Really great story with plenty of mystery and history combined. It was well written and was easy to be invested in the characters’ stories as they unraveled mysteries or tried to protect their friends and families. 

I enjoyed Ollie’s story and learning about what was going on during time with the land theft and how the kids survived as a family to escape it, as well as Kate Barnard’s influence. It’s crazy to me to learn about her initial success as a politician and advocate even before women’s voting rights came along. It’s so sad how much abuse was happening for the sake of money and greed, and the book helped paint that picture well. 

Valerie’s story brought a really great mystery and I also loved the focus of a women in a lonely role of a federal Park Ranger in a world dominated by men, and how she navigated that with courage, even when it was difficult. I thought her sections brought great intrigue and unfolded well. 

The only reason it was a 4 star book for me instead of 5 stars was the dual timeline. I don’t mind them in general but for some reason I had a hard time switching gears between Valerie’s and Ollie’s stories. It was sometimes difficult to remember where I left off previously. But I did love how the story tied the timelines together in the end. 

Thanks for Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are mine.