow looking for a quiet place to raise her young son. She has to prove that a woman can do her job as a Law Enforcement Ranger. A girl goes to Valerie for help when her teenage brother and her grandmother go missing. A cave in the mountains contains three skeletons of unknown origin. The converging timelines show a long, heartbreaking history of abuse of the Choctaw indigenous tribe.
Lisa Wingate revealed how greedy people abused children in her prior book, "Before We Were Yours." In "Shelterwood," Wingate tells the story of a different group of children trying to survive while their guardians abused them and stole their inheritance. The book also gives credit to Kate Barnard and other kind people who worked tirelessly to help the children. "Shelterwood" is well-researched, and was an interesting window into the history of indigenous children.
Thank you to Vanessa Duque at Ballantine Books at the Random House Group for an advanced reader copy of the book.
In 1990, Valerie Boren-Odell arrives in Talihina as a new ranger at the fictional Horsethief Trail National Park in Oklahoma. Valerie is a widow looking for a quiet place to raise her young son. She has to prove that a woman can do her job as a Law Enforcement Ranger. A girl goes to Valerie for help when her teenage brother and her grandmother go missing. A cave in the mountains contains three skeletons of unknown origin. The converging timelines show a long, heartbreaking history of abuse of the Choctaw indigenous tribe.
Lisa Wingate revealed how greedy people abused children in her prior book, "Before We Were Yours." In "Shelterwood," Wingate tells the story of a different group of children trying to survive while their guardians abused them and stole their inheritance. The book also gives credit to Kate Barnard and other kind people who worked tirelessly to help the children. "Shelterwood" is well-researched, and was an interesting window into the history of indigenous children.
Thank you to Vanessa Duque at Ballantine Books at the Random House Group for an advanced reader copy of the book.
June 14, 2024
This story is told in alternating dual timelines of 1909 and 1990 Oklahoma. The former timeline follows an eleven-year-old girl named Olive Augusta, or Ollie, as she flees an abusive situation with her “sister” Nessa, a Choctaw girl, to the woods where they try to avoid capture and find provisions in the hopes of starting their own community they name Shelterwood. The latter timeline follows park ranger Valerie Boren-Odell new to the territory, but not the job, as she investigates an unofficial report of a missing teenager and the bones of three children that were found in a local cavern against her superior’s instruction with the assistance of a tribal police officer, Curtis. The chapters are preceded by excerpts of various news articles giving the reader information about the land barons given guardianship over the orphaned native children and their properties as well as other pertinent stories.
I really enjoyed following Valerie’s storyline. I’m a pushover for a story about a park ranger anywhere. Valerie is raising a young son on her own after losing his father who was also a park ranger. Charlie’s in school now and Valerie is ready to get back to work, but her new boss is clearly not happy that his new ranger is a female relegating her to desk duties and checking permits while sending less experienced personnel off to do the big stuff. I enjoyed her collaboration with Curtis and some of her interactions with the other rangers. I eagerly followed her investigations.
In the beginning I also enjoyed the parts that followed Ollie as she navigated survival in the woods and taking care of Nessa. Ollie was precocious with a knack for survival and weaving a story, though sometimes she didn’t know when to stop. I found this part of the book summary misleading. The story is from the point of view of the child, not the pioneer women who fought for them. I eventually tired of the children squabbling about who was in charge and one boy for making trouble causing me to resent the interruption in the timeline.
Just when the former timeline was ramping up, the stories merged, and I felt like I lost direction. The ending felt a little rushed and confusing in the telling as one of the characters explains what happened at Shelterwood and how the latter story fit into the whole.
Overall, I really enjoyed parts of this novel. The characters were well written, and the plot was an important part of history that should be explored.
Thank you to Netgalley and Ballantine Books for a copy provided for an honest review.
I really enjoyed following Valerie’s storyline. I’m a pushover for a story about a park ranger anywhere. Valerie is raising a young son on her own after losing his father who was also a park ranger. Charlie’s in school now and Valerie is ready to get back to work, but her new boss is clearly not happy that his new ranger is a female relegating her to desk duties and checking permits while sending less experienced personnel off to do the big stuff. I enjoyed her collaboration with Curtis and some of her interactions with the other rangers. I eagerly followed her investigations.
