The Secret Book of Flora Lea

A spell-binding, evocative tale weaving myths, mysteries, and the love of sisters is an homage to books. I learned of this novel from the Great Group Reads 2023 list from the Women's National Book Association. It's my first Patti Callahan Henry novel though certainly not my last.

I love books about books and I’m a sucker for a story within a story—this book delivered for me on both counts. Part of the narrative takes place in London in 1939 during World War II, and the other twenty years later in a rare bookshop. The magic of this novel lies in the power of fairy tales and the unbreakable bond between sisters.

The perfect pacing of Henry’s interlaced timelines pulled me steadily through the story from the opening page until its rewarding conclusion. I recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a historical read that will… show more.

This was a perfectly crafted story from page one.

I went in knowing absolutely nothing about this book, aside from the fact that I was hearing great things about it, and I couldn’t have been more delighted—truly delighted—with what I found.

I loved the dual timeline and the expert way the author navigated between them. I loved the mystery aspect, constantly wondering what would happen, and the satisfying twist. I loved the gorgeous, lyrical prose.

And I loved how complete the story was—every element of it, from the characters to the plot to the history, were so beautifully constructed. And… show more.

I deeply related to the themes of Patti Callahan Henry's gorgeous novel: familial love, loss, and hope against impossible odds. 

The story takes us to WWII when London children were sent to safer locales in the English countryside. Hazel Linden is forever guilt-ridden after her little sister disappears during her watch, last seen near the town's rushing river where she would make up tales about Whisperwood, the secret land that Hazel that hadad created to comfort Flora Lea.

Now, she has a clue that may lead her to uncover the mystery of her sister's disappearance and gives her hope… show more.

I love books about books—especially mysteries. While WWII raged in London, young Bridie distracts her little sister from war horrors by creating a game about a magical land with secrets only they share. But then the younger sister vanishes…. 

Two decades later, Birdie has given up hope of finding her sister when she discovers a book about the game she played with her sister. No one other than the two sisters knew the secrets the book reveals. Love and hope lead Bridie to clues in pages and illustrations; opening her heart, and solving the mystery with the magic of storytelling.… show more.