Calling all WWII historical fiction buffs! This book was unlike any other book I have read about WWII and the strength of women. Hazel and Flora are sent to the countryside to billet with a family as a way to stay safe from the likelihood of bombs hitting London. They are safe, but of course they are traumatized. Hazel, 14, through the use of storytelling, creates a "safe" place for Flora, 5. Tragically, Flora disappears and Hazel blames herself and her story. The story comes back to Flora from an unusual source. Will she find the answers to her questions about Flora's disappearance?

You will continue to turn the pages long after you said you would stop for the night.

From the luscious cover to the lovely narration of this magical story, The Secret Book of Flora Lea is a pure delight. Patti Callahan Henry has once again created an enchanting story. I loved this enchanting book and will read it over and over.

Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for this advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

Told in two time periods, The Secret Life of Flora Lea is a masterpiece. Hazel, age 14, creates a magical world called Whisperwood for her five-year-old sister, Flora, when they are evacuated from London to the countryside during the mass bombing by Germany. They live with Mrs.Aberdeen and her teenage son, Harry, near the River Thames. Hazel develops these stories to help her sister cope. No one else knows about Whisperwood. One day, Flora disappears. The town hunts everywhere for days. She is never found and assumed to have drowned. The second time period is 20 years later. Hazel has worked in a book store is leaving to work at Sothebys. Her life seems to be on track. On her last day, she opens a package from the U.S. that contains a book, Whisperwood and the River of Stars. Only Hazel and Flora know about Whisperwood.

I loved this book. Patti Callahan takes the reader on a beautiful journey to solve this mystery while alternating periods. I love that the epilogue takes us a couple of years after 1960 with an update. I loved following this journey and plan to read this book again in a few months. My thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. The opinions in this review are my own.

I knew Patti Callahan Henry would deliver with her new book, and I was right. A wonderful weaving of love and heartbreak of two sisters as they are sent to the English countryside during WWII in 1939. Fourteen old sister Hazel creates a magical fairy tale for her younger sister, Flora, age 5 to escape their circumstance. Supposedly only the two of them know this story. Twenty years later, Hazel discovers a new book which is similar to her fairy tale shared with Flora. This opens up a whole new realm of answers and questions about Flora. The book will enchant you. Highly recommend.

Hazel and her younger sister Flora are evacuated from London when World War II starts and are taken in by Bridie and her son Harry, who live along the Thames. As a means of comfort for Flora, Hazel comes up with the imaginary world of Whisperwood where two sisters go on fantastic adventures. Hazel never told anyone else about this world and after her sister goes missing near the river, she vows to never mention it again. Years later Hazel works at a rare bookstore and comes across a book that is somehow about the world she created, which sends her on a search to see if her sister might still be alive. Hazel goes through some major life decisions, while trying to find her sister, but she's determined to get closure one way or another. Told in dual timelines alternating between wartime and then decades later with Hazel's renewed search for Flora.

Oh, how I love, love, love, love, LOVED this book.

I have always enjoyed historical fiction with dual timelines, especially when there's a mystery involved, and The Secret Book of Flora Lea is no exception.

The pacing is perfect. Chapters alternately focus on Hazel in 1960 London, Hazel and Flora in 1939 Binsey, and a family in America in 1960. It was a "just one more chapter" read, for sure. The author kept the mystery going almost to the very end, but she also left plenty of time for a fulfilling conclusion.

Fairy tales play a large part in the book, but so do the horrors and tragedies of war. It's an emotional read (in the best way).

This was my first book by Patti Callahan Henry, and I can't wait to get my hands on more of her work!

True to Patti Callahan fashion, she weaves a tale that you can't help but get wrapped up in. I was intrigued from the first page all the way until the last. The story takes you on an emotional rollercoaster of a ride of a missing sister during World War II. This story takes on an almost whimsical feel while still dealing with heartbreak and some very tough issues.

See full review on The Atlanta Journal-Constitution website: https://www.ajc.com/things-to-do/secret-book-of-flora-lea-celebrates-the-power-of-myth-and-fairytales/RQZH2AMGZRCS7NBGRDEGDVCKZ4/

“The Secret Book of Flora Lea” by Patti Callahan Henry is an enchanting work of historical fiction about two sisters who are impacted by Operation Pied Piper — the British relocation of more than 3 million children from urban to rural housing during World War II. Using an inventive blend of myth, fairytale and literature, Henry spins a tender and heartening story about the lasting bonds of sisterly love and the lifetime impact of war trauma.

