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The Orbriallis Institute, Lost Grove: Part Two:

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The suspenseful and chilling conclusion to the award-winning Lost Part One.

Nestled among the ancient redwoods, on the fringes of the quaint yet haunted Victorian town of Lost Grove, looms the formidable Orbriallis Institute—a beacon of medical innovation shrouded in secrets. Within its hallowed halls, Dr. Neil Owens reigns, a figure both revered and reviled for his relentless pursuit of scientific advancement. Behind closed doors, whispers of his manic obsession with unraveling the mysteries of human genetics and the unexplained echo through the corridors.

Meanwhile, Sergeant Seth Wolfe grapples with the elusive death of Sarah Elizabeth Grahams. Recent revelations cast a chilling light upon the enigmatic Orbriallis Institute, her last known refuge. Each step forward feels like grasping at smoke, the truth slipping through his fingers like the mist that blankets Lost Grove every night. As Seth's focus narrows on the Orbriallis Institute, he is drawn into a labyrinth of deception, where the doctors' memories are as nebulous as the case itself.

While Seth delves into the shadows in search of Sarah's killer, local teens embark on their own quest for truth. Amidst the tangled threads of Nettie's brother's disappearance and the haunting figure known as the Green Man, their journey leads them down a twisted path of revelation and danger, leaving them torn between their desire for truth and the fear of what they may uncover. Yet, one conviction remains—they must share their knowledge with the only authority they believe they can rely Sergeant Seth Wolfe.

As Seth navigates the treacherous terrain of deception and betrayal, a haunting question looms—could the illustrious Orbriallis Institute be entangled in Sarah's demise and the abduction of a young boy? Or is someone orchestrating an evil scheme, poised to watch the institute crumble? With danger lurking around every corner, Seth must rely on his wits and the help of his newfound allies as he races to uncover the truth before it's too late.

Readers who love the eerie, unsettling mystery of Stephen King’s The Outsider and the paranormal quirks of Mary Stone’s Shadow Island FBI Mystery series will enjoy this twisty, taut thriller.

Kindle Edition

Published October 8, 2024

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About the author

Charlotte Zang

12 books36 followers
Charlotte Zang has three previously published books; Satan’s In Your Kitchen (a romantic comedy between a handsome carpenter, a charming ditz and Satan), Consuming Beauty (a diary of a young woman and a beastly man) and Blooding (a horrific story of monsters and the occult). The fantasy trilogy, Trust of the Magdrid, is complete and currently in the editing phases. She fully believes in fairy tales, magic and following your dreams.

If someone tells you there is no happily ever after, they’re lying.

Consuming Beauty has been adapted into a short film as has one of her short stories. She is a fan of science fiction and fantasy, loves all things kawaii, and collects journals she’ll never write in. She lives in Southern California with three loyal hounds, some impartial cats and her very own vampire husband. When she’s not writing she enjoys gardening, watching a good movie (or a bad one), reading all sorts of genres and cooking ridiculously scrumptious nibblies.

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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
Profile Image for Amina (ⴰⵎⵉⵏⴰ).
1,581 reviews300 followers
November 23, 2024
I'll keep my review short for this one, otherwise, I'll be spoiling!

The Orbriallis Institute was a compelling and thought provoking read, where I felt a sense of tension and uncertainty.
The plot slowly unfolds revealing a multi-layered narrative that did keep me on edge. The characters are deeply nuanced, their internal struggles, memories and perception skillfully explored by the author, left me reflectiong on the reliability of my own thoughts and perceptions.
The eerie and complexe atmosphere of the institute, the "ambition vs ethics" dilemma, the vast cast of characters, the science fiction overtones, the mystery/thriller parts sprinkled here and there, the well woven plot twists and the presence of magic throughout the tale made up for the slow pace that I experienced at the beginning of the book and made this read a very enjoyable one!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Rebel.
2,654 reviews
October 6, 2024
Charlotte Zang delivers an electrifying conclusion in The Orbriallis Institute: Lost Grove Part Two, a suspenseful, heart-pounding ride that will leave fans of eerie mysteries and psychological thrillers breathless. As someone who loves stories that weave together dark secrets, chilling twists, and paranormal intrigue, this second part of the Lost Grove saga is a perfect continuation of the haunting mystery that began in Part One.

Zang’s writing shines as she immerses us deeper into the foreboding atmosphere of Lost Grove, where ancient redwoods tower over a town riddled with shadows and secrets. The Orbriallis Institute, once a beacon of medical hope, now stands as a sinister fortress, its enigmatic leader, Dr. Neil Owens, teetering on the edge of madness in his obsessive quest for scientific discovery. The suspense is palpable as whispers of unethical experiments and concealed truths pulse through the institute’s halls, drawing both Sergeant Seth Wolfe and a group of determined local teens into its tangled web.

