The Wish

Lena Gibson’s The Wish delivers a story that melds trauma, time travel, and the pursuit of redemption. Elizabeth is a woman haunted by a tragic past marked by a car accident, a failed marriage, and the loss of her voice—both literal and emotional. After wishing for a second chance, she inexplicably finds herself transported five years into the past, where she encounters her younger self and begins unraveling the tangled threads of her life. As Elizabeth faces her new-old reality, she seeks to alter her past mistakes, especially concerning her love life and Brandon’s mysterious coma, which started after an argument with her. A powerful bond begins to form between her and Brandon’s brother, Christopher, whom she seeks out to help her. Can she retrieve her voice and solve Brandon’s mystery while staying safe from a stalker who won’t give up?

I was delighted to notice how Lena Gibson blends everyday life with a touch of magic, crafting a romantic and thrilling journey of redemption and hope that is perfect for anyone who dares to imagine rewriting their destiny. The setting is meticulously rendered, with scenes stunningly drawn against the backdrop of the familiar and the uncanny—Elizabeth’s home, the museum, and the hospital in 2017. Characters like Christopher, her abuser, Eric, Brandon, and Meghan, as well as Dr. Maeve, are well-drawn, and each contributes to the growing mystery and conflict that moves the story in unexpected directions. The tension is strong, and it grows as the narrative progresses. I was left wondering if Elizabeth can unravel the mystery of Brandon’s coma, uncover the identity of the person stalking her, regain her voice, and find redemption. I also admired how skillfully the author explores Elizabeth’s internal struggles and her determination to change her past. The Wish masterfully explores the potential dangers of time travel, the ethical dilemmas of altering history, and Elizabeth’s quest for connection and closure. This cleverly twisty blend of romance and time travel is character-driven and is a sure winner for readers looking for complex characters and excellent storytelling.