Wayward Girls by New York Times bestselling author Susan Wiggs is a poignant and deeply moving novel inspired by true events, set against the backdrop of 1960s Buffalo, New York. Wiggs crafts a dual-timeline narrative that delves into the lives of six young women confined to the notorious Catholic reform school, Good Shepherd. Their stories weave a haunting tapestry of survival, friendship, and redemption in the shadow of systemic oppression.

In 1968, Mairin, Angela, Helen, Odessa, Denise, and Janice find themselves sent to the Good Shepherd, each for reasons that echo the societal injustices of the era. Mairin, spirited and defiant, is placed there by a mother who seeks to protect her from a predatory stepfather. Angela, condemned for her attraction to girls, suffers devastating abuse. Helen, the daughter of intellectuals imprisoned in Communist China, endures an indefinite stay. Odessa’s strength is tested after she’s swept into a racial incident, while Denise dreams of escape and a brighter future. Janice wrestles with insecurity and loyalty, particularly toward her friend Kay, whose childlike dependence defines her.

Through richly developed characters, Wiggs unveils the harsh realities of Good Shepherd—a place where the nuns’ rigid control often masked cruelty. Yet, amid the oppressive environment, these young women forge bonds of solidarity, finding resilience and moments of hope. Their journeys unfold with complexity and depth, capturing the fierce determination to reclaim their lives and demand justice.

Told in dual timelines, Wayward Girls not only follows their harrowing experiences at Good Shepherd but also their futures, as the women confront the scars of their pasts and fight for the truth to come to light. Wiggs’ evocative prose brings the era to life, shedding light on the systemic challenges faced by women deemed “unruly” for simply defying societal norms.

Fans of Before We Were Yours, Orphan Train, and The Berry Pickers will find much to admire in this masterful blend of historical fiction and heartfelt storytelling. Wayward Girls is a celebration of courage, sisterhood, friendship and the unyielding strength of the human spirit.

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This was such a powerful story of friendship and survival. The writing was spectacular and really brought out so many emotions as I was reading. I did not want to put this book down and wanted redemption for all of these girls. I highly recommend this book!

Great story! Susan develops her characters from young adults to mature, aged adults. The story follows6 girls during their stay at the Good Shepherd, an institution controlled by Sisters of Charity. The story shows the girls strength, maturity, and hope for their future.

A great read. I loved all of the characters and the dual timeline. The storyline felt very complete and rounded out.