Saratoga Woods

Elizabeth George was able to create a unique mystery novel and enjoyed reading this world. It was a strong start to the Abandonment of Hannah Armstrong series, it was everything that I hoped for and was invested in what was happening to the characters. It left me wanting to read more in this series and from Elizabeth George.

Hannah’s journey begins when she finds herself in a precarious situation, feeling lost and disconnected from her family and friends. As she navigates through her feelings of abandonment, she encounters various characters who influence her path to self-discovery. These interactions help Hannah to confront her past and understand the reasons behind her mother’s departure.

Throughout the narrative, readers witness Hannah’s struggles with trust and acceptance as she learns to forge new relationships while coming to terms with her own emotions. The novel delves into the impact of familial bonds and the importance of community support in overcoming personal challenges.

Elizabeth George intricately develops Hannah’s character, allowing readers to experience her growth from a vulnerable girl into a strong individual who learns to embrace her identity. The supporting characters play crucial roles in shaping Hannah’s understanding of love, loss, and forgiveness.

The book addresses significant themes such as abandonment, resilience, and the search for belonging. It highlights how individuals can find strength within themselves and their communities even in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, “The Abandonment of Hannah Armstrong” is not just a story about loss; it is also an inspiring tale about finding one’s place in the world despite difficult circumstances.

I am a fan of the Lyndsey series so was excited to read the first in this new series. It is a good plot with
lots of twists. The character development is good with interesting interactions. Good blood.

Hannah hears ‘whispers’ pieces of other’s thoughts. Her stepfather hires her to work at his office, but he really is using her skill to manipulate their clients and their investments. When his partner disappears, he is worried what Hannah may have picked up from his thoughts. In fear of her life, Hannah and her mom escape, trying to hide from him. Hannah’s mom drops her at Whidbey Island in Washington, planning for her to stay with an old friend. Hannah becomes Becca and the plan goes awry when the friend dies unexpectedly and Becca now has nowhere to hide. She is hiding from her stepfather and the police, worrying he may have reported her missing.
It is a small community, and Becca struggles to fit in with the help of a pair of friends. One mean girl makes her life exceptionally miserable. When one boy is found badly injured on a trail, she goes into hiding. Not knowing who to trust and only 14 years old, Becca often acts impulsively, but she has a good heart.
I enjoyed getting to know Becca and her friends, but this is the first of a trilogy so the adventure will continue.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

Very different to her usual offerings, but this latest from Elizabeth George is absolutely captivating. With a cast of incredible characters and a plot line designed to mislead, it is impossible not to be drawn into this story. I loved the ongoing theme of assumptions and stepping back to see the truth of things - and often, the simplicity of what seems most complex. As always, the writing is impeccable with dialogue, characterisation and descriptions all serving to draw the reader entirely into the fictional world. Characters like Grand and Gus stand out as particularly beautiful, but this is a full cast which I can’t wait to revisit.