Thank you NetGalley. 4.5⭐️ rounded up. Loosely based on the life of Vivie Babb. A riveting story of Vivie Degirdro. As a 12 year old, Vivie, her mother, father and younger sister Mae escape Hungary during the deadly Hungarian Revolution of 1956 but she is forced to leave her beloved cat, Norse, behind. Walking long distances in fear for their lives, they meet several people willing to help them. Vivie absorbs their words of wisdom but also tragic events were not only on display but also directed at her family. Toward the end of their long journey, the family is forced to separate and Vivie is to be cared for the wealthy Oliver McNabb and his wife. The story continues following Vivie and her love of learning and devotion to feral and abandoned cats. I read this quickly and would highly recommend!

Vivie’s Secret is a story about a 12-year old girl, Vivie, and her family, who flee Hungary during the Soviet Invasion in 1956. It begins as the family escapes their home in Budapest, and it follows their journey, as seen through the eyes of the young girl. Once in America, her memories of her beloved cat she left in Hungary and her difficult journey as a refugee are mirrored in her fascination and empathy for the many feral cats she encounters throughout her life. The story flows well, it is a story line that is unusual and not heard of or common but does pay off. I would recommend and suggest to others to read!