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Hymn for the Forsaken
Some homes are worth fighting for. Others demand a price.
Generations of Appalachian magic kept Ina Klee's family land protected. Now a ruthless tech company—and a wealthy family hiding dangerous enchantments—threaten everything she's sworn to protect.
Hidden among overgrown fields and old traditions, the land she shares with her grandmother isn't just home—it's where generations of Klee women have crafted supernatural tinctures rooted in ancient power.
Determined to stop the massive data center from consuming her family land, Ina finds herself fighting a battle she can't afford to win—until Natalie Cuppy arrives.
Beautiful, intelligent, and connected to one of the region's wealthiest families, Natalie offers friendship, support, and a glimpse into a world Ina has never known. Wealth. Stability. Security. Everything she's gone without.
But beneath the Cuppy family's generosity lies something far darker. Their power wasn't built on money alone. Enchanted, ruthless, and willing to destroy anyone who stands against them, the Cuppys have been taking what they want for generations—and every favor they offer comes with a price.
As pressure closes in and buried secrets rise to the surface, Ina discovers that protecting her home may cost more than losing it. It may cost who she becomes.
Generations of Appalachian magic kept Ina Klee's family land protected. Now a ruthless tech company—and a wealthy family hiding dangerous enchantments—threaten everything she's sworn to protect.
Hidden among overgrown fields and old traditions, the land she shares with her grandmother isn't just home—it's where generations of Klee women have crafted supernatural tinctures rooted in ancient power.
Determined to stop the massive data center from consuming her family land, Ina finds herself fighting a battle she can't afford to win—until Natalie Cuppy arrives.
Beautiful, intelligent, and connected to one of the region's wealthiest families, Natalie offers friendship, support, and a glimpse into a world Ina has never known. Wealth. Stability. Security. Everything she's gone without.
But beneath the Cuppy family's generosity lies something far darker. Their power wasn't built on money alone. Enchanted, ruthless, and willing to destroy anyone who stands against them, the Cuppys have been taking what they want for generations—and every favor they offer comes with a price.
As pressure closes in and buried secrets rise to the surface, Ina discovers that protecting her home may cost more than losing it. It may cost who she becomes.
286 pages, Paperback
Published October 20, 2026
About the author
Megan Lynch
6 books60 followersMegan Lynch is the author of several stories for children, teens, and adults. Her books have received national recognition from SCBWI, Bookfest, and ALA Booklist, and she gathers her inspiration from her deep love of people and nature. She lives with her family in a small town in Ohio.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
October 8, 2026
I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and voluntarily will be giving my honest review. This is an Appalachian Gothic Thriller with magic and crows!! Love the crows and definitely will be getting my trophy copy of this book!! This is great for the spooky season!! Ina, a girl who had to drop out of high school after her grandfather dies and has to support her grandmother. She struggles to make ends meet, and things become even harder when they lose their home and become homeless. I love Appalachian Gothic vibes and magic!! Absolutely loved this book!!
“Perfect for fans of Appalachian gothic, witchcraft, folk horror, morally gray heroines, and slow-burning supernatural suspense, Hymn of the Forsaken is a haunting dark fantasy about power, inheritance, and the terrifying price of refusing to surrender.”
“Perfect for fans of Appalachian gothic, witchcraft, folk horror, morally gray heroines, and slow-burning supernatural suspense, Hymn of the Forsaken is a haunting dark fantasy about power, inheritance, and the terrifying price of refusing to surrender.”
August 18, 2026
Before you open Megan Lynch’s new book, Hymn for the Forsaken, clear your schedule. You’re not gonna wanna stop reading once you’ve started. Set in small town West Virginia, the story explores themes of class privilege, Internet sex work, opiate addiction, folk magic, queer yearning, and ghosts.
A rich new family has moved into the old funeral home in Cuppy Gap, an economically depressed former coal mining town. Ina, the book’s protagonist, is intrigued and then entranced by the elegant mother-daughter duo. They instantly take an interest in helping her when a tree destroys her home. Their lifestyle, marked by French press coffee and luxury clothing, represents a world Ina has never dreamed of entering. Soon she finds herself living with the pair, who promise to help her get into college and escape the generational poverty she has always known.
But something‘s not quite right, and deliciously ominous overtones echo Natalie‘s growing doubts as she becomes more deeply entangled in their world.
Being a part of the Appalachian Gothic genre, there’s light magic in the form of folk healing, and there’s dark magic, too, including communication with the dead and forced transformations. All throughout, masterful narration cuts straight to the heart of each moment. I found myself reading my favorite moments aloud to my husband!
I honestly believe any fiction lover would enjoy this book! There’s romance, danger, social commentary, sexual awakening, and magic— what’s not to love?
A rich new family has moved into the old funeral home in Cuppy Gap, an economically depressed former coal mining town. Ina, the book’s protagonist, is intrigued and then entranced by the elegant mother-daughter duo. They instantly take an interest in helping her when a tree destroys her home. Their lifestyle, marked by French press coffee and luxury clothing, represents a world Ina has never dreamed of entering. Soon she finds herself living with the pair, who promise to help her get into college and escape the generational poverty she has always known.
But something‘s not quite right, and deliciously ominous overtones echo Natalie‘s growing doubts as she becomes more deeply entangled in their world.
Being a part of the Appalachian Gothic genre, there’s light magic in the form of folk healing, and there’s dark magic, too, including communication with the dead and forced transformations. All throughout, masterful narration cuts straight to the heart of each moment. I found myself reading my favorite moments aloud to my husband!
I honestly believe any fiction lover would enjoy this book! There’s romance, danger, social commentary, sexual awakening, and magic— what’s not to love?
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Oh, hello, Megan Lynch. Welcome to my new-to-me author radar; I'll be keeping an eye out for whatever you're up to next.
Hymn for the Forsaken is a witchy, young adult horror tale set in small-town Appalachia. Ina, the FMC, is trying to make ends meet with her grandmother, but life keeps throwing punches their way. When a new, wealthy family comes to town, Ina is drawn into a friendship with Natalie. Natalie's home offers her stability and hope for the future, but of course, not everything is as it seems.
I really enjoyed this and was immediately drawn into Ina's story. She's relatable in a down-to-earth kind of way. I loved the witchy elements, which at first feel like young women just playing with an Ouja board, but it turns dark quickly.
Ann Marie Gideon narrated the audiobook. I love her accent; it felt very authentic to the story. She did a great performance overall.
Recommended for fans of YA Appalachian horror.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the ALC.
Hymn for the Forsaken is a witchy, young adult horror tale set in small-town Appalachia. Ina, the FMC, is trying to make ends meet with her grandmother, but life keeps throwing punches their way. When a new, wealthy family comes to town, Ina is drawn into a friendship with Natalie. Natalie's home offers her stability and hope for the future, but of course, not everything is as it seems.
I really enjoyed this and was immediately drawn into Ina's story. She's relatable in a down-to-earth kind of way. I loved the witchy elements, which at first feel like young women just playing with an Ouja board, but it turns dark quickly.
Ann Marie Gideon narrated the audiobook. I love her accent; it felt very authentic to the story. She did a great performance overall.
Recommended for fans of YA Appalachian horror.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the ALC.
November 6, 2026
Hymn for the Forsaken has that wonderful Appalachian Gothic atmosphere that settles around you almost immediately. The mountains feel ancient, the woods feel watchful, and every page carries the sense that something old is stirring beneath the surface. From the beginning, Ina Klee's fight to protect her family home feels like much more than a dispute over land. This isn't just property. It's history, identity, tradition, and a way of life that's slowly being squeezed out by people with deeper pockets and bigger ambitions.
