Andie’s Book Club: Heartwood by Amity Gaige

If your book club is looking for its next big thing, Heartwood is it. Author Amity Gaige masters character development. While reading this thriller, you’ll find yourself becoming friends with the characters. The story will take you on an emotional ride and keep your mind wondering where she is now and who is responsible? 

Heartwood introduces us to three women who are tied to a missing person in one way or another. What I love about Gaige’s story is how she weaves these women through the story. Each adds a unique perspective to the story and each keeps you on your toes. 

First, Heartwood follows Valerie, a 40-something woman who goes missing while solo-hiking the Appalachian Trail. While on her own, Valerie writes letters to her mother, which give you insight into everything she is experiencing. Valerie doesn’t just chronicle where she’s been or what she’s seen; these letters are honest and emotional. You can imagine someone who goes on a trip like this might be trying to find themselves or make peace with something. The letters reveal it all.  

Another main character is Bev, the game warden leading the search. Bev is strong, smart, and dealing with her own emotional baggage. Her character really gives the book a lot of its momentum.

And finally, there's the retired teacher Lena who basically becomes an armchair detective from her senior living community. Lena is an interesting addition to the story and her presence definitely keeps you guessing.

The cool part is how Gaige tells the story: journal entries, interviews, search logs, phone tip transcripts. It feels like you’re piecing the mystery together right alongside the characters.

Heartwood is a smart, emotional, beautifully written book that gives you plenty to talk about. If your book club likes stories with mystery, heart, and strong female characters, this one’s definitely worth the read.