Outlawed by Anna North, 261 pages
Ada's life in a small western town looks good in 1894: she's married to a young man, and her future is bright. But after a year without becoming pregnant, the superstitious residents of her hometown are ready to blame her barrenness on witchcraft. Facing possible hanging, Ada flees, first to a convent, and then to the Hole in the Wall Gang, a storied and ruthless group of outlaws led by the notorious Kid. Imagine her surprise when she discovers that the group is made up of other barren women and finds a home with them.
This is a short historical fiction novel, but one that is fully realized and three-dimensional. Ada's skills and concerns are relatable, and North sinks us into a world where women's issues are heightened and highlighted. It's an excellent book, well worth reading.
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