Shea Ernshaw's A History of Wild Places captivates with its atmospheric prose and intricate plot, blending mystery with subtle supernatural elements. While praised for its immersive setting and emotional depth, some critics find the narrative's pace uneven and the resolution lacking. A compelling read for fans of dark, character-driven stories.

A reader who would enjoy A History of Wild Places by Shea Ernshaw likely favors atmospheric, mysterious narratives with elements of magical realism. Fans of The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern and The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner might find this book captivating due to its blend of suspense and wonder.

In Shea Ernshaw’s adult debut, A History of Wild Places, Travis Wren, who can see memories through objects, searches for missing author Maggie St. James in an isolated commune called Pastoral. The narrative unfolds with surprising twists involving Travis, Maggie, and the community, revealing hidden identities and a sinister truth about the commune’s leader. This book addresses death by suicide.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Dark / Unnerving / Contemplative

**Travis Wren**  
Travis Wren is an isolated individual with a unique ability to see other people’s memories in objects or places. He is hired by families to locate missing persons and struggles with low self-worth and grief over his sister's death.

**Maggie St. James**  
Maggie St. James is an author known for her children's books, which have controversial impacts, leading her to a secluded community in search of her origins. Her journey is intertwined with feelings of guilt and discovery.

**Bee**  
Bee is a resident of a secluded community, known for her heightened sensory perceptions despite being blind. She navigates the complexities of her relationships within the community and the outside world.

**Levi**  
Levi is the charismatic leader of a secluded community, initially perceived as burdened by leadership but later revealed to have manipulative tendencies. His control over the community is part of his complex character dynamics.

Shea Ernshaw

Adult

Novel

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A History Of Wild Places Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Barn”

Part 1 A History Of Wild Places Part 1  Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Farmhouse”

Part 2 A History Of Wild Places Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Gathering”

Part 3 A History Of Wild Places Part 3  Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The Road”

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Part 5: “Outsiders”

Part 5 A History Of Wild Places Part 5 Summary & Analysis

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A History Of Wild Places Character Analysis

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A History Of Wild Places

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