The Secret Book of Flora Lea

This book tells the story of two sisters, Hazel and Flora. It's 1939, and as part of Operation Pied Piper, they are evacuated from London to the countryside to keep them safe from German bombings.

Hazel, 14 years old, comforts her 6-year-old sister with stories she invents and, over time, creates a secret world- Wisperwood, a magical land only she and her sister share- a world no one knows about where they can escape the harsh realities of war.

Tragically, during this time, Flora disappears while napping on a blanket near the river. Hazel is left scarred and burdened by guilt for not taking better care of her. Ultimately, she decides to cut all ties with the family that took them in and returns to London to try to build a new life while holding on to the hope of finding Flora.

Twenty years later, while working in a rare bookshop, Hazel discovers a book titled "Wisperwood and the River of Stars by Peggy Andrews, an American author. Her mind starts racing with questions about how anyone could know about this secret place. From here, we follow Hazel and her search for answers and her quest to possibly find Flora.

This is a book overflowing with hope but also heartbreak. The magical stories add a bit of enchantment, and of course, there is a mystery to solve. Overall, it is a great read that will keep you fully engaged. Recommend.