“Watch out for each other,” are the words Camellia Linden says to her daughters Hazel and Flora in 1939 as her girls board a train bound for an undisclosed location. The same words are still swirling around in Hazel’s head 21 years later while she’s cataloging a new acquisition at work at a rare bookshop. Unwrapping the parcel, Hazel’s breath “puddled in her chest” as she struggles to comprehend how the illustrated fairytale came to exist...

I absolutely loved this book. Such a beautiful story from beginning to end. I’m not sure I can put into words how much I loved it. A story of sisters, storytelling, historical fiction, love, and grief. Thank you to Net Galley & Atria books for an eARC of this book, this book is a treasure!!

The Secret Book of Flora Lea is Patti Callahan'Henry's new historical fiction novel and it's a great read. The story told in two time periods has a bit of mystery, a bit of romance, and a bit of history--something for everyone. I really enjoyed the story of the English resettlement of children during WWII and marvel at how the country came together to help their neighbors. The author has an entertaining way of telling a story and this was a fun and interesting read--perfect for those beach days.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy in exchange for an honest opinion. This Secret Book of Flora Lea is available now.

"Not very long ago and not very far away, there once was and still is an invisible place right here with us. And if you are born knowing, you will find your way through the woodlands to the shimmering doors that lead to the land made just and exactly for you" (eBook location 56). On an ordinary day in 1960, Hazel Linden is at her job at a rare book shop when she opens a portfolio. The portfolio is from a picture book with beautiful illustrations. And it is also a story Hazel told her younger sister, Flora, years ago, before Flora disappeared mysteriously in 1940. The girls had been billeted to the English countryside via Operation Pied Piper, which relocated children from London to a safer location during World War II. All her life, Hazel has blamed herself for Flora's disappearance. However, this mysterious picture book makes her wonder if Flora is still alive.

I wanted to read this novel because I love Patti Callahan Henry's books. Her novel Becoming Mrs. Lewis is one of my all time favorites. (If you haven't read it, you need to!) I also love historical fiction set during World War II, and the mention of fairytales and children's books intrigued me.

This is such a beautiful and complex story, with more possibilities - and more characters from 1940 and 1960 - introduced as Hazel's search for Flora progresses. She remembers their days in the countryside with Bridie, who took care of the girls, and Harry, her first love. She meets a mysterious young woman from America who wrote the picture book she found.

The language in this book is beautiful, with descriptions like:

" . . . space to run; the rippling of the sky that touched a horizon of trees unobscured by a cathedral or tall building. It was as if by taking a simple train ride the world had unfolded, presenting itself in long stretches of rolling hills and heather fields. Look, it said to Hazel, there is so much more than you ever knew. The feeling of little minnows swimming in her stomach— a thrill that this world would change her forever" (eBook location 1619).

I love the world of this novel that focuses on books and storytelling and fairytales, on imagination and memory. This is an extraordinarily moving story. I really cared about Hazel and her search for her beloved sister, missing so many years.

I highly recommend The Secret Book of Flora Lea for fans of historical fiction, lovers of books, fairy tales, the 1940's. It is one of my favorite reads this year, the type of book that transports you so much that you need a little space before starting a new read.

THE SECRET BOOK OF FLORA LEA by best-selling author Patti Callahan Henry is a blend of historical fiction and the make-believe world of Whisperwood. Just prior to the Blitz, two sisters, 14 year-old Hazel and 5 year-old Flora, are evacuated to the English countryside where they find a home with Bridie Aberdeen and her son Harry. As a source of solace, they secretly share stories about animals and other inhabitants of an imaginary land and its river of stars. Despite their close bond, Flora goes missing and Hazel spends the next twenty years trying to heal and to deal with the grief and guilt. A seemingly random catalyst for change occurs when an adult Hazel find the sisters' secret stories in print – how did the American author come to know so many private details? Hoping that she has found Flora alive, Hazel begins to make inquiries, some of which threaten her employment and future marriage. Chapters are often alternating between events of 1939/40 and 1960, allowing readers to experience those slices of British life as well the actions that impact the sisters. The writing is quite engaging and the characters are very likeable. Despite some repetition when the author keeps stressing how critical the Whisperwood stories were, the ending is a surprise.

Enjoy works by Fiona Davis, Jamie Ford, and Christina Baker Kline? They are amongst the many who praised THE SECRET BOOK OF FLORA LEA; this title also was chosen as a LibraryReads selection for May 2023.

This was a very slow burn for me. It took up to 40% for me to be sure I wasn't going to put it down, and then again by 75% I wish I had. It just didn't feel like much was happening at first, and then the characters felt very flat and stilted, the dialogue cheesy. Things fit into place in a way that didn't feel believable, and neither did the characters' quick processing of the events. Not for me.

