I had high expectations for this because I love the Inspector Lynley novels. This is very different. It is for young adults so I am not the target audience. It took a long time to get into the mystery but then the pace picked up.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.

Hannah has been blessed, or cursed, with hearing the “whispers”…thoughts that people around her have but are left unspoken. It’s been mostly an annoyance until she hears something that puts her in grave danger. This is where Hannah ends and Becca begins. A new name, a new look, a new life in a new place. But her life as Becca is not without risks of its own. As she waits for her mom to find her so they can start over in a new place, she finds herself entangled in a mystery with a sheriff determined to find out the truth about who Becca truly is. This is an older series that’s apparently been reprinted under a new title. Still, it was a very good story for me. I’ve loved Elizabeth George for years, and this one made me immediately purchase the next book in the series.

This is a young adult novel. So I am not the target audience.
I liked the setting on Whidbey island and the characters.
It is part of a series. Maybe that is why the story felt a little flat.
There are a lot of open questions at the end of the book. This makes me interested in the next part of the series.

Hannah Armstrong, now going by the name Becca King, is on the run after discovering her stepfather’s criminal activities. Gifted with the ability to hear people’s thoughts—though only in fragmented “whispers”—Becca’s life is thrown into chaos when her mother sends her to Whidbey Island for safety. Stranded and alone after a communication mishap, she must navigate a new town, relying on the kindness of strangers while hiding her true identity.

As Becca becomes entangled in the island’s secrets, she forms connections with several key figures: Derric, a Ugandan boy with a troubled past; Seth, a musician with his own struggles; and Debbie, a recovering alcoholic who provides Becca with a place to stay. Along the way, Becca’s ability proves both a blessing and a curse, as she learns more than she wants to about those around her—including dangerous truths that could put her in harm’s way.
⸻

Elizabeth George delivers a compelling mix of mystery, paranormal intrigue, and coming-of-age drama in The Abandonment of Hannah Armstrong. The novel blends suspense with strong character development, making Becca’s journey both engaging and emotionally resonant. Her ability to hear “whispers” is a fascinating twist, adding an eerie tension to the story as she pieces together dangerous secrets that others would rather keep hidden.

The setting of Whidbey Island is richly described, adding an atmospheric layer to the book. George excels at crafting complex characters, from Becca herself to the island’s residents, each with their own secrets and struggles. The relationships Becca forms—particularly with Seth and Derric—feel organic, with just the right mix of tension and warmth.

However, the pacing can be slow at times, as George takes her time unraveling the mystery. Readers looking for fast-paced action may find the novel’s introspective nature a bit drawn out, but those who appreciate layered storytelling and psychological depth will enjoy the ride. The revised five-book format also allows for deeper character development, making the story more immersive.

Intriguing eve not the best by this author
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

Saratoga Woods was an interesting read, though it didn’t fully capture me. Becca’s ability to hear thoughts added a unique twist, and I liked the setting of Whidbey Island—it felt like a character in itself. The friendships Becca builds, especially with Diana, were well-developed, and I appreciated the mystery and paranormal elements that came into play.

That said, some parts of the story felt slow, and I struggled to connect with Becca at times. The romance and emotional depth didn’t quite hit as hard as I’d hoped, but I can see potential in this series. I’ll likely continue to see how things unfold in the next book.

It’s such a pleasant surprise -and delight- to read something so well-written. I’m an adult. and was a fan of the Inspector Lynley books (and show - looking forward to the new series!). This is the first of Elizabeth George’s young adult books I’ve read. Suitable for young teens and up, realistic without being overly violent. There is some light romance, but no sex. There are several mentions of, and one scene where marijuana is used. Some other, heavier drug use is mentioned; but all drug (and alcohol) use is shown in a disparaging light.
This is not the picture-perfect Whidby Island of the tourist or real estate brochures - this is a glimpse of the ‘local’ islanders who are trying to make ends meet in the economically-challenged, cold and damp, but beautiful North West.
The main character, Hannah/Becca, has a special ‘ability’ that both causes problems and is a blessing. She’s in the process of learning to manage it as she navigates being on her own in an unknown place, learning who she can trust, a budding romance, and the potentially dangerous situations she finds herself in.
This book is the first in a series: the immediate mystery is solved, but the larger situation is still developing….
Recommend.