I really enjoyed Ina as a protagonist. She's determined without being fearless, stubborn without becoming frustrating, and deeply tied to the land her family has cared for across generations. Her connection to the old tinctures and inherited magic gives the story a lovely sense of place and ancestry. The magic here isn't flashy or grand. It feels rooted in the soil, in family knowledge, and in the quiet rituals passed down through generations.
The arrival of Natalie Cuppy adds a fascinating layer to the story. At first there's warmth, friendship, and the tempting promise of a life that looks easier than the one Ina has always known. Watching Ina become increasingly entangled with the Cuppy family creates a constant feeling of unease because you can sense that something isn't quite right, even when everything appears generous on the surface. The novel does a brilliant job exploring how power often disguises itself as kindness.
What stayed with me most was the contrast between the two types of magic. Ina's world is built on tradition, community, and care, while the Cuppys represent something far colder and more calculated. The conflict feels much bigger than good versus evil. It's about belonging, inheritance, class, privilege, and the price people are willing to pay to protect what's theirs.
The slow‑burn nature of the story really worked for me. Rather than rushing towards horror, it gradually layers tension, allowing the dread to build chapter by chapter. By the time the darker truths begin to emerge, the sense of danger feels completely earned. There's a lingering sadness running beneath the story too, which gives it emotional depth beyond the supernatural elements.
A beautifully atmospheric blend of dark fantasy, Appalachian folklore, and gothic horror. Haunting, immersive, and full of difficult choices, Hymn for the Forsaken is the kind of story that creeps under your skin and stays there long after you've turned the final page.
With thanks to Megan Lynch and the publisher for the ARC
I really enjoyed Ina as a protagonist. She's determined without being fearless, stubborn without becoming frustrating, and deeply tied to the land her family has cared for across generations. Her connection to the old tinctures and inherited magic gives the story a lovely sense of place and ancestry. The magic here isn't flashy or grand. It feels rooted in the soil, in family knowledge, and in the quiet rituals passed down through generations.
The arrival of Natalie Cuppy adds a fascinating layer to the story. At first there's warmth, friendship, and the tempting promise of a life that looks easier than the one Ina has always known. Watching Ina become increasingly entangled with the Cuppy family creates a constant feeling of unease because you can sense that something isn't quite right, even when everything appears generous on the surface. The novel does a brilliant job exploring how power often disguises itself as kindness.
What stayed with me most was the contrast between the two types of magic. Ina's world is built on tradition, community, and care, while the Cuppys represent something far colder and more calculated. The conflict feels much bigger than good versus evil. It's about belonging, inheritance, class, privilege, and the price people are willing to pay to protect what's theirs.
The slow‑burn nature of the story really worked for me. Rather than rushing towards horror, it gradually layers tension, allowing the dread to build chapter by chapter. By the time the darker truths begin to emerge, the sense of danger feels completely earned. There's a lingering sadness running beneath the story too, which gives it emotional depth beyond the supernatural elements.
A beautifully atmospheric blend of dark fantasy, Appalachian folklore, and gothic horror. Haunting, immersive, and full of difficult choices, Hymn for the Forsaken is the kind of story that creeps under your skin and stays there long after you've turned the final page.
With thanks to Megan Lynch and the publisher for the ARC
October 14, 2026
Appalachian magic, dangerous generosity, and a fight to protect the place you call home. I spent all day listening to this audiobook!
Ina Klee lives with her grandmother on family land steeped in generations of magic and tradition. When that life is changed, Ina finds a way to save her home. A new friendship with Natalie Cuppy seems to offer much-needed help, but entering her wealthy family’s world brings complications that make Ina’s fight far more dangerous.
I really enjoyed this book. Although categorized as horror, it felt more like a supernatural thriller to me. I didn’t find it particularly scary, but there were dark, unsettling moments that added to the atmosphere. The story was a rollercoaster, taking turns in several directions and keeping me interested about where it would land. One part completely caught me off guard, which was such a welcome surprise because I can usually predict where a story is heading. I love when an author manages to surprise me.
Ann Marie Gideon’s narration was fantastic. She played an integral part in my emotional connection to the characters, bringing their personalities and feelings to life. The way she portrayed each one helped shape who I liked, who I distrusted, and who I wanted to hear more from. Her performance made this an especially satisfying listen.
My only real wish was for a longer ending. After the story built toward such a strong crescendo, the conclusion felt a little rushed. I wanted more time to sit with the final developments and let the momentum carry on. Then again, wanting a story to continue says something about how much I enjoyed it!
Megan Lynch has written a wonderfully absorbing book, and Gideon’s performance makes the audiobook shine. Thank you to NetGalley, Tantor Media, and Megan Lynch for the advance copy of this delectable audiobook!
Ina Klee lives with her grandmother on family land steeped in generations of magic and tradition. When that life is changed, Ina finds a way to save her home. A new friendship with Natalie Cuppy seems to offer much-needed help, but entering her wealthy family’s world brings complications that make Ina’s fight far more dangerous.
I really enjoyed this book. Although categorized as horror, it felt more like a supernatural thriller to me. I didn’t find it particularly scary, but there were dark, unsettling moments that added to the atmosphere. The story was a rollercoaster, taking turns in several directions and keeping me interested about where it would land. One part completely caught me off guard, which was such a welcome surprise because I can usually predict where a story is heading. I love when an author manages to surprise me.
Ann Marie Gideon’s narration was fantastic. She played an integral part in my emotional connection to the characters, bringing their personalities and feelings to life. The way she portrayed each one helped shape who I liked, who I distrusted, and who I wanted to hear more from. Her performance made this an especially satisfying listen.
My only real wish was for a longer ending. After the story built toward such a strong crescendo, the conclusion felt a little rushed. I wanted more time to sit with the final developments and let the momentum carry on. Then again, wanting a story to continue says something about how much I enjoyed it!
Megan Lynch has written a wonderfully absorbing book, and Gideon’s performance makes the audiobook shine. Thank you to NetGalley, Tantor Media, and Megan Lynch for the advance copy of this delectable audiobook!
October 25, 2026
DON'T ACCEPT GIFTS FROM PEOPLE WHO HAVE TOO MUCH TO LOSE.
Ina Klee’s family land isn't just home. It's generations of Appalachian magic, tradition, and history. But when everything she knows is threatened, saving it means stepping into a dangerous world where generosity might come with strings attached… and those strings could strangle everything she loves.
Enter Natalie Cuppy and her wealthy family, whose world opens doors for Ina while making the fight for her home a whole lot more complicated. And just when I thought I had this story figured out? THE PLOT SAID, “THINK AGAIN.” I can usually sniff out a twist, but this one actually caught me off guard. WE LOVE TO SEE IT.
Was I terrified? Not exactly. But the dark, unsettling atmosphere, supernatural tension, and constant shifts in the story kept me locked in. This felt more like a supernatural thriller wearing horror's coat—and honestly? I was HERE FOR IT.
My one thought that had m e rating .25 less? That ending needed ROOM TO BREATHE. After all that build-up, I wanted more time with the fallout instead of feeling like we reached the finish line at full speed. But when my biggest complaint is that I wasn't ready to leave the story? That tells you something.
Give me ancestral magic, dangerous bargains, secrets buried deeper than mountain roots, and a heroine fighting for the place she calls home. I might not trust a single soul in these woods, but I'm absolutely staying for the story.
Thank you to Owl City Press for the gifted book. All thoughts are my own.
Confession: I went in expecting horror. I got dark magic, supernatural chaos, and a plot that had me SIDE-EYEING EVERYONE.
Ina Klee’s family land isn't just home. It's generations of Appalachian magic, tradition, and history. But when everything she knows is threatened, saving it means stepping into a dangerous world where generosity might come with strings attached… and those strings could strangle everything she loves.
