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The Secret Book of Flora Lea
When a woman discovers a rare book with connections to her past, long-held secrets about her missing sister and their childhood in the English countryside during World War II are revealed in this “beguiling blend of hope, mystery, and true familial love” (Sadeqa Johnson, New York Times bestselling author).
In the war-torn London of 1939, fourteen-year-old Hazel and five-year-old Flora are evacuated to a rural village to escape the horrors of the Second World War. Living with the kind Bridie Aberdeen and her teenage son, Harry, in a charming stone cottage along the River Thames, Hazel fills their days with walks and games to distract her young sister, including one that she creates for her sister and her sister alone—a fairy tale about a magical land, a secret place they can escape to that is all their own.
But the unthinkable happens when young Flora suddenly vanishes while playing near the banks of the river. Shattered, Hazel blames herself for her sister’s disappearance, and she carries that guilt into adulthood as a private burden she feels she deserves.
Twenty years later, Hazel is in London, ready to move on from her job at a cozy rare bookstore to a career at Sotheby’s. With a charming boyfriend and her elegantly timeworn Bloomsbury flat, Hazel’s future seems determined. But her tidy life is turned upside down when she unwraps a package containing an illustrated book called Whisperwood and the River of Stars. Hazel never told a soul about the imaginary world she created just for Flora. Could this book hold the secrets to Flora’s disappearance? Could it be a sign that her beloved sister is still alive after all these years?
As Hazel embarks on a feverish quest, revisiting long-dormant relationships and bravely opening wounds from her past, her career and future hang in the balance. Spellbinding and atmospheric, “this heartrending, captivating tale of family, first love, and fate will sweep you away” (Kristin Harmel, New York Times bestselling author).
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Reviews
Although I thought this a little slow at the start, this story didn’t disappoint. It is a fluid and realistic tale. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
By kappybright
Great spell binding 😍
By shrimpfock
I couldn’t put this book down! It was poetic, suspenseful, heart breaking, and filled with so much hope. I’m tempted to start again from the beginning.
By semronia
A beautifully told story of family and loss and healing. A mystery that resolves so well. One of the most charming stories I have read in a while.
By RedMook
I found this book slow at the beginning and almost put it down. I am glad I didn’t! The story is fascinating and heartbreaking and could have happened in the chaos of World War II. I loved the fairy tale and wanted to hear more. It also speaks to several types of trauma to which I can relate. Thank you Patti for a great book.
By Tlbleyer