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The Wonder of One: A Novel
From the #1 Amazon bestselling author of In an Instant comes an inspirational coming-of-age story about one extraordinary girl’s determination to chase a dream.
Vivien Kendall has always been different. Born with a birthmark covering much of her face, she’s bullied, ridiculed, and mistreated as a child. But at the age of six, Vivien learns that in each of us there burns a spirit flame—a deep belief in oneself that must be nurtured and never allowed to go out.
Living by that wisdom and through the enduring friendships of her nanny, her mentor, and the legend who eventually becomes her coach, she chases her dream to someday become the greatest figure skater in the world.
Along the way, she faces a rapidly evolving world full of modern prejudice and injustice. She falls in love, has her heart broken, learns what it means to win or lose, and discovers the wonder of one, the power within each of us to change things.
Vivien Kendall has always been different. Born with a birthmark covering much of her face, she’s bullied, ridiculed, and mistreated as a child. But at the age of six, Vivien learns that in each of us there burns a spirit flame—a deep belief in oneself that must be nurtured and never allowed to go out.
Living by that wisdom and through the enduring friendships of her nanny, her mentor, and the legend who eventually becomes her coach, she chases her dream to someday become the greatest figure skater in the world.
Along the way, she faces a rapidly evolving world full of modern prejudice and injustice. She falls in love, has her heart broken, learns what it means to win or lose, and discovers the wonder of one, the power within each of us to change things.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2026
About the author
Suzanne Redfearn
43 books2,550 followersSuzanne Redfearn is the award-winning author of Six novels: Hush Little Baby, No Ordinary Life, In an Instant, and Hadley & Grace, Moment in Time, and Where Butterflies Wander. In addition to being an author, she’s also an architect specializing in residential and commercial design. She lives in Laguna Beach, California, where she and her husband own two restaurants: Lumberyard and Slice Pizza and Beer. You can find her at her website, www.SuzanneRedfearn.com, on Facebook at SuzanneRedfearnAuthor, or on Instagram at SuzanneRedfearn.
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September 16, 2026
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The Book Review Crew Blog
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Wonder of One
Suzanne Redfearn
Publication Date: September 15th, 2026
Lake Union Publishing
381 Pages
Amazon | Bookshop.org
Genre: General Fiction | Women's Fiction
This was such an emotional coming-of-age story. Vivien is a young girl born with a birthmark on her face who has to deal with bullying and prejudice because of it. When she is six years old, she learns about her inner spirit flame—which simply means having belief in yourself and never letting that belief go, no matter what.
Vivien takes this inner strength and self-belief to her ice skating, determined to become the best in the world. While striving for her goal, she deals with the usual growing pains. The story is told in two timelines, showing us Vivien's childhood alongside her current situation.
Along the way, she deals with love, loss, and injustice. But Vivien knows what it means to have courage, giving her the resilience to make it through. She is also lucky to have a strong support system, including a mentor, a coach, and a nanny.
I liked the way the author showed both sides of Vivien—we got to see how fragile she is, but also how much strength she possesses. I love that human connection plays such a big part in this book; it reveals how isolated people can come together and build strength through and with each other. Being deaf made me feel a bit of kinship with them.
There is a bit of suspense and a few secrets, but for the most part, it's a character-driven plot with very relatable figures. The pacing kept me turning the pages because I truly cared about what happened to Vivien. Ultimately, it was a very uplifting read that really resonated with me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Goodreads ratings reflect reader demographics and
popular enthusiasm rather than objective literary merit.
The Book Review Crew Blog
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Wonder of One
Suzanne Redfearn
Publication Date: September 15th, 2026
Lake Union Publishing
381 Pages
Amazon | Bookshop.org
Genre: General Fiction | Women's Fiction
This was such an emotional coming-of-age story. Vivien is a young girl born with a birthmark on her face who has to deal with bullying and prejudice because of it. When she is six years old, she learns about her inner spirit flame—which simply means having belief in yourself and never letting that belief go, no matter what.
Vivien takes this inner strength and self-belief to her ice skating, determined to become the best in the world. While striving for her goal, she deals with the usual growing pains. The story is told in two timelines, showing us Vivien's childhood alongside her current situation.
Along the way, she deals with love, loss, and injustice. But Vivien knows what it means to have courage, giving her the resilience to make it through. She is also lucky to have a strong support system, including a mentor, a coach, and a nanny.
I liked the way the author showed both sides of Vivien—we got to see how fragile she is, but also how much strength she possesses. I love that human connection plays such a big part in this book; it reveals how isolated people can come together and build strength through and with each other. Being deaf made me feel a bit of kinship with them.
There is a bit of suspense and a few secrets, but for the most part, it's a character-driven plot with very relatable figures. The pacing kept me turning the pages because I truly cared about what happened to Vivien. Ultimately, it was a very uplifting read that really resonated with me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Goodreads ratings reflect reader demographics and
popular enthusiasm rather than objective literary merit.
November 9, 2026
Some people are judged before they’ve even had the chance to show the world who they really are. Imagine growing up feeling different, being stared at, laughed at and made to feel that you don’t quite belong, simply because of something you have absolutely no control over. That’s the reality for Vivien Kendall, and I found myself rooting for her from the very beginning.
The Wonder of One by Suzanne Redfearn follows Vivien from childhood into adulthood, and what a journey it is. Born with a congenital melanocytic nevus, a large birthmark covering much of her face, Vivien grows up facing cruelty and ridicule from those around her. Children can be incredibly unkind, and some of the treatment she receives is genuinely upsetting. All she wants is to be accepted for who she is, but life doesn’t always make that easy.