This book speaks to the nurturing power of storytelling and the solace that reading can provide for children and adults alike.

A dual-timeline narrative that follows Hazel Linden throughout her life. First in 1939 when she and her younger sister Flora were evacuated from London prior to The Blitz as part of Operation Pied Piper. Hazel, who was fourteen to Flora's five made up a magical story to calm her little sister's fears. It was a story about a magical forest which was entered via a shimmering door - A place called 'Whisperwood', where they could be anything they wanted to be, and have many adventures. Hazel found some happiness during that time when she discovered her first love. She also found her greatest sorrow, for Flora vanished, believed to have drowned in the river.

In 1960 when we meet the grown Hazel. She works in a rare bookstore, and unpacks a manuscript from an American author. She is astounded to realize that the book is about 'Whisperwood' - her story, hers and Flora's. How is it possible that this American knows her story? One impulsive decision sends Hazel's life on a new trajectory. Could Flora possibly still be alive? She is obsessed with finding out the mystery of the Whisperwood book's origin.

This book was heart-warming, heart-wrenching, and uplifting all at the same time. The Oxfordshire setting of the WWII storyline was an idyllic escape, and a marked contrast to the horrors of war in London. The characters were well fleshed out and people you'd like to get to know in person. Many themes run throughout the novel: the tragic and traumatizing effects of war, personal loss, familial bonds, first love, survivor's guilt, hope, and of course, the magic of storytelling.

I highly recommend this lovely novel to all who enjoy historical fiction, nurturing stories, and those who appreciate a touch of magic in the everyday - and relish the 'consolation of a happy ending.'

Patti Callahan Henry is a wonderful author and this is her best book yet. Her latest release and it's pure magic. Historical, magical, enchanting, filled with so many emotions.

"Not very long ago and not very far away, there once was and still is an invisible place right here with us. And if you are born knowing, and to be honest we all are, you will find your way through the woodlands to the shimmering doors that lead to the land made just and exactly for you."
This is the opening of this story. A story of a lost little girl. A lost family.

Hazel and Flora Lea are sent to safety during the war in operation Pied Piper. Much to their mother's sadness they are sent to stay with strangers. They are a couple of the lucky ones it seems as they get taken in by a wonderful woman and her son. From there their lives will never be the same. None of them. Both families are quite taken with each other and well loved by each other. Dot and her son Henry love having the girls with them but the circumstances are sad. They grow to love living with such wonderful people and have a great life. Until everything changes. Everything breaks. Flora Lea goes missing and Hazel blames herself. Henry blames himself and even Dot feels the guilt. Hazel can't seem to get over the loss of her little sister.

Hazel had always told Flora stories of a very magical and enchanting place called Whisperwood. It was their secret place where anything can happen. Where all the beautiful magic happens and they can be anything they want. They don't share this with anyone. It's their own special secret. Hazel always told Flora that if she told she would not be able to come back to her. Tragically Flora Lea goes missing and is presumed drowned. Hazel blames herself and turns her back on Henry and his mother. She has to blame someone and since it's Henry she loves she blames that love.

Twenty years later while working in a bookstore Hazel comes in contact with a book. A book with a very familiar title. Whisperwood and the River of Stars. How can this be? That is her story told to Flora Lea all those years ago. But this is written by an American author. Now Hazel is on a quest to find out how this author knows about this story. About the magic that was only meant for her and Flora. What she finds is a lot of truths. Truths about herself and the ones she loves. The ones she's lost also. Will her life ever be the same again and if things are as she suspects will she finally be able to let go and accept true love?

This book will take you on the trip of a lifetime. You'll get to know the most wonderful characters. The most awesome places. The beauty of landscape and the beauty of true love. The sadness of lost love and of a loss so deep things may never be right again. From one country to another then back again you will experience a journey that makes you weep and laugh. Lights up your heart and breaks it in one paragraph. It's just a beautiful story told as only an experienced author can tell.

Thank you #NetGalley, #PattiCallahanHenry, #Atria for this ARC. This is my own true thoughts about this book.

Five hugs stars and it would be many more if possible. I highly recommend this book and have lots of tissues as you will need them. Even the happy make you cry.

Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy.

OH MY GOSH, I loved this book!!! Historical mysteries are my jam, and this one might be the author's best work yet.