Enter Natalie Cuppy and her wealthy family, whose world opens doors for Ina while making the fight for her home a whole lot more complicated. And just when I thought I had this story figured out? THE PLOT SAID, “THINK AGAIN.” I can usually sniff out a twist, but this one actually caught me off guard. WE LOVE TO SEE IT.
Was I terrified? Not exactly. But the dark, unsettling atmosphere, supernatural tension, and constant shifts in the story kept me locked in. This felt more like a supernatural thriller wearing horror's coat—and honestly? I was HERE FOR IT.
My one thought that had m e rating .25 less? That ending needed ROOM TO BREATHE. After all that build-up, I wanted more time with the fallout instead of feeling like we reached the finish line at full speed. But when my biggest complaint is that I wasn't ready to leave the story? That tells you something.
Give me ancestral magic, dangerous bargains, secrets buried deeper than mountain roots, and a heroine fighting for the place she calls home. I might not trust a single soul in these woods, but I'm absolutely staying for the story.
Thank you to Owl City Press for the gifted book. All thoughts are my own.
Confession: I went in expecting horror. I got dark magic, supernatural chaos, and a plot that had me SIDE-EYEING EVERYONE.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I absolutely LOVED the narration of "Hymn for the Forsaken" and thoroughly enjoyed the story and how everything played out!
This one is definitely a slow burn, and I was a little surprised that the magical elements didn't even come into play until about halfway through the book. I had anticipated magic being a much more prominent part of the story, so I found myself waiting for that element to really take off.
But can we talk about Ina?! I absolutely ADORED her as our FMC! Her decisions felt authentic and understandable, and I could genuinely put myself in her shoes. Such a refreshing change from the countless times I've wanted to scream "WTF ARE YOU DOING?!" at female characters in books. 😂
Ann Marie Gideon's narration was easily one of the highlights of my experience. Her performance was captivating and added so much to the atmosphere of the story. I loved listening to her bring Ina's journey to life, and she made the slower pacing much more enjoyable.
Ultimately, I really wanted this book to CONSUME me. I wanted to be completely lost in its world, but it never quite pulled me all the way in. Still, I thoroughly enjoyed the journey, appreciated the way everything came together, and would absolutely recommend it to readers who love a character-driven slow burn!
📖 Hymn for the Forsaken
✍️ Megan Lynch
🎙️ Ann Marie Gideon
🎁 Provided by Tantor Media
📅 10/20/26
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This one is definitely a slow burn, and I was a little surprised that the magical elements didn't even come into play until about halfway through the book. I had anticipated magic being a much more prominent part of the story, so I found myself waiting for that element to really take off.
But can we talk about Ina?! I absolutely ADORED her as our FMC! Her decisions felt authentic and understandable, and I could genuinely put myself in her shoes. Such a refreshing change from the countless times I've wanted to scream "WTF ARE YOU DOING?!" at female characters in books. 😂
Ann Marie Gideon's narration was easily one of the highlights of my experience. Her performance was captivating and added so much to the atmosphere of the story. I loved listening to her bring Ina's journey to life, and she made the slower pacing much more enjoyable.
Ultimately, I really wanted this book to CONSUME me. I wanted to be completely lost in its world, but it never quite pulled me all the way in. Still, I thoroughly enjoyed the journey, appreciated the way everything came together, and would absolutely recommend it to readers who love a character-driven slow burn!
📖 Hymn for the Forsaken
✍️ Megan Lynch
🎙️ Ann Marie Gideon
🎁 Provided by Tantor Media
📅 10/20/26
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 23, 2026
Some people inherit money. Others inherit family problems, questionable magic, and a front-row seat to everyone else's terrible decisions. Unfortunately for Ina, she got the deluxe package.
Hymn for the Forsaken by Megan Lynch follows Ina as she struggles to keep her family's land while life continues kicking her squarely in the teeth. Then Natalie enters the picture, offering a glimpse of something better. And listen, I understand desperation, but I was mentally screaming, "GIRL, READ THE FINE PRINT!" approximately every fifteen minutes.
I really liked Ina, even when I wanted to grab her by the shoulders and shake some common sense into her. Nan, however, could've told me the moon was made of cornbread, and I would've believed her. The woman had my full attention.
The story took a little longer to get moving than I would've preferred, and I wanted the creepy factor turned up another notch. But once things started coming together, I was invested. There were some genuinely unsettling moments, a few surprises, and enough poor judgment to keep me entertained.
Ann Marie Gideon did a great job with the audiobook. Her character voices were distinct, and she handled the emotional shifts beautifully.
Four stars because I had a good time, even if I spent a significant portion of it questioning everyone's survival instincts. At this point, I deserve compensation for the amount of unsolicited advice I gave fictional people who couldn't hear me.
Thank you to Megan Lynch, NetGalley, and Tantor Media/RBmedia for the advance listening copy!
Hymn for the Forsaken by Megan Lynch follows Ina as she struggles to keep her family's land while life continues kicking her squarely in the teeth. Then Natalie enters the picture, offering a glimpse of something better. And listen, I understand desperation, but I was mentally screaming, "GIRL, READ THE FINE PRINT!" approximately every fifteen minutes.
I really liked Ina, even when I wanted to grab her by the shoulders and shake some common sense into her. Nan, however, could've told me the moon was made of cornbread, and I would've believed her. The woman had my full attention.
The story took a little longer to get moving than I would've preferred, and I wanted the creepy factor turned up another notch. But once things started coming together, I was invested. There were some genuinely unsettling moments, a few surprises, and enough poor judgment to keep me entertained.
Ann Marie Gideon did a great job with the audiobook. Her character voices were distinct, and she handled the emotional shifts beautifully.
Four stars because I had a good time, even if I spent a significant portion of it questioning everyone's survival instincts. At this point, I deserve compensation for the amount of unsolicited advice I gave fictional people who couldn't hear me.
Thank you to Megan Lynch, NetGalley, and Tantor Media/RBmedia for the advance listening copy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a review for the audiobook I received from net galley
I loved this audiobook!!! I adored rhe narrator, I dont know if its because Im a Southern but hearing a Southern voice narrating, was so delightful to me, I felt like I was home. I hope to hear more Southern voices narrating in the future. She made the the characters come to life from the pages, she had a warm and soothing voice thst drawer me. I couldn't stop listening until I listened to it all. Thr narration was perfection
I loved this audiobook!!! I adored rhe narrator, I dont know if its because Im a Southern but hearing a Southern voice narrating, was so delightful to me, I felt like I was home. I hope to hear more Southern voices narrating in the future. She made the the characters come to life from the pages, she had a warm and soothing voice thst drawer me. I couldn't stop listening until I listened to it all. Thr narration was perfection
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I’m conflicted with this one because I loved the setting, it started off by intriguing me and I was expecting a horror or gothic story. However, it felt like I was reading something more paranormal than anything else. It was an enjoyable read, just not what I expected hence my lower rating. I did also find it quite slow as some of the earlier- mid chapters were quite long winded where nothing much was happening.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I enjoyed the themes of corporate greed and generational magic, LOVED THE CROWS, and I really liked the setting. Unfortunately, the story felt slow, and while there was plenty I appreciated, I never fully felt immersed in it. Hymn For The Forsaken had some great elements, but it just didn’t click for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the chance to listen to this title in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the chance to listen to this title in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I was so excited to be gifted this one and I thouroughly enjoyed it! I was expecting magic from start to finish in the story, and while there were witchy elements throughout, the magic really holds itself for the second half of the book. Once it was introduced more I enjoyed even more!
I love any books dripping in Appalachian folklore, and this book really delivered on that front! Ina was a great FMC and the story was solid. It was a one sitting read, as it is not overly long, and ai enjoyed immersing myself in the author's world.
