Review of 'Sing Me Forgotten'

Isda does not exist. At least not beyond the opulent walls of the opera house.

Cast into a well at birth for being one of the magical few who can manipulate memories when people sing, she was saved by Cyril, the opera house's owner. Since that day, he has given her sanctuary from the murderous world outside. All he asks in return is that she use her power to keep ticket sales high--and that she stay out of sight. For if anyone discovers she survived, Isda and Cyril would pay with their lives.

But Isda breaks Cyril's cardinal rule when she meets Emeric Rodin, a charming boy who throws her quiet, solitary life out of balance. His voice is unlike any she's ever heard, but the real shock comes when she finds in his memories hints of a way to finally break free of her gilded prison.

Haunted by this possibility, Isda spends more and more time with Emeric, searching for answers in his music and his past. But the price of freedom is steeper than Isda could ever know. For even as she struggles with her growing feelings for Emeric, she learns that in order to take charge of her own destiny, she must become the monster the world tried to drown in the first place.

Review

Sing Me Forgotten takes a turn at retelling Phantom of the Opera in such a way that makes it stand out and apart from the original and other retellings.

Grounded Storytelling

I have to say I was pleasantly impressed with the development of Sing Me Forgotten.

The growth between Isda and Emeric and the illusions to Phantom of the Opera draw me in instantly. However, the way the story itself develops is what makes Sing Me Forgotten stand out.

Admittedly there is that first 25% of the story that is a tad slow. The pacing does run the risk of alienating the reader. However, with the combination of world-building and history, the reader is drawn in. Olson sets up the stage for the reader, giving the reader a solid footing to lose themselves within Isda’s world. And the reader does.

It also helps that the use of French and the scene structure and detail create this image of pre-revolutionary France. Of course, this is not France, but the illusion is there to ground the reader, making it more accessible.

Olson did an incredible job of setting up the story, giving Sing Me Forgotten an atmosphere and history that pulls the reader in.

Honestly, watching Isda go through catacombs and secret passageways of an opera house makes the story so engaging.

Great Characterization

Isda goes on an incredible journey in Sing Me Forgotten. Born with a mark on her face that announces her identity as one who can manipulate memories with song and magic, Isda keeps out of sight. Those born with her power are put to death the moment they are born. However, lucky for her, Cyril saved her.

Isda’s whole journey is one of finding freedom, love, and discovering her self-worth, and it is an incredible journey. Her ferocity shines as she grows to accept her power, grows to accept herself, and sees herself not as others would, as a monster, but rather as a girl, just a girl.

I also love her dynamic with Cyril and Emeric. Both men have strong impacts on her life and impact the way she grows as a character. Cyril is the only father figure she has ever known, and Emeric is the only other person to see her beyond her magic. Both of these characters interact with her, bring out different sides of her personality and her voice, creating believable growth between their relationships.

Final Thoughts

Sing Me Forgotten broke my heart. The ending was bittersweet and gut-wrenching, leading to a compelling and fitting ending worthy of an opera.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

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About the Author

Cynthia Bujnicki graduated from Emerson College with a BA in Writing, Literature and Publishing. She has always loved to read since she was a child. A contributing writer for YA Fantasy Addicts, she is also the Editor-in-Chief for Cyn's Workshop. She lives in sunny South Florida with her husband and son and their two cats, Mr. J the Kitten and Nyx.