Book Review | Wildwood Whispers

Mel Smith grew up with a rough life in the foster system and finally found solace in Sarah Ross. However, when Sarah dies in a car accident, Mel brings her ashes back to her family cabin at foot of the Appalachian Mountains. There she discovers Sarah’s secret roots to the magic of the Wildwood as she tries to come to terms with her death.

Wildwood Whispers by Willa Reece is a magical, heartfelt examination of trauma and grief and finding a sense of belonging. It’s a story about connection—both with people and with nature.

While most of the characters feel believable and well-written, my one complaint is that I felt like two of the story’s main antagonists, Reverend Moon and the Mayor, felt like one-dimensional caricatures.

Lastly, I do also have gush about how beautifully vivid and descriptive the author’s writing is. I could practically smell the apple butter and taste the blackberry jam, and it left me drooling. Honestly, this is a bit of a sentimental read for me since it reminded me of my grandmother teaching me how to make jam and all the times I used to play in her woods.

All and all, this book is a cozy, Ghibli-esque love letter to nature, and I cannot recommend this book enough to people who enjoy herbalism and stories of found family.

Thank you, NetGalley and Redhook, for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Book Details:

Publication Date : August 17, 2021

Publisher : Redhook

ISBN : 0316591769

Pages : 383

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