The Girl from the Hidden Forest by author Hannah Linder is a Christian historical fiction. I was first mesmerized by the haunting cover. It is a captivating novel that had me invested from the very start.

This is the story of Eliza. She has lived in the hidden forest for many years. Suddenly she meets Felton Northwood, a headstrong young man on a quest. Their lives contain a deep mystery. Eliza is a sweet young woman. She loves her faithful dog, Merrylad, and her forest. Felton is not afraid of danger or taking a risk. He is a strong, faithful hero.

I enjoyed the author’s style of writing very much. The mystery was brilliant. A multitude of twists and turns were placed throughout the book. The romance was magnetic. Lessons were included on fear, strength, hope, faith, goodness, and the power of prayer through the characters’ actions.

The author has done a remarkable job spinning this tale, which is reminiscent of a fairytale of sorts. Characters were expertly designed. It was easy to become engaged with them. They made me laugh and cry. My emotions were all over the realm reading this story. Villains were downright dastardly. Others were lovely and like old friends. The descriptions whisked me away to a time and place far away.

I highly recommend this book to romantic historical fiction lovers and mystery lovers. It is amazing. I had trouble putting it down. This is definitely a must-read! It receives a 5 out of 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.

This historical novel contains a castle along with a stolen-away girl who takes on the role a princess would in a fairy tale. We first meet Eliza hidden away in a remote forest, but her life soon changes dramatically as it did beyond the years she can remember. Who is her real father? Who killed her mother? Why is her life in great danger? Suspense lurks around her as thick as fog. And nightmares continue to plague her. Do they hold a clue to her past? The intriguing story captures the reader’s imagination along with the plot threads that entangle you more the further you read. Some surprises really threw me like a slap in the face. The author crafted a well-developed tale and included a special little dog that is dear to Eliza. I think this book offers a great deal of material for book clubs to discuss. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Wow! This book is full of twist and turns. Eliza is so strong and brave in the face of many obstacles and challenges. Felton is an interesting character. He is fiercely loyal and wants to do what is right. This book has intrigue, complicated relationships, love, violence, friendship and so much more. I don't want to give anything away so I will just say this is a book that will keep you turning pages until the very satisfying end.

Rating: 5 out of 5.
Brace yourself to be swept away. Hannah Linder’s newest release will make you laugh, ponder, and reach for the handkerchiefs.

The Girl From the Hidden Forest opens with Eliza and her little dog, Merrylad, walking through the forest she calls home. And something is wrong. The forest is supposed to be her safe haven in dangerous world, but she can’t shake the sense of danger . . .

Enter Felton Northwood, the daring, determined young man on a quest to redeem his family’s name. The only person who can bring the truth to light is Eliza, so he kidnaps her, plain and simple.

Felton is one of the most complex heroes I’ve encountered. He’s brave, but reckless. He settles things with his fists rather than words. And sometimes he needs a good shake for all his selfishness, yet he’s still a loveable character.

Eliza’s sweetness contrasted him perfectly. And the danger creeping in around her was absolutely hair-raising.

The lessons both character learn about facing fear and discovering what truly matters in life add a lovely theme to the story. Prayer is interspersed throughout the book.

The Girl From the Hidden Forest is perfect for anyone looking for a story with twists reminiscent of fairytales.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my review, but was not required to leave a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

This was my first book by Hannah Linder and I really enjoyed the clean regency theme. There were villains, intrigue, betrayal, and powerful love themes. Also a touch of faith in it, though I would’ve been fine with more to be honest!

Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for an advanced reader copy in return for my honest opinion. I’ll be reading more of the author’s books!

I'm so torn about reviewing this book. I think the only way to sort out my feelings is to list pros and cons.

Pros:
* The writing is beautiful. Lyrical without being "overdone."
* I love a mystery that has a twist and this one had a big one, although I guessed it about 80% into the book.
* It was a real page-turner and I looked forward to getting back to the book every chance I could. (I'm really surprised that a couple of reviewers said it was boring and that they couldn't get into it.)

