Book Review: The Secret Book of Flora Lea by Patti Callahan Henry

“Telling stories is one of the greatest powers we possess. It’s like a dream you can fill with what you want. And the knight doesn’t always have to save the princess; sometimes she saves herself.”

Hazel nodded, her heart lifting for whatever Bridie was to say, for she knew it was important.

“The best stories are soul-making. But stories we tell about ourselves, and even the harrowing ones told by others about us, can also be soul-destroying. We have to choose what is good and true, not what will destroy.”

Patti Callahan Henry, The Secret Book of Flora Lea

Review:

I blindly picked up this book only knowing it was historical fiction. I’d read Once Upon A Wardrobe by Patti Callahan Henry a while back and enjoyed it, so when this came up as a Book of the Month pick last year, I selected it without even glancing at the synopsis. 

Like many children living in London during World War II, Hazel and Flora are sent to the country away. The girls spend their days lost in stories about the ‘Whisperwood’ to distract themselves from the horrors of war — a secret story only the two of them know. Despite having been taken in by a loving mother and her son, a different tragedy hits their family when Flora disappears. 

Years later and into adulthood, Hazel still holds out hope that her little sister will be found. She doesn’t believe her sister drowned as many speculate. When she comes across a book at work depicting the ‘Whisperwood’, she is certain it will lead her to Flora. 

Paired with the rich historical setting, the mystery is one I found myself so invested in that I listened to/read it in one sitting. Despite wanting to know how everything works out immediately, I didn’t find myself wholly invested in the characters. I’m not sure why. They were all likable and even though there were some dark themes running through it, there was ultimately a cozy atmosphere. Whatever the case, it was still a sweet book. 

Likes & Dislikes:

What I liked:

• Great atmosphere.
• Really sweet characters.
• The fantastical element of the Whisperwood story.

What I didn’t like:

• I felt like there were some plot holes/plots that never got resolved.
• The antagonist, but that’s all I can say without spoilers.

Afterthoughts:

I had hoped to be more into the story, but it was the perfect one-sitting read/listen.

Where to buy the book: