Ruth Emmie Lang’s The Wilderwomen is a novel with a fascinating premise and beautifully crafted characters, but it doesn’t always deliver on its potential. The heart of the story—the bond between sisters Zadie and Finn—is deeply compelling, and their individual abilities add an intriguing layer to their journey. Lang excels at character development, making the sisters feel authentic and emotionally resonant. However, the pacing can feel uneven, and the plot occasionally meanders, leaving some moments feeling underwhelming rather than impactful. While the novel’s themes of family and self-discovery are touching, the execution doesn’t always match the strength of its characters. A solid read for those who love character-driven stories, but it may not fully satisfy readers looking for a tightly woven narrative.

This was an interesting story. I love magical realism but I feel like it could go either way in terms of being a favorite or a little forgettable. The characters were complex, lots of side stories with interesting characters but the story seemed to wind and drag at times. I liked it but unfortunately not a favorite. Thank you for the advanced copy!

The Wilder Women has an original premise and some thoughtful themes, especially around family and memory. The magical elements are interesting, but the pacing and character development felt uneven at times. A decent read overall, especially for fans of magical realism.

This story was just ok for me. The two set out on an adventure and not the adventure they both want. While the book has its moments l, for me it gets heavily bogged down and I found myself not caring about what happened.

Ruth Emmie Lang’s The Wilder Women is a beautifully written, emotionally resonant novel with a touch of magical realism. It’s a story about memory, sisterhood, and the enduring mystery of family, told through the eyes of two young women bound not only by blood but by inexplicable, otherworldly gifts.

The Wilderwomen by Ruth Emmie Lang (narrated by Anna Caputo)

This book proved challenging for me, but not in the way I’d hoped. While I adored the author’s previous work, Beasts of Extraordinary Circumstance, which truly captivated me, The Wilderwomen didn’t have the same effect. Despite my love for magical realism, I struggled to connect with this story and I kept setting it aside without finishing.

I thought maybe the audiobook narrated by Anna Caputo might help me engage with the story. While her narration was skillful and brought the characters to life, the story itself still didn’t quite click for me.

The story essentially unfolded as an extended road trip and not enough was happening to hold my attention. Even the magical realism elements, which I normally treasure, didn’t strike the same chord for me this time. Plus, the ending felt predictable and wrapped up too neatly, leaving it less impactful.

I’m genuinely disappointed this book didn’t resonate with me as much as Beasts of Extraordinary Circumstance. I had high hopes, but unfortunately, it didn’t meet my expectations.

Thank you @netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for an eARC, which I’ve read and reviewed voluntarily.

A beautiful, magical realism story about two sisters with extraordinary gifts searching for their missing mother. The relationship between the sisters is touching and complex. The writing is lush, though it occasionally drifts into slow pacing. A heartfelt story full of wonder.

Magical realism at its finest - I was shocked at the ending, and was swept along for the ride the entire story! Would recommend to all my reader friends!

The premise was interesting—two sisters with unique abilities trying to track down their missing mom—but it didn’t quite hook me the way I hoped. The mix of psychic visions and memory echoes had potential, but at times, it felt a bit repetitive. The mystery kept me reading, but the pacing dragged in places, and I didn’t fully connect with the characters. Not bad, just not super memorable. If you like slow-burn family dramas with a touch of the supernatural, you might enjoy it more than I did.

This was an okay magical realism story. I wanted to connect with the characters more than I did. I would have liked to be whisked away by the story but at times, I found myself trying to figure out where I was and what was going on.

I value the opportunity I was given to read this in advance, but it has been three years and I still haven't read this. With so many books ahead of me, I cannot return to this title.

This was a very unique story and the writing was beautiful. Great world building as well. I enjoyed this one.

An atmospheric family saga with magical realism woven in - sign me up! The pacing was a little too slow for me, but I loved the characters and how you’re drawn into their relationship immediately. Lang’s writing is so lyrical you just want to bask in its glow. Definitely worth the read.

This is a buddy road trip from, except two sisters looking for the mother that abandoned them. The characters are likable enough, and they do grow through the story. However, the wrap up is too neat and tidy. Very rom-com feel in the sense that the happily ever after happens and any difficulties or resentments are "washed away" or glossed over. I find this very unsatisfying, especially in a book like this where internal conflict drove the whole plot. I ended up forgetting I read this book, then thought I reviewed it already. Not one to stay with you, but a decent story to pass the time. 3.5 rounded up

*The Wilderwomen* by Ruth Emmie Lang follows two sisters, Iris and Ruby, who possess supernatural abilities that tie them to a mystical world. As they navigate their complex relationship with their estranged mother, they uncover secrets about their past and themselves. Lang's prose is poetic and vivid, creating an immersive atmosphere that blends the ordinary with the extraordinary. Themes of loss, love, and resilience are explored with sensitivity, making *The Wilderwomen* an enchanting read for fans of magical realism and character-driven fiction.