I love any books dripping in Appalachian folklore, and this book really delivered on that front! Ina was a great FMC and the story was solid. It was a one sitting read, as it is not overly long, and ai enjoyed immersing myself in the author's world.
October 23, 2026
This book was really good gave some vibes from Skeleton Key movie in 2005 but also it's own thing altogether I really loved this book and twists and turns!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Life is hard for people in 'Cuppy Gap', especially for those who need to scrape pennies. Ina Klee, the protagonist, is one such person. Abandoned by her mother, her current and only support system is her grandma, now that her grandfather has passed away. A young girl trying to keep the hounding institutions away from their doorstep, at the expense of a dream of college education and a possibility of a life which is just enough. Storms that tear homes, jobs that don’t pay enough leave Ina a tumultuous life situation. Whatever measures she takes to claw out of the murky ditch, keeps on pulling her down in the pitch. By an absolute chance she meets Natalie Cuppy, a smart, beautiful and kind girl, when she is at her lowest. Natalie and her family, have a nice home, she herself has an ambition to go to University. Thriough Natalie, Ina look in a mirror of a possible alternate reality, a possibility which just requires a new bonding. While her life is having a’glow up’, her relationship with family and friends start showing cracks and omens in the form of winged and cawing creatures tend to haunt her. Something shivers down her spine, she feels somebody is watching her. As her relationship with Cuppy’s who promise a future she yearns for begin to cement, while ailments from the other world start cramping her, poking at her. Ina is just a young girl who wants to live a fulfilled life. Is it so bad? Why is everybody warning her? Who is watching over her?
The best part of the book is how naturally the author connects readers to the spiritual world through Ina, the protagonist. This is a story whose narrative is driven by relatable women with some intricate aspirations. The reader looks at the haunting, almost as an apparition themselves. Robert Altman’s ‘3 women’ and Frankensteinen sombre mood draws a canopy of mystery, where we distrust almost everybody experiencing all from Ina’s perspective. The appearance of crows in chapters mitigate smoothly not only the imminent change or danger Ina is about to experience but also an unsettling feeling that reader who have read or watched the Daphne du Maurier-Hitchcock’s ‘The birds’, shall relate to. Ina is a very beautifully written character and we feel happiness, sadness, anger, frustration and fear as she moves from scene to scene.
Death is a part of physical decay but what remains is the immaterial that does not take space, yet sees through our soul, our happiness, sadness, freedom and imminent danger. Ina Klee’s experiences the creep on her skin and her spine, but by contriving that the reader knows of the spirits, Lynch sets up an unnerving drama, that leaves the reader screaming from inside.
The best thematics in this book is Robert Altman’s ‘3women’ concept. The symbolisation of crows and connection to ethereal world and idea of transition and change leaves the reader unsettled and engaged.
Losing loved ones and longing to have them back by all means is another desire that every reader shall relate to. Pain and loneliness sown deep, and to carry on in life without her grandfather, Ina holds on to life and safety of her grandma. The author uses this emotion as a tool to display, that despite all fear, we chose our long lost loved ones, even if it is a form that may drive us insane, and how our loved ones weigh when they sit at par with our ambitions.
All in all, a surreal experience and an unforgettable read.
The best part of the book is how naturally the author connects readers to the spiritual world through Ina, the protagonist. This is a story whose narrative is driven by relatable women with some intricate aspirations. The reader looks at the haunting, almost as an apparition themselves. Robert Altman’s ‘3 women’ and Frankensteinen sombre mood draws a canopy of mystery, where we distrust almost everybody experiencing all from Ina’s perspective. The appearance of crows in chapters mitigate smoothly not only the imminent change or danger Ina is about to experience but also an unsettling feeling that reader who have read or watched the Daphne du Maurier-Hitchcock’s ‘The birds’, shall relate to. Ina is a very beautifully written character and we feel happiness, sadness, anger, frustration and fear as she moves from scene to scene.
Death is a part of physical decay but what remains is the immaterial that does not take space, yet sees through our soul, our happiness, sadness, freedom and imminent danger. Ina Klee’s experiences the creep on her skin and her spine, but by contriving that the reader knows of the spirits, Lynch sets up an unnerving drama, that leaves the reader screaming from inside.
The best thematics in this book is Robert Altman’s ‘3women’ concept. The symbolisation of crows and connection to ethereal world and idea of transition and change leaves the reader unsettled and engaged.
Losing loved ones and longing to have them back by all means is another desire that every reader shall relate to. Pain and loneliness sown deep, and to carry on in life without her grandfather, Ina holds on to life and safety of her grandma. The author uses this emotion as a tool to display, that despite all fear, we chose our long lost loved ones, even if it is a form that may drive us insane, and how our loved ones weigh when they sit at par with our ambitions.
All in all, a surreal experience and an unforgettable read.
October 15, 2026
⭐️ 3/5 STORY
🎧 4/5 AUDIO
Hymn for the Forsaken by Megan Lynch was definitely a mixed bag for me, but the narration was easily the star of the show!
I was really intrigued by the premise of Appalachian witchcraft, generational magic, dark family secrets, and a powerful family willing to do whatever it takes to maintain their control. There was so much potential here for a dark, atmospheric story, and I loved the idea of magic being deeply rooted in family history and the land itself.
Unfortunately, the pacing was my biggest issue. This is a VERY slow burn, and I found myself waiting for the supernatural elements to really take center stage. Much of the story focused on relationships, family dynamics, and personal conflicts, while the darker elements that initially drew me in seemed to take a back seat. By the time things really started picking up, I had already struggled to stay invested.
That said, I did appreciate the underlying themes of family, loyalty, and the lengths people will go to protect what matters most to them. There were some genuinely interesting ideas here, and I just wish we’d gotten more of the witchcraft and supernatural atmosphere throughout the story.
Now, the audiobook? Ann Marie Gideon was FANTASTIC. Her narration brought so much personality and emotion to the story, and she did an incredible job keeping me engaged during sections where the pacing otherwise might have lost me completely. Her performance added depth to the characters and atmosphere, and I genuinely think I enjoyed this more because I listened rather than read.
Ultimately, I wanted this story to pull me in more than it did. The premise was promising, but the execution felt a little too slow and character-focused for what I was hoping would be a darker, more immersive supernatural story.
A solid 3 stars for the story, but an easy 4 stars for the narration. Ann Marie Gideon absolutely elevated this one for me!
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the advanced listening copy in exchange for my honest review.
🎧 4/5 AUDIO
Hymn for the Forsaken by Megan Lynch was definitely a mixed bag for me, but the narration was easily the star of the show!
I was really intrigued by the premise of Appalachian witchcraft, generational magic, dark family secrets, and a powerful family willing to do whatever it takes to maintain their control. There was so much potential here for a dark, atmospheric story, and I loved the idea of magic being deeply rooted in family history and the land itself.
Unfortunately, the pacing was my biggest issue. This is a VERY slow burn, and I found myself waiting for the supernatural elements to really take center stage. Much of the story focused on relationships, family dynamics, and personal conflicts, while the darker elements that initially drew me in seemed to take a back seat. By the time things really started picking up, I had already struggled to stay invested.
That said, I did appreciate the underlying themes of family, loyalty, and the lengths people will go to protect what matters most to them. There were some genuinely interesting ideas here, and I just wish we’d gotten more of the witchcraft and supernatural atmosphere throughout the story.
Now, the audiobook? Ann Marie Gideon was FANTASTIC. Her narration brought so much personality and emotion to the story, and she did an incredible job keeping me engaged during sections where the pacing otherwise might have lost me completely. Her performance added depth to the characters and atmosphere, and I genuinely think I enjoyed this more because I listened rather than read.