In the beginning I also enjoyed the parts that followed Ollie as she navigated survival in the woods and taking care of Nessa. Ollie was precocious with a knack for survival and weaving a story, though sometimes she didn’t know when to stop. I found this part of the book summary misleading. The story is from the point of view of the child, not the pioneer women who fought for them. I eventually tired of the children squabbling about who was in charge and one boy for making trouble causing me to resent the interruption in the timeline.
Just when the former timeline was ramping up, the stories merged, and I felt like I lost direction. The ending felt a little rushed and confusing in the telling as one of the characters explains what happened at Shelterwood and how the latter story fit into the whole.
Overall, I really enjoyed parts of this novel. The characters were well written, and the plot was an important part of history that should be explored.
Thank you to Netgalley and Ballantine Books for a copy provided for an honest review.
June 3, 2024
Upon reading the description of this book, I was struck by the realization that it is based on Oklahoma history that was not taught in public schools back in my day. I was also struck by the fact that Angie Debo is quoted and mentioned both in the dedication of the book and in some quotes sprinkled throughout the book. Ten years ago, while going through my grandpa's books and office files, I found a letter and a book authored by Angie Debo, hand-signed to my grandpa. Additionally, the house we lived in at the time was located just a few miles off highway 74, also called the "Angie Debo Highway", so I needed to read this book. The biggest perk of all was that "Shelterwood" is authored by one of my favorite authors, Lisa Wingate.
From the back cover:
"Told in dual timelines, this book tells the story of women pioneers who fought to protect children caught in the battle of land barons hungry for power and wealth. In 1909, eleven-year-old Olive, who can tell her stepdad has evil intentions toward the two Choctaw girls boarding in their home as wards. When the older one disappears, Olive ("Ollie") flees to the woods, taking six-year-old Nessa. They are heading to the Winding Stair Mountains, and it is on this journey they meet a motley crew of other children like them who also need protection."
"In 1990, Law Enforcement Ranger Valerie Boren-O'dell arrived at Horsethief Trail National Park seeking a quiet place to balance her career and single parenthood. She is immediately thrown into a local controversy involving a missing teenage hiker, the park's opening, and a burial site of three children within a cave. Val's quest to uncover the truth wins an ally among the neighboring Choctaw Tribal Police but also collides with old secrets and the tragic and deadly history of the land itself."
Shelterwood is atmospheric and character-driven, and each chapter alternates between timelines. I was so engrossed in the story and wanted to see how it all unfolded that I couldn't put it down!
Thank you so much to Penguin Random House and Netgalley for the ARC of this book. It was an honor and privilege to give my honest review.
Release Date: June 4, 2024
From the back cover:
"Told in dual timelines, this book tells the story of women pioneers who fought to protect children caught in the battle of land barons hungry for power and wealth. In 1909, eleven-year-old Olive, who can tell her stepdad has evil intentions toward the two Choctaw girls boarding in their home as wards. When the older one disappears, Olive ("Ollie") flees to the woods, taking six-year-old Nessa. They are heading to the Winding Stair Mountains, and it is on this journey they meet a motley crew of other children like them who also need protection."
"In 1990, Law Enforcement Ranger Valerie Boren-O'dell arrived at Horsethief Trail National Park seeking a quiet place to balance her career and single parenthood. She is immediately thrown into a local controversy involving a missing teenage hiker, the park's opening, and a burial site of three children within a cave. Val's quest to uncover the truth wins an ally among the neighboring Choctaw Tribal Police but also collides with old secrets and the tragic and deadly history of the land itself."
Shelterwood is atmospheric and character-driven, and each chapter alternates between timelines. I was so engrossed in the story and wanted to see how it all unfolded that I couldn't put it down!
Thank you so much to Penguin Random House and Netgalley for the ARC of this book. It was an honor and privilege to give my honest review.
