Emily Romrell

Estimated Reading Time 6 Minutes

**This Book Contains Some Explicit Language. However, It’s Not Overwhelming Or Continuous Throughout The Book.**

“You don’t have to say anything.”
He sat back in his chair. “I won’t. As always, words fail when you most want to say the right thing.” “People think they have to say something, and it never makes me feel better.”

“I know. I’ve decided language isn’t as advanced as we think it is. We’re still apes trying to express our thoughts with grunts while most of what we want to communicate stays locked in our brains.”

― Glendy Vanderah, Where the Forest Meets the Stars

🥜 In a Nutshell:


Joanna Teale, grieving from the loss of her mother and her own battle with breast cancer, throws herself into her research on nesting birds in rural Illinois. Her routine is disrupted by the arrival of Ursa, a mysterious child claiming to be from the stars and seeking to witness five miracles. Jo reluctantly allows Ursa to stay while trying to uncover her past with the help of her neighbor, the egg man, Gabriel Nash. They question Ursa’s amazing abilities and the mysteries surrounding her while dealing with their own secrets. As Ursa’s fifth miracle approaches, her dangerous past catches up to them, forcing all of their secrets into the open and their fates into uncertainty.

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🪝 The Hook (First Impression):


From the very first pages, the book captivates with descriptions, painting a picture of a serene rural landscape tinged with an undercurrent of mystery. Joanna Teale’s journey, marked by loss and resilience, immediately draws the reader in, setting the stage for a good story. The appearance of Ursa, an enigmatic kid claiming to be an alien and on a mission to witness miracles, injects a sense of urgency and intrigue into the story. As Joanna and her neighbor Gabriel delve into the conundrum surrounding Ursa, the layers of mystery deepen, leaving you eagerly turning the pages to unravel the secrets that bind these characters together.

🪶 First Sentence: The girl could be a changling.

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🧜🏻‍♀️ Characters:


This book is a character-driven rollercoaster, with each individual holding onto their own set of secrets that unfurl as the story progresses. Joanna Teale, resilient in the face of grief, becomes a character you can’t help but cheer for. Ursa, the child from the stars is captivating. The author masterfully captures the delicate balance in portraying a child who is exceptionally bright yet undeniably young. And then there’s Gabriel, the quiet neighbor initially known as the “egg man,” who steps in just when they need help, only to discover that he needs them just as much. As these characters grapple with their losses, the story becomes a profound exploration of trust and vulnerability. The journey they embark on together reveals layers of complexity, making the reader deeply invested in their shared pursuit of hope and a brighter future.

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🔄 Plot Twists & Turns:


The plot dynamics of this book had a mixed impact on my reading experience. While the story did keep me engaged with its unfolding mysteries, I found myself predicting certain plot points compared to other books in the same genre. Despite this, there were enough fresh elements introduced to keep me fully invested. Overall, while the plot may not have been entirely unpredictable this was an engaging and satisfying read.

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📝 Writing Style:


The author’s prose in this book is like a calm river, smoothly guiding the reader through the intricacies of the narrative. Written in the third person, the prose maintains a comfortable pace that is accessible to readers of all levels. While the story is grounded at an adult reading level, the language isn’t overly complex, making it an easy and enjoyable read for anyone. Though a basic understanding of science might enhance the reading experience, it’s by no means necessary to grasp the heart of the story. What truly shines in the author’s writing is their ability to capture the emotions and unique personalities of each character. She effortlessly breathes life into every individual, drawing readers deeper into their captivating world.

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🌍 World-Building:


The small-town charm and wild beauty of the forest create a fascinating backdrop for the story. Joanna’s passion for her field of ornithology is prominent, inspiring readers to dig deeper into the wonderful world of birds. Similarly, the portrayal of space and the stars stirs up a desire to learn more about the universe. The setting, nearly off the grid with limited internet and modern technology, not only supports the plot but also immerses the characters in their own unique universe. This contributes to the story’s authenticity, giving the impression that the characters live in a secluded world where nature and personal discovery take center stage.

