59 pages 1 hour read

Where the Lost Wander

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

Amy Harmon

Where the Lost Wander

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

349

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

American West • 1850s

Theme
Love

Indigenous Identity

The Past
Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Where the Lost Wander by Amy Harmon follows the journey of a young widow and a half-Pawnee man on the Oregon Trail in 1853. They face numerous hardships, including cultural conflicts and personal losses, as they search for survival and love amidst the vast American frontier.

Emotional

Adventurous

Bittersweet

Romantic

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Where the Lost Wander by Amy Harmon has received praise for its rich historical setting and emotional depth, capturing the gritty realities of pioneer life with compelling, well-drawn characters. However, some readers found the pace slow at times. Overall, it’s lauded for its evocative storytelling and well-researched backdrop, making it a touching and immersive read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Where the Lost Wander?

Readers who enjoy immersive historical fiction, poignant love stories, and richly drawn characters will be captivated by Amy Harmon's Where the Lost Wander. Fans of The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman will appreciate this novel's blend of adventure, romance, and emotional depth.

Character List

Naomi May

One of the dual protagonists and point-of-view narrators, known for her artistic talent and strong-willed personality. She is distinguished by her chestnut hair, green eyes, and a freckled nose, and she navigates complex relationships within the wagon train.

The other protagonist and point-of-view narrator, a man of mixed Pawnee and white heritage, struggling with his sense of belonging between two cultures. Known for his skills with languages and empathy, he is devoted to Naomi and serves as a protector and guide.

Naomi’s mother, noted for her wisdom and belief in transcendence, who dispenses pivotal advice to the protagonists. Her chestnut hair with gray streaks, green eyes, and freckled nose match Naomi's, embodying strength and foresight on the journey.

John’s stepmother, a petite and fair-skinned woman who plays a nurturing role in John's life despite their emotional distance. She teaches John to read and write and supports him throughout his personal journey by correspondence.

A real historical figure and ally to John, leading a band of Shoshoni and serving as a foil to John with his own mixed heritage. Known for his calm leadership, he aids in pivotal events and symbolizes harmony and integration within cultural tensions.

Book Details
Pages

349

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

American West • 1850s

Theme
Love

Indigenous Identity

The Past
Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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