Release Date: June 4, 2024
June 12, 2024
I loved Lisa Wingate's book Before We Were Yours so I was excited to get my hands on this one to see what she had come up with.
Description:
Oklahoma, 1909. Eleven-year-old Olive Augusta Radley knows that her stepfather doesn’t have good intentions toward the two Choctaw girls boarded in their home as wards. When the older girl disappears, Ollie flees to the woods, taking six-year-old Nessa with her. Together they begin a perilous journey to the rugged Winding Stair Mountains, the notorious territory of outlaws, treasure hunters, and desperate men. Along the way, Ollie and Nessa form an unlikely band with others like themselves, struggling to stay one step ahead of those who seek to exploit them . . . or worse.
Oklahoma, 1990. Law Enforcement Ranger Valerie Boren O’dell arrives at Horsethief Trail National Park seeking a quiet place to balance a career and single parenthood. But no sooner has Valerie reported for duty than she’s faced with local controversy over the park’s opening, a teenage hiker gone missing from one of the trails, and the long-hidden burial site of three children deep in a cave. Val’s quest to uncover the truth wins an ally among the neighboring Choctaw Tribal Police but soon collides with old secrets and the tragic and deadly history of the land itself.
In this emotional and enveloping novel, Lisa Wingate traces the story of children abandoned by the law and the battle to see justice done. Amid times of deep conflict over who owns the land and its riches, Ollie and Val traverse the wild and beautiful terrain, each leaving behind one life in search of another.
My Thoughts:
Really liked the plot with the two storylines which intertwined to provide a good picture of what happened before and what was happening in the 1990 story. The 1909 storyline was most emotional and my heart went out to Ollie and Nessa with the difficulties and trials they faced. Just the thought of the two children making their own way and trying to survive broke my heart. The 1990 storyline was good too and I liked the involvement of the National Park and admired Ranger Valerie Boren for her courage and determination. The characters in the book came alive on the page. I think anyone who likes adventure and mystery will enjoy the book.
Thanks to Ballantine Books through Netgalley for an advance copy.
Description:
Oklahoma, 1909. Eleven-year-old Olive Augusta Radley knows that her stepfather doesn’t have good intentions toward the two Choctaw girls boarded in their home as wards. When the older girl disappears, Ollie flees to the woods, taking six-year-old Nessa with her. Together they begin a perilous journey to the rugged Winding Stair Mountains, the notorious territory of outlaws, treasure hunters, and desperate men. Along the way, Ollie and Nessa form an unlikely band with others like themselves, struggling to stay one step ahead of those who seek to exploit them . . . or worse.
Oklahoma, 1990. Law Enforcement Ranger Valerie Boren O’dell arrives at Horsethief Trail National Park seeking a quiet place to balance a career and single parenthood. But no sooner has Valerie reported for duty than she’s faced with local controversy over the park’s opening, a teenage hiker gone missing from one of the trails, and the long-hidden burial site of three children deep in a cave. Val’s quest to uncover the truth wins an ally among the neighboring Choctaw Tribal Police but soon collides with old secrets and the tragic and deadly history of the land itself.
In this emotional and enveloping novel, Lisa Wingate traces the story of children abandoned by the law and the battle to see justice done. Amid times of deep conflict over who owns the land and its riches, Ollie and Val traverse the wild and beautiful terrain, each leaving behind one life in search of another.
My Thoughts:
Really liked the plot with the two storylines which intertwined to provide a good picture of what happened before and what was happening in the 1990 story. The 1909 storyline was most emotional and my heart went out to Ollie and Nessa with the difficulties and trials they faced. Just the thought of the two children making their own way and trying to survive broke my heart. The 1990 storyline was good too and I liked the involvement of the National Park and admired Ranger Valerie Boren for her courage and determination. The characters in the book came alive on the page. I think anyone who likes adventure and mystery will enjoy the book.
Thanks to Ballantine Books through Netgalley for an advance copy.
