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Reviewed by Makeda Cummings for Readers' Favorite
Elizabeth Mowery's Whispers in the Forest revolves around Adeline Bigsby, a fifteen-year-old girl struggling with loss and guilt, who is unexpectedly thrust into an epic journey of self-discovery. Her life in Sunset Beach, NC, does a 180-degree turn in the blink of an eye. Adeline transforms from a cheerful teen into a grieving daughter when her father dies in a car accident in which she was the driver. Her mother relocates their small family, including Adeline and her younger sister, Rebecca, to a little town outside Asheville for a fresh start. Adeline struggles to find hope and is displeased with the move, the new home, and her new school. While walking into the forested area near her home one day, she meets a friendly elderly man who introduces her to a portal that leads to a new realm—a unique place Adeline can visit to let her adventurous spirit fly freely.
Whispers in the Forest is a poignant and compelling YA fantasy that will resonate with teens and adults alike. It is an engaging coming-of-age novel, similar to books like Harry Potter and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Elizabeth Mowery skillfully portrays heartening lessons of forgiveness and courage while exploring profound tropes like parental loss, found family, a strong female protagonist, and thrilling adventures. The author has a way of captivating her audience with descriptive and evocative prose. The lush forest setting is vividly described. Even the more emotive scenes, where Adeline struggles with her emotions of guilt and grief and the new move, are beautifully and realistically portrayed. The overall storyline has an alluring and flowing narrative packed with relatable (and even likable) characters. If you're in the mood for an epic YA fantasy tale that blends elements of suspense with the supernatural and masterful storytelling, Whispers in the Forest is a sure bet!
