by Jean M. Auel
First published 2011
Ayla returns to the Zelandonii with Jondalar and their infant daughter Jonayla, but acceptance brings new complications. The tribe welcomes them, yet living among so many people creates challenges beyond simple survival. Ayla draws on her childhood experiences as an orphan to navigate these social complexities while moving toward leadership in the Zelandonia. She and Jondalar care for Jonayla and their animals Wolf, Whinney, Racer, and Gray. They join hunts, attend Summer Meetings, and participate in tribal life. Ayla continues inventing solutions for daily problems, from finding wild foods to improving travel methods, while developing her healing abilities. The Donier takes her to Sacred Caves filled with paintings of mammoths, lions, aurochs, and other animals. These mystical places overwhelm Ayla with their power. Her initiation preparations consume increasing time, driving Jondalar away from her. The dangerous rituals nearly kill her, but they grant her transformative knowledge that will reshape the world.
Genres: romance, historical-fiction, adventure, fantasy
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: chosen-one, found-family
Setting: Zelandonia, Sacred Caves
Period: Ice Age
828 pages · Hardcover · Random House Crown Publishers