Suzanne Redfearn can do next to no wrong in my eyes, and the beautifully brutal tale of Where Butterflies Wander is another example of the brilliance she encompasses!

This book is a tale of adversity, ripe with diversity that pleases my soul.

So much growth from so many characters!

Just another gloriously heart wrenching story from Redfearn! Highly recommend!!

I loved this novel! All of Ms. Redfearn’s novels really make me think— about the human condition, about our choices, about priorities and responsibilities and about life. This one is no exception and I found myself rooting on all sides of the story. Family and relationships are at the center of this story and you can’t help but fall in love with the character of Davina.. Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union publishing for providing me with an ARC.

"Where the Butterflies Wander" by Suzanne Refern is a poignant and beautifully written novel that explores themes of loss, love, and the healing power of nature. The story follows protagonist Emma as she navigates the aftermath of a tragic event that changes her life forever. Through her journey of self-discovery and healing, Emma finds solace in the beauty of the natural world and the fluttering butterflies that symbolize hope and transformation.

Refern's lyrical prose and vivid descriptions bring the setting to life, immersing readers in the emotional depth of the story. The characters are well-developed and relatable, making their struggles and triumphs resonate with authenticity. Overall, "Where the Butterflies Wander" is a moving and uplifting read that reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of finding beauty in the midst of pain.

Having heard great things about this author, I dove into this book enthusiastically a few months ago. I was drawn into the story of a family that has recently suffered the tremendous loss of a child. Initially, it is set up as if grief is going to be a central theme, so I was intrigued by the author's choice to tell the story through the perspectives of the remaining 5 family members. I was curious to see how each character was going to work through it. About thirty pages in, we are introduced to another character's perspective (not a family member). Focus shifts, plot shifts, and the theme of grief gets buried and becomes a side note. I kept reading, trusting it would all come together again as the characters developed, but I found I was struggling to connect with the characters. The ending felt like it left a lot of issues unresolved.

In retrospect, the thing that initially drew me in (the multiple perspectives) became an obstruction to the story. It ended up feeling too choppy and all over the place. The characters were underdeveloped, and their voices all sounded the same... even the children read like adults. In my opinion, this story would've been better told through the perspectives of only the two women, or through the sole point of view of the son, being that he was the most interesting character. Having said all of that, it wasn't a terrible book; I think it just wasn't what I expected.

Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for allowing me early access to the ARC audiobook/ebook edition of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Another good holiday read from Suzanne Redfearn; the ultimate horror for any loving paeren, losing a child, begins a tale of finding a way forward for her other children and husband. All the elements of a story like this, the estate in the New Hampshires, the battle with the river witch, and a satisfying ending.

I enjoyed this book by Suzanne Redfearn, who is an author I have enjoyed previously.

Although I was not as engaged in this story and it's conclusion as I have been of past novels of Ms. Redfearn, it was still an enjoyable read that I would recommend to others.

Thank you @NetGalley and @LakeUnionPublishing for allowing me to read and provide an honest review.

Will a family that’s so broken ever be able to heal!

Six weeks ago, the Egide family – Leo, Marie, and their three children, Hannah (15), Brendon (12), and Penelope ‘Pen’ (8) – suffered a loss so great that they can no longer live in the house where it happened. So, they’re spending the summer in a small town in New Hampshire, at the large estate Marie inherited from her grandfather twenty years ago, which has sat vacant ever since. The plan is to get it ready to sell, but living in a cabin in the woods on the property is a woman named Davina (who’s own life has been marred by tragedy). Davina had a verbal agreement with Marie’s grandfather that she could live at the cabin as long as she needed, and she has no intention of leaving. Battle lines are drawn – a feud that will divide the Egide family, divide the community.

‘It’s easy to cast stones when you’re not the one being asked to make the sacrifice.’