What makes this book so gripping is the dual narrative that allows us to follow Seth’s investigation into the mysterious death of Sarah Elizabeth Grahams while the teens seek to unravel the truth behind Nettie’s brother's disappearance and the haunting presence of the Green Man. Both storylines are rich with tension, constantly raising the stakes and leading us to question just how deep the Orbriallis Institute’s secrets go. Zang masterfully keeps readers on edge as each revelation leads to more questions, creating a labyrinth of deceit, memory lapses, and chilling supernatural undertones that feel reminiscent of Stephen King's eerie storytelling.

Seth Wolfe, with his determined pursuit of justice, shines as a protagonist who is both intelligent and vulnerable, grappling with the ever-elusive truth behind Sarah's demise and the murky involvement of the institute. The teens’ journey, however, adds a layer of youthful bravery and curiosity, contrasting beautifully with the dark, ominous tone of the story. Their courage in the face of danger makes their perspective equally compelling, as they navigate the fine line between seeking truth and uncovering horrors that they might not be prepared to face.

The tension builds toward a thrilling, twisty climax that does not disappoint. Zang’s pacing is spot-on, allowing the mystery to unfold in a way that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end. The psychological twists, combined with the supernatural elements, make for a truly captivating tale. The small-town setting, with its Victorian charm turned menacing, adds to the atmosphere, making the entire experience feel claustrophobic yet impossible to escape.

For fans of dark, suspenseful mysteries like The Outsider or Shadow Island, The Orbriallis Institute: Lost Grove Part Two delivers a heart-racing, edge-of-your-seat experience. It’s a satisfying, eerie conclusion to a story that will linger long after the final page, leaving you questioning who, or what, can be trusted in the twisted world of Lost Grove.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kevin Buck.
114 reviews2 followers
October 8, 2024
I eagerly waited for this book, the sequel to Lost Grove and I wasn't disappointed.

I became attached to all the characters introduced in part 1. The authors have absolutely mastered describing them in detail. They're written so well. That holds true for the children too.

This sequel is still set in the small town of Lost Grove and they have conveyed the feeling wonderfully. The fog. The tree. The small town vibe. You're there walking the streets holding a coffee.

It's a noir thriller. It's a mystery. It's horror. It's all those and a page turner.

If you like Stranger Things or the X-Files this series is for you. It'll keep you on the edge of your seat. Or couch.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Neena.
Author 1 book85 followers
September 5, 2024
In their sequel to Lost Grove: Part One, Charlotte Zang and Alex Knudsen seamlessly blend mystery with the supernatural. Hidden within the redwoods near Lost Grove, the Orbriallis Institute stands as a symbol of medical progress cloaked in secrecy. Dr. Neil Owens, a divisive figure, spearheads cutting-edge genetic research behind its closed doors.

However, when Sergeant Seth Wolfe begins investigating the suspicious death of Sarah Elizabeth Grahams, the institute’s dark secrets start to unravel. As Seth and local teens dig deeper, they stumble upon disturbing truths about a missing boy and the ominous Green Man. With danger closing in, Seth must untangle the web of lies surrounding Orbriallis before time runs out.

Blending horror, fantasy, science fiction, and crime, the authors maintain the eerie tone of their previous work while driving the plot forward at a gripping pace. Their vivid descriptions create an immersive atmosphere, and their focus on character development and internal conflicts adds significant depth to the story. Sergeant Seth Wolfe’s relentless pursuit of justice for Sarah drives the narrative, pulling him into the shadows of the institute, where the truth remains elusive. The authors capture Seth’s frustration and resolve with precision, making him a relatable and compelling protagonist.

Dr. Neil Owens embodies the conflict between ambition and ethics, pushing the limits of human understanding while grappling with the consequences of his actions. The novel is further enriched by Lost Grove’s colorful cast of eccentric characters, who add layers to the story. The subplot involving local teens investigating Nettie’s brother’s disappearance and the mysterious Green Man introduces additional complexity, contrasting the innocence of youth with the darker elements of the plot. This contrast creates a sense of urgency and danger that propels the narrative forward.

The dialogue is sharp, and the pacing expertly balances suspense with the exploration of the novel’s deeper themes. As the threads of Sarah’s death, a missing baby, and the institute’s secrets converge, the story builds to a climactic and satisfying conclusion. The authors delve into the ethical dilemmas that arise from the pursuit of scientific progress, particularly in the medical field, while also examining the consuming nature of obsession, the intricacies of human relationships, and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets.

