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A Timeless Song

    Returned to a classic that's near and dear to my heart. "Sing Me Forgotten" is a YA fantasy/romance novel that takes place in olden times France. Protagonist, Isda, is a young woman hiding among the underground tunnels of an opera house. She's hiding from those who choose to not accept her for what's underneath her ragged scars or beyond her supernatural powers intertwined with music. Her love for the magical sound is what keeps her sane in her circumstances, along with the only human being in the world who seems to be there for her in the most detrimental times, Cyril. Isda does his bidding by manipulating the minds of the opera house's patrons, persuading them to believe (by bewitching their memories) that the performance they'd just witnessed was worthy of another night's payment and attendance. It's with the nights festivities and nighttime prowess that Isda unexpectedly runs into Emeric -- a yet-to-be discovered musical prodigy who's currently employed as a mere janitor. Isda is fascinated and Emeric is intrigued. They hit it off and with this relationship comes all sorts of turmoil and chaos.

    The character development that unfolds throughout the story for all three of these dynamic individuals is done spectacularly well! Isda discovers who she is as a powerful woman -- a substantial force to be reckoned with. Emeric becomes a true performer, developing his voice to the point where a full house audience before the stage is a sellout to come each week. Lastly, Cyril's grand gesture of saving Isda's life was a slick ploy in his attempt to forge a weapon out of her to gain a status among the King's highest council. The treachery and deceit among characters is developed thoroughly from beginning to end of the book. The amount of detail woven among the pages, coursing through the chapters makes it easy for the reader to empathize with Isda and all she encounters. From love, anger, remorse, and empowerment, Olson's female protagonist is an unforgettable storm.

    The parallels between "Phantom of the Opera" and "Sing Me Forgotten" are instinctual. A forbidden love story between a performer and monster, the effects of true judgement from those who know nothing but terror and hate. Even concrete connections such as "angels of music" and fallen chandeliers. I grew fond of this novel and am truly impressed with Olson's debut piece. HIGHLY recommend. 

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