The God of the Woods

The God of the Woods tells a haunting and gripping tale set within the dense, mysterious forests of the Pacific Northwest. The Van Laar family is no stranger to tragedy. Fifteen years ago, they were thrust into the public eye when their young son, Ethan, vanished without a trace in the very woods that bordered their home. Despite exhaustive search efforts that lasted days in the freezing temperatures, Ethan was never found, leaving the family and community with lingering questions and simmering suspicions.

Now, in a chilling echo of the past, the Van Laars' teenage daughter, Mia, has disappeared into the same wilderness. This new disappearance reignites the old rumours and suspicions, bringing secrets long buried to the surface. As the investigation unfolds, new revelations emerge that cast doubt on everything the family has ever known. Are the two disappearances connected, or are they merely tragic coincidences? And what eerie presence lurks within the woods, watching and waiting?

Liz Moore masterfully weaves a narrative that intertwines past and present, family and mystery, creating an immersive experience that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Her evocative prose and deeply developed characters make The God of the Woods an unforgettable read.

A New York Times Bestseller

Winner of Jimmy Fallon's Summer Reads Book Club

Selected for Barack Obama's Summer 2024 Reading List

‘I was totally gripped’ - Douglas Stuart

‘Immersive and enthralling’ - Paula Hawkins

“If you venture into those woods, you’re still sure of a big surprise” - The Times

The God of the Woods debuted at #3 on the New York Times bestseller list on 21 July 2024.

Critical acclaim for The God of the Woods includes:

‘Brilliantly plotted and perfectly paced … I can't remember the last time I felt so entangled in a novelist's coils.’ - Clare Chambers, author of Small Pleasures

‘A beguiling novel with a relentless grip. You won't be able to put it down.’ - Claire Fuller, author of Unsettled Ground

‘At once an immersive family saga and utterly propulsive mystery. Beautifully written.’ - Emilia Hart, author of Weyward

‘A masterful literary thriller.’ - Lucy Clarke, author of The Hike

‘Riveting from page one to the last breathless word … This book flew by at lightning speed, but will stick with me for a very long time.’ - Rebecca Makkai, author of I Have Some Questions For You

‘Dickensian in scope … Very entertaining.’ - Vogue, Best Picks for Summer 2024