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!

This was an absolutely delightful grown-up gay Narnia-style story with just the right balance of lightheartedness and exploration of trauma.

A cute story that felt a lot like a modern retelling of Narnia. Geared more toward young adult than what I typically like but a good book that my teenage daughter would enjoy

Lost Story had that magical nostalgia of all the books I loved as a kid! I can see this book becoming an instant classic, right up there with The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe! This book was very fun and I can’t wait to read more from this author!

Magical!

I absolutely loved this book, and now Meg Shaffer is on my automatic buy list. I can go ahead and tell you the background, or you can read it from everyone else who has summarized. Instead, I will tell you how this book made me feel.

I felt love. I felt warmth. Not a cozy mystery warmth but an embrace from true love warmth.

I loved the background and how the story started out, giving us details of Jeremy, how he meets Emilie, and then Rafe, who is the quiet, caring, artistic type. I love how the author got them together and set them on an adventure. If I could have one tiny wish, it would be that there was a bit more to the adventure. Maybe in a follow-up book?

All-in-all, I really enjoyed the characters and the magic. Hoping we see more of everyone soon...

This story was like a portal to a magical realm. It reminded me a lot of stories I read as a child growing up with an adult twist. I look forward to reading more by this author.

I absolutely loved The Wishing Game and it was one of my favorite reads of 2024, however The Lost Story fell flat for me. I found it to be much more YA than TWG, had undeveloped characters, and some plot holes. I love a coming of age romance, but found the love story between the two boys to be uncomfortable and under developed. I look forward to reading what else Meg comes out with, bieber, this one just wasn’t for me!