Ultimately, I wanted this story to pull me in more than it did. The premise was promising, but the execution felt a little too slow and character-focused for what I was hoping would be a darker, more immersive supernatural story.
A solid 3 stars for the story, but an easy 4 stars for the narration. Ann Marie Gideon absolutely elevated this one for me!
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the advanced listening copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the advance audiobook. All thoughts are my own.
Sometimes, you have novels where, if you remove the genre trope element, the story doesn't work. Hymn of the Forsaken is not one of those stories.
What I Loved
If you pull out the witchy and supernatural elements of this novel, you still have a pretty excellent single-white-female story. Ina Klee is a sympathetic character: a high school dropout with a Mom who fled many moons ago, drowning in medical debt from her grandfather's passing, dealing with even more debt when a tree falls on the house she shares with her grandmother, and struggling to make a living wage in the town's casino. When she meets the overly-friendly new arrivals in town, she's swept up in their lives. That is a compelling enough story for me. But when you add the grandmother basically being the area's white witch, and that Ina can sense or see spirits, it becomes more complex. Ina's journey throughout this book is devastating, and it's proof just how dangerous hope and trust can be when directed toward the wrong places or people.
A couple of other notes:
• The depiction of a corporation swooping in to the small dilapidated Appalachian town with the intention of stripping resources under the guise of "revitalization" was fantastic, but it was also sad when you think about how much this has happened (and still is), especially in Appalachia.
• The philandering senator popping in for a photo op before disappearing into the wind again is so on brand.
What I Thought Could be Better
I did feel the story was pretty light on the supernatural elements until close to the third act, but I thought that was okay due to all the excellent character work.
Audio Narration
Ann Marie Gideon was excellent here, deftly switching between Ina's Appalachian drawl, Cora's smoky timbre, and the Cuppys' Connecticut-elite voices, amongst others.
Overall
I loved this story quite a bit. It was an unexpected find for me, and I'm glad I was approved for the listen!
Sometimes, you have novels where, if you remove the genre trope element, the story doesn't work. Hymn of the Forsaken is not one of those stories.
What I Loved
If you pull out the witchy and supernatural elements of this novel, you still have a pretty excellent single-white-female story. Ina Klee is a sympathetic character: a high school dropout with a Mom who fled many moons ago, drowning in medical debt from her grandfather's passing, dealing with even more debt when a tree falls on the house she shares with her grandmother, and struggling to make a living wage in the town's casino. When she meets the overly-friendly new arrivals in town, she's swept up in their lives. That is a compelling enough story for me. But when you add the grandmother basically being the area's white witch, and that Ina can sense or see spirits, it becomes more complex. Ina's journey throughout this book is devastating, and it's proof just how dangerous hope and trust can be when directed toward the wrong places or people.
A couple of other notes:
• The depiction of a corporation swooping in to the small dilapidated Appalachian town with the intention of stripping resources under the guise of "revitalization" was fantastic, but it was also sad when you think about how much this has happened (and still is), especially in Appalachia.
• The philandering senator popping in for a photo op before disappearing into the wind again is so on brand.
What I Thought Could be Better
I did feel the story was pretty light on the supernatural elements until close to the third act, but I thought that was okay due to all the excellent character work.
Audio Narration
Ann Marie Gideon was excellent here, deftly switching between Ina's Appalachian drawl, Cora's smoky timbre, and the Cuppys' Connecticut-elite voices, amongst others.
Overall
I loved this story quite a bit. It was an unexpected find for me, and I'm glad I was approved for the listen!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley, Tantor Media, RBMedia and Megan Lynch for allowing me early access to this audiobook so I can review it honestly.
Some homes are worth fighting for. Others demand a price.
Tropes:
Horror
Witchcraft
Southern Gothic
Slow Burn Tension
Appalachian
Release Date: 20th October 2026
Story: Ina Klee's family have lived in this small, economically challenged town in West Virginia for generations. Dabbling in folk magic to protect those they love and their land. Now everything is being threatened by a powerful tech company and Ina is fighting a battle she knows is impossible. Then she meets the wealthy Natalie, who's family have bought Ina's late grandfather's funeral home and she get's glimpses of a life she had dreamt of for herself as the family is more than kind and generous to her at her lowest time.
This story is a slow burn but it's a gothic tale and that is what they are all about. You have to really feel yourself in the story first, get inside the skin of the characters, really get to know them. I loved it! Gothic horror/thrillers are my faves!
Writing: The writing is beautiful! I was able to put myself in the story with the descriptions and the dialogue was quite genuine.
Characters: I LOVED Ina! She is flawed but smart and strong. She didn't do the things that annoying FMCs do that make you want to scream at the book! The side characters were also really interesting and multi-layered!
Who Would I Recommend This To: If you like slow, southern gothic tales you will love this! It does take a little while before the spooky stuff starts however it isn't a very long book so it's not dragged out.
Audio Book Notes: The narrator was amazing! Beautiful southern voice and she did so well with all the characters!!
Overall: Loved it!! I will be looking for more from this author!
Some homes are worth fighting for. Others demand a price.
Tropes:
Horror
Witchcraft
Southern Gothic
Slow Burn Tension
Appalachian
Release Date: 20th October 2026
Story: Ina Klee's family have lived in this small, economically challenged town in West Virginia for generations. Dabbling in folk magic to protect those they love and their land. Now everything is being threatened by a powerful tech company and Ina is fighting a battle she knows is impossible. Then she meets the wealthy Natalie, who's family have bought Ina's late grandfather's funeral home and she get's glimpses of a life she had dreamt of for herself as the family is more than kind and generous to her at her lowest time.
This story is a slow burn but it's a gothic tale and that is what they are all about. You have to really feel yourself in the story first, get inside the skin of the characters, really get to know them. I loved it! Gothic horror/thrillers are my faves!
Writing: The writing is beautiful! I was able to put myself in the story with the descriptions and the dialogue was quite genuine.
Characters: I LOVED Ina! She is flawed but smart and strong. She didn't do the things that annoying FMCs do that make you want to scream at the book! The side characters were also really interesting and multi-layered!
Who Would I Recommend This To: If you like slow, southern gothic tales you will love this! It does take a little while before the spooky stuff starts however it isn't a very long book so it's not dragged out.
Audio Book Notes: The narrator was amazing! Beautiful southern voice and she did so well with all the characters!!
Overall: Loved it!! I will be looking for more from this author!
October 21, 2026
ALC Review: Hymn for the Forsaken
Published: October 20, 2026
Author: Megan Lynch
Narrator: Ann Marie Gideon
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the advance listening copy! All opinions are my own.
Appalachian folklore, generations of women working old magic, dangerous family secrets, and wealthy people who apparently weren't satisfied with just being rich. Yes, I was interested. 😂
Hymn for the Forsaken is very different from anything I've read so far, and I really enjoyed it! I have to be careful here because part of the fun is discovering just what the heck is happening. And believe me, you WILL be asking.
It's a slower-paced read/listen, but the mystery keeps building. Ina's fight to protect her family's land pulls you into a world of supernatural tinctures, old traditions, and generosity with some deeply questionable terms and conditions. The folklore and supernatural world-building were some of my favorite parts.
And I am ALWAYS here for a loving, eccentric Nan with a unique view of the world. Give me a grandmother who takes care of her granddaughter and knows a few things the rest of us don't. I'm listening.
For much of the book, things get increasingly topsy-turvy. Every time I thought I had my footing, something else made me question where this story was going. There is more I want to say, but I refuse to be the person who ruins it!
Ann Marie Gideon is fantastic! This was my first time hearing her narrate, and her Appalachian character accents were seriously on point. How she switches between voices so effortlessly is beyond me. I have questions. Mostly: what else has she narrated?