What I loved about Vivien is that she has a determination that simply refuses to disappear. She has a dream, and it’s a big one. She wants to become the greatest figure skater in the world. She’s not afraid of hard work, setbacks or the knockbacks life throws at her. When she wants something, she gives it everything she’s got. I loved that about her.
Figure skating becomes such an important part of her life, giving her something to aim for and a chance to prove to herself, as much as anyone else, what she’s capable of. Watching her grow and find her place in the world was one of my favourite parts of the story. She’s strong and resilient, but she’s not without her vulnerable moments, and that’s what makes her feel like a real person rather than a character who’s simply there to inspire us.
The people around Vivien also play such an important part in her story. I particularly liked the love and support she finds through her nanny and the Somali family who help raise her. They give her something so important: a sense of belonging. Not every relationship is straightforward, though, and there are characters who bring plenty of conflict and difficult emotions into her life. Bart is one such character, and his presence adds another layer to the story.
There’s also a second timeline involving a murder investigation after a minister is killed. I enjoyed having this mystery running alongside Vivien’s life story. It brings some suspense and intrigue, and there’s plenty to keep you curious as the pieces gradually come together.
Suzanne Redfearn’s writing really stood out to me. She has a lovely way of getting beneath the surface of her characters and showing how the things we experience growing up can shape us, sometimes in ways we don’t even realise. I particularly liked the themes of prejudice, acceptance, family, friendship and the importance of having someone who believes in you. The idea of the spirit flame running through the story was another lovely touch. That little spark inside us that needs looking after, especially when life gets tough.
For me, this is about so much more than figure skating. It’s about growing up in a world that doesn’t always treat you kindly, finding your people, making mistakes, picking yourself up and refusing to let other people’s opinions define you.
Vivien certainly has her share of difficult moments, but she never loses that determination to keep going. And I think that’s what I’ll remember most about her.
A heartfelt story about finding your place in the world, the people who help you along the way and having the courage to follow your dreams, even when the odds aren’t in your favour.
Thank you, NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and author Suzanne Redfearn for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Publishing date: 15th September 2026
The Wonder of One by Suzanne Redfearn follows Vivien from childhood into adulthood, and what a journey it is. Born with a congenital melanocytic nevus, a large birthmark covering much of her face, Vivien grows up facing cruelty and ridicule from those around her. Children can be incredibly unkind, and some of the treatment she receives is genuinely upsetting. All she wants is to be accepted for who she is, but life doesn’t always make that easy.
What I loved about Vivien is that she has a determination that simply refuses to disappear. She has a dream, and it’s a big one. She wants to become the greatest figure skater in the world. She’s not afraid of hard work, setbacks or the knockbacks life throws at her. When she wants something, she gives it everything she’s got. I loved that about her.
Figure skating becomes such an important part of her life, giving her something to aim for and a chance to prove to herself, as much as anyone else, what she’s capable of. Watching her grow and find her place in the world was one of my favourite parts of the story. She’s strong and resilient, but she’s not without her vulnerable moments, and that’s what makes her feel like a real person rather than a character who’s simply there to inspire us.
The people around Vivien also play such an important part in her story. I particularly liked the love and support she finds through her nanny and the Somali family who help raise her. They give her something so important: a sense of belonging. Not every relationship is straightforward, though, and there are characters who bring plenty of conflict and difficult emotions into her life. Bart is one such character, and his presence adds another layer to the story.
There’s also a second timeline involving a murder investigation after a minister is killed. I enjoyed having this mystery running alongside Vivien’s life story. It brings some suspense and intrigue, and there’s plenty to keep you curious as the pieces gradually come together.
Suzanne Redfearn’s writing really stood out to me. She has a lovely way of getting beneath the surface of her characters and showing how the things we experience growing up can shape us, sometimes in ways we don’t even realise. I particularly liked the themes of prejudice, acceptance, family, friendship and the importance of having someone who believes in you. The idea of the spirit flame running through the story was another lovely touch. That little spark inside us that needs looking after, especially when life gets tough.
For me, this is about so much more than figure skating. It’s about growing up in a world that doesn’t always treat you kindly, finding your people, making mistakes, picking yourself up and refusing to let other people’s opinions define you.
Vivien certainly has her share of difficult moments, but she never loses that determination to keep going. And I think that’s what I’ll remember most about her.
A heartfelt story about finding your place in the world, the people who help you along the way and having the courage to follow your dreams, even when the odds aren’t in your favour.
Thank you, NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and author Suzanne Redfearn for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Publishing date: 15th September 2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Gripping, moving, inspiring, and hard to put down, The Wonder of One: A Novel is a riveting coming of age story. I listened to the audiobook and the narration was fantastic! I was instantly drawn into the world of Vivien Kendall and rooted for her as Suzanne Redfearn took readers through Vivien's life from childhood to adulthood. This book touches on many themes and issues ranging from being different, being judged by your looks, bullying, friendship, found family, various types of relationships, hope, strength, and love to name a few. There were so many characters in this book that shaped and had an impact on Vivian's life, but I also enjoyed how she had an impact on the lives of others as well.
Vivien Kendall was born with a birthmark that covered much of her face. Kids can be cruel, and she was the subject of bullying and mocking by many of her peers. She was also accepted and became friends with others. She wasn't just friends with her peers; she had a close relationship with members of her mother's staff. A chance meeting with Meryl Fairbanks, a renowned ice skater and coach, introduces her to the world of figure skating where she will once again be judged by her looks.
