Hannah Edwards: Secrets of Riverway is an engaging debut novel from author Ashley Hards. In this middle-grade adventure, Hannah, a girl with ADHD, investigates her father’s disappearance while navigating the many challenges of growing up. Read on for our no spoiler review and a free Tween Book Club Kit.

Written for readers ages 9–12 (grades 4–7), this captivating mystery weaves together suspense, humor, and a hint of the supernatural to create an engaging and thoughtful adventure. Through themes of friendship, perseverance, and neurodiversity, the story delivers both page-turning excitement and a heartfelt coming-of-age journey.

Hannah Edwards Synopsis

The story centers on Hannah Edwards, a determined and curious 11 year old girl living in the small town of Riverway. Hannah’s life is turned upside down when her father mysteriously disappears. Her father is missing, her mother is busy taking care of the family farm, and her weird Uncle Fergus is acting quite suspicious! Determined to uncover the truth, Hannah sets out to investigate with the help of her friends Sam and Tim. Along the way, Hannah records clues in her journal and navigates school challenges connected to her ADHD. Hannah even encounters a ghost that may hold important answers about her father’s disappearance.

Kids Non-Spoiler Review:

Hannah Edwards: Secrets of Riverway blends mystery and humor with a hint of the supernatural. Ashley Hards creates an intriguing story that is both adventurous and thoughtful while cleverly reimagining Hamlet for a young audience. She keeps the tone engaging as the plot draws young readers into a town filled with quirky characters and a lot of secrets. Themes of truth, perseverance, and neurodiversity add depth to the page-turning suspense.

Readers both young and old will quickly become invested in this heartfelt coming-of-age journey. During the course of the story, the characters face typical tween challenges. School is tough and they are dealing with hard truths about life while navigating the meaning of friendship. Hannah stands out as a relatable heroine whose persistence through rough waters is admirable. Her friendship with Sam and Tim adds humor along with emotional support. Young readers will easily connect with their dynamic. The fast-paced plot delivers twists and surprising discoveries as each clue brings Hannah closer to the truth. But don’t worry I am not going to spill any of the beans here, You will need to read the book for all the scoop!

Ashley Hards presents complex situations with clarity and care. The book’s themes are both relatable and supportive for middle-grade readers. The story highlights perseverance, resilience, and the importance of embracing individuality. Hannah’s experiences with ADHD provide an authentic and positive portrayal of neurodiversity. Readers clearly see how unique ways of thinking can become real strengths with a bit of perseverance. As Hannah navigates her emotional journey, journaling helps her process her feelings and organize her clues. Hards accurately illustrates the experience of ADHD and the powerful feelings that come along with it.

Hannah Edwards: Secrets of Riverway leaves readers feelings of positivity, hope and inspiration. Hannah’s determination makes her an uplifting and empowering heroine for young readers.

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Hannah Edwards Is An Award Winner!

Children’s Book Council Teacher Favorites 2025
American Bookseller Association Best Books for Young Readers Catalog Pick

About The Author:

Ashley Hards grew up in Calgary, Canada. Ashley was declared “gifted” at age 8 and was diagnosed with ADHD at age 22. When forced to sit still in class, she found books and writing to be the most engaging, especially Shakespeare. She received both her BA and MA in English Literature from McGill University where she now teaches writing and continues her research on Shakespeare and ritual. The vision for Riverway developed over many dark, stormy nights (without wifi or cell signal). Like Hannah, she enjoys journaling. Unlike Hannah, she has not solved any mysteries (yet). Hannah Edwards: Secrets of Riverway is her first book.

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