The Lost Story
Meg Shaffer

Jeremy and Rafe were best friends when they went missing only to reappear six months later. They go on to live their lives for the next fifteen years, one becoming an investigator and the other an artist. When another girl goes missing in the same forest, they know the frightening dangers that the magical realm holds and they know they must help.

This book really surprised me, it was a beautiful heartwarming story. I loved the way the boys, or men, came back together in order to help the girl. This is a must read for me personally.

Thank you to Random House Publishing and NetGalley for an advanced ebook in exchange for my honest opinions.

Read this in hardcover as a pick by Jenny Lawson's Fantastic Strangelings bookclub. Dark Narnia vibes with secrets and lovely characters.

Oh this was a good one! This author always has the most unique stories told with voices that are so different than the norm!
A great story with great characters!

I read this book about a month ago and am still flip flopping on how I feel about it. I’m not usually a fantasy reader, but was drawn in by the storyline. However, I never felt connected by the characters and felt like the relationship was more of a distraction and not well done. I could see how people might love this one though.

"The Lost Story" lacked compelling characters and plot, making it a struggle to stay engaged throughout.

If you enjoy stories inspired but The Chronicles of Narnia, then you need to read this one!

Secret lands, forgotten memories, found family, and adventure. Would definitely recommend this one.

I was so disappointed in this book after The Wishing Game was my favorite book of 2023. I was turned off as soon as the lgbtq stuff entered the story. So frustrating giving the connection with CS Lewis. So much potential ruined by agendas.

This is a heartfelt and enchanting novel that explores the power of storytelling and the bond between generations. While the plot may be predictable at times, the emotional depth and charming characters make it a satisfying and comforting read. It's a lovely tribute to the ways stories shape our lives, and readers who enjoy emotional family dramas will find much to appreciate here.

This book was so much fun. If you’re looking for a whimsical, Narnia vibes read with some LGBTQIA rep, this is the book for you. I loved the characters, they all brought their own unique personalities to add to the story. This is more of a cozy fantasy, the stakes aren’t super high, but the world Meg builds is so much fun. There are some deeper topics discussed briefly, I appreciate how Meg Shaffer decided to address those. I really love Meg’s writing, she gets you immersed in the world and makes you feel like you are in the story with the characters. Definitely would recommend, I’m looking forward to more Meg Shaffer books in the future!

This story made me feel all of the feelings. One the fmc is relatable, silly, and kind. She has a big heart, and she is dealing with a lot of loneliness. The two male main characters are compelling in their own ways, and are individually heartstoppers. There is LGBTQ+ rep, and a lovely relationship. There is amazing Narnia vibes. There is mystery. There is yearning. It truly was a great end to my 2024 reading, and one of my most memorable reads of the year.

Meg Shaffer is a master at creating beautiful and fantastical worlds. The Lost Story brings you back to childhood memories and nostalgia and so perfectly captures the essence of youth, viewed through the eyes of an adult. This was a quick read that transported me into a new world and wove an enchanting story!

Meg Shaffer is an author I will continue to pick up books from. Her premises are so unique and I’ve really enjoyed both of the books I’ve read from her. The Lost Story is so magical and if you were a fantasy reader as a child (Chronicles of Narnia) this is going to feel very nostalgic! I recommend going into this book not knowing too much and letting the story take you on a wild ride!

This was a great magical realism read! The romance was enjoyable in this one and the characters were really diverse and interesting to read about! The plot was easy to get into and enjoyable to follow along to! Overall a great read!

I was highly anticipating this book after reading The Wishing Game and The Lost Story has officially set Meg Shaffer as a MUST READ author for me. I will read whatever she writes us. This book, like the last, is magical realism at it's finest. I cannot wait to see where Meg takes us next. I mean, I was keeping notes of some of my favorite lines. The Stevie Nicks quotes!

"I want to look death in the face and boop his nose".

I followed along with the audio, narrated by Jorjeana Marie. She brought all of the characters to life and did the story justice. Oh and the corrrect pronunciation of the Monongahela was very much appreciated as a western Pennsylvanian. Whether you ear read or eye read this one, you are in for a treat.

"All books are magic. An object that can take you to another world without even leaving your room. A story written by a stranger and yet it seems they wrote it just for you. Or to you".

SO GOOD.

I received an advanced copy of this book, all opinions are my own.

Easy 5 stars here! I love Meg Shaffer, and this book did not disappoint! The blending of fantasy and reality, the friendship development, it was all too notch.

Fans of the Wishing Game will enjoy this, although it's not as engrossing. Will look forward to Meg Shaffer's next effort.

I’ve been looking forward to this follow-up to The Wishing Game. While it was an enjoyable enough read, the story overall felt a little disjointed to me, almost like the first and second half were from entirely different books.

“The Lost Story” by Meg Shaffer is a captivating and emotionally rich novel that weaves together the themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of storytelling. The narrative centers around a woman named Iris, who, after receiving a mysterious letter, embarks on a journey to uncover the truth behind a hidden manuscript. The novel explores the intersection of family secrets, literary legacy, and personal healing, drawing readers into its heartfelt narrative.

Shaffer’s writing is lyrical and immersive, with vivid descriptions and a nuanced portrayal of the characters’ emotional landscapes. Iris is a compelling protagonist, her journey of self-discovery and reconciliation with her past resonating deeply. The novel’s pacing is steady, allowing for moments of reflection that deepen the reader’s connection to the story’s themes.

One of the most engaging aspects of *The Lost Story* is its exploration of the role stories play in shaping our lives and identities. Shaffer deftly shows how the past, particularly through the lens of a forgotten manuscript, can inform and even transform the present. There’s a poignant message about the importance of preserving personal history and the ways in which stories—whether written, passed down, or rediscovered—can provide the answers we seek about ourselves and those we love.

While some plot twists may feel predictable, the emotional payoff is undeniably strong. *The Lost Story* is a tale about healing, reconciling with loss, and understanding the impact of those who came before us. Meg Shaffer has created a heartfelt, literary exploration of memory, legacy, and the stories that bind us all.

For fans of books that explore the intersection of mystery, emotional depth, and the beauty of storytelling, *The Lost Story* is a rewarding read.

*The Lost Story* by Meg Shaffer is a heartwarming, magical journey that feels like a big gay hug. The blend of whimsical storytelling, deep emotional resonance, and complex, lovable characters makes it impossible not to be fully immersed in the world Shaffer creates. With its mix of tender moments and heartfelt romance, this novel is a perfect escape that earns every one of its five stars—truly an enchanting read for anyone seeking warmth, love, and a sense of belonging.

I was excited to read this one as Meg Shaffer's The Wishing Game was one of my favorite reads of last year. I didn't love this one as much (my expectations might have been too high), but it was a fun fantasy and I love the way she brings magic to the everyday world. The romance was sweet! Recommend for those looking for an adult, but sweet standalone fantasy!

Thanks to #NetGalley and the publishers for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review!