A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER JIMMY FALLON SUMMER READS WINNER ONE OF BARACK OBAMA'S FAVORITE READS OF SUMMER 2024 “ The God of the Woods should be your next summer mystery. ” — The Washington Post “Extraordinary . .

. Reminds me of Donna Tartt’s 1992 debut, The Secret History . .

. I was so thoroughly submerged in a rich fictional world, that for hours I barely came up for air.” — Maureen Corrigan, Fresh Air , NPR “ Riveting from page one to the last breathless word. ” —Rebecca Makkai, New York Times bestselling author of I Have Some Questions For You When a teenager vanishes from her Adirondack summer camp, two worlds collide Early morning, August 1975: a camp counselor discovers an empty bunk.

Its occupant, Barbara Van Laar, has gone missing. Barbara isn’t just any thirteen-year-old: she’s the daughter of the family that owns the summer camp and employs most of the region’s residents. And this isn’t the first time a Van Laar child has disappeared.

Barbara’s older brother similarly vanished fourteen years ago, never to be found. As a panicked search begins, a thrilling drama unfolds. Chasing down the layered secrets of the Van Laar family and the blue-collar community working in its shadow, Moore’s multi-threaded story invites readers into a rich and gripping dynasty of secrets and second chances.

It is Liz Moore’s most ambitious and wide-reaching novel yet.

In the heart of an ancient forest lies a secret as old as the woods themselves, whispered among the leaves and carried by the wind. "The God of the Woods" invites you to step into a world where the boundary between reality and myth blurs, and where the forest demands both respect and understanding. As human encroachment threatens the balance of nature, a hidden power awakens, its presence felt in every rustling leaf and every mysterious shadow.

This tale weaves a tapestry of suspense, reverence, and the awe-inspiring might of nature itself.

The story explores the intersection of ancient myths and modern reality highlighting the timeless conflict between humanity and nature. Characters face the challenge of understanding and respecting the natural world learning its hidden rules and enduring power. Through suspense and rich imagery the narrative emphasizes the enchantment and formidable presence of the wilderness.

In a secluded corner of the world the ancient forest stands as a silent testament to the passage of time. Filled with towering trees and winding paths it harbors secrets long forgotten by mankind. The villagers nearby carry tales of a primordial deity an unseen guardian known only as the God of the Woods said to protect the forest and its mysteries.

As the modern world begins encroaching upon this sacred land dormant powers stir challenging those who would dare disturb the delicate balance between nature and civilization. A group of intrepid explorers arrives drawn by the allure of the unknown and the promise of discovery. Among them is Emilia a young botanist who seeks to understand the wonders hidden beneath the canopy.

Her scientific curiosity soon collides with the mystical reality of the forest as inexplicable events test her rational beliefs. Each step deeper into the woods leads Emilia closer to an ancient truth forcing her to confront long-held assumptions about the natural world. With environmental tensions escalating the forest itself becomes a character vibrant and alive asserting its presence in ways both subtle and dramatic.

The God of the Woods neither malevolent nor benevolent emerges as a force of nature emblematic of the forest's resilience and strength. As the story unfolds human ambition clashes with nature's uncompromising will culminating in a profound realization of interconnectedness and respect. The narrative weaves suspense and intrigue maintaining a delicate balance between wonder and foreboding.

Richly atmospheric it captures the enigmatic beauty of the woods and the deep-rooted power that lies within its depths. With every turn of the page readers are invited to reflect on humanity's relationship with the natural world as the characters embark on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment. The tale is a reminder of the importance of harmony and coexistence urging a deeper appreciation for the world around us.

Through its captivating storytelling and vivid imagery the novel offers a compelling exploration of the mysteries that nature holds and the timeless wisdom it imparts to those willing to listen.

The novel masterfully blends elements of suspense folklore and environmental commentary creating a truly immersive reading experience Its rich descriptions and vivid character portrayals draw readers deep into the heart of the forest illuminating its mysteries and majestic power Emilia's journey of self-discovery provides a relatable lens through which readers can explore complex themes of nature and humanity making the narrative both engaging and thought-provoking Her struggle to reconcile scientific understanding with mystical encounters reflects the tension between modernity and ancient wisdom The book's exploration of nature as a sentient force stands out challenging conventional storytelling By depicting the forest as an entity with desires and agency the narrative elevates nature from backdrop to protagonist emphasizing its vital role in the world's delicate equilibrium.