It's WW2 and children in London are being sent to the country for safety reasons. Flora Lee and her older sister Hazel are sent to live with Bridie and her son Harry. They are lucky to be with such a sweet family, as many children are sent to live with some sketchy people. Hazel and Harry have some chemistry, and they leave Flora sleeping by the river to go sneak some kisses in the woods. Only when they come back, Flora has disappeared.

Years later, Hazel is working in a book store when she opens a package to find a book - and not just any book, it's the story she used to make up for Flora to calm her when they were kids. Nobody else knew of this story, and of Whisperwood, the fictional land Hazel made up - but here it is, written in a book by some woman in America.

Hazel embarks on a quest to find out who else might have known about her story, and who the author is and how she learned of Whisperwood. The dual timeline tells of this quest, and of Hazel and Flora's time in the country up to Flora's disappearance.

5 stars for this one - I couldn't put it down, and I just loved everything about it. It's very well written and the pieces fall together perfectly (although maybe a little stretch of the imagination is needed).

Young Flora and her teen sister Hazel were evacuated in 1939 from the bombing and danger in wartime London to the English countryside, where they lived with a rural family.

They spent their days walking by the river, and to keep Flora entertained and distracted, Hazel made up elaborate stories about a magical, secret world alongside the water.

Then tragedy struck: Flora went missing and was presumed to be dead.

Twenty years later, Hazel is working in a bookshop when she unwraps a package and can't believe her eyes. The book inside is about the made-up world she shared with Flora--but Hazel had never told another soul about the tales or the name of the secret, pretend place, Whisperwood.

Someone out there knows about the stories and the imaginary world she shared with her sister. Could this mean that Flora is somehow still alive?

Hazel begins to dig into the past, including her own young love (fractured by the tragedy of Flora's disappearance), anyone who might have been connected to Flora's disappearance, and the mysterious book about Whisperwood.

She questions her current romantic relationship, her planned job change, and what her future might look like, while renewing her hope that against all odds she might find Flora alive and unharmed somewhere out in the world.

I looooved the premise of The Secret Book of Flora Lea, and a World War II-set historical fiction tale is usually a slam dunk for me.

The book involved some style choices that distracted me from the story--for example, dramatic shrieks of "No!" in conversations, which felt unlikely and jarring; a twist that's hinted at repeatedly and that I therefore anticipated early on; and repeated theatrical-seeming dialogue and expositions that didn't ring true for me.

Henry based the evacuation element of her story upon the real-life Operation Pied Piper, which swiftly relocated a staggering one and a half million children from London to the countryside and around the world during World War II.

I received a prepublication edition of this book courtesy of NetGalley and Atria Books.

I wonder if I’ll be in the minority but while I enjoyed reading The Secret Book of Flora Lea, it did not live up to my expectations. Not only have I seen a lot of hype about this upcoming novel but I’ve given three of this author’s previous novels 5 out of 5 stars (Wardrobe, Savannah, Mrs. Lewis). I didn’t love the characters in this story either because they didn’t feel realistic, they changed unexplainably, or were just off. I was excited that the second timeline was in the early 1960’s but I didn’t feel as immersed in that time as I would have hoped. The ending was okay and generally how I thought it would end but the specific reveal didn’t have any previous breadcrumbs that would make me think “oh, of course, now I see”. The premise is engaging and the backdrop of rare books is nice. The reading experience for this one was just okay for me though because of the other books I’ve loved I’ll keep this author on my watch list. Thanks to NetGalley and Atria books for an early copy to read and review. This book released last week so is available now.

I tore through this book in about two days, reminded of how it felt to read early Kate Morton novels. Fans of those secret-laden English country house books will find a lot to love here - lush descriptions of the English countryside in WWII and swinging 1960s London made me feel immersed in other times and places. There's a wonderful love of storytelling and fairy tales permeating this novel that helped me skim over some repetitive scenes and an unlikely plot twist. But honestly you don't turn to books like these for reality - you come to them to get lost. Flora Lee more than fulfills that promise.

Takes you to a magical land of Whisperwood. This dual timeline is tells a unique story.

Hazel and Flora are incredible close even at the ages of fourteen and five. Flora disappears one day by the river. She has been assumed it have drown.

London. After their fathers killed their mum makes a difficult decision. I had never heard of the “Operation Pied Piper.” As bombings are happening parents decide to send their children away for their safety. Some children were sent to the countryside while others were sent abroad.

Flora and Hazel were able to stay together and live with Birdie and her son.

Fast forward twenty years later. The other storyline Hazel works at a rare bookstore. She discovers a book and it contains stories she told her sister Flora to comfort her. How could someone other than Flora or Hazel know these stories? Where is her sister? What is the connection to Flora?