A Review by Mary Spearman
Recently, I read a book that is sure to become a favorite summer read. It is hard to imagine a time, during the Blitz in England, during World War II when children were sent away, for their own safety, to avoid the bombing of London by the Germans. There was such a time called Operation Pied Piper which served as the inspiration for this unique novel.
To begin with, two sisters, Hazel and Flora Lea were sent away and taken in by a family in the countryside. As a result, Hazel, the older sister, feels the responsibility for watching out for Flora Lee. When Flora Lee goes missing, it is as if the breaks are put on Hazel’s life. She never really stops looking for her sister and the loss of her, affects her life in many ways.
What Happened to Flora Lee?
Spanning eras from the 40s to the 60s, and told in alternating points of view, Patti Callahan Henry has woven a masterful story into a page turner that has an intriguing spin at the end.
I was lucky enough to see Henry in person at her book signing in Greenville, S.C. at M. Judson Bookstore. Patti Callahan Henry in person talk about her book and the English countryside was inspirational. She has released many well researched and history inspired novels. The Secret Book of Flora Lee has mystery, love, history and lots of imagery. All in all it is good story that you won’t be able to put down. Henry is masterful at writing stories with strong female characters, and Flora Lee and Hazel are equally strong. Enjoy your read!
Other stories by Patti Callahan Henry…
Surviving Savannah was also written by her and is one of my favorites. It is based on a true event the sinking of the Pulaski a Southern steamship. This ship sank in 1838. Henry has woven it into a story of past and present characters. In the style of the Titanic the story takes on a life of it’s own when imagination takes hold. There are so many great stories written by Henry that I encourage you to visit her Amazon page and check them out https://amzn.to/3q9sw8E.
Thank you so much for reading the Summer of Songbirds and for the beautiful review! xoxo