The Umbrella Lady

In this unremarkable series launch from the Andrews franchise (Flowers in the Attic, etc.), Derek Anders tells his eight-year-old daughter, Saffron, they’re moving to a new town after Saffron’s mother dies in a fire that destroys the family’s house. In the middle of their trip, Derek leaves Saffron at a train station, where many hours later Mazy Dazy, a retired schoolteacher, shows up and convinces Saffron to come home with her to wait for her father. Eerily, Mazy’s house has a little girl’s bedroom and clothes that fit Saffron perfectly. As days turn into years and Saffron and Mazy grow closer, Saffron gives up hope her father will return. On occasion, Mazy shows Saffron typed letters she says are from Derek, but he always make excuses for why he isn’t ready for Saffron yet. Whether Mazy is lying to Saffron about Derek provides some mild suspense. Those looking for fast and simple escape reading will be satisfied. Agent: Alec Shane, Writers House. (Feb.)