August 21, 2024
A historical fiction set in the Winding Stair Mountains of Oklahoma. (Dual timelines 1909 & 1990)
The first timeline (1909)shares the story of Native American children from the Choctaw Nation, Oklahoma told through the eyes of 11 year old Olive Augusta Peele. This book describes what these children endured under unbearable conditions, and how Olive helps some orphaned children.
In the second timeline(1990), it tells about a park ranger - Valerie Boren-Odell, who is transplanted to the area of Horsethief National Park, who discovers three childrens's skeletal remains in a cave, and is determined to find out who they were.
This book is both heartbreaking and enlightening.
The first timeline (1909)shares the story of Native American children from the Choctaw Nation, Oklahoma told through the eyes of 11 year old Olive Augusta Peele. This book describes what these children endured under unbearable conditions, and how Olive helps some orphaned children.
In the second timeline(1990), it tells about a park ranger - Valerie Boren-Odell, who is transplanted to the area of Horsethief National Park, who discovers three childrens's skeletal remains in a cave, and is determined to find out who they were.
This book is both heartbreaking and enlightening.
June 16, 2024
My Rating: 4 stars
I’ve been quite a bit behind on my leisure reading as of late and while I hope to catch back up as soon as possible, the reality is that it will be a challenge with peak summer reading right around the corner. In addition to being busy with work and school, a few of my favorite authors actually have books coming out this summer, so it goes without saying that I will definitely be doing some prioritizing over the next couple weeks in order to get to everything. With that said, I’ve been able to squeeze in a May / June new release here and there. This time around, the book is Shelterwood , the newest release from Before We Were Yours author Lisa Wingate.
When it comes to dual timeline historical fiction, I usually prefer the past timeline over the present one, but this time around, I felt that the present timeline, which took place in 1990, was much more engaging than the one from 1909. I think this might be because for most of the 1909 narrative, I had no idea where the story was headed – the pace was slower, some parts didn’t feel entirely believable, and few of the scenes seemed a bit too farfetched, a little like drama was being created for drama’s sake. The 1990 narrative, in comparisons, moved at a much faster pace and I felt more invested in the story (though I noticed these sections were much shorter than the historical narrative, which made the overall pacing much slower than I would have liked). Having said all that, I like that Wingate brought both timelines together in a way that was meaningful and memorable; in all honesty, that moment when all the pieces started falling into place and I finally understood the historical situation that Wingate was trying to shine a light on was when I truly became engaged in the story – though I wish it hadn’t taken so long (more than half the book) to get there.
I love historical fiction because of the way the genre makes history so interesting and I always learn something, even if I’m already familiar with the subject matter I’m reading about. In this case, I knew nothing about Oklahoma’s history and the guardian system that indirectly sanctioned the stealing of land from indigenous children, so I appreciated getting to learn about this (though I highly recommend also reading the Author’s Note, as Wingate recounts the history in way more detail and, for me at least, clarified a few aspects of the narrative that didn’t make a lot of sense at first).
Lastly, I wanted to put in a quick mention about the characters. My favorite stories are the ones with strong, tenacious female protagonists who aren’t afraid to go against the grain – both Ollie (from the past narrative) and Val (from the present narrative) were precisely this kind of protagonist, which I absolutely appreciated.
This one is definitely recommended, though a little bit of patience is needed to reach the payoff at the end. For me, it was worth it!
Received ARC from Ballantine Books via NetGalley.
I’ve been quite a bit behind on my leisure reading as of late and while I hope to catch back up as soon as possible, the reality is that it will be a challenge with peak summer reading right around the corner. In addition to being busy with work and school, a few of my favorite authors actually have books coming out this summer, so it goes without saying that I will definitely be doing some prioritizing over the next couple weeks in order to get to everything. With that said, I’ve been able to squeeze in a May / June new release here and there. This time around, the book is Shelterwood , the newest release from Before We Were Yours author Lisa Wingate.
