Author: Olivia Wildenstein
Genre/Age: Fantasy/YA
Series: The Lost Clan Series (Book One)
Publisher: Self-published
Format: ebook (novella) via Netgalley
Rating: ✺✺✺.5
Links: Goodreads
Synopsis: Ancient secrets cannot remain buried forever.
Founded two centuries ago by an aloof and powerful tribe of Gottwa Indians, Rowan was a quiet town, so quiet that I fled after graduation. Staying away was the plan, but Mom died suddenly, so I rushed home.
Dad said she suffered a stroke after she dug up one of the ancient graves in our backyard, which happens to be the town cemetery. Creepy, I know. Creepier still, there was no corpse inside the old coffin, only fresh rose petals.
As we made preparations for Mom’s burial, Cruz, the new medical examiner, arrived. I should have felt relieved, but how could I? He was unnervingly handsome, glowed like a human firefly, and knew absolutely nothing about examining dead bodies.
But, he did know what killed my mother…or rather who.
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for honest review.**
Even though I read this novella in one evening, I needed a couple of days to process my feelings about it. I think I've finally gathered my thoughts. For me, there was a lot to like and dislike about this book. I'll start with what I liked.
The cover is great! It was what drew me to the book to begin with. The synopsis was also intriguing. I read it several weeks ago and something about a medical examiner who knows nothing about his job stuck with me. I had no idea that this book was actually about fairies until I read it.
I also really liked the secret fae world that the author is building. The Native American twist was interesting and unique and I am thoroughly fascinated by the history of the fairies in this series. If for no other reason, I would read the subsequent book in order to learn more about them.
Although, at times, Catori's disposition was obnoxious to me, I still liked her well enough. I forgave her since I realize her mother just passed away and having experienced death of family, myself, I can relate to feeling out of sorts and grouchy. Cruz, the mysterious medical examiner (who isn't a medical examiner) peaked my interest, too.
But because the book was so short and the pacing was so quick, I didn't really feel connected to any of the characters in particular. It seemed when a significant moment would occur, and answers to what the heck was happening were about to be answered, something or someone would interfere. And because of it, I have no idea who to trust or root for.
The worst gripe I have is with the ending. To say it is an abrupt cliffhanger would be an understatement. We get into a serious scene and then are left wanting, if not a bit annoyed.
I am hopeful (and the author has confirmed) that the next book in the series will be a full-length novel. My fingers are crossed that the story will build further and the characters will become more fleshed out. Still, it was a good read. 3.5 suns!
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