Cons:
* The MMC was annoying at times and even unlikeable at times.
* Occasionally, the plot was a bit confusing. Sometimes I had trouble remembering who someone was when their name was mentioned.
* The biggest "con" for me was how dark the book became when the villains were revealed. One villain in particular was disturbingly sadistic and evil.

Hoping I don't have nightmares from the book. Solid 4 stars.

I received an advance reader copy of this book from Net Galley. A positive review was not required and the opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Girl from the Hidden Forest by Hannah Linder has allll the feels! Swoon worthy romance, plenty of mystery and suspense, and all those wonderful regency vibes. It’s like Pride & Prejudice turns murder mystery and I love it!

There is so much going on in this book! To tell you the truth, it wasn’t until I was about three-quarters of the way done that I was certain who did it. Hannah did a fabulous job crafting this story! If you haven’t read it yet, what are you waiting for??

Romantic suspense lovers are sure to love this! If you enjoy books by authors such as Abigail Wilson, Elizabeth Camden, or Julie Klassen, you should definitely pick yourself up a copy of The Girl from the Hidden Forest!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Life had been good to Eliza, living in the forest, taken care of by the Captain and nothing to worry or cause her fear. But that was really the case or why did she have horrible nightmares? Kidnapped from the forest and returned to her childhood home - if this was a good thing, why did someone continue to try to kill her? What was the mystery behind the murder of her mother and who was the monster?

The author has done a fabulous job of keeping you guessing all the way to the end. What really happened all those years ago? You really want to sit down and enjoy this wonderful regency story with plenty of mystery and intrigue.

A copy was received through Barbour Publishing, NetGalley and CelebrateLit. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.

The Girl from the Hidden Forest is quite fast-paced. It’s got a gothic tone to it, but Hannah Linder’s lyrical prose shines through. Her phrasing is just gorgeous, and you will feel torn between stopping to reread a lovely phrase or moving on to see what will happen next. You will be enthralled by the bottom of the first page.

The story had a lot of potential but the cheesy tropes and underdeveloped characters who were a jumble of contradictions made this a near DNF for me. I only finished in order to be able to give an informed review. I mean, damsel-in-distress with a death wish, much? I can't abide by a "heroine" who wants to be ordered around by her man- that was way too much for me on top of everything else. I was disappointed as I had read many reviews and had high hopes.

Thank you to Barbour Publishing and Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for my honest review.

“Northwood is a bloody name, Miss Gillingham—and you’re the only one who can cleanse it.”

Wow!! Just Wow!! Hannah Linder is really making a name for herself in the world of Christian Gothic Regency Romance! The Girl from the Hidden Forest is one of my newest faves!!

In the year 1812, Eliza Ellis, 19, has been sequestered away in Balfour Forest, Northumberland, with only her father, whom she refers to as “Captain,” and her beagle, Merrylad.
Having enjoyed a wild, carefree life in the woods with only the dog and trees for friends, her father is everything to her, telling her fanciful stories of wondrous worlds that fill her heart. Suddenly, she is kidnapped by young Felton Northwood,
taken to a castle far away, and delivered to an “older” member of the gentry, Lord Gillingham. Told Gillingham is her father, Eliza is thrust into a strange, lonely, and judgmental world. At times she believes Felton is becoming a friend, but other times, it is obvious she is not good enough for him. Talk about relatable characters! So many people can relate to inferiority when compared to others, or seeing a friend who needs help, but being afraid to stand against society for them!

As Eliza is trapped at the estate, she finds her memories from early childhood beginning to match her lifelong nightmares. Will she be able to remember what Felton wants her to, and this clear the taint on the Northwood name, or will the monster of her dreams destroy her first?

Eliza is a great character, who has a tender heart towards others. I love how she befriends Minney, who is physically deformed and possibly has other issues as well. Minney delivers the most frightening message to Eliza. “Ye watch’eeself. Ye watch well. People die. Some people die in this house. And other places. Miss Gillingham?” She clasped her hands to stop the tremble that rushed through her. “Yes?” “I don’t think’ee can trust the ones’ee think’ee can.”

