Book Review | Birds in Flight
- Wyvness
- Sep 19, 2023
- 2 min read
A gripping mystery that unravels the secrets of a family torn apart by a mother's disappearance.

Birds in Flight by Anni Taylor
Publication Date: March 7, 2023
Publisher: Bookish Coast
Read Date: September 5, 2023
Genre: Mystery
Pages: 390 Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Synopsis
In 1998, the American Jorgenson family embarks on a year-long road trip in Australia. One stormy night, the mother, Elsa Jorgenson, vanishes in the Australian everglades, leaving behind her 12-year-old daughter Lily, who is terrified and alone. Even Lily's teenage sister Iris disappears briefly and returns with a dark secret. Elsa is never seen again, and the family is torn apart.
Twenty-four years later, Lily, now a travel writer in Pennsylvania, learns that her mother's backpack has been found in the everglades, reigniting the cold case. Lily returns to Australia, determined to uncover the truth and reunite with her estranged sister Iris. But as she delves into the past, she realizes that everything she thought she knew about her family is about to shatter.
Review
"Birds in Flight" by Anni Taylor is a deeply compelling mystery that had me hooked from the very beginning. This story of two sisters, Lily and Iris Jorgenson, left behind when their mother mysteriously disappears, is both heart-wrenching and riveting.
The backdrop of a year-long road trip across the Australian coast is painted with vivid descriptions of the places visited, adding depth and colour to the narrative. However, it's the complex relationship between the sisters and the enigma surrounding their mother's disappearance that takes centre stage. As they travel and unearth their mother's hidden secrets, the story evolves into a powerful exploration of strength, resilience, and the unwavering determination of a mother to protect her children.
Anni Taylor masterfully weaves a tale that is both heart-breaking and eye-opening. It sheds light on a mother's relentless fight for freedom and the stark reality of shielding children from pain. The mystery at the core of the narrative is brilliantly crafted, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
What sets "Birds in Flight" apart is its ability to resonate deeply with readers. It's not just a mystery; it's a profound exploration of family dynamics, secrets, and the enduring bonds that tie us together. The characters are multi-dimensional and relatable, and their struggles and triumphs are portrayed with authenticity.
This is a story that will linger in your heart long after you've turned the final page. If you're seeking a compelling mystery that delves into complex family relationships and leaves you pondering long after you've finished, "Birds in Flight" is an absolute must-read.
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