The Lost Lamb

by Melanie Flynn

208 pages, Paperback

Published October 1, 2025

Reviews

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of the second book in the series.

This installment continues with Rylee Scott and Calum working together on murder cases while also pushing forward the investigation into the serial killer introduced in The Toy Maker. They’ve now been partners for six months and have developed a cautious but growing sense of trust. Cal, reluctant and weighed down by years of unresolved grief, finally asks Rylee for help investigating his missing sister. She was abducted years ago, and although her body was never found, Cal has accepted that she is likely dead—what he truly wants now is closure.

The first book completely hooked me, and I would strongly recommend reading it before jumping into this one. Having the full backstory of these two characters makes the second book even more impactful. The dual POV is handled extremely well and keeps the tension high and the pacing sharp throughout. Dark, intense, and utterly captivating—this sequel deepens the emotional stakes while keeping the suspense relentless.

I loved this book just as much as the first. It’s gripping and emotionally charged, exploring darker themes in a way that feels both unsettling and compelling. My only frustration is the cliffhanger ending—I need the next book immediately, which is always the mark of a great series. At this point, I can confidently say I’ve been converted into an avid follower of this indie author.

Recommended for readers who enjoy dark crime fiction, emotionally layered mysteries, strong character development, and serial killer investigations that focus as much on psychological depth as they do on suspense. Fans of gritty police procedurals and interconnected series will especially love this one.

[Britcrit · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book in the series, the first being The Toy Maker. You need to read The Toy Maker to gain an understanding of the main characters Calum and "Scotty". Calum is the detective and Scotty is a PI with psychic abilities. This follows the cold case of his missing sister from 20 years ago when she was 6 years old. He blames himself for her abduction. They revisit the case and the place he grew up as they look for clues.
Not as put-downable as The Toy Maker, it was still good and I do look forward to the next book.
Lovers of dark stories will like this book and it dies make you think.

[Mary Griffin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lost Lamb was such a gentle and meaningful read. I didn’t expect something so simple to feel this emotional, but it really stayed with me. The story beautifully captures what it feels like to be lost and the comfort of being found again, both literally and in a deeper sense.

What I appreciated most was how the message wasn’t forced it just naturally unfolded through the story. It left me feeling calm, reflective, and honestly a bit uplifted. Definitely a book I’d recommend if you’re looking for something heartfelt and quietly powerful.

[Visionary Impart · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Fast, Gripping Psychic Thriller

The Lost Lamb is a compelling sequel that blends suspense, emotion, and supernatural intrigue perfectly. Rylee Scott and Detective Calum Reese make an amazing team as they juggle a murdered witness and a heartbreaking cold case from Calum’s past.

With sharp twists, strong characters, and a mystery that keeps you hooked, this book is a must-read for fans of paranormal crime thrillers.

[Missy Eames · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, so I definitely enjoyed the story. At times it did feel a bit rushed, but I was happy for a resolution to Cal’s deepest regret. I already want to read the next one, since clearly Brian cannot be trusted. There were some editing errors that I did notice, which sometimes I felt distracted by, but I think it was very poignant when the family was reunited; I almost teared up in the breakroom. I am eager to continue reading about the (copycat? Brian?) Toymaker Killer in the next book.

[Ava · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The Lost Lamb, logic and intuition share the same page. NYPD Detective Calum Reese and psychic investigator Rylee Scott approach a decades-old case from opposite ends of human understanding—evidence and empathy. Flynn’s background in law gives structure to the mystery, while her psychological insight brings depth. The result is a story about how truth often requires both proof and perception.

[Adejori Samuel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book, it is inspiring