Where Butterflies Wander was a novel about a family in crisis – Marie’s grief, bitterness, jealousy, resentment and anger was often so strong that it hindered her children’s healing journey. Even though I had a huge amount of sympathy and empathy for what Marie was going through, her selfishness and entitlement meant I liked her character the least, so it was a relief that I only had to spend every sixth chapter in her head. Every family member, plus Davina narrated. Davina, Hannah, and Pen were my favourites. The novel was beautifully written, and the multiple POV’s and short chapters meant this was a quick, steady-paced read. The story reminded me a lot of something Jodi Picoult might write. And while it wasn’t as impacting or shocking as Suzanne Redfearn’s, In An Instant, it was still a powerful and emotional read focusing on trauma, recovery, and forgiveness. I’m glad I read it!

I’d like to thank Netgalley, Lake Union Publishing, and Suzanne Redfearn for the e-ARC.

4.5/5

The Egide family is desperate for some new scenery after one of their own tragically dies in an accident.
Mother Marie is ready to move on- leave their old lives, home and memories behind and start new. But first they have to fix up and sell an old family
Home.

The family spends the summer in New Hampshire at her families old estate, planning to fix it up and sell it so they can move to a new fresh life without the reminders of their loved one Bee. But the estate has some surprises for Marie and her family that throw a hitch into their plans and into their hearts. A river witch named Davina who lives on their property and ultimately divides the Egide family in half. Those on Davinas side and those on Marie’s.

Tragedy after tragedy, can they all come together? And if so, what is strong enough to do so?

I absolutely loved this story. From the picturesque setting to the multiple POVs, you get a real feel for the town and the place ripple who reside there. I loved Pen and Hannah- two easy to love girls with bigger than life hearts. Leo and Rock, two men at different stages in life but both torn between loyalty, love and what they think is right. And Brendon and Marie, how are arguably the hardest to have empathy towards in the beginning- but who show the most growth.

This is a beautiful story of growth, circumstance, loss and forgiveness.

I really enjoyed this one! This is an author I will always pick up from now on. I love her storytelling and always connect with one or more of her characters in some way.

Found it a hearty, lovely storyline. Enjoyed reading the different angles of each characters and their way of thinking. Different prepectives on the same situations.

This book was a heartfelt journey through grief and redemption. It is a poignant and moving tale of loss, love, and unexpected connections.
Many thanks to Lake Union Publishing and to Netgalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this eARC.

"Where Butterflies Wander" by Suzanne Redfearn is a poignant exploration of grief and the resilience of the human spirit. Redfearn, known for her emotionally charged narratives, delivers yet another compelling tale that tugs at the heartstrings.

Set against the backdrop of a family estate in New Hampshire, the story follows Marie Egide as she grapples with the tragic loss of one of her children. Determined to forge a new path for her grieving family, Marie's resolve is tested when she encounters Davina, a war veteran known as "the river witch," who claims a piece of the family property as her own.

Redfearn masterfully weaves a tapestry of complex characters, each dealing with their own pain and guilt. The narrative delves deep into the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and what it truly means to start anew. The clash between Marie and Davina serves as a catalyst for the unfolding drama, drawing battle lines not just within the family, but also among the townspeople.

The novel's strength lies in its ability to portray the multifaceted nature of grief and the different ways individuals cope with it. Redfearn's characters are richly developed, their struggles and internal conflicts rendered with a realism that resonates with the reader. The tension escalates to a fever pitch, culminating in a series of events that force the characters to confront their deepest fears and desires.

"Where Butterflies Wander" is not just a story about loss; it's a testament to the enduring power of love and the hope that emerges from the darkest of times. Redfearn's narrative is both heart-wrenching and uplifting, a reminder that even in the face of insurmountable odds, there is always a chance for transformation and growth.

In conclusion, Suzanne Redfearn's latest novel is a must-read for those who appreciate literary fiction that not only entertains but also provokes thought and stirs the soul. It's a beautifully crafted reminder that, much like the butterflies that symbolize change and rebirth, we too have the capacity to emerge from our cocoons and soar into a new chapter of life.

