Shelterwood: A Novel By Lisa Wingate

In Lisa Wingate's riveting novel, "The Nightingale's Promise," the intertwining tales of Olive Augusta Radley in 1909 and law enforcement ranger Valerie Boren-Odell in 1990 unfold against the backdrop of Oklahoma's tumultuous history.

Olive, at eleven, flees her stepfather's ominous intentions towards Choctaw girls, embarking on a perilous journey with young Nessa. Together, they navigate the treacherous Winding Stair Mountains, forming unlikely alliances to evade exploitation.

Decades later, Valerie seeks solace at Horsethief Trail National Park, only to confront local turmoil: a missing teenager, controversies over park openings, and the discovery of a burial site holding the remains of three children. Valerie's pursuit of truth allies her with the Choctaw Tribal Police, uncovering buried secrets and the haunting legacy of the land.

Wingate's narrative weaves through themes of justice, ownership, and resilience, capturing the essence of individuals grappling with their pasts and forging new paths amidst turmoil. As Olive and Valerie traverse Oklahoma's rugged landscape, their journeys symbolize the enduring quest for redemption and belonging in the face of adversity. "The Nightingale's Promise" is a poignant testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope amidst darkness. 📚❤️