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😂😢 Emotional Rollercoaster:


From heartwarming moments of genuine connection to pulse-pounding scenes of high tension and danger, the story delivers a full spectrum of emotions. The mission to uncover the truth about Ursa’s background is spellbinding, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate the complexities of her mysterious origins. Amidst the chaos, witnessing the blossoming love between Joanna and Gabe is heartwarming, adding a layer of warmth and tenderness. However, the true heart of the story lies in the profound bond that forms between them and Ursa, as they all find themselves unexpectedly intertwined in a journey of healing, love, and belonging. It’s these moments of pure connection and affection that truly make the book shine, leaving readers with a sense of hope and fulfillment long after the final page is turned.

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📖 Page-Turner Quotient:


The book maintains a consistent pace throughout, steadily building anticipation. However, the final chapters kick into high gear, delivering an intense and thrilling ride as the story threads converge, leading to a gripping and satisfying conclusion.

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🤔 Themes & Messages:


This book dives deep into some heavy themes, touching on love, recovery, and facing life’s challenges head-on. It doesn’t shy away from tough topics like abuse, mental illness, and dealing with the aftermath of cancer. But amidst all the heavy stuff, there’s also a lot about finding love in unexpected places, whether it’s forming an unconventional family bond or falling for someone romantically. It’s a story that makes you think about resilience, healing, and the different ways love can change everything.

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🌟 Unique Selling Points:


This novel stands out with a well crafted story that expertly combines tension, heartwarming moments, and profound themes. What distinguishes it is the well-drawn characters, each dealing with secrets and insecurities while navigating an emotional journey that alternates between humor, sorrow, and unexpected connection. The study of topics such as love, recovery, and resilience adds depth. In essence, this work is a captivating blend of suspense, emotional depth, and an investigation of the transformational power of love.

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💭 Closing Thoughts:


This book is a charming and thought-provoking gem that I am happy to recommend. Its blend of suspense, heartwarming moments, and exploration of deep themes is compelling. The characters are vividly drawn, and their emotional journey keeps you invested. Whether you’re looking for a suspenseful plot, emotional depth, or reflections on life, this book has something special to offer, making it a standout read that lingers in your thoughts.

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🍿 Literary Snacks:

• Trail Mix and Bird Watching: Enhance your reading experience with a bowl of trail mix, perfectly suited for the forest-themed setting of the book. The mix of nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate mirrors the diverse elements of the narrative. It’s a snack that complements the ornithological theme, making you feel like you’re right there with Joanna observing nesting birds in rural Illinois.
  
  
• Herbal Tea and Philosophical Musings: Pair your book with a soothing cup of herbal tea to accompany the philosophical musings woven into the narrative. The calming warmth of the tea aligns with the emotional depth of the story, creating a serene atmosphere for pondering the book’s deeper themes.

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🎤 Literary Karaoke:

1. “Bird Set Free” by Sia: This anthem perfectly captures the spirit of resilience and freedom that Joanna and the characters embody in the face of challenges.
2. “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars: A heartwarming melody reflecting the unbreakable bonds and loyalty formed between characters in the book.
3. “Starlight” by Muse: The ethereal sound of this song complements the celestial theme in the book, particularly Ursa’s mysterious origins.
4. “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield: A song that resonates with the characters’ journeys, capturing the essence of exploring the unwritten chapters of life.
5. “Fire and the Flood” by Vance Joy: The upbeat rhythm mirrors the exciting yet tumultuous moments in the book, adding dynamic energy to the narrative.
6. “I Lived” by OneRepublic: A powerful anthem echoing the characters’ determination to embrace life fully, no matter the challenges they face.
7. “Brave” by Sara Bareilles: This empowering track aligns with the characters’ journeys of facing their fears and finding the courage to be themselves.
8. “A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay: The celestial imagery in the lyrics resonates with the book’s exploration of the stars and the unknown.
9. “Home” by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros: A feel-good song that captures the essence of the unorthodox family dynamics and the sense of belonging within the book.
10. “Miracle” by CHVRCHES: The title says it all – a song that complements the miraculous moments in the book, adding an electronic touch to the overall ambiance.

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HAPPY READING!