Finding Lila

by Licia Chenoweth

Raini Fraser has a penchant for getting herself into trouble.

One day, trouble finds her when she receives a phone call from her estranged mother, who wants to see her again. Her only requirement? She can't tell another soul, especially her dad. Anxious and curious, Raini is ready to go through with the late-night rendezvous when her dad suddenly whisks her away from her island home to live with him in New York City. There, Raini meets a new friend, Cecilio, a young animal rescuer who loves to surprise her with snakes in his pocket, ribbons on a lamppost, and rescuing exotic animals. Thus, her new adventure begins. Will she find Lila?

Finding Lila was awarded the 2024 Shelf Unbound Media Notable 100. A Reader’s Favorite-5-star badge, Royal Dragonfly badge from Story Monsters, and Incipere Award for first place in YA action.

310 pages, Hardcover

Published May 14, 2024

Reviews

[Havelah McLat · Rating 4 out of 5]

🎒Book Review for Finding Lila by Licia Chenoweth🔎

I got the opportunity to read the series by an indie author. I enjoyed the books so far. It is fun read with Nancy Drew vibes with lot of high stakes and adventures. Also this series teaches about friendship, faith, community, found family, and learning how to trust and learn from the mistakes. They are perfect for young readers.

I want to thank @orangehatpublishing and @adventures_of_raini for the physical copies.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

I said I was going to order Finding Lila, the sequel to My Thousand Treasures, and I did. Middle school (junior high) teachers, this book series will engage your most reluctant reader. Having a female main character tended to turn off the sixth grade boys during the 24 years I taught that grade . . . but Chenoweth adds strong male characters that will draw in those unenthusiastic male readers. Give this series a try.

[ladyjamz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is soo great! 🙌🏻🥰 Packed full of adventure and heart. An entertaining read for children and adults alike. I can’t wait to see what Raini gets up to next!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raini’s adventures continue in the sequel to My Thousand Treasures. While she’s still working on building trust with “Gerry”, her father, Raini is also on the hunt to find her mother. She meets some friends and, of course, some danger and trouble along the way. Raini learns that sometimes what we first think or what we believe we want aren’t always what is true or what is meant to be. This is a suspenseful and bittersweet story with a cast of new characters along with Raini and her father, and now I’m excitedly awaiting book #3!

[IRAH121987 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Licia Chenoweth’s Finding Lila is a beautiful continuation of Raini Fraser’s adventures, filled with heart, humor, and emotional depth. The story begins with a mysterious phone call that pulls Raini into a new chapter of her life, one that challenges her to face her past and redefine her understanding of family. Moving from her island home to New York City brings her into a new world of wonder and discovery.

The author’s writing captures both the innocence and curiosity of youth while gently exploring complex emotions like longing, forgiveness, and courage. Raini’s friendship with Cecilio adds warmth and laughter, balancing the emotional core of the book. This story is a reminder that even when life changes suddenly, love and connection can guide us home

[Thanuja Shetty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Lila offers a perfect blend of adventure and heartwarming moments. Raini’s journey to reconnect with her mother takes readers through a rollercoaster of emotions—hope, fear, and courage all rolled into one engaging narrative. The move from her small island to New York City gives the story a vibrant contrast between old comfort and new chaos.

Licia Chenoweth’s storytelling is vivid and sincere. Each scene feels alive, from the city lights to Cecilio’s playful animal rescues. The novel explores how family ties can bend but never completely break. It’s a book that leaves readers smiling, with a quiet ache of nostalgia for the moments and people we hold dear.

[Srinivas Kaushik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raini Fraser’s adventures continue with charm and heart in Finding Lila. The story captures that difficult yet magical moment in a young person’s life when change becomes inevitable. Uprooted from her familiar island life, Raini’s journey into New York City exposes her to new friendships, strange surprises, and a deeper understanding of herself.

Licia Chenoweth balances humor and tenderness so effortlessly that you can’t help but be drawn into Raini’s world. Cecilio’s eccentric antics add levity to a story that explores themes of identity and belonging. This sequel shines not just as a children’s adventure but as a thoughtful reflection on family and personal growth.

[Surya · Rating 5 out of 5]

With Finding Lila, Licia Chenoweth delivers another delightful and deeply touching installment in Raini’s adventures. The book begins with a sense of mystery and longing that quickly blossoms into an emotional exploration of what it means to reconnect with a loved one. Raini’s new life in New York City feels alive with discovery and wonder.

The author’s prose is full of warmth and sincerity. She captures the spirit of curiosity and resilience in every chapter. Raini’s friendship with Cecilio is particularly memorable—full of humor and heart. This book perfectly balances adventure and emotion, making it a satisfying read for all ages

[Sri Mohan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Lila captures the thrill of new beginnings and the bittersweet pull of the past. Raini’s unexpected move to New York thrusts her into a whirlwind of change, from bustling streets to new friendships that challenge and inspire her. At its heart, this is a story about finding courage to face what once felt impossible.

Licia Chenoweth’s storytelling feels effortless. She gives Raini a voice that’s both vulnerable and brave. The story’s rhythm, alternating between lighthearted humor and heartfelt emotion, keeps readers hooked throughout. It’s a moving tale of family, forgiveness, and the beauty of rediscovering where we truly belong.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Finding Lila, Licia Chenoweth invites readers on a touching journey filled with discovery, humor, and heart. Raini’s adventure starts with a mysterious call from her estranged mother and soon leads her to a new life in New York. Through unexpected friendships and heartfelt revelations, Raini learns that healing begins when we face the truth.

What stands out most is the authenticity of the emotions that drive the story. The relationship between Raini and her father adds depth and tenderness, while Cecilio’s quirky personality brings levity and laughter. The story is a testament to the power of love, even when it’s tested by distance and time.

