This is definitely one of my favorite books this year!!

From the first page I was completely lost in the power of imagination, the telling of children's stories and imaginary friends. I was enchanted by the mesmerizing word that Patti had written. I felt and experienced the lake, the forest, the cozy cabin, the mansion, the paintings. I loved the relationships and the intense feelings I felt as I was navigating through this story.

I'm about to preorder the physical book now as it's not out til March 18th and I only buy my favorites in physical copies.

Thank you publisher, netgalley and Patti Callahan Henry. All thoughts and opinions are my own and isn't influenced by anyone else

I LOVED this! Thank you Simon and Schuster and NetGalley for the advanced copy. I loved the mystery of this story, it kept me guessing. The characters were all lovely. I never wanted the book to end. Taking place in the lake district in England was so picturesque and became like a character of the story. Read if you like a historical mystery that gives you Kate Morton vibes!

Please let me introduce you all to a true Word Witch: Patti Callahan Henry. She has wielded her words like a magic wand and has crafted a story that bewitched, and captivated my little coven of witches.

The Mystery That Lingers and The Timeless Power of Literature.

Now, let’s delve into the mystery at the heart of this enchanting tale. Clara’s mother, Bronwyn, wasn’t just any author—she penned a mesmerizing book that captured the hearts of many. Tragedy struck and Bronwyn went missing along with the secret language. Now, after years of her words being lost, they have been found. Clara embarks on a quest to bring her mother's words home and to keep the hope alive of ever translating the sequel to her beloved book.

The Enchantment of a Secret Language

One of the most bewitching elements of The Story She Left Behind is the secret language created by Bronwyn. She created magical words and crafted her very own secret language to protect her writing. This secret language is more than just a clever plot device; it’s a profound symbol of the power of love, words, and the enduring magic of make-believe. I adored this beautiful concept –magic that Has me dreaming of creating a secret language of my own.

The Power of Words

Patti Callahan Henry’s beautiful, magical story shows us the true beauty and power in words. It’s a book lover's dream, a narrative that will captivate your heart, and uplift your spirits.

Step into this one and feel the magic, and let every word cast its spell on you!!

A Witches Word group read with Norma, Debra, Mary Beth and DeAnn. Look for their magical reviews

A beautifully enchanting story, Clara embarks on a hopeful journey to unlock the key to a lyrical language left behind by her mother before her mysterious disappearance years ago. Her mother, a child prodigy, penned a wildly successful childrens tale of mystical whimsy, but the sequel was never published—hidden away, written in a secret, invented language only she understood.

The prose is stunning and flows effortlessly, making for a truly immersive and pleasurable reading experience. It’s lyrical, heartwarming, and simply a feel-good story.

However, while the story and writing are undeniably beautiful, it sometimes felt a bit too neatly wrapped, predictable, and overly sentimental. Still, I can’t deny the beauty of the journey. Loved that the inspiration came from a true literary mystery, that of Barbara Newhall - very interesting!

If you in the market for a warm, comfortable historical read, with gorgeous flowery writing, this would be a perfect choice!

A story about finding one’s purpose and one’s self. I love reading Patti Callahan’s books cause she delves into the heart and makes every character come to life in your mind.