Secret Of The Sassafras

by Olivia Sparrow

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.

Genres: Book Club

312 pages, Paperback

Published October 12, 2023

About the author

Award-winning author Olivia Sparrow grew up in a small Indiana town, where a lifelong love of storytelling was sparked by an early passion for reading. After relocating to New York City, she encountered both challenges and triumphs that ultimately inspired her debut novel, Secret of the Sassafras—a heartfelt tribute to courageous women and the city that helped her discover her own resilience.
A seasoned portrait photographer with over sixteen years of experience, Sparrow's transition from capturing images behind the lens to weaving stories on the page marks a bold new chapter in her creative journey. Her writing uncovers long-buried secrets and the deeper truths hidden beneath seemingly flawless facades.
When she's not writing, Sparrow enjoys wandering our national parks and exploring the wild, untamed beauty of Big Sur with her family and dog, Zuzu.

Reviews

[Kristie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve said it before, some books just show up in your life at the right time. Such is the case with Secret of the Sassafras, by Olivia Sparrow, a debut novel I only learned of two days ago.

I discovered this book and its author on TikTok as I’ve tried to (cautiously) enhance my social media presence this past week. In doing so, I saw a clip of someone lauding this book and saying she wished more people knew about it. I was curious about the plot, the title and gorgeous cover grabbed my attention, so I decided to push it to the top of my reading list.

The book is, in a word, lovely. The story of “twinless twin,” Gemma Ellsworth, it takes us on an emotional journey of loss, healing, friendship, forgiveness, and learning to trust in love and happiness once more. It is one of those stories with a quiet power, one you do not realize while you’re reading it, but feel deeply as everything weaves together in its conclusion.

If I had one criticism to make, I would say that the ending is a bit abrupt and left me wanting more. But, perhaps, that is what the author wanted and she is setting us up for a sequel. Whether or not that is true and, despite the abrupt ending, this is a story worth reading. It will leave you with a warm blanket wrapped around your heart and a desire to tell the most important people in your life how much you love them.

An excellent book and an impressive debut.

[Cassie Steward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secret of the Sassafras is a beautiful book that will both break and warm your heart in equal measures. The author transported me to the streets and brownstones of New York city in the present day timeline, then whisked me away to the beauty and stillness of Indiana in the past timeline. I felt that I could see both places, neither of which I’ve ever visited. I was fully invested in the main character, Gemma and her journey through this novel as she conquered fears and regrets that had haunted her since childhood. I couldn’t help but root for her. An aspect I particularly enjoyed was the beautiful relationships she shared with her mother and grandmother, both characters being strong and resilient women themselves. A beautiful, heartwarming book that everyone should read.

[Alexandra A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A poignant, romantic, beautifully written story about mothers and daughters, grief, healing, self-forgiveness, and the transformative power of love. I am at a unique middle age, I suppose, where I find that I can relate not only to the female main character, but also now her mother, and to some extent even her grandmother. I cried on behalf of each of these women surrounding the story’s central (but past) tragedy as it was slowly revealed. I thought the characters were artfully and realistically drawn and the relationships, whether friendships, family relationships, or romantic relationships were refreshingly healthy. Empowered and as well as empowering and something the world needs endless more examples of. The romance is not the main event but an important side storyline, which is usually the way I like it. And it was a lovely romance. I really responded to it.

[Stephanie Maiers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!! LOVED it! It is one of the best most beautiful books I have ever read!! Lots of loss, secrets revealed, and the blessings of love! I really had no idea what this book was about but it was just beautiful. You will fall in love with Gemma and Emmeline’s story. Even through the tragedy you will love this book. This book will make you laugh and cry and everything in between.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's official, I have a new favorite book to add to my list.

Gemma is a 23 year old law student living in NYC, finishing her last year of law school, and studying for the bar exam. On the surface she's in the prime of her life and enjoying every minute of it. However, what her friends and family don't realize, she's hiding extreme anxiety and guilt.

Growing up her Mom and Grandmother raised her and her twin Emmaline. With a family filled with love and her best friend and twin by her side, she had an incredibly happy childhood. Until one day tragedy strikes and Gemma's life is changed forever.