This book had some lovely poetic and lyrical writing, and the magical realism was woven in very well. But, I got dragged down by the plot. The pacing could have been snappier and overall I struggled to keep my interest while reading. A great atmospheric or "vibes" read, especially for those who love family dramas and magical realism.

Zadie and her sister Finn are special. Zadie has premonitions and Finn can read people’s memories. When their mother disappears Finn enters foster care and Zadie is alone until one day years later Finn convinces Zadie to use their powers to find their mother.

The story is intriguing, highly emotional and well written, however, it felt slow. In some parts the plot almost seemed as if it was dragging along. I did become attached to these characters and was invested on them getting the outcome they wanted. Ultimately, it was a good example magical realism that I will definitely recommend to our library patrons.

I've been hoping for a new one from Lang ever since Beasts of Extraordinary Circumstance, but her sophomore novel didn't live up to her unforgettable review. The pacing can be uneven, with certain sections feeling rushed while others drag on, detracting from the overall momentum of the story. Additionally, some plot points and character arcs may feel underdeveloped, leaving the reader craving more depth and nuance. I'll still read whatever she writes next, just with more realistic expectations.

Women's fiction, magical realism and mystery- what else could you ask for out of The Wilderwomen? Lang takes the readers, along with her characters on a journey in this book. There are twists and turns that will have you hanging onto the edge of the seat, and you will feel blind-sided by them.

Ruth Emmie Lang's The Wilderwomen is a beautifully crafted novel that delves into the realms of magical realism, family bonds, and the search for self-discovery. Lang, known for her enchanting storytelling in Beasts of Extraordinary Circumstance, brings readers another captivating tale that intertwines the ordinary with the extraordinary.

The story revolves around two sisters, Zadie and Finn Wilder, who possess unique supernatural abilities. Zadie, the older sister, has the gift of “echoes,” allowing her to hear snippets of the past. Finn, the younger sister, has premonitions that guide her toward future events. After their mother, Nora, mysteriously disappears five years earlier, the sisters are left to navigate life on their own, with their extraordinary gifts complicating their journey.

Zadie, now a young woman struggling with her abilities, has tried to suppress her echoes, leading a life that shuns the supernatural. Finn, on the other hand, embraces her premonitions and is determined to find their mother, convinced that Nora is still alive. The sisters' relationship is tested as they embark on a cross-country journey to uncover the truth about their mother’s disappearance and to reconcile their own differences.

Lang’s characters are richly developed, each with their own distinct voice and depth. Zadie’s reluctance to embrace her gift and Finn’s unwavering belief in the extraordinary create a compelling dynamic that drives the narrative forward. The sisters' bond, strained by years of separation and differing perspectives, is portrayed with authenticity and emotional resonance. Lang skillfully captures the complexities of sibling relationships, making their journey both relatable and heartwarming.

The novel’s magical realism is seamlessly woven into the fabric of the story. Lang’s descriptions of Zadie's echoes and Finn’s premonitions are vivid and imaginative, enhancing the sense of wonder that permeates the narrative. The supernatural elements are balanced with the characters' emotional and psychological struggles, grounding the story in a reality that feels both familiar and fantastical.

One of the strengths of The Wilderwomen is its exploration of themes such as family, identity, and the quest for belonging. As Zadie and Finn search for their mother, they also embark on a journey of self-discovery, confronting their past and embracing their true selves. Lang’s portrayal of their growth and transformation is both poignant and inspiring, reminding readers of the importance of accepting and celebrating one’s uniqueness.

The novel’s pacing is well-managed, with Lang deftly balancing moments of introspection with scenes of action and suspense. The journey across the country is filled with encounters that challenge the sisters and push them closer to the truth. Lang’s evocative prose brings the settings to life, from the bustling cities to the tranquil, forgotten corners of America, creating a rich and immersive reading experience.

In conclusion, The Wilderwomen is a spellbinding novel that showcases Ruth Emmie Lang’s talent for blending magical realism with heartfelt storytelling. With its richly developed characters, enchanting prose, and profound exploration of family and self-discovery, the book is a must-read for fans of literary fiction and magical realism. Lang’s ability to create a world where the extraordinary is interwoven with the everyday makes The Wilderwomen a truly memorable and uplifting read. This novel is a celebration of the bonds that tie us together and the magic that lies within us all.