When it comes to dual timeline historical fiction, I usually prefer the past timeline over the present one, but this time around, I felt that the present timeline, which took place in 1990, was much more engaging than the one from 1909. I think this might be because for most of the 1909 narrative, I had no idea where the story was headed – the pace was slower, some parts didn’t feel entirely believable, and few of the scenes seemed a bit too farfetched, a little like drama was being created for drama’s sake. The 1990 narrative, in comparisons, moved at a much faster pace and I felt more invested in the story (though I noticed these sections were much shorter than the historical narrative, which made the overall pacing much slower than I would have liked). Having said all that, I like that Wingate brought both timelines together in a way that was meaningful and memorable; in all honesty, that moment when all the pieces started falling into place and I finally understood the historical situation that Wingate was trying to shine a light on was when I truly became engaged in the story – though I wish it hadn’t taken so long (more than half the book) to get there.
I love historical fiction because of the way the genre makes history so interesting and I always learn something, even if I’m already familiar with the subject matter I’m reading about. In this case, I knew nothing about Oklahoma’s history and the guardian system that indirectly sanctioned the stealing of land from indigenous children, so I appreciated getting to learn about this (though I highly recommend also reading the Author’s Note, as Wingate recounts the history in way more detail and, for me at least, clarified a few aspects of the narrative that didn’t make a lot of sense at first).
Lastly, I wanted to put in a quick mention about the characters. My favorite stories are the ones with strong, tenacious female protagonists who aren’t afraid to go against the grain – both Ollie (from the past narrative) and Val (from the present narrative) were precisely this kind of protagonist, which I absolutely appreciated.
This one is definitely recommended, though a little bit of patience is needed to reach the payoff at the end. For me, it was worth it!
Received ARC from Ballantine Books via NetGalley.
July 13, 2024
Shelterwood by Lisa Wingate is a novel set in the Winding Stair Mountains of Oklahoma, across dual timelines.
In 1909, Ollie and a Choctaw Indian girl, Nessa run away when an older Indian girl, Hazel disappears. They seek refuge in the mountains, escaping from Ollie's abusive stepfather and hoping for a better life.
In 1990, Valerie, a widowed National PArk Ranger with a 7-year-old son, begins investigating the disappearance of a teenage boy. When the bones of three children are discovered in a cave, Valerie's focus shifts to this mystery. Despite being reassigned to desk duty for getting too close to the truth, she continues her investigation independently. Along with a new friend with the Choctaw Tribal Police, the two uncover crimes that include kidnapping, abuse, theft of land and possible murder.
The novel is praised for its rich detail, especially regarding Choctaw culture and language, and for vividly depicting the natural landscape and its lurking dangers. At the end of the book the book coves together with the two timelines connecting.
Be sure to read the authors notes
In 1909, Ollie and a Choctaw Indian girl, Nessa run away when an older Indian girl, Hazel disappears. They seek refuge in the mountains, escaping from Ollie's abusive stepfather and hoping for a better life.
In 1990, Valerie, a widowed National PArk Ranger with a 7-year-old son, begins investigating the disappearance of a teenage boy. When the bones of three children are discovered in a cave, Valerie's focus shifts to this mystery. Despite being reassigned to desk duty for getting too close to the truth, she continues her investigation independently. Along with a new friend with the Choctaw Tribal Police, the two uncover crimes that include kidnapping, abuse, theft of land and possible murder.
The novel is praised for its rich detail, especially regarding Choctaw culture and language, and for vividly depicting the natural landscape and its lurking dangers. At the end of the book the book coves together with the two timelines connecting.
Be sure to read the authors notes
June 24, 2024
Enjoyed Reading this one❣️❣️❣️ Recommend if you like Emotional Stories involving helping children. If you have read Lisa Wingate’s books, The Book of Lost Friends or Before We Were Yours, I think you will enjoy this one, too.
I finished this in June and really loved Shelterwood. Learned so much history about Oklahoma that I knew nothing about. Sad, how children were left to fend for themselves and often were working and trying to survive. I think Lisa Wingate’s strength is writing about Abused or Neglected Children that most of us would not otherwise know about. Shelterwood, really touched me. It was so awful how Native American Children got a Settlement for Stealing their land. Then Opportunists came in and did this all over again. They became guardians to them, often dozens, so that just meant they could control their money and land. I loved both Oillie and her Indigenous sister, Nessa. Her Step-Father is not a decent person and only wanted to use Nessa. That was pathetic, but routinely done. Ollie knows they must run away and hopes to build a new community for other kids called Shelterwood.