Her childhood loss has left Gemma scared of getting close to anyone again. But this all changes when her roommate introduces her to Miles. He's sweet, funny, understanding, AND good looking; the full package. Suddenly she finds herself spending time with him and enjoying herself immensely. Gemma simultaneously wants to let Miles in, but is terrified to get too close.

Torn on what to do about Miles, Gemma realizes she needs to face her past and share the secret she has been holding on to since she was 12. In doing so, other secrets are revealed, and she finds herself feeling betrayed, confused, and yet hopeful.

I can't speak highly enough about Secret of the Sassafras. It will rip your heart out and then slowly put the pieces back together. I can't even begin to tell you how many times I cried while reading this.

Sparrow does an incredible job of creating the most amazing/loveable characters, that will leaving you feeling extremely connected to all of them. The way she portrays the love between Gemma and her family will warm your heart, as will her relationships with her roommate and Miles.

Secret of the Sassafras deals with extreme grief, how important the love and support of an amazing family is, pushing past your fears, and learning to trust again. The way Sparrow writes, you can't help but feel completely immersed in Emma's story. It's truly remarkable. If you are looking at a book that will make you FEEL, you can't go wrong with this one. I can't recommend it enough. I know that this is a book that I won't be able to get out of my mind for a very long time.

[Vicki Luna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I loved the way she wrote part of the story when the main character was a child growing up with her family, as memories. They were such a close family. I really could feel all the emotions. Would definitely buy more books by this author.

[Leigh.empresselly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story takes us on emotional journey through the eyes of Gemma. It will break your heart and put it together again!
A story of grief, love, secrets, forgiveness and healing!
I love how beautifully the story ties together with the sassafras!

[Theresa Bergum · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished Olivia’s book and absolutely loved it! What a story of hope, love, forgiveness and possibilities! So descriptive, excellent character development with pacing and plot twists that make for a page turner! My younger sisters are twins so that made it even more meaningful. Also loved the cover art!

[Nikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

I mean I read it in less than 24 hours so usually that means I liked the book. Heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time is not easy to do, but this author found a way. I loved the web of characters and details

[Alanna Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Secrets of the Sassafras
By: Olivia Sparrow
This debut novel was beautiful. This story follows two timelines, one during the main character’s upbringing and one present day. I fell in love with both parts of the story and truly connected with the characters. The story is about trauma, love, loss, second chances, and hope. This book surprised me in all the best ways possible.

[Brittany Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book! From the first page, I felt like I was transported into Gemma's world. It's the first book in a while where I was eager for free time to be able to read…and chose the book over tv several times! The story and characters kept me engaged and the dialogue felt realistic. I couldn't put it down and I didn't want it to end. This is the perfect book for both the beach and book club. Highly recommend!!

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really wonderful story of family and love! First book for this author and I will read whatever she is hopefully working on next!

[Samantha Hartman · Rating 4 out of 5]

**ARC Review
For starters… What an emotional roller coaster! From tearful, to anxious, to proud, this book made me feel it all! I really enjoyed this read overall!

With that being said, I will say that the timing is a little inconsistent in some places. Also, there are certain phrases and feelings that are a little too repetitive about half through the book that I found frustrating.

But all in all, the book is very well written and the story well told! Definitely recommend!!

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome book! Development of characters was great. Book that I could not put down and had to keep reading. Highly recommend. The conclusion was awesome and can not wait for another book from this author.

[Mary Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

A rare find! Throughout the book there is a sense of mystery together with heartwarming love of family and friends. Even though grief is born in the book… it does not feel heavy as together family and friends support each other. The weaving of character connections and events do not feel contrived. I found it hard to put this book down! A gem of a book!

[Courtney Schilling · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mary Beth]

“Secret of The Sassafras” by Olivia Sparrow is the best book I have read in a very long time!
All of the characters are complete, rich and deep. I did NOT want to put it down, and I did not want to rush through it at the same time. Love, friendship, trust, understanding, self-protection - what more could you ask for!?! I am happily anticipating her next book!

[Sondra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oliva Sparrow’s debut novel “Secret of The Sassafras” is in 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. I am recommending this book to everyone I know

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! Hard to put it down.

[Nichole Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the way the author unfolded the story. I kept wondering what the connection to the sassafras would be and I was delighted in the most heartfelt way when she revealed it. The complicated feelings throughout the book were relatable and kept me hopeful for a tidy ending which this author delivered.

