A Heart-Wrenching Journey with Wayward Girls
There’s something truly captivating about a Susan Wiggs novel—an ability to transport you into emotionally charged worlds where the characters’ struggles feel both poignantly real and remarkably relatable. When I learned about her latest release, Wayward Girls, I felt an immediate pull. This story didn’t just promise drama and depth; it was rooted in a haunting true narrative of survival, friendship, and the quest for justice during a tumultuous time in our history. As a fan of historical fiction, I was eager to delve into the poignant lives of six girls confined to a Catholic reform school in 1960s Buffalo, NY.
The novel introduces us to a group of incredibly resilient young women—Mairin, Angela, Helen, Odessa, Denise, and Janice—each thrust into the grim confines of the Good Shepherd, an institution where their very identities made them targets for punishment. These characters are so richly drawn that I found myself fully immersed in their distinct stories. Each girl carries her own burdens, from Mairin seeking refuge from a dangerous stepfather to Angela’s painful experiences borne from being herself in a society that couldn’t understand her. The way Wiggs captures their lives is not just a narrative but an embodiment of the struggles faced by many young women, especially during an era marked by harsh societal judgments.
What struck me most was how Wiggs navigates the dark themes of abuse, resilience, and systemic injustice with an observed sensitivity. The conditions within Good Shepherd are described with stark honesty—these girls endured forced labor without any semblance of rights or autonomy, all while their families believed they were in a place of healing. It’s heartbreaking and eye-opening, illuminating a hidden chapter in history that many may not know. Wiggs’ meticulously researched narrative style enhances these themes, firmly grounding the reader in the realities of the time.
The pacing of Wayward Girls never felt rushed. Instead, Wiggs masterfully builds tension, creating moments that tug at the heartstrings. The friendships that blossom among the girls provide a crucial lifeline; their unity becomes a beacon of hope amid despair. One particularly memorable moment is their clever escape in the library van—a scene that left me smiling through my tears, illustrating their grit and ingenuity against the odds.
Listening to the audiobook narrated by Jane Oppenheimer and Cynthia Farrell added another layer to my reading experience—their performances were immersive, capturing the essence of the characters and the time. I found myself holding my breath during tense moments and cheering quietly for the girls’ small victories. It’s an audio experience I wholeheartedly recommend, especially for those who deeply connect with emotional storytelling.
Wayward Girls is a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction that delivers not only a poignant narrative but also prompts essential reflections on societal issues. It’s especially suitable for fans of authors like Ellen Marie Wiseman and Diane Chamberlain, as it artfully melds history with deeply personal storytelling.
Ultimately, this novel left me feeling enriched yet contemplative, urging me to reflect on the resilience of women throughout history. Susan Wiggs has once again proven her mastery as a storyteller, creating a powerful narrative that lingers in the mind and heart long after the final page. If you enjoy stories steeped in emotion and history, I cannot recommend Wayward Girls enough.
Happy reading! 🖤
— Judith D. Collins, JudithDCollins.com
Rating: 5 Stars +
Publication Date: July 15, 2025