Forgotten Lyrics: A Watersong Story by Amanda Hocking

What's better than a free book?  Not much, in my opinion.  But when you WIN a contest on an author's Facebook page and she gifts you the ebook of your choice....that's pretty cool.  That's how I came to read this book, in fact.  Side note/piece of free advice: if you aren't actively following your favorite author/authors on Facebook, I encourage you to do so.  Not only will you connect with other readers and gain some insight into your favorite author, you may also win something! 

Our loyal blog followers (Hi Mom!) will remember that I am an Amanda Hocking fan.  I've done other reviews of her books here and here.  In short, I like her work so I was not surprised that I liked this one too.  The difference between this one and the other Hocking books I have read is that is a novella.  Translation:  quick, easy read to make me feel better about having a stack of 8-10 books next to my bed in my "To Be Read" pile.  Need to feel accomplished?  Read a novella.

In this version, Daniel and John, two brothers are the unfortunate victims of a boating accident.  It's a bad one, too.  Enter Aggie, a siren with magical powers who breaks all sorts of siren rules (there are lots of those in their species, apparently) trying to save Daniel.  She risks being seen and brings a near-death Daniel to Delia, a secret a healer with special powers.  It is there that Daniel begins to heal and then continues his journey with Lydia, Delia's granddaughter.  Lydia is convinced she is the wrong person for the job, but does it anyway.  Besides, her grandmother said so, right?  Throughout the healing process, Daniel struggles with the details surrounding the accident and rescue.  Lydia and Daniel navigate the ordeal together and form what is a touching and possibly long-lasting relationship. And oh, I forgot to mention that this is part of the whole Watersong series by Hocking that is wildly popular.

Like I said, I am an Amanda Hocking fan.  I like her stuff, so I read it.  You know what else? I also have realistic expectations.   But there is a whole faction of her fans that is upset with this novella and have crucified her for even putting it out.  They complained it was too short (it's a novella, people!).  They complained that the boat accident scene was too long.  They wanted more character development.  And last but not least, they wanted more of the story to focus on Aggie.  Attention unrealistic readers: This isn't going to win the Pulitzer Prize.  It currently costs $1.99 on Kindle and nook.  And it's only 60 pages, for pete's sake!  Take it for what it is and get on with your life.

For me, it was entertaining and a nice (short) break from some of the heavier reads I have been trying to get through. You can definitely read it as a stand-alone or in conjunction with the entire series.  Either way, I recommend it.  And please, go easy on your favorite author.