I adored Vivian's quiet strength, her love of her friends and those important to her in her life, I admired her tenacity and her drive. I felt for her when she was bullied and when she was judged by her looks. She was truly beautiful, but few saw it but those who did, became her found family and support system. I also admired her love of skating and how hard she tried to be the best she could be in terms of her sport.
I enjoyed how this book was told in dual timelines and besides being a lovely coming of age story, this book also had a mystery in it as well. I thought the author blended these two elements brilliantly.
Thank you to Brilliance Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Vivien Kendall was born with a birthmark that covered much of her face. Kids can be cruel, and she was the subject of bullying and mocking by many of her peers. She was also accepted and became friends with others. She wasn't just friends with her peers; she had a close relationship with members of her mother's staff. A chance meeting with Meryl Fairbanks, a renowned ice skater and coach, introduces her to the world of figure skating where she will once again be judged by her looks.
I adored Vivian's quiet strength, her love of her friends and those important to her in her life, I admired her tenacity and her drive. I felt for her when she was bullied and when she was judged by her looks. She was truly beautiful, but few saw it but those who did, became her found family and support system. I also admired her love of skating and how hard she tried to be the best she could be in terms of her sport.
I enjoyed how this book was told in dual timelines and besides being a lovely coming of age story, this book also had a mystery in it as well. I thought the author blended these two elements brilliantly.
Thank you to Brilliance Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story is near and dear to my heart. I've always wanted to write a coming-of-age story. Many of my favorite books and movies are about the formative journey from childhood to adulthood: Forest Gump, Where the Crawdads Sing, This Tender Land, The Power of One, All the Colors of the Dark, Fried Green Tomatoes. The literary term for it is bildungsroman—bildung (education, formation, growth) and roman (novel)—stories about protagonists who come from challenging circumstances and how they overcome those beginnings to become extraordinary, unlikely heroes. This is one of those stories. It was a wonderful challenge to write, and I can't wait for you to read it.
June 26, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
‘Vivien Kendall has always been different. Born with a birthmark covering much of her face, she’s been bullied, ridiculed, and mistreated as a child. But at the age of six, Vivien learns that in each of us there burns a spirit flame—a deep belief in oneself that must be nurtured and never allowed to go out.’
The Wonder of One was an absolute heartwarmer. FMC, Vivien, was a fierce to be reckoned with, despite all of the contempt she garnered over her facial nevus her entire life. She often reminded me of Forrest Gump, powering through adversity, regardless of the hardships along the way.
And goodness, the hardships flowed in with wild abandon.
If “Beauty comes from within” were a person, it would be Vivien Kendall, leaving her mark on the world in such a genuine and unintentional way. She was truly a pleasure to get to know.
Thanks to Lake Union Pub for the opportunity. All opinions are my own.
Pub: 8.15.2026
‘Vivien Kendall has always been different. Born with a birthmark covering much of her face, she’s been bullied, ridiculed, and mistreated as a child. But at the age of six, Vivien learns that in each of us there burns a spirit flame—a deep belief in oneself that must be nurtured and never allowed to go out.’
The Wonder of One was an absolute heartwarmer. FMC, Vivien, was a fierce to be reckoned with, despite all of the contempt she garnered over her facial nevus her entire life. She often reminded me of Forrest Gump, powering through adversity, regardless of the hardships along the way.
And goodness, the hardships flowed in with wild abandon.
If “Beauty comes from within” were a person, it would be Vivien Kendall, leaving her mark on the world in such a genuine and unintentional way. She was truly a pleasure to get to know.
Thanks to Lake Union Pub for the opportunity. All opinions are my own.
Pub: 8.15.2026
August 16, 2026
Wow! This book completely blew me away! I absolutely fell in love with the main character Vivien and wanted more than anything to reach through the pages and not only protect her, but hug her! I also wanted to reach through the pages and throat chop a certain other character.
I love that this author made me feel such emotions towards fictional characters and that I’m still thinking about this story days after finishing!💛
I love that this author made me feel such emotions towards fictional characters and that I’m still thinking about this story days after finishing!💛
August 29, 2026
If you've never read a Suzanne Redfearn book, what are you waiting for? I fell in love with this author for the first time when I read, "In an instant" during Covid. It still ranks as one of my favorite books of all time. So when I saw an ARC available written by her, I jumped for joy! Redfearn's writing style is absolutely beautiful. I soaked up every word. Her newest novel is about a girl named Vivien, who was born with a birthmark on her face that results in her not only being bullied by others but also prevents her from excelling in life. That is until she befriends an ice skating coach who gives her a pair of skates and changes her world forever. What follows are her triumps and failures throughout life and what it means to be resilient and to fight for yourself against all odds. It was a beautiful story and I am so honored to be one of the first to read it! Thank you NetGalley and thank you Lake Union Publishing/Brilliance Audio.
June 27, 2026
This book was everything I look for in a story. We have a coming of age tale with a young girl who against all odds makes it to the Olympics. Born with a birthmark covering most of her face, Vivian knows what it feels like to be judged and mistreated. Regardless, she chases her dream to become the best figure skater in the world.
A second storyline many years later parallels with a minister who was murdered and the police who are investigating. How do the two stories intersect?
This book started out a bit slow for me (Vivian is only 6 when the story starts) but once she reaches the teen years I was enthralled and couldn’t put it down. Definitely don’t miss out on this one!
A second storyline many years later parallels with a minister who was murdered and the police who are investigating. How do the two stories intersect?
