The Secret Book of Flora Lea by Patti Callahan Henry

*** Review ***

The Secret Book of Flora Lea by Patti Callahan Henry is a mesmerizing historical mystery that weaves together the enchantment of storytelling, the bond between sisters, and the complexities of love. From the moment I picked up this book, I was transported into a world of magic, secrets, and heartache.

The story revolves around two sisters, Hazel and Flora, who are evacuated from war-torn London to a rural village during World War II. The vivid descriptions of their life in Bloomsbury, the onset of the war, and their subsequent move to the countryside created a captivating backdrop for this tale. The author’s attention to historical accuracy and meticulous research made the book feel true to life, immersing me in the era’s atmosphere.

Hazel’s journey is one of resilience, grief, and the promises we make to ourselves in times of struggle. As a fourteen-year-old, she carries the weight of responsibility for her younger sister, Flora, when they find themselves living with Bridie Aberdeen and her teenage son, Harry, in a charming stone cottage along the River Thames. Faced with the horrors of war, Hazel takes on the role of protector, filling their days with walks and games, including a fairy tale she invents exclusively for Flora—a magical, secret place they can escape to, named Whisperwood.

However, the unthinkable happens when young Flora suddenly vanishes while playing near the river, leaving Hazel shattered and blaming herself for her sister’s disappearance. This guilt becomes a private burden she carries into adulthood, affecting her relationships and career choices.

Twenty years later, Hazel is in London, ready to leave her job at a cozy rare bookstore to start a career at Sotheby’s. Her life seems stable, with a charming boyfriend and a beautifully timeworn Bloomsbury flat. However, everything changes for her when she receives a package and finds an illustrated book named “Whisperwood and the River of Stars” inside. The revelation hits her profoundly as she comes to the realization that she had never shared the imaginary realm she had created with Flora. This unexpected discovery raises questions: Could this book contain clues about Flora’s vanishing? Is it a possible indication that her cherished sister might still be alive after all these years?

Determined to unravel the truth, Hazel sets out on a passionate and relentless quest, fearlessly rekindling long-dormant relationships and confronting painful memories from her past. As she delves deeper into the mystery, the secrets she unearths not only provide insights into Flora’s fate but also force her to confront her own sense of self and past. The journey becomes a transformative exploration, where Hazel’s perceptions are challenged, and the lines between reality and the magical world of Whisperwood blur, leading her to unexpected revelations and profound self-discovery.

The characters in The Secret Book of Flora Lea are wonderfully layered and deeply relatable. Hazel, as the protagonist, is a complex and multifaceted character whose growth and transformation throughout the story are captivating. Her guilt and sorrow over her sister’s disappearance are palpable, and her determination to uncover the truth showcases her strength and resilience. Flora, despite her absence in much of the present-day storyline, is a presence that lingers throughout the narrative, leaving an indelible mark on both the plot and the reader’s heart. The supporting characters, such as Bridie and Harry, add depth and nuance to the story, each carrying their own burdens and secrets.

Furthermore, Patti Callahan Henry’s writing style is a delightful fusion of eloquence and emotional depth. From the very first page, her words pull you into the heart of the story, immersing you in the world of Hazel and Flora. Henry’s descriptive prose paints a vivid picture of war-torn London and the quaint countryside, evoking a sense of nostalgia and wistfulness. Her attention to detail, particularly in the portrayal of historical events, is impeccable, lending an air of authenticity to the narrative. The author’s ability to seamlessly weave magical elements into the story, while maintaining a firm grounding in reality, is a testament to her skill as a storyteller. The pacing is expertly crafted, effortlessly transitioning between past and present, allowing readers to uncover the mysteries and secrets alongside the characters. Henry’s writing evokes a rollercoaster of emotions, from heartache and sorrow to hope and resilience, making The Secret Book of Flora Lea an unforgettable reading experience.

The dual time periods, alternating between 1939-1940 and the 1960s, were skillfully distinguished, creating a multi-layered narrative that delves into the complexities of family bonds, love, and the enduring power of storytelling. As you would expect from an author who has written about literary luminaries such as C. S. Lewis and has a keen interest in Carroll and Tolkien, there is a fairy tale quality to the story that adds a touch of magic and wonder to the plot.

Throughout the book, Hazel’s emotional journey is palpable. The portrayal of her emotions and the weight of the burden she carries over her sister’s disappearance were powerful and moving. I found myself empathizing with her struggle to reconcile the past and the present, to forgive herself for something that was beyond her control.

The beauty of this book lies in the way Patti Callahan Henry takes a made-up, mystical world and seamlessly combines it with real-life historical events. The blending of reality and imagination creates a story that felt original and inventive, while also feeling informative and authentic to the time period. The author’s writing style was enchanting, drawing me into the heart of the story and evoking a strong emotional connection to the characters.

So often, dual storylines suffer an unevenness of interest, but not here. I loved these characters, so I was totally invested in how everything would come together. The story tackles never giving up while still trying to get on with life. It speaks of grief and the promises we make to God in feeble attempts to control fate.

The Secret Book of Flora Lea is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and its ability to connect generations. It is a tale of family, first love, and the indomitable strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Patti Callahan Henry’s masterful storytelling has once again captivated me, and I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a beautifully crafted historical mystery with a touch of magic and heart. Throughout its pages, the story comes alive, whispering the message that even in the darkest of times, the magic of storytelling can illuminate the path to truth and healing.