[Lisa Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a book that will forever hold a place in your heart, then look no further than “Secret of the Sassafras” by Olivia Sparrow. This impactful debut novel is skillfully crafted with love and passion that will captivate you from start to finish.

The characters captured my heart instantly, creating an immediate and lasting connection. From the moment I met Gemma and Emmeline, explorers and best friends forever, I was entranced.

With the impending shadow of tragedy, every adventure they embarked on held me in suspense. The secrets unveiled in each chapter were more compelling than the last, making it impossible to put this book down.

Secret of the Sassafras stands out as one of the most poignant depictions of tragedy, love, healing, and forgiveness I’ve encountered.

This novel weaves a tale that will restore your belief in a love resilient enough to endure the test of time. Beyond the love between sisters, it explores the profound bonds of a mother and daughter, grandmother and granddaughters, delving into themes of friendship and the capacity to open your heart and embrace new love, while holding on the past love. I sincerely hope you find as much joy in Secret of the Sassafras as I did.

[Tanya Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book broke my heart in so many ways because of all that the characters faced. It was so well written that I connected with the characters in a way that I rarely do, they were not just well written and well-rounded characters, they were personable, they could be my best friend (depending on what age I wanted to be), they could be someone that I work with or live near. I am so glad that the characters found some healing at the end of the book, even though I know that complete healing when dealing with the loss of a loved one is never possible, there will always be a gap, there will always be a hole, but they were able to finally minimize the way the loss impacted them and their family interactions.

[Yves Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secret of the Sassafras is one of those rare books that completely pulls you in and won’t let you go until the final page. Olivia Sparrow has a truly unique writing style — so vivid, human, and beautifully descriptive that I felt every scene unfold before my eyes. At its heart, this book is a stunning exploration of the power of unconditional love and the unbreakable bonds of family. The story is touching, relatable, and lingers with you long after you’ve finished it. It was the perfect poolside book — immersive, emotional, and beautifully written from start to finish.

If you’re looking for a beautifully crafted, emotionally rich story that will stay with you, Secret of the Sassafras is it. I highly recommend it and can’t wait to read more from Olivia Sparrow!

[Lo Madden · Rating 4 out of 5]

A moving debut novel that fueled my desire to move to New York in the new year!

Gemma is a dynamic protagonist who you will be rooting for. While she navigates her life in the big city, she is plagued by a tragic memory from her childhood. You'll fall in love with the city and its scenery, but at the same time, you'll wonder why Gemma struggles to share her past with others.

This book is perfect for your 2024 reading list if you enjoy emotionally satisfying family dramas, stories that impart life lessons, and female protagonists who take charge of their own lives.

[Melinda Comins · Rating 5 out of 5]

My only complaint about this book besides the amount of tissues I went through because I laughed and cried with the incredible lifelike characters, was the seemingly abrupt ending. This book is basically filled seamlessly with two parallel storylines. Rather than compete with each other, the storylines complement each other. I cannot think of another book where I literally fell in love with every single character. I will recommend this book to everyone and highly recommend you give this book a try!

[Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debut author, Olivia Sparrow, quickly pulled me in from the beautifully crafted cover to the last sentence of the story. The book is a page turner, a lovely tale written from the heart that sweetly addresses many of the complications and conundrums faced in our own unplanned journeys. I was drawn to each character, relatable and rich in their flawed authenticity. They remind me of my own family—so much complex love. I look forward to reading more books from this gifted new author. Well done!!

[Melissa McCoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This lovely book follows Gemma, a young woman who clearly has something disturbing in her past, as she meets a man and then works on healing the thing in her that won't let her get close to someone. Heartwarming and introspective, this book features some of the kindest, best people as characters, making this book refreshing and leaving the reader feeling good. It will restore your faith in the decency of others.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book from a first-time author! A rollercoaster of emotions - it was hard to put down, yet I needed time to digest some of the events before I read on. A good book makes you lose interest in your surroundings and totally focus on the story. This did it for me! I'll be watching for Olivia Sparrow's next book.

[Krissy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very good debut novel by Olivia Sparrow. I loved the foreshadowing that kept me reading quickly to find out what or when something was going to happen. I read a lot and like to think I can predict where things are going to go very often, but she surprised me - in a good way. It was a very enjoyable read with themes about family, anxiety, and more.