This story is all the feels! So much sadness. Each person must find a way through loss or tragedy. Marie has lost a child and the children a sister. The dad tries to uphold the family by being there for everyone. And Davina has her own grieving to work through. Losing her daughter to a runaway husband the father of her child! Plus Davina has been gravely injured while on active duty and has had to carve out a life and she now thinks her daughter is better off with out her. I cried and laughed and more than once found myself frustrated with how someone was behaving! Read this beautiful story!

This has such a good solid start. Parts of it made me angry and anxious and I guess that's a good thing it evoke emotions in me. I did like the ending even though it was unexpected.

I enjoyed this book but it wasn’t for me as much as I wanted it to be, beautifully written, a moving and heartfelt story and an eye catching cover. I loved the characters and back story I just couldn’t click with some of them which to my great disappointment was itching away at the back of my mind needing that extra detail but that is by no means the situation to all the characters.

Great-full for the opportunity to read this book and will definitely be trying another by this author

DNF at 40%. This is my first DNF of 2024. I really wanted to love this book because it has such high ratings, but I just couldn't get into the book, the pace felt really slow for me. The characters felt a little over done for me, therefore I will be DNF'ING Where Butterflies Wander.

THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND LAKE UNION PUBLISHING FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!!!

A captivating exploration of grief, secrets, and the journey toward healing, this novel delves into the lives of the Egide family as they grapple with the loss of a child. During a short stay at a family home, the mother Marie inherited that they are planning to fix up to sell, they encounter Davina, a mysterious figure dubbed 'The River Witch,' residing in a cabin on the property. Davina is an injured war veteran harboring her own secrets, and the daughters in the family take to her pretty quickly. Tensions in the entire town arise as the family seeks to sell the property, necessitating Davina find a new home. What follows is a poignant tale of conflicting loyalties, unintended consequences, and the complexities of human connection.

Told through alternating perspectives of the main characters in succinct chapters, the narrative effectively captures the emotional depth of each individual's experience with grief, without descending into despair. The nuanced exploration of how loss impacts every member of the family adds layers of intrigue to the story, keeping readers engaged from start to finish.

Many thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the ARC. Suzanne Redfearn writes books that hit you in the heart and make you think and this one is no different! Tragedy hits a family of 6, and they move to a family home for the summer to try and recover. While there, the family encounters a local woman living on their property and the intersection of the stories, memories, and the "why" is what makes you think how our actions and reactions affect not just ourselves. This was a great story.

Many thanks for the complimentary ARC kindly provided by NetGalley and the author/publisher.

At its core, Where Butterflies Wander touches on the idea of how one seemingly small things has a ripple effect. One second of inattention or misinterpretation of a situation can have a far greater impact. It also captures quite accurately that not often revealed NH small town feeling about outsiders.

Suzanne Redfearn has crafted an intricate story partly inspired by the 2021 ‘River Dave’ story in NH. Her hermit character, Davina is a wonderful choice that serves to make the story endearing. The mother of family that comes to town, Marie, is the “Ugly American” storming in and creating havoc in her wake. Whether intentional or not, the daughters Hannah and Pen fall in love with everything about the town, and interestingly that often happens with families that visit/vacation in northern NH - the children return as adults because of the fond memories from their childhood.

Bookgroups will love this book that includes discussion questions. There much to examine in the story. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.

After a tragic accident claims the life of one of her children, Marie Egide is desperate to carve out a fresh start for her family. With her husband and their three surviving children, Marie travels to New Hampshire, where she plans to sell a family estate and then, just maybe, they’ll be able to heal from their grief.

Marie’s plans are thwarted when she realizes a war veteran known by locals as “the river witch” is living in a cabin on the property, which she claims was a gift from Marie’s grandfather. If Davina refuses to move on, Marie won’t be able to either.

The two women clash, and battle lines are drawn within Marie’s family and the town as each side fights for what they believe is right, the tension rising until it reaches its breaking point. And the choice is no longer theirs when a force bigger than them all—fate—takes control.