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bookish_selkie 's review for:

The Lost Story by Meg Shaffer
3.5
adventurous hopeful medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

The Lost Story follows two boys who went missing long ago and then turned up without a scratch. Where were they? Years later, the men are reunited when the sister of a lost girl asks for their help. As they search the mysterious forest, they are reminded of their own adventures long ago. Can they find Emilie’s missing sister? What truly happened to them in the woods? 

This was my first book from Meg Shaffer and overall I enjoyed it! This was a lighthearted, fast-paced book with inspiration from the Chronicles of Narnia. I enjoyed the portal fantasy element and the queer relationship that unfolded between Rafe and Jeremy. One of my favorite parts was how Rafe and Jeremy were able to find a safe space to be together in the forest. Emilie is a sweet character who is very motivated to find her sister. I didn’t necessarily love the interjections from the Storyteller, but it was a unique storytelling move. Readers who enjoy lighthearted portal fantasies and LGBTQ+ rep should check this book out!

Thank you to Meg Shaffer, Ballantine Books, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.