The inclusion of supernatural elements, such as visions, adds another layer of complexity, illustrating how human experience often intertwines with the inexplicable, challenging our understanding of reality. A compelling read that lingers long after the final page.
Profile Image for Book Reviewer.
4,851 reviews447 followers
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September 18, 2024
The Orbriallis Institute - Lost Grove: Part Two is a captivating and unique tale, blending mystery with a sense of eerie suspense. From the very first paragraphs, the reader is plunged into a creepy and enigmatic situation that immediately sparks curiosity and compels you to keep turning the pages. The writing is gripping, pulling you deeper into the story with each detailed description that vividly brings the scenarios to life. Set in the small, quiet town of Lost Grove, the book's atmosphere is beautifully crafted, evoking a sense of unease in the reader. The town's eerie silence, coupled with the mysteries and secrets that the characters harbor, creates a palpable tension. As the story unfolds, each new character introduced adds another layer to the intrigue, and their connections gradually reveal the larger narrative at play.

The characters themselves are fascinating, with some exuding an unsettling, almost creepy vibe. The author excels at painting vivid pictures of both the people and the settings, making it easy to immerse yourself in the world of Lost Grove. This depth of detail enhances the reading experience, allowing you to fully delve into the lives of the characters and become engrossed in the unfolding mystery. The author's writing style is one of the highlights of Lost Grove. It is consistently engaging and richly descriptive, never faltering in its ability to draw the reader in. The combination of intriguing characters, a well-paced plot, and a hauntingly atmospheric setting makes this book a standout in the mystery and horror genre. The character development in Lost Grove, Part Two is also commendable. The authors skillfully depict the complexities of the characters' relationships, particularly the bond between Noble and his sister Zoe, and the tension surrounding Nettie’s belief in the "Green Man." The way the characters grapple with their fears and the unknown adds depth to the story, making it not just a mystery, but also a compelling exploration of human emotions under pressure. I also appreciated the book's handling of the supernatural elements, which are introduced with a subtlety that makes them feel grounded in the world of Lost Grove. The hints of folklore and the mysteries surrounding the Orbriallis Institute create a rich backdrop for the story.

I would recommend The Orbriallis Institute: Lost Grove: Part Two to anyone who enjoys mysterious and horror-filled tales. The author's skillful use of description and character development makes it a compelling read from start to finish. Whether you're a seasoned fan of the genre or just looking for a good book to get lost in, Lost Grove is sure to satisfy.
37 reviews
October 7, 2024
Is there finally justice for Sarah? Who is the Green Man and his "not children"? And what in the world is happening inside the Orbriallis institute? Action, mystery, sci-fi, paranormal and just a touch of romance are all rolled up in this wonderful series. The first book in this series was very good and left off on a cliffhanger. Needless to say, I was super excited to read the next book. It did not disappoint! Fair warning, it is a very long book (600+ pages). The story picks up exactly where it left off without much recap, so you have to read Lost Grove, book 1 first. All of the back story is in book 1, so you get right into the action from the first chapter. Once I picked it up, I could not stop reading. There is a lot of action and mystery and not much in the way of filler, such as long, unrelated conversations that drag on for multiple pages, or needless "what should we do?" moments. They make a decision and go with it. I was really impressed with the close relationships within the core friend group. They really looked out for each other and were very accepting of those who were a bit different. Also, the authors handled trauma realistically. So many stories have horror, death and mayhem and then everyone is laughing and joking after all is said and done. The characters in this story, reacted in a way that real people would if they were subjected to such terrible events. No spoilers, but the story ended well, with most things being wrapped up fairly neatly, with a few exceptions. There are several characters that the authors hinted at them having special abilities. And others that have them, but only a small part of what they can do was addressed. Which made me wonder, are there more stories to be told about this fascinating town? Are there more books to come about all of the characters? If so, I am really excited to hear more!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Sandra Vdplaats.
593 reviews19 followers
October 6, 2024
I enjoyed reading the first part immensely and was eagerly looking forward to this second part.

While I was able to get through the first part quickly, I had to struggle through this long spooky tale on a regular basis. It's hard to say what the reason was: The inhabitants of Lost Grove have become familiar to me by now, but where the first book is mostly narrative, with many references to famous (horror-) films, I found myself missing that a bit in this second installment. It's nothing to do with the author, I just don't like too much dialogue in books, and at times I felt like it lacked that creepiness from the first book.
The characters are described at length, but I felt that this was at the expense of the plot and the pacing of the story. Especially in the middle, with Paddy's questioning about where his friend Peter is. That part took too long for me. There were other side-plots that were a distraction from the plot, which in my opinion was regrettable.