This book started out a bit slow for me (Vivian is only 6 when the story starts) but once she reaches the teen years I was enthralled and couldn’t put it down. Definitely don’t miss out on this one!
June 13, 2026
This is such a beautiful story! There’s coming of age, overcoming adversity, confronting injustice, dealing with loss and disappointments, found family, and a murder to solve. It checked so many boxes for me and I could not put it down. This will definitely make it in my top ten from 2026!! If you loved Where the Crawdads Sing, you’ll love this too!!
September 11, 2026
Suzanne Redfearn has done it again. I have loved all of her books and The Wonder of One did not let me down.
When reading we meet Vivien, at the age of 6, and we follow her throughout her life. It sounds ordinary and yet Vivien is different and the life she lives and the impact she has is extraordinary.
The book takes us back and forth, from the present day back to Viviens childhood and all of it helps us build a picture of what she has gone through and what her life has been like and what she has chosen to make of her circumstances.
This book is a coming of age story at its heart, but it has so much more, social injustice, bullying, trauma, complicated families, loss and grief, a murder mystery and a truly magnificent found family.
I cared about Vivien profoundly very early on, i didn't have a happy childhood and as an autistic woman i experience situational mutism and so some parts of the book really hit straight to my heart. My care for the character only grew throughout the book and this is one of those occasions where i feel genuinely sad that the book is over and i have had to leave this character behind.
There were many parts of this book where i was reduced to tears, for various different reasons, it is truly a beautiful and emotional read and is possibly my favourite of Suzannes books.
When reading we meet Vivien, at the age of 6, and we follow her throughout her life. It sounds ordinary and yet Vivien is different and the life she lives and the impact she has is extraordinary.
The book takes us back and forth, from the present day back to Viviens childhood and all of it helps us build a picture of what she has gone through and what her life has been like and what she has chosen to make of her circumstances.
This book is a coming of age story at its heart, but it has so much more, social injustice, bullying, trauma, complicated families, loss and grief, a murder mystery and a truly magnificent found family.
I cared about Vivien profoundly very early on, i didn't have a happy childhood and as an autistic woman i experience situational mutism and so some parts of the book really hit straight to my heart. My care for the character only grew throughout the book and this is one of those occasions where i feel genuinely sad that the book is over and i have had to leave this character behind.
There were many parts of this book where i was reduced to tears, for various different reasons, it is truly a beautiful and emotional read and is possibly my favourite of Suzannes books.
May 23, 2026
The Wonder of One by outstanding wordsmith Suzanne Redfearn is published by Lake Union.
The story spans years, is a first a bit confusing with lots of characters, but once reingelesen its a feast for the brain.
Loved the storyline, the worldbuilding, the pace and the characters.
I recommend the novel, 5 stars.
The story spans years, is a first a bit confusing with lots of characters, but once reingelesen its a feast for the brain.
Loved the storyline, the worldbuilding, the pace and the characters.
I recommend the novel, 5 stars.
October 27, 2026
I love all of Suzanne Redfern’s books. When I found out she had written a new one, I was super excited to read it. This book did not disappoint! Loved it!
September 24, 2026
Suzanne Redfearn’s The Wonder of One is the kind of book that makes you care about a character almost immediately. Vivien Kendall got under my skin and stayed there. She’s a character I’ll remember for a long time, and that’s when I know I’ve read a really good book!
Born with a large birthmark on her face, Vivien grows up in a world that can be unbelievably cruel to anyone who looks different. But The Wonder of One isn’t just a story about cruelty. It’s about resilience, found family, friendship, competition, prejudice, and the people who love us enough to help shape who we become.
My Thoughts on The Wonder of One:
⛸️ Growing Up With Vivien
One of my favorite things about The Wonder of One was that it was truly a coming-of-age story, but not one confined to a small period of Vivien Kendall’s life. We get to follow her through the decades, seeing how the experiences of her younger years continue to shape the woman she becomes.
Vivien was such an easy character for me to care about. She is born with a large birthmark covering part of her face, and because of it, she experiences an incredible amount of cruelty and prejudice. So many people have a hard time seeing beyond her birthmark to the person she actually is.
That part of the story broke my heart. But it was also probably my favorite part of the book.
Vivien could have allowed the way people treated her to define her. Instead, those experiences helped make her stronger, more compassionate, and more determined. I loved watching her become the person she was meant to be despite all the people who tried to make her feel like she was somehow less.
As for the bully in the story? I wanted to punch him!
❤️ The Family You Find
This book is very much about found family. Vivien may experience plenty of cruelty, but she also has people in her life who show up for her, love her, and give her a place to belong.
I loved those relationships.
The characters surrounding Vivien were one of the strongest parts of the story for me because they reminded me that family isn’t always about who you’re related to. Sometimes it’s about the people who choose you and never stop!
🧊 The Competitive World of Figure Skating
I also really enjoyed the figure skating story line. I found the competitive side of figure skating fascinating, especially as Vivien tried to find her place in a world where appearance and perfection mattered so much. I love books with a sports element, so the fact that figure skating was such an important part of the story made me very happy.
🔎 A Little Mystery Makes Everything Better
As if Vivien’s story weren’t interesting enough on its own, Redfearn adds a murder mystery. That gave the book an entirely different kind of tension and kept me wondering how everything would eventually connect.
I thought the mystery blended really well with the coming-of-age portion of the story rather than feeling like two completely different books mashed together. The mystery and dual timelines also helped keep the pacing strong throughout the book.
🎧 Read It or Listen to It?
