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Dark secrets are revealed when one girl defies her magical caretaker to save her sister.

Hello and Welcome!

This is my first book by author Hayley Chewins but it certainly won’t be the last.

If you’re looking for a quick, captivating new read to get lost in this summer.. look no further.
This book is full of strong, resilient young characters who overcome much, only to be forced to question everything they know about life, family, and themselves. You’re going to love it—I did.

Happy reading!

(Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Any purchases made through my links may earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you.)

The Sisters of Straygarden Place by Hayley Chewins

Publication date: October 13, 2020
Pages: 208
Genre: Middle-grade, Historical Fantasy, Mystery, Horror
Standalone

Four Stars!

What it’s about:

Three young girls live and have been raised by an enchanted house.

Stranded years ago by parents who left and never returned, the sisters can’t remember a time when they weren’t trapped within Straygarden’s walls, plagued by an eerie silver grass that surrounds the place.. searching for a way in.

They promised never to open the doors.
They vowed never to go outside.
They never have.. until now.

My Thoughts:

This is a wonderful, but bittersweet story about the importance of family, knowing yourself, and finding somewhere to belong.

The author has the kind of beautifully descriptive writing that coils around you, captivating.. I couldn’t put it down.
The characters, though young, were interesting. Each had their own distinct personality that made them easy to sympathize with and root for.
But it was Mayhap, the middle sister, who stole my heart with her protectiveness and determination.

The dynamics between all of the characters, not just the sisters, was portrayed well. I found their reactions and responses to each other and their situation believable, even considering how unlikely so much of it was.

This story was unique and enchanting, from the creepy grass that surrounds the place, to the quirky creatures we meet along the way.
It was easy to get lost in.. and easier to love. But fair warning: This is not a fun, light-hearted read. These young characters experience loss, abandonment, threats from within and without, heartbreak, and betrayal.

Everything you want in a good story—wonder, mystery, secrets, and magic—it’s all here.
What really impressed me is that, despite only having just over 200 pages, the story felt complete. The questions you collect throughout are all answered, any mysteries are wrapped up, and their Happily Ever After felt well deserved.

I would absolutely recommend checking this book out and I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

And that’s all for today.
Thank you for checking out my review, I hope it was helpful and has your curiosity piqued.

What do you think makes a good fairy tale?

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