At its core, I think this book is about what people can—and will—do for the people they love. The good. The bad. The things they somehow convince themselves are justified.
Love can lead us to heroics or straight into madness. Sometimes, we're the last ones to recognize which direction we've taken.
📚 Available now!
Published: October 20, 2026
Author: Megan Lynch
Narrator: Ann Marie Gideon
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the advance listening copy! All opinions are my own.
Appalachian folklore, generations of women working old magic, dangerous family secrets, and wealthy people who apparently weren't satisfied with just being rich. Yes, I was interested. 😂
Hymn for the Forsaken is very different from anything I've read so far, and I really enjoyed it! I have to be careful here because part of the fun is discovering just what the heck is happening. And believe me, you WILL be asking.
It's a slower-paced read/listen, but the mystery keeps building. Ina's fight to protect her family's land pulls you into a world of supernatural tinctures, old traditions, and generosity with some deeply questionable terms and conditions. The folklore and supernatural world-building were some of my favorite parts.
And I am ALWAYS here for a loving, eccentric Nan with a unique view of the world. Give me a grandmother who takes care of her granddaughter and knows a few things the rest of us don't. I'm listening.
For much of the book, things get increasingly topsy-turvy. Every time I thought I had my footing, something else made me question where this story was going. There is more I want to say, but I refuse to be the person who ruins it!
Ann Marie Gideon is fantastic! This was my first time hearing her narrate, and her Appalachian character accents were seriously on point. How she switches between voices so effortlessly is beyond me. I have questions. Mostly: what else has she narrated?
At its core, I think this book is about what people can—and will—do for the people they love. The good. The bad. The things they somehow convince themselves are justified.
Love can lead us to heroics or straight into madness. Sometimes, we're the last ones to recognize which direction we've taken.
📚 Available now!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Hymn for the Forsaken by Megan Lynch is an Appalachian folk horror story that follows Ina, a young woman who lives with her grandmother and desperately trying to make ends meet. While trying something out of her comfort zone, she ends up meeting Natalie, who lives with her mother and comes from money and seems to have ways of fixing all of Ina's problems-but for what price?
I had a good time listening to this one! I think the narrator did a great job with the accent because it was enough for me to be immersed in the story but not over the top. I really liked reading from Ina's perspective. If you have ever had a bad string of terrible luck where nothing seems to be going right, you will relate to her struggles. She is trying so hard to help keep her family afloat.
There are some supernatural elements to this story that I don't want to spoil but if you are a fan of that kind of book, check this one out! I think my favorite part of this book was the relationships between all the characters. Ina has a best friend and I loved the way they were together.
My biggest issue with this book was just the pacing. I feel like it really took its time setting everything up and then all the action was done in a few pages which just made it feel uneven. Also, not a complaint but just an observation. This is an adult book that follows very young adult characters (18-20ish) so they feel their age. Just something to know before going into this book if you get annoyed at young people for making young people decisions. I thought they all fit their ages really well which also means I wanted to grab them and tell them to do things differently a few times!
If you like really atmospheric books that follow people who feel authentic, I would check this one out! Especially on audio because it just adds so much to the story!
I had a good time listening to this one! I think the narrator did a great job with the accent because it was enough for me to be immersed in the story but not over the top. I really liked reading from Ina's perspective. If you have ever had a bad string of terrible luck where nothing seems to be going right, you will relate to her struggles. She is trying so hard to help keep her family afloat.
There are some supernatural elements to this story that I don't want to spoil but if you are a fan of that kind of book, check this one out! I think my favorite part of this book was the relationships between all the characters. Ina has a best friend and I loved the way they were together.
My biggest issue with this book was just the pacing. I feel like it really took its time setting everything up and then all the action was done in a few pages which just made it feel uneven. Also, not a complaint but just an observation. This is an adult book that follows very young adult characters (18-20ish) so they feel their age. Just something to know before going into this book if you get annoyed at young people for making young people decisions. I thought they all fit their ages really well which also means I wanted to grab them and tell them to do things differently a few times!
If you like really atmospheric books that follow people who feel authentic, I would check this one out! Especially on audio because it just adds so much to the story!
October 16, 2026
I was fortunate enough to be able to download this as an NetGalley ARC audiobook, and I was not able to stop listening to it. I just HAD to finish it the same day. I have listened to audiobooks that use this specific narrator (Ann Marie Gideon) before, and I feel that she does a wonderful job of bringing distinction to each individual character, no matter how diverse the characters are. She puts great emotion in her voice and makes listening to a great story that much easier. As for the story itself, the author does a phenomenal job incorporating real-life, current struggles, especially for rural communities. So many times, small coal-mining towns are forgotten after the big companies exhaust the resources and move on. They are left in poverty and are unfortunately trapped in a vicious cycle of drug addiction, high-rate high school dropouts, and people who just cannot financially keep their heads above water. The main character, Ina Klee knows all of those struggles. Her mom left her in the care of her grandparents at the age of three due to drug addiction, Ina dropped out her senior year due to her grandfather’s illness, and said illness left Ina and her grandmother in serious financial distress after her grandfather passed. As if that isn’t enough, a tree falls onto the Klee house and basically destroys the roof and most of the walls. After an unfortunate incident at a friend’s house, Ina meets the family that purchased the funeral home her family previously ran. They are rich and oh so generous. They donate money to Ina and her grandmother for house repairs as well as take Ina under their wing. Is their generosity genuine, or does it come with a price? Prepare yourself for twists and turns, and a story you just can’t wait to finish!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Audiobook Single Narration with Ann Marie Gideon. The accent threw me off a little bit. Just wasn't what I was expecting, but overall the narration was well done.
This whole book just wasn't what I was expecting and I just think this one wasn't for me. I was expecting more of an indigenous element, more gothic, folklore type horror. The beginning kind of threw me off and was a little slow. Ina was truly just a poor unfortunate soul and I can't blame her for being enticed by what Natalie had to offer. It just kind of irked me that she was so quick to abandon what she knew. What bothered me the most was how horrific the villain monologue was, like I was truly outraged and horrified. It definitely resonated me to feel the epitome of "eat the rich." Natalie and her mom's actions were so egregious. I needed the consequences to match the crime and it wasn't even close to hitting the mark. I am low key still angry thinking about it.
The magic system was interesting and I liked the incorporation of crows, but the magic felt too accessible. It was like anyone who could read, would be able to do it. I also felt like some of the explanations surrounding Natalie and Ina were simply too convenient. Ina's Nan's character description also had conflicting levels of competency. In the beginning her words of wisdom in regards to the poor giving their soul in exchange for help from the rich, really resonated; but then her character was so easily foiled and I was disappointed by that. This did touch on a lot of the very real disparities that those in poverty have to deal with on a daily basis, but I needed more villainification of those responsible for taking advantage of that. Overall, this just missed the mark for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for this aARC!
This whole book just wasn't what I was expecting and I just think this one wasn't for me. I was expecting more of an indigenous element, more gothic, folklore type horror. The beginning kind of threw me off and was a little slow. Ina was truly just a poor unfortunate soul and I can't blame her for being enticed by what Natalie had to offer. It just kind of irked me that she was so quick to abandon what she knew. What bothered me the most was how horrific the villain monologue was, like I was truly outraged and horrified. It definitely resonated me to feel the epitome of "eat the rich." Natalie and her mom's actions were so egregious. I needed the consequences to match the crime and it wasn't even close to hitting the mark. I am low key still angry thinking about it.