I gained an appreciation for Park Rangers. This is the other timeline in 1990, where newcomer, Valerie Borden-Odell keeps pressing to look into old bones that were children’s. It is noble of her to care and want answers.
My favorite book club on Facebook is Friends and Fiction. Each week an author is interviewed and Lisa Wingate spoke about writing this novel. It was fascinating to hear the research, her own family history, how she got the idea to start the book, and then getting the book in finished form. She was originally from Oklahoma, so this seemed very personal to her. I just find the backstories of authors so fascinating. You can go on the Site and listen to her Interview. It was a great discussion.
Thank you NetGalley, Lisa Wingate’s, and Ballentine for a copy of this book. I always leave reviews of books I read.
I finished this in June and really loved Shelterwood. Learned so much history about Oklahoma that I knew nothing about. Sad, how children were left to fend for themselves and often were working and trying to survive. I think Lisa Wingate’s strength is writing about Abused or Neglected Children that most of us would not otherwise know about. Shelterwood, really touched me. It was so awful how Native American Children got a Settlement for Stealing their land. Then Opportunists came in and did this all over again. They became guardians to them, often dozens, so that just meant they could control their money and land. I loved both Oillie and her Indigenous sister, Nessa. Her Step-Father is not a decent person and only wanted to use Nessa. That was pathetic, but routinely done. Ollie knows they must run away and hopes to build a new community for other kids called Shelterwood.
I gained an appreciation for Park Rangers. This is the other timeline in 1990, where newcomer, Valerie Borden-Odell keeps pressing to look into old bones that were children’s. It is noble of her to care and want answers.
My favorite book club on Facebook is Friends and Fiction. Each week an author is interviewed and Lisa Wingate spoke about writing this novel. It was fascinating to hear the research, her own family history, how she got the idea to start the book, and then getting the book in finished form. She was originally from Oklahoma, so this seemed very personal to her. I just find the backstories of authors so fascinating. You can go on the Site and listen to her Interview. It was a great discussion.
Thank you NetGalley, Lisa Wingate’s, and Ballentine for a copy of this book. I always leave reviews of books I read.
February 9, 2024
Thank you Random House Publishing Group from NetGalley for this ARC. I have been a fan of Lisa Wingate ever since reading , Before We Were Yours. Her latest novel is another work of Historical Fiction! Loved it! Couldn’t put it down!
May 8, 2024
Shelterwood is the third book I have read by Lisa Wingate. I was excited to get an ARC of this book because I thoroughly enjoyed Before We Were yours and The Book of Lost Friends. Unfortunately I did not feel the same about this book. I found myself drifting while reading this and not wanting to continue. The two timelines did not work together for me, I couldn’t connect to the characters and I felt like the story went off on too many different tangents. I kept loosing the main point of the story. This being said many people enjoyed this book so I encourage people to give it a try if you have enjoyed Wingate’s other books.
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2024
This was such a beautifully written story. This had such sad moments, but I loved how the dual timelines had such brave and resilient characters. The stories intertwine, and it was such a moving story. I loved this so much, but also shed several tears.
June 4, 2024
**Happy Publication Day!**
"Shelterwood is an obscure forestry term for older, larger trees that protect the smaller, younger growth beneath."
This work of historical fiction is set in Talihina, Oklahoma and is told in two alternating timelines. One is set in 1990 where Valerie Boren-Odell comes with her seven-year-old son Charlie to begin her new post as park ranger at the newly minted Horsethief Trail National Park in the Winding Stair Mountains of Southeastern Oklahoma. As the newbie, she feels frustrated that she is being given the easy assignments as 'the token female' and is befuddled when the finding of three old skeletons of little girls in a cave isn't bigger news.