I did both! I read about half of The Wonder of One and listened to the other half, and the audio was extremely well done.
I love being able to switch back and forth between a physical or digital book and the audiobook when the narration works, and this was definitely one where it did.
If you’re an audiobook reader, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend listening to this one. If you have Kindle Unlimited, the audiobook is included.
🎀 What About the Ending?
The ending was incredibly well done. Everything came together at exactly the right time, and all of the loose ends were tied up without the conclusion feeling rushed or too perfectly packaged.
I especially appreciated the timing of the reveals. Redfearn didn’t give things away too early, but she also didn’t drag everything out simply for the sake of keeping the reader guessing. By the time I reached the final pages, I felt like Vivien’s story had been given the ending it deserved.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing, and Suzanne Redfearn for my advance copy of this book. This is my honest opinion.
Let’s Chat:
Have you ever read a book where you became so attached to the main character that you felt personally offended when someone treated them badly?
Because apparently I was ready to climb right into The Wonder of One and deal with Vivien’s bully myself. 😂
Let me know in the comments!
Born with a large birthmark on her face, Vivien grows up in a world that can be unbelievably cruel to anyone who looks different. But The Wonder of One isn’t just a story about cruelty. It’s about resilience, found family, friendship, competition, prejudice, and the people who love us enough to help shape who we become.
My Thoughts on The Wonder of One:
⛸️ Growing Up With Vivien
One of my favorite things about The Wonder of One was that it was truly a coming-of-age story, but not one confined to a small period of Vivien Kendall’s life. We get to follow her through the decades, seeing how the experiences of her younger years continue to shape the woman she becomes.
Vivien was such an easy character for me to care about. She is born with a large birthmark covering part of her face, and because of it, she experiences an incredible amount of cruelty and prejudice. So many people have a hard time seeing beyond her birthmark to the person she actually is.
That part of the story broke my heart. But it was also probably my favorite part of the book.
Vivien could have allowed the way people treated her to define her. Instead, those experiences helped make her stronger, more compassionate, and more determined. I loved watching her become the person she was meant to be despite all the people who tried to make her feel like she was somehow less.
As for the bully in the story? I wanted to punch him!
❤️ The Family You Find
This book is very much about found family. Vivien may experience plenty of cruelty, but she also has people in her life who show up for her, love her, and give her a place to belong.
I loved those relationships.
The characters surrounding Vivien were one of the strongest parts of the story for me because they reminded me that family isn’t always about who you’re related to. Sometimes it’s about the people who choose you and never stop!
🧊 The Competitive World of Figure Skating
I also really enjoyed the figure skating story line. I found the competitive side of figure skating fascinating, especially as Vivien tried to find her place in a world where appearance and perfection mattered so much. I love books with a sports element, so the fact that figure skating was such an important part of the story made me very happy.
🔎 A Little Mystery Makes Everything Better
As if Vivien’s story weren’t interesting enough on its own, Redfearn adds a murder mystery. That gave the book an entirely different kind of tension and kept me wondering how everything would eventually connect.
I thought the mystery blended really well with the coming-of-age portion of the story rather than feeling like two completely different books mashed together. The mystery and dual timelines also helped keep the pacing strong throughout the book.
🎧 Read It or Listen to It?
I did both! I read about half of The Wonder of One and listened to the other half, and the audio was extremely well done.
I love being able to switch back and forth between a physical or digital book and the audiobook when the narration works, and this was definitely one where it did.
If you’re an audiobook reader, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend listening to this one. If you have Kindle Unlimited, the audiobook is included.
🎀 What About the Ending?
The ending was incredibly well done. Everything came together at exactly the right time, and all of the loose ends were tied up without the conclusion feeling rushed or too perfectly packaged.
I especially appreciated the timing of the reveals. Redfearn didn’t give things away too early, but she also didn’t drag everything out simply for the sake of keeping the reader guessing. By the time I reached the final pages, I felt like Vivien’s story had been given the ending it deserved.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing, and Suzanne Redfearn for my advance copy of this book. This is my honest opinion.
Let’s Chat:
Have you ever read a book where you became so attached to the main character that you felt personally offended when someone treated them badly?
Because apparently I was ready to climb right into The Wonder of One and deal with Vivien’s bully myself. 😂
Let me know in the comments!
August 3, 2026
From the opening chapters, I cared about Vivian—her drive, her vulnerabilities, and the way key people in her life shaped her path. The book focuses on her resilience and the way she pushes through adversity, making her personal growth as she comes of age the true heart of the story. I especially appreciated how the side characters are more than background—they actively influence her choices and highlight different facets of who she is becoming.
The pacing worked perfectly for me, with just enough detail to ground each scene without lingering too long on the mundane. The narrative always feels like it’s moving—training, relationships, setbacks, and small victories blend into a propulsive reading experience.
The murder mystery storyline adds tension and intrigue, but never overshadows Vivian’s coming of age story. I liked that it adds tension as you bounce from current day to the past but it still plays second fiddle to her journey rather than turning the book into a pure mystery. This book is absolutely worth the read.
Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for allowing me the opportunity to read this ARC!
The pacing worked perfectly for me, with just enough detail to ground each scene without lingering too long on the mundane. The narrative always feels like it’s moving—training, relationships, setbacks, and small victories blend into a propulsive reading experience.
The murder mystery storyline adds tension and intrigue, but never overshadows Vivian’s coming of age story. I liked that it adds tension as you bounce from current day to the past but it still plays second fiddle to her journey rather than turning the book into a pure mystery. This book is absolutely worth the read.
Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for allowing me the opportunity to read this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
As with all of Suzanne's books, she writes stories that challenge you to really think about different things in life and presents characters in a thoughtful and reflective way. In this book, she pushes you to consider what choices you would make when facing incredibly difficult challenges.
Vivien Kendall has had a difficult life; growing up with a mother who barely acknowledges her unless it serves her own purpose. To a school that will not let her settle in because she's different. Bullying of all varieties because she has a nevus on her face that makes her look different from others, but also because of something her grandfather did to some people in their community.
One of the most important lessons in this story, for me anyways, was that generational element. Vivien's grandfather was not a nice man and so he put a lot of people into a difficult situation financially where they lost a lot of money. One man in particular couldn't handle the loss and ended up taking his own life. That man's son now goes to school with Vivien and his entire focus is making her suffer for what her grandfather did. Bart is the epitome of a villain. He's terrifying throughout this story and really sets the stage for Vivien that culminates in the end of her own life.
Generational trauma is that trauma that carries forward from one generation to the next. Vivian's grandfather did some terrible things to others and Vivian's mother wasn't much better either. Vivien on the other hand is sweet and caring in ways that her biological family can't even understand.
The family she leans on is her Somali family. The ones she was raised by as the help in her house and those that really cared for her throughout her life. These relationships are another important element of this book.
Our experiences and relationships that define us are a mixture of those that we are biologically related to and also those that we choose for our family. A combination of these things shape who we are in a way can be profound, especially for Vivien's character. The love and affection that she does experience comes from the people she chooses to have around her. But other forces like her mother and others try to keep them away. This is a defining experience for Vivien's development. Understanding who loves her and who does not and making difficult choices related to that.
Vivien's character is multi-faceted and I loved her so much. She brings light and reflection into so many people's lives and has stayed with me long after this book is over. She represents this unbridled beauty and honesty in a world that can be so dark and traumatizing. She reminds us all that we can be better and stronger than we were the day before.
The only thing that I'm still wondering about is from the ending... the last page leaves this odd little nugget that I'm not sure I understood...
Vivien Kendall has had a difficult life; growing up with a mother who barely acknowledges her unless it serves her own purpose. To a school that will not let her settle in because she's different. Bullying of all varieties because she has a nevus on her face that makes her look different from others, but also because of something her grandfather did to some people in their community.
One of the most important lessons in this story, for me anyways, was that generational element. Vivien's grandfather was not a nice man and so he put a lot of people into a difficult situation financially where they lost a lot of money. One man in particular couldn't handle the loss and ended up taking his own life. That man's son now goes to school with Vivien and his entire focus is making her suffer for what her grandfather did. Bart is the epitome of a villain. He's terrifying throughout this story and really sets the stage for Vivien that culminates in the end of her own life.
Generational trauma is that trauma that carries forward from one generation to the next. Vivian's grandfather did some terrible things to others and Vivian's mother wasn't much better either. Vivien on the other hand is sweet and caring in ways that her biological family can't even understand.
The family she leans on is her Somali family. The ones she was raised by as the help in her house and those that really cared for her throughout her life. These relationships are another important element of this book.
Our experiences and relationships that define us are a mixture of those that we are biologically related to and also those that we choose for our family. A combination of these things shape who we are in a way can be profound, especially for Vivien's character. The love and affection that she does experience comes from the people she chooses to have around her. But other forces like her mother and others try to keep them away. This is a defining experience for Vivien's development. Understanding who loves her and who does not and making difficult choices related to that.
Vivien's character is multi-faceted and I loved her so much. She brings light and reflection into so many people's lives and has stayed with me long after this book is over. She represents this unbridled beauty and honesty in a world that can be so dark and traumatizing. She reminds us all that we can be better and stronger than we were the day before.
The only thing that I'm still wondering about is from the ending... the last page leaves this odd little nugget that I'm not sure I understood...
September 20, 2026
If you picked up THE WONDER OF ONE because you wanted to read a book about a figure skater, you’ll probably be disappointed. Suzanne Redfearn’s latest novel is about Vivien, a Very Special Girl with a large facial nevus who changes the world by being herself. Insert eye roll emoji. I’m not certain Redfearn has ever met a child.
Vivien, born to a wealthy, white, emotionally harsh mother is basically raised by Somalian workers who’ve become family to her. In 2003 at age 6 she’s sent to boarding school. An outcast in the beginning, she eventually charms everyone except Big Bad Bully Bart. She changes lives just by being wise beyond her years. As a tween, an Olympic medalist offers to teach Vivien to figure skates, because she can tell the girl is Very Special. Guess what? Vivien is a prodigy and despite her birthmark, she makes it to the Olympics. She skates nearly perfectly, better than all the others but because the world is cruel to Vivien, she’s scored too low which changes everything more lives. At this point Dick Wolfe is probably creating a new franchise Law&Order: Special Vivien Unit. Vivien goes to live in Somalia with the family who once cared for her, immediately becoming indispensable. When a young girl with a cleft palate recognizes her, Vivien decides to compete for the Somalian Olympic Figure Skating team. She becomes the white savior, inspiring a nation. At the end of her perfect performance she performs an illegal backflip (except it’s no longer illegal) disqualifying herself from the competition. Yet she’s haled as an international hero, because Vivien is Very Special.