The magic system was interesting and I liked the incorporation of crows, but the magic felt too accessible. It was like anyone who could read, would be able to do it. I also felt like some of the explanations surrounding Natalie and Ina were simply too convenient. Ina's Nan's character description also had conflicting levels of competency. In the beginning her words of wisdom in regards to the poor giving their soul in exchange for help from the rich, really resonated; but then her character was so easily foiled and I was disappointed by that. This did touch on a lot of the very real disparities that those in poverty have to deal with on a daily basis, but I needed more villainification of those responsible for taking advantage of that. Overall, this just missed the mark for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for this aARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐ 4.75/5 | 🎧 Audiobook Review
Hymn for the Forsaken by Megan Lynch was a little outside my usual reading choices, but what a wonderful surprise!
The pacing was excellent throughout, and Megan’s writing made the story so easy to follow. The atmosphere was beautifully portrayed, with the setting reminding me of Amish country. I could really visualize the surroundings, which added so much to the experience.
Ina was a wonderfully believable and complex main character. I loved the depth to her personality, particularly how her lack of parental guidance influenced her relationships. She had this interesting combination of naivety and distrust that made her feel very real.
I also enjoyed the supporting characters, especially Cory, Ina’s longtime friend, and Natalie, who is certainly more than meets the eye! 👀
And those plot twists? I never saw them coming! Very well played, Megan Lynch!
The audiobook narration by Ann Marie Gideon was excellent. She gave the characters distinctive tones and personalities, making it easy to follow who was speaking. Her narration really brought the characters and atmosphere to life. I listened over three days while working, and it was such an enjoyable experience.
There wasn’t anything I particularly disliked about this book. It simply didn’t quite reach that elusive five-star feeling for me, although it came incredibly close!
Would I recommend it? Without a doubt! Even if gothic fantasy isn’t your usual genre, this is absolutely worth picking up.
Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia/Tantor Media for providing this advance listening copy in exchange for my honest review.
Hymn for the Forsaken by Megan Lynch was a little outside my usual reading choices, but what a wonderful surprise!
The pacing was excellent throughout, and Megan’s writing made the story so easy to follow. The atmosphere was beautifully portrayed, with the setting reminding me of Amish country. I could really visualize the surroundings, which added so much to the experience.
Ina was a wonderfully believable and complex main character. I loved the depth to her personality, particularly how her lack of parental guidance influenced her relationships. She had this interesting combination of naivety and distrust that made her feel very real.
I also enjoyed the supporting characters, especially Cory, Ina’s longtime friend, and Natalie, who is certainly more than meets the eye! 👀
And those plot twists? I never saw them coming! Very well played, Megan Lynch!
The audiobook narration by Ann Marie Gideon was excellent. She gave the characters distinctive tones and personalities, making it easy to follow who was speaking. Her narration really brought the characters and atmosphere to life. I listened over three days while working, and it was such an enjoyable experience.
There wasn’t anything I particularly disliked about this book. It simply didn’t quite reach that elusive five-star feeling for me, although it came incredibly close!
Would I recommend it? Without a doubt! Even if gothic fantasy isn’t your usual genre, this is absolutely worth picking up.
Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia/Tantor Media for providing this advance listening copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
🎧 Audio Review: Enjoyed the accent, went well with the character since her home was in Appalachia.
📝 Story Review: This story was okay, but I wasn’t blown away by it. There were some horror aspects, it got a little creepy in parts, but overall felt like it took a long time to get anywhere. The more exciting/climactic parts towards the end felt rather anti-climactic to me.
The FMC seemed very naive for her age, I guess because she led a more sheltered life, but it made her reactions to things a bit irritating at times. I wanted more in depth back story for the FMC and her family. And I felt that certain things that took place, weren’t explained very well. It had potential, but for me the execution lacked a bit.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3/5
Genre: NA Paranormal Horror
POV: First Person; Single
Audio Release Date: October 19, 2026
Audio Run Time: 7 hrs, 37 mins
Narrated By: Ann Marie Gideon
Tropes 👇
- Naive/Sheltered FMC
- Financial Difficulties
- Specters & Seances
- Witchy Things
- Family Home/Land Needing Saving
CW’s 👇
- Mention of losing grandparent to cancer
- Mention of mother with addiction issues
- Attempted SA (briefly depicted)
- Attempt at being a cam girl
- Friend in coma from a fall
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Audio for this ALC in return for my honest review.
📝 Story Review: This story was okay, but I wasn’t blown away by it. There were some horror aspects, it got a little creepy in parts, but overall felt like it took a long time to get anywhere. The more exciting/climactic parts towards the end felt rather anti-climactic to me.
The FMC seemed very naive for her age, I guess because she led a more sheltered life, but it made her reactions to things a bit irritating at times. I wanted more in depth back story for the FMC and her family. And I felt that certain things that took place, weren’t explained very well. It had potential, but for me the execution lacked a bit.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3/5
Genre: NA Paranormal Horror
POV: First Person; Single
Audio Release Date: October 19, 2026
Audio Run Time: 7 hrs, 37 mins
Narrated By: Ann Marie Gideon
Tropes 👇
- Naive/Sheltered FMC
- Financial Difficulties
- Specters & Seances
- Witchy Things
- Family Home/Land Needing Saving
CW’s 👇
- Mention of losing grandparent to cancer
- Mention of mother with addiction issues
- Attempted SA (briefly depicted)
- Attempt at being a cam girl
- Friend in coma from a fall
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Audio for this ALC in return for my honest review.
October 14, 2026
Thank you to City Owl Books for the gifted ARC and to Tantor Media for the gifted audio through Netgalley.
Hymn For the Forsaken
🖋️: Megan Lynch
📚: City Owl Books
🎧: Tantor Audio
🗣️: Ann Marie Gideon
🗓️: Out 10/20!
📝 My thoughts: Wow! I loved this book. This story was enthralling. The setting, the characters, the supernatural, occult vibes - absolutely perfect for Spooky Season or if you are planning a weekend away in the woods. I read the entire book in 24 hours because I could not put it down. If you are a spooky reader, then you definitely need to add this one to your TBR. The underlying messages of privilege and wealth and economic disparities and the power dynamics that creates combined with the occult/spooky story line set in Appalachia was a dynamic combination leading to a must-read story.
🎧🎧
The audio was fantastic for this book. Ann Marie Gideon’s accent was pitch perfect and her voices for the different characters were distinct and flawless. I really think immersive reading the one is a great idea because it really drives home the Appalachian atmosphere and the spooky vibes. I loved it.
Hymn For the Forsaken
🖋️: Megan Lynch
📚: City Owl Books
🎧: Tantor Audio
🗣️: Ann Marie Gideon
🗓️: Out 10/20!
📝 My thoughts: Wow! I loved this book. This story was enthralling. The setting, the characters, the supernatural, occult vibes - absolutely perfect for Spooky Season or if you are planning a weekend away in the woods. I read the entire book in 24 hours because I could not put it down. If you are a spooky reader, then you definitely need to add this one to your TBR. The underlying messages of privilege and wealth and economic disparities and the power dynamics that creates combined with the occult/spooky story line set in Appalachia was a dynamic combination leading to a must-read story.
🎧🎧
The audio was fantastic for this book. Ann Marie Gideon’s accent was pitch perfect and her voices for the different characters were distinct and flawless. I really think immersive reading the one is a great idea because it really drives home the Appalachian atmosphere and the spooky vibes. I loved it.
October 11, 2026
This was a bit of a mixed bag for me.
I liked the premise of Appalachian witchcraft, dark family secrets and supernatural forces, and there was plenty of potential for a really atmospheric paranormal horror.
Unfortunately, it was a very slow burn. A little too slow for my liking. Much of the book felt more like a teen drama with a supernatural backdrop than an actual horror story. There was a lot of focus on relationships, friendships and personal conflicts, while the darker elements seemed to take a back seat.
The pacing was my biggest issue. Very little seemed to happen for much of the book, with practically all the action crammed into the final 30%. Things certainly picked up towards the end, but I wish some of that momentum had been spread throughout.