The second timeline is set in the same area back in 1909 where land rights are being stolen from orphaned Choctaw children by people who step in as their 'guardians.' Many of those same children end up living rough in the woods, fending for themselves as best they can. Olive Augusta Peele is a young white girl who fears what is going to happen to Nessa Rusk, the little Choctaw girl, who has come to live with Olive and her mother and step-father. Nessa's older sister Hazel has already disappeared and Olive thinks her step-father is responsible. Seeing he is turning his attention to Nessa, Olive takes the little girl and they run off with her pony. Out in the forest, they meet several other children who are homeless and Olive dreams of creating a home for them all.
One bright shining light is a woman named Miss Kate Barnard who has been elected president of the Oklahoma State Federation of Women's Clubs and has come to Talihina to a give a speech hoping to raise awareness of the plight of these homeless children who have been robbed of their legal rights by unscrupulous people.
As these timelines develop, the reader begins to see their connection across time. Can Valerie solve the mystery before evil doers win again?
I always enjoy learning more about such little-known history, especially those highlighting the roles played by women and children. I'm hoping Lisa Wingate will bring Valerie Boren-Odell back for more stories set in National Parks.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new novel via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
"Shelterwood is an obscure forestry term for older, larger trees that protect the smaller, younger growth beneath."
This work of historical fiction is set in Talihina, Oklahoma and is told in two alternating timelines. One is set in 1990 where Valerie Boren-Odell comes with her seven-year-old son Charlie to begin her new post as park ranger at the newly minted Horsethief Trail National Park in the Winding Stair Mountains of Southeastern Oklahoma. As the newbie, she feels frustrated that she is being given the easy assignments as 'the token female' and is befuddled when the finding of three old skeletons of little girls in a cave isn't bigger news.
The second timeline is set in the same area back in 1909 where land rights are being stolen from orphaned Choctaw children by people who step in as their 'guardians.' Many of those same children end up living rough in the woods, fending for themselves as best they can. Olive Augusta Peele is a young white girl who fears what is going to happen to Nessa Rusk, the little Choctaw girl, who has come to live with Olive and her mother and step-father. Nessa's older sister Hazel has already disappeared and Olive thinks her step-father is responsible. Seeing he is turning his attention to Nessa, Olive takes the little girl and they run off with her pony. Out in the forest, they meet several other children who are homeless and Olive dreams of creating a home for them all.
One bright shining light is a woman named Miss Kate Barnard who has been elected president of the Oklahoma State Federation of Women's Clubs and has come to Talihina to a give a speech hoping to raise awareness of the plight of these homeless children who have been robbed of their legal rights by unscrupulous people.
As these timelines develop, the reader begins to see their connection across time. Can Valerie solve the mystery before evil doers win again?
I always enjoy learning more about such little-known history, especially those highlighting the roles played by women and children. I'm hoping Lisa Wingate will bring Valerie Boren-Odell back for more stories set in National Parks.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new novel via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
August 20, 2024
I love how Lisa brings lost stories to life. This follows a group of children in Oklahoma in the early 1900s who were discarded but determined to make a life of their own.
I'm a sucker for a dual timeline story and the present timeline was just as entertaining for me. Loved the focus on the National Parks Service.
There were times that the story was a little slow but overall a great read.
I'm a sucker for a dual timeline story and the present timeline was just as entertaining for me. Loved the focus on the National Parks Service.
There were times that the story was a little slow but overall a great read.
April 12, 2024
Sometimes you just want a book that will transport you to another time and occasionally make you cry. Which brings me to this book and review I’m currently writing with balled up tissues in hand.
Lisa Wingate is a master at weaving together stories based on true events many may not know about. Including myself.
“Before We Were Yours” was the first book I read by her and just like that one, children and the past horrors they faced remain at the forefront. Hence my tissues.
I really love and appreciate the concern, love and support Lisa brings to her books and this one is no exception.
Taking place in Oklahoma and set between two timelines. Step into a time and a story Lisa clearly did her research on. I’m already looking forward to the next historical gem she decides to unearth.
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for an arc of this book. All opinions are my own.