[Harshi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Licia Chenoweth’s Finding Lila is a charming sequel that effortlessly captures the spirit of adventure and emotional growth. Raini’s move from a quiet island to the dazzling chaos of New York is both exciting and daunting. Her search for her mother adds a layer of suspense that keeps readers invested from start to finish.

The book’s strength lies in its honesty. It portrays a young girl navigating not just a new world but her own heart. Raini’s courage, curiosity, and humor make her an instantly lovable character. It’s an uplifting and memorable story that stays with you long after the last page

[Raviteja · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s something incredibly endearing about Raini Fraser, and Finding Lila only deepens that affection. This story captures a young girl’s determination to understand her family and herself in a world that keeps shifting around her. The transition from island simplicity to New York’s vibrant chaos is handled with grace and insight.

Licia Chenoweth writes with empathy and humor, creating a balance between heartfelt moments and lighthearted adventure. Cecilio’s animal-filled escapades add warmth and laughter, while Raini’s inner struggles make her story relatable and real. It’s an inspiring read about finding courage and connection in unexpected places

[Anasurya · Rating 5 out of 5]

With every page of Finding Lila, Licia Chenoweth reminds readers that adventure often begins with the unknown. Raini’s courage to face her mother’s reappearance and adapt to life in New York is inspiring and tenderly portrayed. The novel is as much about rediscovery as it is about reconciliation.

The writing feels effortless yet deeply emotional. Chenoweth’s worldbuilding—whether describing a busy street or Cecilio’s animal rescues—draws readers in completely. This book captures the heart of growing up: learning when to hold on and when to let go.

[Prabhakarrao · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Lila is an enchanting tale that blends emotion, adventure, and self-discovery. Raini’s longing to reconnect with her mother gives the story its emotional heartbeat, while her relocation to New York opens up a world of surprises and friendships that help her grow.

Licia Chenoweth’s storytelling sparkles with imagination. The pacing is lively, and the characters feel genuine and full of life. Raini’s journey teaches readers that sometimes what we seek most is not a place or person but understanding and acceptance. It’s a wonderful addition to the Misadventures of Raini series.

[Vidhitha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Lila continues Raini’s journey with a perfect balance of laughter, emotion, and growth. The story begins with a secretive call that leads to major life changes, pulling Raini into a web of new experiences. New York City becomes both a playground and a classroom where she learns what family truly means.

Licia Chenoweth’s narrative voice is warm and inviting. She crafts a world where humor, compassion, and curiosity coexist seamlessly. This book is an uplifting reminder that the path to understanding isn’t always easy—but it’s always worth it.

[Akhil Murarishetty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raini Fraser shines once again in Finding Lila. Her move to New York marks the beginning of an adventure that challenges her heart as much as her imagination. Between reconnecting with her mother and meeting new friends, Raini discovers strength she never knew she had.

Licia Chenoweth’s ability to blend humor and heartfelt storytelling makes this sequel stand out. The interactions between Raini and Cecilio are particularly delightful, adding charm to a story rich with meaning. This is a book about hope, forgiveness, and the beauty of finding one’s place in the world.

[K Gutierrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a heartwarming sequel to My Thousand Treasures. Raini has left all she’s ever known and is now in the big city! I laughed out loud many a time and was moved by her relationship with her family in the story. Raini is one of those characters that you cheer on and know, no matter what, it will all work out for the best! Licia Chenoweth is an incredibly gifted writer; she really captures the voice of Raini!

[Patricia Bradshaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Triicia

5.0 out of 5 stars

Raini is off to another fun adventure in Finding Lila. I enjoyed reading about her journey to connect with her mother . This book also introduces you to her new group of interesting friends and how they all help her in this new adventure full of laughs and thrills . I am so glad I discovered this author and look forward to reading more of this series about Raini .

[Jithendra Jithu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Lila

by Licia Chenoweth

Rating:5/5

Review:

👉Finding Lila (Treasure) by Licia Chenoweth is an emotionally rich and beautifully crafted sequel that captures the essence of change, family, and self-discovery. Raini Fraser, a girl with an adventurous spirit and a knack for getting into trouble, finds herself at a crossroads when she receives a phone call from her estranged mother. The request is simple—meet in secret, tell no one, especially not her father. Just as Raini prepares to take the risk, her plans are abruptly interrupted when her father unexpectedly takes her away from the island she has always called home and moves her to the bustling world of New York City. What follows is a story filled with emotional depth, unexpected friendships, and the search for belonging.

👉The transition from island life to the overwhelming energy of the big city is captured beautifully in the writing. Raini’s emotions—her sense of loss, her confusion, her longing to understand her mother’s intentions—are deeply felt throughout the story. At the same time, there is a sense of excitement as she steps into an unfamiliar world, filled with new experiences and opportunities. It is in this new environment that she meets Cecilio, a young animal rescuer with a heart of gold and a playful, unpredictable nature. From surprising Raini with snakes in his pockets to tying ribbons on lampposts, Cecilio’s unique charm brings warmth and laughter into her life. Their friendship is one of the most delightful aspects of the novel, adding a lighthearted contrast to the deeper emotional themes.

👉At its core, this book is about family and the complexities that come with it. Raini’s relationship with her father is filled with love but also uncertainty, as she tries to understand the decisions he has made. Her mother’s sudden reappearance raises even more questions, leaving her torn between the past and the present. The story does an incredible job of portraying these emotions with sincerity, making Raini’s journey feel authentic and relatable. Readers will feel her struggle, her hope, and her resilience as she tries to piece together the missing parts of her life.

#review