There are some interesting ideas here, and I enjoyed the folklore and witchcraft elements, but I wanted more atmosphere, more horror and considerably less teenage drama.
Not a bad read, just not quite the dark, unsettling paranormal horror I was hoping for.
I liked the premise of Appalachian witchcraft, dark family secrets and supernatural forces, and there was plenty of potential for a really atmospheric paranormal horror.
Unfortunately, it was a very slow burn. A little too slow for my liking. Much of the book felt more like a teen drama with a supernatural backdrop than an actual horror story. There was a lot of focus on relationships, friendships and personal conflicts, while the darker elements seemed to take a back seat.
The pacing was my biggest issue. Very little seemed to happen for much of the book, with practically all the action crammed into the final 30%. Things certainly picked up towards the end, but I wish some of that momentum had been spread throughout.
There are some interesting ideas here, and I enjoyed the folklore and witchcraft elements, but I wanted more atmosphere, more horror and considerably less teenage drama.
Not a bad read, just not quite the dark, unsettling paranormal horror I was hoping for.
October 26, 2026
Crows will always remember your face!
This modern gothic set in the Appalachian mountains is a fun supernatural thriller. I would not categorize it as horror personally. The tension was excellent even though there were some pacing issues in the beginning.
I loved discovering Ina and her family, their history, the lore of their home and their beliefs. This book is almost exclusively about women and I adored that! It was intriguing to see how magic can be tied to a place and even be passed through bloodlines.
I do have to note a trigger warning for a moment of attempted sexual assault.
I’m usually quick to decipher the true intentions behind most characters but I will say I did not see the twist in this story coming at all! Nathalie and her mom were very well written as rich ‘benevolent’ people.
I adored the significance that crows have in this novel and their role. There is a chapter towards the end that is so achingly poetic and atmospheric.
The narrator was incredible at embodying each characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the ALC.
This modern gothic set in the Appalachian mountains is a fun supernatural thriller. I would not categorize it as horror personally. The tension was excellent even though there were some pacing issues in the beginning.
I loved discovering Ina and her family, their history, the lore of their home and their beliefs. This book is almost exclusively about women and I adored that! It was intriguing to see how magic can be tied to a place and even be passed through bloodlines.
I do have to note a trigger warning for a moment of attempted sexual assault.
I’m usually quick to decipher the true intentions behind most characters but I will say I did not see the twist in this story coming at all! Nathalie and her mom were very well written as rich ‘benevolent’ people.
I adored the significance that crows have in this novel and their role. There is a chapter towards the end that is so achingly poetic and atmospheric.
The narrator was incredible at embodying each characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the ALC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky to receive an ARC of this book and am leaving my review voluntarily.
Looking for an Appalachian gothic thriller with friendship, magic, and crows to get you in the spooky spirit?
Hymn for the Forsaken is about Ina, a girl who had to drop out of high school to support her grandmother after her grandfather dies. She’s struggling to make ends meet, and things become even more dire when they become homeless after a tree falls on their house.
When a new girl arrives in town and wants to be friends, Ina is captivated by her wealth and charm. The family helps relieve Ina’s financial burden, but is it too good to be true?
I loved the crows! That was a very cool part of the book. I also enjoyed all the scenes with the Appalachian magic. It definitely got me in the spooky spirit!
Looking for an Appalachian gothic thriller with friendship, magic, and crows to get you in the spooky spirit?
Hymn for the Forsaken is about Ina, a girl who had to drop out of high school to support her grandmother after her grandfather dies. She’s struggling to make ends meet, and things become even more dire when they become homeless after a tree falls on their house.
When a new girl arrives in town and wants to be friends, Ina is captivated by her wealth and charm. The family helps relieve Ina’s financial burden, but is it too good to be true?
I loved the crows! That was a very cool part of the book. I also enjoyed all the scenes with the Appalachian magic. It definitely got me in the spooky spirit!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley, Megan Lynch and City Owl Press for accepting me as an early reader for Hymn for the Forsaken prior to its release date of October 20, 2026.
This a no spice book so keep that in mind if you are someone who needs some level of spice to their reads.
I really enjoyed this book! Characters I thought I loved, I ended up hating. Characters I loved, then hated for all the manipulation, then I felt pity for them and almost happy they got that ending!
Sure I have questions about some characters like will these characters show up again? What happened to a character while they were away all this time? Etc.
I’d love to read more about these characters!!! This was definitely worth reading. There’s not a whole lot of world building, it’s fast paced which was a nice change of pace from the books I’ve been reading, and it’s easy to follow. I really enjoyed this!
This a no spice book so keep that in mind if you are someone who needs some level of spice to their reads.
I really enjoyed this book! Characters I thought I loved, I ended up hating. Characters I loved, then hated for all the manipulation, then I felt pity for them and almost happy they got that ending!
Sure I have questions about some characters like will these characters show up again? What happened to a character while they were away all this time? Etc.
I’d love to read more about these characters!!! This was definitely worth reading. There’s not a whole lot of world building, it’s fast paced which was a nice change of pace from the books I’ve been reading, and it’s easy to follow. I really enjoyed this!
October 28, 2026
Described as “slow-burning magical horror,” I must say that it certainly took an unexpected turn as I was reading.
Hymn for the Forsaken is uniquely told not only through the perspective of Ina but also through that of a crow. Ina moves through significant changes throughout the story. I thought it was interesting how the crow’s representation connected to Ina. With a mix of witchcraft, the supernatural, folklore, and morally gray characters, it’s perfect if you are looking for something to read this Halloween.
Thank you so much to @cityowlbooks and Author Megan Lynn for the #gifted copy!
🌿 Appalachian folk magic & ancient traditions
🏚️ A family homestead worth protecting
🖤 Dark secrets beneath a wealthy family’s charm
🔮 Enchantments, betrayal & dangerous bargains
✨ A heroine fighting to preserve her legacy
Hymn for the Forsaken is uniquely told not only through the perspective of Ina but also through that of a crow. Ina moves through significant changes throughout the story. I thought it was interesting how the crow’s representation connected to Ina. With a mix of witchcraft, the supernatural, folklore, and morally gray characters, it’s perfect if you are looking for something to read this Halloween.
Thank you so much to @cityowlbooks and Author Megan Lynn for the #gifted copy!
🌿 Appalachian folk magic & ancient traditions
🏚️ A family homestead worth protecting
🖤 Dark secrets beneath a wealthy family’s charm
🔮 Enchantments, betrayal & dangerous bargains
✨ A heroine fighting to preserve her legacy
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4 🌟
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I received an advanced copy of the audiobook from netgally
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I really liked the writing in this one. At first I was disappointed in the lack of magic in the first half however the way the magic and the atmosphere builds throughout the story was really well crafted. I liked the social commentary in this one and it didn't overshadow the folklore and magic in the end. The southern gothic atmosphere also builds throughout the story. I liked the main characters journey in a crossroads in her life and how she made mistakes but found herself in the end. The crows, the type of magic revealed in the end and the whirlwind of complex friendships and magic gone wrong kept me hooked. Overall this was a great read for the season and the audio narration was engaging.
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I received an advanced copy of the audiobook from netgally
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I really liked the writing in this one. At first I was disappointed in the lack of magic in the first half however the way the magic and the atmosphere builds throughout the story was really well crafted. I liked the social commentary in this one and it didn't overshadow the folklore and magic in the end. The southern gothic atmosphere also builds throughout the story. I liked the main characters journey in a crossroads in her life and how she made mistakes but found herself in the end. The crows, the type of magic revealed in the end and the whirlwind of complex friendships and magic gone wrong kept me hooked. Overall this was a great read for the season and the audio narration was engaging.
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