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FROM AMAZON: Allie Kirkland has never been one to take wild risks. But when she's offered a costuming assistant's job on a docudrama in the hills near Moses Lake, she jumps at the chance. She's always dreamed of following in her director-father's footsteps, and the reenactment of the legendary frontier settlement of Wildwood is a first step. The family expectations will have to wait. But in 1861, the real Wildwood held dangerous realities. Town founder Harland Delevan held helpless residents, including young Irish schoolteacher Bonnie Rose, in an iron grip. Mysterious disappearances led to myths and legends still retold in the folk songs of Chinquapin Peaks. Eventually, the entire site was found abandoned. When strange connections surface between Allie and the teacher who disappeared over a century ago, everyone in Wildwood, including Allie's handsome neighbor on the film set, Blake Fulton, seems to be hiding secrets, and Allie doesn't know who she can trust. If she can't find the answers in time, history may repeat itself...with the most unthinkable results. ( )

Very interesting and rivating story line. You will bounce back from 1860's to present day, trying to discover what happened to Bonnie Rose. Really appreciated how the author ended this story. ( )

I don't think I liked this book as much as the other books by this author I have read. I think I would have liked to have more of the historical part of the story in it even though the modern day story was re-enacting the old part. I also wanted to know more of Bonnie Rose's backstory than she told. ( )

4.5 stars.

In Wildwood Creek, the fourth installment in the Moses Lake series, Lisa Wingate brilliantly blends the past and present into one fascinating story. A little different from her usual novels, it is none the less a captivating read with an intriguing mystery about long ago events and a sweet modern day romance.

Frontier life is fraught with danger as Bonnie Rose and her family quickly discover. Limited options force Bonnie Rose to accept a position as a school teacher and along with her sister, they begin the treacherous journey to Wildwood Creek. Bonnie is uneasy around the town's founder Harland Delevan and when residents begin disappearing, rumors begin to swirl that Bonnie is somehow responsible. In the aftermath of unspeakable horror, the fate of Bonnie, her sister Maggie May, two slaves and Wildwood Creek remain a mystery for well over a century.

Allie Kirkland's best friend Kim talks her into trying out for a role in an upcoming reality show based on a mysterious Texas town and its missing inhabitants. Meticulous research goes into recreating the 1861 town of Wildwood Creek and the actors completely immerse themselves in their roles, giving up all modern conveniences once filming begins. Allie begins as a production assistant and is soon cast in the role of Bonnie Rose, the young Irish immigrant with a tragic past who traveled to Wildwood Creek with her young sister to teach the town's children. Allie is fascinated by Bonnie's story and her efforts to uncover the truth about what happened to Bonnie lead to unexpected consequences.

Like many young adults, Allie is caught between following her dreams and living up to her family's expectations. Deciding to join the reality show is her first real act of independence and provides her the opportunity to pursue her career goals. Filming the show poses challenges she is not sure she is equipped for but remembrances of her Grandma Rita's sage wisdom guide her during the coming months. Equally helpful is charming but mysterious Blake Fulton. Blake is reluctant to reveal any personal information about himself but their close proximity leads to an easygoing friendship. With little to distract them, Blake and Allie spend quality time getting to know one another and their quiet moments together lead to deeper emotions.


The historical portion of the plot is richly detailed and rings with authenticity. Scrupulous attention is paid to speech patterns and I could literally hear the dialogue in my mind as I read the passages. The cultural differences between the German and Irish settlers figure heavily into the unfolding drama and adds another layer of interest to the overall storyline.

With a distinct and unique plot, Wildwood Creek vibrantly springs to life through its enthralling cast of incredible characters. Lisa Wingate beautifully incorporates a terrible time in America's history into a deeply moving and compelling story of faith and love that is truly unforgettable. ( )