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Reviewed by Maalin Ogaja for Readers' Favorite
In The Butterfly’s Secret, Josephine DeFalco continues Leandra Barker’s story as she returns to the Appalachian Mountains she calls home. Picking up where she left off, Leandra rekindles old connections and steps into a new chapter of her life. With encouragement from her grandparents, Mamaw and Papaw, she enrolls in the local college, soon juggling this with family and farm life. A chance meeting with a new friend sparks an unexpected opportunity, one that will not only transform her future but also her entire community. Yet, life is rarely linear. Leandra suffers setbacks and heartaches that test her resilience. Leandra is, however, steadfast in her mantra: even when life gets in the way, you must never give up. This unwavering belief guides her through new relationships, family reconnections, and finding closure in old ones, proving that strength and hope can blossom even in the most challenging seasons.
Josephine DeFalco sets her story amid 1960s social, political, and cultural changes. She weaves in the Civil Rights Movement, alongside the cultural upheaval of the hippie revolution, the assassination of President Kennedy, the Vietnam War, and the cultural shift in women's sexual and reproductive rights brought about by the birth control pill. Leandra’s journey mirrors the personal and societal transformations taking place at this time, from resilience through struggle to empowerment and liberation, community and connection, and hope amidst chaos. Leandra is one of those rare individuals you encounter once in a lifetime; her character shines through every interaction, making her an unforgettable presence. Some parts of Leandra’s story brought me to tears, but through every challenge, I appreciated her as a person who rises above life’s trials. Readers who enjoy stories that have deep and emotional themes with moments of optimism will enjoy The Butterfly’s Secret.
