Wishing Game

NATIONAL BESTSELLER • Years ago, a reclusive mega-bestselling children’s author quit writing under mysterious circumstances. Suddenly he resurfaces with a brand-new book and a one-of-a-kind competition, offering a prize that will change the winner’s life in this absorbing and whimsical novel.
“Clever, dark, and hopeful . . . a love letter to reading and the power that childhood stories have over us long after we’ve grown up.”—V. E. Schwab, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue
A BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR: Washington Post, She Reads, Bookreporter
Make a wish. . . .
Lucy Hart knows better than anyone what it’s like to grow up without parents who loved her. In a childhood marked by neglect and loneliness, Lucy found her solace in books, namely the Clock Island series by Jack Masterson. Now a twenty-six-year-old teacher’s aide, she is able to share her love of reading with bright, young students, especially seven-year-old Christopher Lamb, who was left orphaned after the tragic death of his parents. Lucy would give anything to adopt Christopher, but even the idea of becoming a family seems like an impossible dream without proper funds and stability.
But be careful what you wish for. . . .
Just when Lucy is about to give up, Jack Masterson announces he’s finally written a new book. Even better, he’s holding a contest at his home on the real Clock Island, and Lucy is one of the four lucky contestants chosen to compete to win the one and only copy.
For Lucy, the chance of winning the most sought-after book in the world means everything to her and Christopher. But first she must contend with ruthless book collectors, wily opponents, and the distractingly handsome (and grumpy) Hugo Reese, the illustrator of the Clock Island books. Meanwhile, Jack “the Mastermind” Masterson is plotting the ultimate twist ending that could change all their lives forever.
. . . You might just get it.
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Community Reviews
This may be my favorite standalone book I’ve read all year. First of all, Clock Island is magical. The writing transports you right there, and I was sad when the book was over and I had to leave.
My favorite character was Jack, he felt like the picture of altruism, compassion and warmth.
I did not find any of the storylines problematic like many other readers did. The relationship between Lucy and Christopher did not feel creepy at all. She wasn’t secretly pining for this child, she even meets with his adoption caseworker. There were no ill intentions there. Maybe a bit of an unrealistic fantasy, but other than that, as a former educator, I related very much to Lucy wanting to save a child from their difficult home life.
The ending had me sobbing happy tears.
This book made me feel, deeply. I feel that this has the potential to be a series and I hope there will someday be a book two.
My favorite character was Jack, he felt like the picture of altruism, compassion and warmth.
I did not find any of the storylines problematic like many other readers did. The relationship between Lucy and Christopher did not feel creepy at all. She wasn’t secretly pining for this child, she even meets with his adoption caseworker. There were no ill intentions there. Maybe a bit of an unrealistic fantasy, but other than that, as a former educator, I related very much to Lucy wanting to save a child from their difficult home life.
The ending had me sobbing happy tears.
This book made me feel, deeply. I feel that this has the potential to be a series and I hope there will someday be a book two.
Loved this one. Made me nostalgic for the books that got me reading when I was a kid.
Lonely children making wishes and sending to a beloved author to grant.
This book really brings childhood reads to life. The author does a good job with making the story, places, and characters feel real.
I normally only rate the books I read, not write reviews. But I had to take the time for this book. It simultaneously had me missing the simpler days of childhood while feeling seen for the struggles that come with adulthood, with being a parent. By the end I felt as though I should be brave and mend relationships with estranged family members. This will absolutely rekindle any lost hopes and long forgotten wishes. I experienced real joy for these characters. I read it at exactly the right time as well, when I needed my own Master Mastermind. Truly a feel good, cozy novel that will have you ugly crying with happiness.
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