Review Detail

Michael is happy with his girlfriend, Pepper, but when mysterious Lizzy shows up, he feels a strong pull towards her…almost a frightening one. As events around them start becoming stranger and stranger, including the presence of a guy who is supposed to be dead, Michael becomes more suspicious, but he still can’t seem to stay away. Will he be able to solve a mystery that is over 60 years old?

What I Loved:

R.L. Stine once again shows his mastery over horror in this latest installment in the relaunched Fear Street books. The reader first gets the story of Beth, a girl who witnesses the horrific death of her father and barely escapes herself. Her introduction is nicely done and sets up a complex dynamic for Michael’s present time. Stine mixes in a strong creep factor with some light gore, creating a story that will definitely keep readers up long into the night, both trying to finish the story and because they are too scared to sleep.

What Left Me Wanting More:

While I love the plot as a whole, parts of the big twist at the end aren’t developed as well as they could be. They didn’t quite fit with the rest of the story. However, this is very minor and doesn’t detract from the heart pounding conclusion at all.

Michael’s characterization is nice, but Pepper’s falls a little. There are several times where she is presented as a stereotypical jealous girlfriend instead of being a more three-dimensional person. However, she still has several great moments as a character that make her an enjoyable addition.

Final Verdict:

R.L. Stine fans will devour this latest installment. The Lost Girl is creepy in all the best ways, a quick and highly entertaining read, and it will leave the reader with just enough spook to want to keep the nightlight on a little longer.