The Hidden Life of Cecily Larson

“A sprawling, beautiful delight of a novel spanning nearly a century as four generations gradually peel back the layers of long-buried family secrets that may just change everything. ... I immensely enjoyed this sweeping, heartrending, emotional roller coaster of a tale, which made me laugh, cry, and think about the true meaning of family."

— Kristin Harmel, New York Times bestselling author of The Paris Daughter

The Hidden Life of Cecily Larson

The HarperCollins Winter 2024 Lead Read! A March Indie Next pick! Available now!

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Praise for The Hidden Life of Cecily Larson

“A family secret, a DNA test, a journey as rich and colorful as the early-day circus itself. Through Cecily Larson’s hidden life, Ellen Baker tenderly examines personal determination, lost love, family ties, and our innate need to discover our own truth.”

Lisa Wingate, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Before We Were Yours and Before and After

"Unforgettable. Baker's electrifying tale is a haunting testament to the complex intersections of familial bonds driven by a remarkable courage which can only be found in hope."

Kim Michele Richardson, New York Times bestselling author of The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek series 

“Ellen Baker has written the quintessential escape novel, whose overflowing plot involves three generations of women, family secrets, a one-ring circus (really), and the pleasure of historical flashbacks. Light a fire and settle in.”

—Monica Wood, author of The One-in-a-Million Boy

“The Hidden Life of Cecily Larson is a deeply satisfying, multi-generational rollercoaster of a novel written in gorgeous prose and with characters that ring so true you want to reach out and touch them. I savored every page of this book and will remember the story of Cecily and Lucky for a very long time to come.”

Tara Conklin, New York Times bestselling author of The Last Romantics and Community Board

“The Hidden Life Of Cecily Larson explores the lasting legacy of love, family, loss, and luck, beautifully told through the lives of an extended family. It is heartbreaking, yet redeeming, and shines a light on the power of hope. I loved Ellen’s storytelling.”

Crystal Smith Paul, author of Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?

“Part genetic mystery and part adventure story, The Hidden Life of Cecily Larson takes readers on a riveting ride through America, spanning nearly a century of history, heartbreak, and—most importantly—hope. At the center of the novel is one impossible love story, whose reverberations echo through the generations in surprising ways. With rich, original settings, determined characters, and countless twists and turns, Ellen Baker has written a deeply felt novel about families, both lost and found.”

Thao Thai, author of Banyan Moon

A Top Book of the Season

Discover the story behind The Hidden Life of Cecily Larson from author Ellen Baker, here.

I would love to join your book club via Zoom!

Are you reading THE HIDDEN LIFE OF CECILY LARSON in your book club in April, May or June? Just email me and I’ll join your meeting by Zoom!

Upcoming Events

  • Indy Book & Author Luncheon

    Friday, April 26

    The Indy Book & Author Luncheon benefits the Frances Carter Coburn Scholarship program and the educational programs at the Christamore House, Indianapolis. TICKETS ARE SOLD OUT.

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  • "Finding Our Way" @ Camden Opera House

    Thursday, May 2 at 7 p.m.

    Ellen will be among the notable Mainers featured in thls Moth-style event, all telling stories of finding their way in theater, art, business, writing, dance, education, and the great outdoors. A fundraiser for Wayfinder Schools.

    Get tickets

  • Reading/Talk @ Bristol Area Library

    Wednesday, July 17 at 5 p.m.

    Ellen will read from and discuss THE HIDDEN LIFE OF CECILY LARSON in this informal gathering at the Bristol Area Library, Bristol, Maine.

    More information