I liked Felton, mostly. His indecision drove me mad. Sometimes he is purely selfish, sometimes he is a true friend and hero, sometimes he can’t seem to make the best choice! But then, he comes from a very dysfunctional family. The Northwood family lives in a world of pretend. His mother pretends war is fanciful thing, that there is no danger. His father pretends his wife is not unhealthy. Both parents pretend that the whispers about Mr. Northwood do not bother them.

One theme that stood out to me is that people aren’t all good or all bad, but rather very complex. Thought that struck me as I was searching with Eliza and Felton for the killer ( yes, I felt that invested!!). We see this ironic juxtaposition in so many different people, but Captain is certainly a prime example. “Captain would have smiled. Or laughed. Or cried when she cried. He would have told her to keep her chin up, and even without telling him of her nightmares, he would have assured her the beast could always be fought.”We all need friends like Captain. To listen well, emote with us, give us sound advice, and make our fears manageable. Yet, Captain is also a very troubled man, for very valid reasons.

For fans of Michelle Griep, Kimberley Woodhouse, and Jaime Jo Wright. Historical, with a Gothic air, this a highly suspenseful mystery with a twist you’ll never see coming! Also with shades of Nancy Mehl and Susan Sleeman danger and psychological insights into the killer.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. I also bought my own ecopy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“He was no enemy, this man, no matter how different their sides and hopes. No, Felton Northwood was her friend. Her first friend.”

“What God has given you less of in one place, He has given you more of in others.”

“You are good and noble and brave, or so I’ve imagined you. Funny thing about me. Once I imagine something for so long, I start to believe it. I guess I’ve believed it of you all along.”

“We seldom deserve what we are or what we are given.”

“They are only fools, Northwood, who continue in their folly.”

A captivating story that kept me engaged, and guessing, from beginning to end. Complex characters, setting, and mystery that made me care about Felton and Eliza especially. Four and a half stars.

This book was so good. Almost too good to put into words. The mystery was incredible and literally kept me guessing through the entire book. The characters were so heartfelt and real and raw. Just beautiful. Truly beautiful. 🥺

My only complaint is that the romance was a little heavier than I normally read. It was still beautiful, just not my usual. Still, it didn't take away from how much I loved this book. 🥰

I highly recommend this book!! It was so beautiful and so delightful! I loved every minute of it. 💖

The storyline was interesting and even intriguing, and I liked that the ending was quite unexpected. Having said that though, the main characters just did not come alive for me. I had hoped that the descriptions of the settings and romance would set my movie-mind going but it just stopped slightly short. Christian elements were sprinkled here and there but I am not sure it is enough to be inspiring.

This was my first book by the author. Her writing is not bad and has a lot of potential so I am looking forward to seeing what she will write next.

The Girl from the Hidden Forest is a captivating Gothic-style novel that you are going to be unable to resist reading. I've had the pleasure of reading other novels by this author and they're all wonderful. She has a way of weaving a story together so that you're not truly sure what will come next but you know that you have to keep reading and find out.

Think of this novel like one of the original Grimm Brothers fairy tales. It's got a bit of a dark twist.

A young girl lives in the forest with a man she believes to be her father. And then she's stolen away! Only the man who took her claims he's rescued her. That the man she was living with wasn't her father. That she's truly a "princess" if you will. And that she disappeared when her mother was murdered. A murder everyone believes she witnessed.

Whew.

Talk about a lead-up!

There is danger. There is a mystery. But there is also romance.

You are not going to want to miss this book! The characters are spectacular. As Eliza is trying to figure out who she really is she's also trying to stay alive and possibly falling in love as well.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

What a sweet story of second chances, found family, and unsolved mystery. This book kept me engaged and guessing. I typically enjoy books about family secrets, unsolved mysteries, regressed memories, so this one was right in my wheelhouse. I altered between reading the e-book and listening to it on my drive to and from work, and it kept me entertained. The plot provoked some guessing. At one point I thought I had sort of figured things out, but was surprised again. The characters and their journeys invoked melancholy, fear, and ultimately hope, which is what I look for in fiction- inspiration and hope.