Lisa Wingate is a master at weaving together stories based on true events many may not know about. Including myself.
“Before We Were Yours” was the first book I read by her and just like that one, children and the past horrors they faced remain at the forefront. Hence my tissues.
I really love and appreciate the concern, love and support Lisa brings to her books and this one is no exception.
Taking place in Oklahoma and set between two timelines. Step into a time and a story Lisa clearly did her research on. I’m already looking forward to the next historical gem she decides to unearth.
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for an arc of this book. All opinions are my own.
March 29, 2024
I had high hopes for this historical fiction book based on the authors previous books that I've enjoyed. But, this story fell short for me.
First up, this story started out really strong and i was all in! I loved the early 1900's setting and the children involved. I always appreciate the historical plot timelines in these alternating time periods the most. I was unaware of the historical aspect that this book shines a light on and reading the authors notes shone more light on it. Recommend that!
For me, there seemed to be so many holes in these girls and children's misadventures. I just couldn't fathom some of the things they supposedly experienced. Honestly, I started to get bored with the storyline and felt that there wasn't enough plot to push the readers interest along.
The 1990 timeline began with following a female park ranger and I was all in. I'm a lover of national parks and there was a beginning mystery that I was totally in for! Once again, things got kinda crazy and while it may have happened in real life, it just wasn't told in a realistic way for me to accept.
Overall, the historical aspects highlighted were interesting and worth knowing about, but I didn't love the journey that felt slow and I had to push myself through to finish.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine for the gifted e-ARC
First up, this story started out really strong and i was all in! I loved the early 1900's setting and the children involved. I always appreciate the historical plot timelines in these alternating time periods the most. I was unaware of the historical aspect that this book shines a light on and reading the authors notes shone more light on it. Recommend that!
For me, there seemed to be so many holes in these girls and children's misadventures. I just couldn't fathom some of the things they supposedly experienced. Honestly, I started to get bored with the storyline and felt that there wasn't enough plot to push the readers interest along.
The 1990 timeline began with following a female park ranger and I was all in. I'm a lover of national parks and there was a beginning mystery that I was totally in for! Once again, things got kinda crazy and while it may have happened in real life, it just wasn't told in a realistic way for me to accept.
Overall, the historical aspects highlighted were interesting and worth knowing about, but I didn't love the journey that felt slow and I had to push myself through to finish.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine for the gifted e-ARC
April 4, 2024
I love when I can find historical fiction about a subject I know nothing about. This story was told in a dual timeline format from the turn of the 19th century and also at the end. My favorite part of the story was the one that took place in 1909 and featured Ollie. She is eleven and knows she has to get away from her step-father. She runs away with a younger Choctaw girl, Nessie, who has been a ward along with her sister, Hazel. at her home. Hazel has disappeared and they fear that Ollie's step father was the reason. The two of them have to struggle to survive. Their story was based on real Oklahoma history and even featured an important woman who had a huge impact of the development of the state.
The other story was also interesting as it followed a single mom trying to make a new start for herself and her son. She knows something is not right as she tries to find a missing person and a cave with three sets of children's bones. I loved how her story was tied into the other story. Overall, this was an emotional and compelling look at Oklahoman history involving children, Native Americans, and good triumphing over evil.
Thank you to Ballantine Books and NetGalley for this ARC.
The other story was also interesting as it followed a single mom trying to make a new start for herself and her son. She knows something is not right as she tries to find a missing person and a cave with three sets of children's bones. I loved how her story was tied into the other story. Overall, this was an emotional and compelling look at Oklahoman history involving children, Native Americans, and good triumphing over evil.
Thank you to Ballantine Books and NetGalley for this ARC.
February 5, 2024
Lisa Wingate is the queen of historical fiction. Shelterwood is another of her masterpieces based on real events. It's timely, too, given the popularity of the movie (based on the book by David Grann) Killers of the Flower Moon. Flower Moon told the true story of the adults who were swindled out of their oil and mineral rights by their "guardians." Wingate's book tells of the Native children who were savagely robbed of their rights, too.
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