An amazing story that I loved. Based on a true place and terrible trauma that happened at a girls boarding school in Buffalo, New York. The time period is the Vietnam war, although the very end is present day. For lots of reasons, girls were sent online with the nuns and ran a laundry. They didn’t learn anything at all! The main character is Marin who went to escape her creepy stepdad. Angela was sent as conversion therapy since she is gay.

The story is deeply emotional, will make you cry and even laugh a little. It’s a long journey about how resilient young women can be. If you like stories of injustice and historical oppressive systems with a redemption arc, I highly recommend this book!

The audio was interesting, kept my attention, and well acted.

Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow and Harper Audio for the audiobook. Book to be released July 15, 2025.

Wayward Girls by Susan Wiggs is a compelling and heartfelt novel that sheds light on a dark chapter of history with sensitivity and depth. Set against the turbulent backdrop of 1968 Buffalo, New York, the story follows six young women confined in the oppressive environment of the Good Shepherd reform school, each carrying their own struggles and secrets. Wiggs masterfully explores themes of friendship, resilience, and survival as these girls navigate a system designed to punish and control, yet also become a source of strength and solidarity. The characters are vividly drawn, from Mairin’s fierce protectiveness to Angela’s betrayal and Odessa’s unwavering resilience. The addition of Sister Bernadette offers a nuanced perspective on loyalty and morality, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. Based on true stories, the novel is both wrenching and inspiring, shining a light on injustices faced by marginalized girls and women. Despite its heavy subject matter, Wiggs weaves in moments of hope and redemption that leave a lasting impact. I give this book four stars for its powerful storytelling and important message. It’s a thought-provoking read that reminds us of the enduring strength of young women in the face of adversity.

What an incredibly powerful book. This book is based on facts.

1968, at Good Shepard, six girls with different stories must stay here to be reformed. And suffer many unspeakable abuses.

Many thanks to Net Galley and HarperAudio Adult for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This story is about six teen girls in 1968 that are confined to the Good Shepherd Church because they are either pregnant, gay or unruly. It is run by nuns who are mostly abusive. The girls are so strong and form friendships that help keep them going. You can tell the author really did her research here and put a lot of thought and care into this book. While the story is sad and hard to read at times it is a about people that overcome and that made me enjoy it so much.