This was a really different read for me. I'll admit I don't have much prior exposure to gothic Regency reads, aside from _Northanger Abbey_ (which also totes pokes fun at the genre, in the best way; its humor is 100% on point!); I'll also admit I almost stopped the read at about 20% in--I hated how Eliza was forced/told to do soooooo much. And indeed, that continued for a decent portion of the read--but it did change and improved by the end.

There were also a lot of short/sentence/fragment prayers ("Christ, help"; "God, help," etc.), but that was about the extent of it--we don't really see the characters circling back to God past breathing out a prayer--so it felt incomplete and a bit more "ATM God" or "God on demand" more than anything.

So--it was a fine read; I am glad I pushed through, as the plot was interesting and its denouement fascinating (truly, all was not as it seemed). But it was definitely darker than I expected.

I understand some of Linder's other books are particularly good, so I might go for those when in need for something to read in this genre.

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

** “We seldom deserve what we are or what we are given.” **

For as long as she can remember, Eliza Ellis’ father, the Captain, has warned her to never leave the forest. So she’s terrified when Felton Northwood snatches her from her home, claiming she’s actually Eliza Gillingham and can reveal a 14-year-old secret that will release his family.

But as she slowly begins to accept her true identity, others seek to silence her, putting her into danger. Can Felton protect her? And will Eliza remember the events from 14 years ago that led to death and blame?

Linder does a great job of weaving together a story filled with twists and turns, drama, suspense and romance. She deals with some good themes, like overcoming grief, trauma and tragedy; loss and guilt; we usually don’t deserve what we get; and God never turns away our prayers.

Fans of authors like Jaime Jo Wright and Abigail Wilson will enjoy “The Girl from the Hidden Forest.”

Five stars out of five.

Barbour Pub. Inc. provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.

Intrigue and mystery combine to give the reader an edge of your seat ride to find justice and safety. Hannah Linder delivers a gripping suspense where shadows are full of hidden danger and trust can earn a person's death. This riveting story keeps the reader furiously flipping through the pages to find out just who the man in the shadows is and who will make it through the danger, if anyone. This gothic tale has just enough sweet romance to leave a sigh of contentment along with the relief of adrenaline at the end of the book.
Hannah Linder is a talented author who creates a Regency world around her readers. The detail is astounding, traveling from a hidden forest sanctuary to a stunning Manor. Then the characters fill out the story, with rich emotions and relationships that provide insight to each other and the story. Every encounter adds depth and layers to an intriguing novel that shows the height and depth of what people will do for riches, power, love, friendship, and security. Each person has a choice for either good or evil, and it will define the path their life takes.
From the cover to the content this book is hard to put down once you pick it up. If you are looking for a Gothic Regency mystery and romance look no further. Hannah Linder delivers in spades with each book she writes. I highly recommend this delightful tale. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Girl from the Hidden Forest was the first book I have read by Hannah Linder and I loved it. I loved the mystery and the intrigue and the suspense and the growing relationship between Eliza and Felton.
The story begins with Eliza being stolen away from the only home she has ever known, being whisked away from the man she thinks is her father, whom she has called Captain. The thing is, the man kidnapping her, whose name is Felton Northwood, tells her he is saving her, taking her back to her true home, her true father. But, if this viscount is supposed to be her real father, why does he not seem to want her there? Why is Felton being treated like he did something wrong by saving her? She had had a loving home with the man she called Captain. She is in more danger now that she is back “home.” She’s been returned to the place where her mother was killed, the night Eliza was stolen away.
The author gets the reader questioning if this Captain was the murderer, instead of the man who many believed was the culprit. Was he involved in some way or was he keeping her safe all these years? Because someone sure doesn’t want Eliza back at the manor and her life is clearly in danger. The author has weaved an intriguing web of mystery, with villains coming from multiple directions.
Eliza’s world has turned topsy turvy and she doesn’t know who she can trust. And Felton is on a mission to clear his father’s name, thinking more of himself and his reputation than worrying about how Eliza feels in all this.
I love the way the author kept so many truths in shadows until all was revealed. There were definitely twists I did not see coming. And I love that in a book.
Such a great book. I can’t wait to read more of Hannah Linder’s books.
I received an e-copy of this book through NetGalley as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.