The story really picks up after page 170. I liked Seth's 'spirit walk' very much, as well as the spelunking at night, which reminded me a bit of the Dark series.
Unfortunately, many questions remain unanswered at the end, so I have mixed feelings about this. Looking back, I wonder if the story could have been shortened, in such that the two volumes could be joined as one single book. I think with any sequel, there is a danger that it will fall short of the success of the first part.

3.5 stars. Thank you Booksirens for the arc.
Profile Image for Wofford Jones.
Author 15 books68 followers
October 8, 2024
The Orbriallis Institute, Lost Grove, Book 2 is a stout follow-up—a climactic and satisfying ending—to the Lost Grove duology. Placing this book into a certain genre is hard because it is a multi-genre tale. My first gut instinct is to classify it as a mystery. This tale is steeped in one gigantic mystery with tendrils of other smaller mysteries branching off from it that create mounting intrigue, and all seem to circle back to the title of this book.

Aside from the main artery of mystery, there are powerful elements of the supernatural and compelling paranormal characteristics. There are strong science fiction overtones dealing with the Institute and the secret inhuman experiments they do there. And there are many suspense and thriller moments sprinkled throughout. It all adds to an intricately woven story and an engrossing read with unexpected twists. However, the one main ingredient that this story has is an abundance of magic. There is big magic throughout this tale. You find yourself smiling because that magic seeps out when you least expect it.

I have been a fan of Charlotte Zang and Alex J. Knudsen’s literary works for some time now, but this is an elite work (Books 1 and 2) that propels them into an even higher realm of awe with me. I do hope they will continue writing as a team because this is a magical tale that will resonate in my mind for many years to come. I anxiously await any story they produce, either singularly or as a writing team.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Pamela Sewell.
417 reviews23 followers
September 18, 2024
Book Sirens eARC. I read and reviewed the first entry of this duology so was very glad to have the opportunity to peruse the conclusion.... I had questions!!! Police officer Seth Wolfe continues to investigate the grisly death of Sarah Grahame whose body was found on a local beach. Aided by a group of local teens and other townspeople suspicion falls on a nearby research facility. When other deaths ensue it becomes evident that all is not well at the institute. I was intrigued by the authors' setting of small town America with everyday residents but the tantalizing interjection of "other". Yet the unusual elements in no way detracted from the primary story line of police procedural. The blending of supernatural, fantasy and crime thriller might not work for every reader but I found it engaging and compelling. I would definitely read other narratives from these authors as it wss entertaining.
Profile Image for merlin513.
378 reviews6 followers
December 2, 2024
At my age I'm attempting to thin out physical copies of books so, you know, if I'm intending to purchase actual in-hand volumes that it's a book/series I LOVE! aaand I'm gonna be getting in-hand copies of 'Lost Grove' and 'The Orbriallis Institute'!

'The Orbriallis Institute' picks up immediately after 'Lost Grove' so if you haven't read this first book be sure to go back and read it FIRST! This is basically the second movement in one big play and it expands upon the occurrences in book one.

Lots of action! I love, love, love the characters, main and side. Very well thought out plot and comes to a satisfying conclusion. There 'are' a few small loose ends hanging so hopefully that means we'll be seeing more of Lost Grove and it's denizens!

If you are a fan of Twin Peaks, Stranger Things or Welcome to Night Vale you will love these books!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Tina Lincoln.
472 reviews6 followers
October 1, 2024
Medical Obsession that questions many things!
A thriller that will make you question big pharma in a small town. What is ok to further medical miracles?
This story continues, but also leaves many other things open to your own conclusion and wonder. What might come of the next generation of what was created?
I loved the open-ended thoughts of this book, as in where it might go after this. It also shows us how something morally wrong can get by in today's society and legal system.
Thank you, Charlotte Zang & Alex J. Knudsen, for a great story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Snowy.
281 reviews23 followers
October 13, 2024
4.5 Stars

I was so excited to start the next installment in this series. The end of the last one left me excited and gasping. The gasping continued in part two. You definitely can tell the authors really put thought and consideration into the plot etc. Picking up part two was like starting the second VHS tape in a two tape vid. This was very well written and I cannot wait to continue reading these two. I am off now to start part one again to read right thru the end of part two, because I can and want to :)

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Gilbert Wilcox.
53 reviews5 followers
October 19, 2024
more please

I want back stories on the adult characters, including Story lol. Knew a Story once but that's a tale for another time...
Profile Image for Tony.
195 reviews1 follower
November 26, 2024
Well written. Inventive. Kept me interested. I really enjoyed the plot line. I would recommend this to all ages. Nice clean budding romances and friendships. I will be looking for the next book.
313 reviews4 followers
December 3, 2025
Great read!

Absolutely love this series! Great writing and great characters, such an interesting tale. I’m on to the next. More please :)
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews

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