Meanwhile, in 2025 a sheriff is investigating the murder of a reverend, Big Bad Bully Bart. Vivien has a young Very Special Daughter. Everyone says Vivien could never kill another person. But, since she is dying as her nevus became cancerous, she leads the sheriff to believe she’s the culprit. Though he doesn’t believe Vivien, he arrests her and a plea bargain is accepted. The sheriff decides since Big Bully Bart was a Bad Guy and Viv is dying, he’ll let the real killers off the hook.
Vivien is a sympathetic character. She reminds me a bit of Forrest Gump, happening into situations where people assume an agenda she does not have. She’s easy to root for, despite being written with qualities and insight no child or young woman can have. Her prefrontal cortex isn’t even fully developed by the time she dies.
The part about Vivien becoming a symbol for Somalia didn’t sit right with me. She loved the country and its people, but having a wealthy white woman as symbol felt wrong.
Redfearn writes engaging prose, her characters however, do not resemble real people. Also NEVER KILL/TORTURE ANIMALS. She can create a Big Bad Bully without murdering animals.
Vivien, born to a wealthy, white, emotionally harsh mother is basically raised by Somalian workers who’ve become family to her. In 2003 at age 6 she’s sent to boarding school. An outcast in the beginning, she eventually charms everyone except Big Bad Bully Bart. She changes lives just by being wise beyond her years. As a tween, an Olympic medalist offers to teach Vivien to figure skates, because she can tell the girl is Very Special. Guess what? Vivien is a prodigy and despite her birthmark, she makes it to the Olympics. She skates nearly perfectly, better than all the others but because the world is cruel to Vivien, she’s scored too low which changes everything more lives. At this point Dick Wolfe is probably creating a new franchise Law&Order: Special Vivien Unit. Vivien goes to live in Somalia with the family who once cared for her, immediately becoming indispensable. When a young girl with a cleft palate recognizes her, Vivien decides to compete for the Somalian Olympic Figure Skating team. She becomes the white savior, inspiring a nation. At the end of her perfect performance she performs an illegal backflip (except it’s no longer illegal) disqualifying herself from the competition. Yet she’s haled as an international hero, because Vivien is Very Special.
Meanwhile, in 2025 a sheriff is investigating the murder of a reverend, Big Bad Bully Bart. Vivien has a young Very Special Daughter. Everyone says Vivien could never kill another person. But, since she is dying as her nevus became cancerous, she leads the sheriff to believe she’s the culprit. Though he doesn’t believe Vivien, he arrests her and a plea bargain is accepted. The sheriff decides since Big Bully Bart was a Bad Guy and Viv is dying, he’ll let the real killers off the hook.
Vivien is a sympathetic character. She reminds me a bit of Forrest Gump, happening into situations where people assume an agenda she does not have. She’s easy to root for, despite being written with qualities and insight no child or young woman can have. Her prefrontal cortex isn’t even fully developed by the time she dies.
The part about Vivien becoming a symbol for Somalia didn’t sit right with me. She loved the country and its people, but having a wealthy white woman as symbol felt wrong.
Redfearn writes engaging prose, her characters however, do not resemble real people. Also NEVER KILL/TORTURE ANIMALS. She can create a Big Bad Bully without murdering animals.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2026
I'm beginning to think Suzanne Redfearn just isn't the author for me. This is my third book by her, and it's the third one I've rated three stars.
I really wanted to connect with Vivien and her story, particularly given her difficult relationship with her mother and everything she endured growing up. There was certainly plenty of material here for an emotional, compelling coming-of-age story, but unfortunately, the execution fell flat for me.
My biggest struggle was how clunky and disjointed the entire story felt. Between the multiple timelines and the large cast of characters, I spent far too much time trying to figure out who was who and how everything connected. I was nearly two-thirds of the way through before I really found my footing. That's a lot of mental gymnastics for a story that ultimately didn't deliver much of an emotional payoff.
And I think that's what disappointed me most. The book was clearly trying to pull at my heartstrings, but I never developed a meaningful connection to the characters. The story dragged, the characters never felt fully developed, and even the resolution of the central mystery left me unsatisfied.
I can absolutely appreciate what the author was trying to accomplish here. If you enjoy very slow-moving coming-of-age stories with multiple characters and nonlinear timelines, this might be a better fit for you. For me, though, the pieces never quite came together, and there wasn't anything about the characters or the story that I think will stay with me.
After three books and three similar experiences, I'm comfortable admitting that this author and I just might not be a good match.
I really wanted to connect with Vivien and her story, particularly given her difficult relationship with her mother and everything she endured growing up. There was certainly plenty of material here for an emotional, compelling coming-of-age story, but unfortunately, the execution fell flat for me.
My biggest struggle was how clunky and disjointed the entire story felt. Between the multiple timelines and the large cast of characters, I spent far too much time trying to figure out who was who and how everything connected. I was nearly two-thirds of the way through before I really found my footing. That's a lot of mental gymnastics for a story that ultimately didn't deliver much of an emotional payoff.
And I think that's what disappointed me most. The book was clearly trying to pull at my heartstrings, but I never developed a meaningful connection to the characters. The story dragged, the characters never felt fully developed, and even the resolution of the central mystery left me unsatisfied.
I can absolutely appreciate what the author was trying to accomplish here. If you enjoy very slow-moving coming-of-age stories with multiple characters and nonlinear timelines, this might be a better fit for you. For me, though, the pieces never quite came together, and there wasn't anything about the characters or the story that I think will stay with me.
After three books and three similar experiences, I'm comfortable admitting that this author and I just might not be a good match.
