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The Book of Lost FriendsLisa Wingate

Historical fiction

The Book of Lost Friends

by Lisa Wingate

In 1875 Louisiana, freedwoman Hannie Gossett reluctantly travels with plantation heiress Lavinia and her Creole half sister Juneau Jane to recover a stolen inheritance and search for families separated by slavery. Their dangerous journey draws on the real Lost Friends advertisements through which formerly enslaved people sought relatives sold away before emancipation. In 1987, teacher Benny Silva uncovers their story while trying to engage students in the history buried beneath their impoverished town. Sweeping and dual-timeline, this novel suits readers who enjoy Reconstruction history, archival discoveries, determined women, family searches, and stories that restore voices omitted from official accounts.

Paired for this story

Ginger Honey Tea + Chapterhouse Amber Ale

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At a glance

Know what you're getting into

Spice1 of 5
Suspense4 of 5
Creepy2 of 5
What do these symbols mean? →

No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Slavery and racism; rape/sexual assault references; murder and death; child, physical and emotional abuse; confinement; torture; racial slurs; misogyny; pregnancy; fire/injury; grief and family separation.

Alcohol-Free Pour

Ginger Honey Tea

Fresh ginger and lemon give honeyed tea a warming little lift.

How to mix it

  1. Steep the tea and any herbs or whole spices in hot water according to the tea type, then strain. Stir in sweetener and juices. Serve hot.
  2. Garnish: Citrus peel, herb, or fruit from the recipe, if applicable.
  3. Glassware: Mug.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Chapterhouse Amber Ale

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

A mellow, malty pour suits an unhurried afternoon between the pages.

What you'll need

  • 12 oz Amber ale

How to mix it

  1. Pour into a clean pint glass and serve at the appropriate cool serving temperature.
  2. Garnish: None.
  3. Glassware: Pint glass.

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