Books
SECRET OF THE SASSAFRAS
What people are saying:
5.0 out of 5 stars Endearing characters, sweet story of hope
Reviewed in the United States on October 30, 2023
From the first paragraph I was transported into Gemma’s world. I was enveloped in the dual imagery of a bustling NYC and the sweet carefree days of childhood in small town Indiana. Such a unique story. I love how Olivia Sparrow weaved the Sassafras tree into the backbone of this story - buy this book and you will understand! I am recommending it to all my friends!
5.0 out of 5 stars A Rare Find…
Reviewed in the United States on January 6, 2024
Throughout this book there is an air of mystery, love of family and friends. When grief hits… together the love of family and friends helps each of them carry on. Yet … even as grief is one theme of the book… the book never feels heavy… it feels heartwarming…with friends and family support of each other. A five star book. I look forward to reading more books by this author!!
5.0 out of 5 stars Heartbreaking & heartwarming
Reviewed in the United States on January 2, 2024
I brought this book with me on vacation and could not put it down. This beautiful story captured my heart as a mom and a sister. I found myself smiling and crying. It’s a must read for anyone who believes in the power of love.
5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing writing and a beautiful story
Reviewed in the United States on October 30, 2023
I stayed up all night because I literally couldn’t put this book down. What an amazing story that the writer paints so that you feel as though you can picture every moment perfectly in your mind. The story comes together in an emotional and seamless conclusion. Can’t wait for more from this author!
5.0 out of 5 stars Poignant and Absolutely Praiseworthy
Reviewed in the United States on October 17, 2023
Olivia Sparrow’s Secret of the Sassafras was such an incredible read. Sparrow takes the reader on a powerful journey of loss, healing, and learning to love in the midst of it all. I couldn’t put this story down and loved every moment of the read.
If you are looking for a heartfelt story of resilience and romance, look no further! You will not regret it.
Five Stars - Amazing story!!
I LOVED this book. One of my favorite reads of the year. Such a moving story of grief, love and family. Amazing debut!!
5.0 out of 5 stars A Favorite of 2023!!
Reviewed in the United States on December 19, 2023
Was gifted Olivia Sparrow’s debut novel “Secret of The Sassafras” and it quickly became one of my top five reads of 2023. Finished the book a few days ago and am still sitting in all the feels. This is a story of a young woman coming to terms with childhood trauma and grief while on a journey towards self-forgiveness. There are some twists and turns along the way that kept me saying “just one more chapter,” I could not put the book down.
She learned at a young age that love and heartache walk hand-in-hand.
Ambitious twenty-three-year-old law student Gemma Ellsworth seems to have it all. Living her best life in New York City, no one would guess that beneath her polished surface, she’s riddled with anxiety and guilt.
Raised by a loving Mom and Grandmother, Gemma and her twin spent their childhood running barefoot through the golden fields of rural Indiana until one fateful night left her screaming into a pitiless sky.
Fearful of getting close to anyone again, Gemma resists when her roommate introduces her to Miles. But when she suddenly finds herself smiling, even laughing—it terrifies her.
Torn between fear and longing, Gemma must face her past, only to uncover a long-buried family secret that's been hiding in plain sight her whole life. Her astonishing discovery will lead her down a path of betrayal, confusion, and most surprising of all. . . hope.
Note to reader: Contains themes of loss.