Great combination of all of my favorite tropes: paranormal, coming of age, mystery and found family. 13 year old Hannah can hear what you are thinking, she might not get it all or understand what she hears but she definitely has a gift inherited from her grandmother. Not long after she takes a job working at her stepfather's investment firm his partner disappears and Hannah and her mom go on the run. She needs to keep a low profile, but in her new town she needs to reach out, but then a boy falls from a cliff, the sheriff is nosing around and this brings danger closer and closer. Now off to see if the next book is available!

I am a huge fan of Elizabeth George’s novels having devoured the Lynley and Havers series. This book bears no similarities to that series. However it is well written, an easy read that compels you to keep reading one more chapter. The characters are well defined and you find yourself warming to them and the trials they face. Upon completion my first thought are ‘when can I start book 2’
A great read

I've somehow never read Elizabeth George's Lynley novels but I've heard so much about them that I was very interested in reading her latest novel, the first in a new series.

In Saratoga Woods, we find ourselves in the PNW, Whidbey Island. Becca is on the run from her stepfather who has done a lot of bad things--all of which Becca knows because she hears "whispers," other people's thoughts. Tragedy strikes on the island and Becca is unsure if she'll be able to keep her head above water.

Whidbey Island is a character in and of itself in Saratoga Woods. George's writing of the landscape is lush and beautiful, despite being harsh and dark. While there's a fair amount of world building at the start of a series, Saratoga Woods picks up very quickly. I found myself eager to read and very nearly finished in one day.

This is a YA series but there is nothing about the story that I think would stop adult readers from enjoying it. It all came to an exciting and abrupt ending and I can't wait for the next installation.

It’s a good, clean YA book. It’s very clear that it’s part of a series and ends on a major cliff hanger. I’d expect the next book to pick up right where this one ended without any time jumps. There are a lot of characters and story lines that hopefully get more developed as the series continues. I wish the whispers were explained more in this book. However I am invested enough in the main character to want to read the next book. I would recommend it to seventh and eighth grade readers.

Atmospheric and mysterious. Whidbey Island felt like a character itself. An island filled with intrigue and secrets and character dynamics that are hard to grasp. An island that Becca King, formerly Hannah Armstrong, is sent to by her mother. An island that is meant to shelter her from her stepfather who knows she “heard the whispers” in his head. An island that leaves Becca reeling from the first moment she arrives, unable to quite find her footing.
Becca has always been different,; inheriting the family gift of hearing whispers, slivers of thoughts in people’s minds. Armed with an auditory device she is able to mute the noise around her. Arriving on the island at 14, Becca quickly learns she will need help if she is to survive. After a mysterious fall in the woods Becca and other teens on the island are under suspicion.
I found myself fully invested in what happened to Derric and if anyone else played a part. The story was slow paced but it suited the way the story was written.
One thing I wish I had been aware of is this is a 5 part series, and ends on a cliffhanger. The most annoying part is being unable to finish the series as they are only available through kindle and are hugely expensive.

This was an interesting YA mystery. I chose this book because I loved reading Elizabeth George's Inspector Lynley mystery series, so I thought I'd give her YA writing a try.

Her books are always well-written, characters are well-developed, and the plot keeps you guessing right up until the end. This book was no different.

I'll definitely be reading the subsequent instalments in this series.

I couldn’t put Saratoga Woods down and read it in a day. It’s a YA book, it’s adult fiction as well. A young girl is able to hear the whispers in the minds of others, which her stepfather uses to help scam investors. Once she realizes what he’s actually doing, she hears his thoughts deciding to kill her. She and her mother flee to Whidbey island, she becomes Becca King and is supposed to live with her mother’s friend who died before she arrived. Forced to survive alone, she meets special friends, all with problems of their own, but a willingness to embrace and help her.

