Jumia Books The God of the Woods: A Novel  by Liz Moore (Author)

"The God of the Woods" by Liz Moore is a multi-layered mystery set in August 1975 at a summer camp in the Adirondacks. Early in the story, Barbara Van Laar, a privileged and troubled thirteen-year-old camper, is discovered missing. Barbara belongs to a wealthy family that owns the summer camp and much of the local land, and her disappearance ignites a frantic search. This is not the first Van Laar child to vanish; Barbara's older brother, Bear, mysteriously disappeared fourteen years prior.

The novel intertwines the present-day investigation led by diligent investigator Judyta Luptack with flashbacks exploring the Van Laar family's troubled history. The narrative reveals abuse, control, family secrets, and the struggles of the blue-collar workers who live in the Van Laars' shadow. Barbara's campmates, including the shy Tracy and responsible Louise, get drawn into the mystery, while the looming threat of an escaped murderer nearby heightens tension.