This book was gripping and hard to put down. It didn't feel like everything else you see out there, it felt very fresh. I really enjoyed this book!

In the year of 1927, a well-known author disappears, leaving behind her family and the sequel to her children's book (about a child stuck between worlds) - except it is written in her secret language. Then, in 1952, her book is discovered in a library, and the daughter of the author comes to England to retrieve this book; she feels she will finally discover what happened to her mother and get answers to many questions. She brings along her daughter, and of course her daughter's imaginary friend. However, once in London, the mother and daughter must leave for the countryside for health purposes, and so follow the man who discovered the book to his family estate. They wind up getting more than fresh, healthy air, as they all learn of how their lives are interwoven and the answers to many questions. Another engaging book by this author, who can write mystery, love, grief, and redemption in such an effortless manner.

Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

4.5 ✨ This book was an absolute delight.
Clara, an illustrator, named her daughter Wynnie after her mother, Bronwyn, who mysteriously disappeared years ago after writing a book and inventing her own language. Wynnie’s imaginary best friend, Emjie (a character from Bronwyn’s book) adds an extra layer of whimsical to the story.
In London, Charlie, grieving his father’s death, discovers papers belonging to Clara’s mother in his father’s library. This discovery leads Clara and Wynnie on a journey to London, hoping to uncover the mystery behind Bronwyn’s disappearance. What follows is a captivating journey filled with cryptic clues, a touch of romance and a charming blend of imagination.

Mystery and family secrets…family and friends…this talented author has written a page turner. Red herrings kept me guessing. An author…a story in an unknown language…more secrets…I could not stop reading. Love and romance…forgiveness…this story is mesmerizing…one of her best…realistic characters who come alive on the pages …thanks Netgalley

The Story She Left Behind by Patti Callahan Henry is a beautiful story about words, choices, fear, grief, hope, redemption, family and love, with a strong dose of mystery. Fans of Ms. Henry know that everything she writes will be beautifully crafted to draw the reader completely into whatever scene she’s describing regardless of whether she’s writing as Patti Callahan or Patti Callahan Henry and make the reader think about the characters’s situations, motivations and choices. The story of child author prodigy Bronwyn, her secret self and the effects her choices have on the lives those she loves will remain long after the last line is read. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. Most highly recommend.