Elizabeth George’s Inspector Lynley series was one of my favorites, until she killed off my favorite character, Helen, and Lynley started seeing other women; it seemed a travesty at the time and I quit reading her books. Now, many years later, I saw that she has a new series, The abandonment of Hannah Armstrong, and I thought it was worth a try. The first installment in this series, Saratoga Woods, introduces Hannah who is forced to change her name to Becca King because she and her mother are fleeing from Becca’s stepfather, who is a criminal. Hannah has the ability to hear whispers (other people’s thoughts), knows her testimony could send him to prison. Her mother makes arrangements with a friend to take 14 year old Hannah, and sends her on her own on the ferry from Seattle to Whidbey Island to hide out until she can join her. Her mother is adamant that she memorize details of her new identity; she is now Becca King and now has dyed hair and must wear heavy make-up to avoid recognition. The cell phone her mother gives her doesn’t work, and when Becca arrives at the home of her mother’s friend with only a bicycle, she learns that the friend has died; Becca has nowhere to go and has to fend for herself until her mother shows up. Becca befriends a Ugandan boy named Derric, who is injured in a fall while they are at Saratoga Woods, and most believe he was pushed.

George’s excellent storytelling ability stands out from the beginning, and while this first novel in a new series must introduce the characters and the setting, the story will grab readers immediately. The novel is well written and flows with building suspense. Becca, the protagonist, is a character that readers will love, and she is well-developed. The supporting characters seem real, and most readers will be able to relate to them. The story is fascinating, and Becca’s adventures on her way to accepting her abandonment will keep readers on the edge.

All told, Elizabeth George has created an excellent new series, and it is highly recommended for anyone who wants to read something new by a gifted writer.

Special thanks to NetGalley for supplying a review copy of this book.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Elizabeth George, renowned for her Inspector Lynley crime novels, ventures into the young adult genre with "Saratoga Woods," the first book in the Whidbey Island Saga. This captivating novel introduces readers to Becca King, a fourteen-year-old girl with a unique ability to hear the thoughts of others, referred to in this novel as "whispers".

Becca's life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers her stepfather's criminal activities and goes on the run, to Whidbey island, Here, Becca meets a diverse group of friends, including Derric, a Ugandan orphan; Seth, a kind-hearted musician; Debbie, a recovering alcoholic; and Diana, with whom Becca shares a mysterious connection. The plot weaves elements of mystery, the paranormal, and romance, creating a rich and engaging narrative.

Becca is a compelling protagonist, and the supporting characters are well-drawn, each adding depth and complexity to the story. George's skill in character development shines through, making the reader invested in the fates of these young characters.

George's elegant writing style, known for intricate plotting and incisive characterization, is evident in this book, and the dialogue is authentic and engaging, drawing readers into the world of Whidbey Island.

"Saratoga Woods" combines George's signature storytelling prowess with a fresh perspective, resulting in a novel that is thrilling and heartwarming.

Whether you're a long-time fan of George's work or new to her writing, this book provides a memorable journey. I can't wait to read upcoming entries to this series!

This book was great, but it was written for Young Adults. I was kind of used to more adult type books from Elizabeth George. I will get it for my granddaughter who is 13.

I didn’t know what to expect from a Young Adult novel, but I’ll read anything by Elizabeth George. What an unexpected pleasure. The characters were realistic, and the story line had such a hook that I read ‘just one more chapter’ to finish the novel. I loved the Pacific Northwest setting. And I can’t wait to read the next installment.

This is my first book by this author. I didn't realize it was a YA book at first, but I was not disappointed. I fell in love with the characters. Especially Hannah who has a psychic ability, and is exploited by her stepfather. It's a YA book, but adult readers should really give this book a chance!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book.

*Saratoga Woods* follows 14-year-old Becca King, a girl with a psychic ability that causes her to hear fragments of other people's thoughts. Fleeing from her dangerous stepfather, who’s been exploiting her gift to manipulate clients and investments, Becca’s mother drops her off on Whidbey Island, hoping she’ll stay with an old friend. But when that friend unexpectedly dies, Becca is left alone, hiding from both her stepfather and the authorities.

Now living under the name "Becca," she struggles to fit in with the local teenagers. Her new friends, Derric, an adopted boy from Uganda, and Seth, a troubled outcast, are her only support. But Becca can’t share the truth of her past with anyone, even as danger closes in. When Derric is found injured in the woods, suspicion turns toward Seth and Becca, the mysterious new girl in town.

As Becca navigates the complexities of her psychic gift, teen drama, and the constant fear of being found, she’s forced to decide who she can trust in this small, tight-knit community.

This gripping, suspenseful first book in a trilogy captures the angst of adolescence, the challenges of fitting in, and the tension of living with a dangerous secret. Becca’s journey is both emotional and thrilling, leaving readers eager for the next chapter in her story.