September 20, 2026
Coming of age story. Beautifully written. Full of heart and so many emotions. Vivien Kendall was born with a large birthmark covering most of her face. Her mother rarely acknowledges her and she gets bullied by her peers. She finds friends and family when she joins the world of figure skating. Through all her trials and tribulations Vivien showcases resilience, overcomes adversity and confronts injustice. The book spans years beginning when she is just 6 years old.
There is also a murder mystery subplot which adds suspense and intrigue. It also has a pretty good twist.
This is one beautiful and inspirational story. Vivien Kendall is the strong heroine we all need to read about right now.
4.5 stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Thank you NetGalley, Suzanne Redfearn and Lake Union Publishing for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
There is also a murder mystery subplot which adds suspense and intrigue. It also has a pretty good twist.
This is one beautiful and inspirational story. Vivien Kendall is the strong heroine we all need to read about right now.
4.5 stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Thank you NetGalley, Suzanne Redfearn and Lake Union Publishing for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 15, 2026
I may put this on my favorites list. Still deciding on that. I have enjoyed every book I’ve read by this author. I want to read another but so many are about grief and sadness that I need a break!
This book is sad but endearing. Patch is a fighter and has to endure so much but knows how to make true connections and create her own family of love. She is also too wise beyond her years at 6 years old that is disturbing and unrealistic.
I was left with a couple of random questions, things about why a couple married. But that’s not the point of the book, but is a sticking point to me. It’ll make sense if you read it. I say read it, I loved it! Did not want to put it down.
This book is sad but endearing. Patch is a fighter and has to endure so much but knows how to make true connections and create her own family of love. She is also too wise beyond her years at 6 years old that is disturbing and unrealistic.
I was left with a couple of random questions, things about why a couple married. But that’s not the point of the book, but is a sticking point to me. It’ll make sense if you read it. I say read it, I loved it! Did not want to put it down.
October 21, 2026
A quick read about a woman with a nevus on her face that is strikingly obvious. The book unfolds in two ways: watching Vivien grow up and the investigation into the Reverend’s murder. How the story is revealed and its pacing is terrific. Watching Vivien go from being a scared 6 year old just starting at boarding school to the strong superstar was fascinating, pointing out how things can change on a dime. I loved the connections, a true “family,” from the Somalia refugees. It was glossed over but I was impressed that the child spoke their language and could translate for others. Focusing on ICE was chilling. I don’t want to give too much away. I would recommend this novel.
October 4, 2026
This is my new favorite Suzanne Redfearn book. Vivien’s story was so heartbreaking and so inspiring at the same time. I loved seeing her grow and overcome so much through this book. The writing was phenomenal and made The Wonder of One such a page turner with all the twists, turns and events woven throughout Vivien’s story. In typical Suzanne Redfearn fashion, this book will stick with me. Highly recommend opening it up!
Thank you to the author for my #gifted copy!
Thank you to the author for my #gifted copy!
September 17, 2026
In all honesty, I will read anything Suzanne Redfearn writes. The stories are just that good, and the writing grabs me every time. This one, though, is a level up for her, and she smashed it. A grand tale of a life well lived, and an example that even the smallest of us can make the biggest impact. Well done. I can't wait for the next one.
September 14, 2026
I have read almost all of Suzanne’s books, and I really enjoy her writing, but this story is nothing like her previous books, and let me tell you, it was epic.
A coming-of-age story that left me breathless, I couldn’t help but fall in love with Vivien, a strong and mighty heroine who refuses to let the way others see her define who she is or what she can become.
This is one of those stories that grips you from the start and doesn’t let go until the very end. And when you finish, you know it left a mark on you.
A coming-of-age story that left me breathless, I couldn’t help but fall in love with Vivien, a strong and mighty heroine who refuses to let the way others see her define who she is or what she can become.
This is one of those stories that grips you from the start and doesn’t let go until the very end. And when you finish, you know it left a mark on you.
October 16, 2026
This one reached right into my chest and grasped my heart in the best way.
“Spirit flame; since that day, I’d heard it called many other names - chi, aura, life force, e’lan vital, brio. Nearly every language has a word for it, the essence that exists deep within us that allows us to believe in ourselves well beyond any innate ability we previously believed ourselves to have”
“Spirit flame; since that day, I’d heard it called many other names - chi, aura, life force, e’lan vital, brio. Nearly every language has a word for it, the essence that exists deep within us that allows us to believe in ourselves well beyond any innate ability we previously believed ourselves to have”
November 8, 2026
WOW!! I learned so much from this story.
I'm getting old, but I still love reading and learning about human nature and love. It's crazy how Ms. Redfearn carefully and quietly plans the plot. What a twist!
I'm getting old, but I still love reading and learning about human nature and love. It's crazy how Ms. Redfearn carefully and quietly plans the plot. What a twist!
October 2, 2026
Vivian
I really enjoyed this story, it was very interesting, & I will definitely recommend it to everyone. Sad but very good.
I really enjoyed this story, it was very interesting, & I will definitely recommend it to everyone. Sad but very good.
October 9, 2026
Thank you deeply for writing this book. Loved it. Felt her pain, her happiness . .
Could not stop reading it. I love your books .
I keep your books in my library to read again.
Could not stop reading it. I love your books .
I keep your books in my library to read again.
October 11, 2026
ooo half stars
this was meh.
this was meh.
October 22, 2026
Great book
This was a binge worthy book! Patch’s life is so well developed that it feels like I know her. And I didn’t guess The Who-done-it part either!
This was a binge worthy book! Patch’s life is so well developed that it feels like I know her. And I didn’t guess The Who-done-it part either!
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