A poisonous wave is spreading disease and discord across the eleven known universes. Seven special people, known as Keys, must strike the Lost Chord in order to restore the balance. Among those Keys is Bee Warrick, an autistic teenager from Earth who has traveled between the realms for years without realizing it. Can Bee help the Conductor find the other Keys before a bitter enemy strikes the wrong chord and shatters the universes? — READ AN EXCERPT • WATCH VIDEO BELOW ▼
THE LOST CHORD [©2018] by Lyndi Alexander | Young Adult Fantasy (PG) 200 pages / 70,000 words | Released in print and ebook from the DFP Books label of Dragonfly Publishing, Inc.
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BOOK REVIEWS
“An imaginative tale that deftly shows that being different doesn’t mean you can’t save the universe. While reading THE LOST CHORD by Lyndi Alexander, I found how many of the characters first misunderstand and underestimate Bee, the autistic protagonist, a believable and compelling situation. Overall, this is a fun and heartwarming story that will especially appeal to younger YA readers — I’m thinking of the twelve to fifteen crowd. The stakes are high, but the story is spun so that, while exciting, it’s not too intense for the younger set. Also, I think the themes of working together as a team expressed through music and accepting others will appeal to this age group. Highly recommended!” ~ reviewed by Dan Rice at Dan’s Sci-fi & Fantasy Blog
“I loved THE LOST CHORD. When you find your mind delving into the story even in your dreams, you know it’s a keeper. I have a grandson on the autism spectrum, and I found the character Bee compelling and authentic in the way she relates to her world through her individuality. The world building in this book is compelling, and thought-provoking. I could see many of our own world’s issues brought to the fore in unique but different ways in the various worlds the children visit. This book would be good for middle school students to read, examining the various aspects of differences within people and how each have gifts in their own way. Bravo, Lyndi Alexander!” ~ reviewed by Janet Pierce at Amazon Reviews [FIVE STARS]
“THE LOST CHORD is young adult fantasy at its best. The universe is falling out of harmony, and seven special young people from across different dimensions must be found. Known as keys, these teenagers are gathered from many places and then sent on a wild and dangerous journey to find a way to restore balance to the universe. [But no pressure, kids.] The main key is an autistic girl called Bee, who has dimension jumping abilities beyond the rest but who struggles to deal with new people and extraordinary circumstances. With teenagers from different races and even different species, the story tackles many social issues. Can these unique teens overcome their differences and learn to work together against those who want to stop them? Find the answer in THE LOST CHORD. This is a wonderful book for teens, pre-teens, and adults.” ~ reviewed by Amber Sparks at Neon Book Reviews [FIVE STARS]
“Unique and ingenious, THE LOST CHORD is gripping from beginning to end. The author did an excellent job of bringing the story to life. It resonates with vibrancy, color and sound. The main character, Bee, is adorable and so well-developed. I was not surprised to read that the author has autistic children. The way she portrayed Bee’s autism was very authentic. Every aspect of this book is exceptional, from the characters to the plot to the setting/descriptions, emotion, etc.” ~ reviewed by T. P. Warren at Bookbub [FIVE STARS]
“I was so drawn in! THE LOST CHORD is a great story with an unusual and intriguing plot. The characters are vivid and engaging. I loved how every part of the story came alive for me — fascinating places, strong protagonists, and mysterious pasts. Bee, one of the main characters, is a teenage girl who has autism, and Alexander’s portrayal of her is spot-on and very accessible to those who are unfamiliar with autism. An enjoyable story that will stay with you long after you read it!” ~ reviewed by Tanya Savko at Smashwords [FIVE STARS]
“THE LOST CHORD is a fantasy novel based on a group of mismatched teenagers known as Keys chosen to save the universe from certain destruction. The book opens up with the Conductor, the man searching for seven keys. We immediately get some insight as to what is going on, the purpose of this story, and how it will likely develop. I enjoyed being in the loop since the beginning, so as to not complicate the story. The plot was well written and interesting. Alexander was able to weave multiple story lines all from a third person point of view into the story while still keeping everything in order, which I thought was well done. The main character in my opinion was Bryony ‘Bee’ Warrick, a 15-year-old autistic girl, and one of the seven Keys. We got a glimpse of how an autistic mind works, as well as other people’s reactions to these thoughts. I think it very important that the author had the courage to bring a character such as Bee to life. It’s hard to depict such a broad disorder without showing research-based characteristics. From what I can tell, she very obviously has experience with autistic personnel and has shown her knowledge purely through character rather than facts thrown here and there. The other characters worked well together. It was interesting to see the different reactions to Bee from all of the characters, who had come from different planets and dimensions. The character arcs were clear and definitely worth the read to see all of the discrepancies between each and every one of the Keys. One of the biggest things I appreciated from this book was the diversity. Alexander has always had a knack for showing diversity in her novels, and she didn’t falter here. There were interesting role reversals and certain dilemmas the characters had to overcome that really showed a message of acceptance and unity. There were many possible themes in this story. Understanding, leadership, teamwork, and perseverance were prevalent throughout the whole story, and all important messages such as not fearing the unknown and accepting people for who they are were very present and unambiguous. I always enjoy Alexander’s work, and this is no exception. The clear diversity and character arc in this novel puts it at the top of my list of recommendations. I loved THE LOST CHORD, and I can’t wait to see what Lyndi Alexander comes out with next. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.” ~ reviewed by Hayley Guertin for Hayley’s Reviews [FIVE STARS]
“I loved THE LOST CHORD and its engaging autistic character Bee.Alexander’s plot proved miraculous – uniting string theory and chakras as well as healing eleven universes with song. Alexander’s characters, some prickly and disharmonious at first, grew into people I’d enjoy spending time with again and again. Alexander’s comfortable style and steadfast belief, that all have value and deserve respect, propelled me through the book. Though I had to put THE LOST CHORD down to perform mundane, real world tasks, my mind continually traveled with Bee and her companion Keys.” ~ reviewed by Janet Wells for Amazon Reviews [FIVE STARS]
“Every issue of the human experience is addressed in this engrossing story! The thought provoking characters not only keep the pages turning, they also cause one to reflect on their own societal views. Your life will forever be changed for the better if you absorb the stories behind the story. If THE LOST CHORD doesn’t become a movie, then I have given up on Hollywood!” ~ reviewed by Gina Chatfield on Facebook [FIVE STARS]
“I first judge a book by its first chapter — does it capture and keep my interest? Yes! I give THE LOST CHORD five stars because it contained all my likes: different universes, chakras, stones, believable characters and magic talismans. Once you read this, it will strike a chord within you that will resonate all the way to your soul. A conductor goes on a search to find the chosen few, each with their own special talents who set out to save ALL the universes! I was captured by her descriptions of the many planets of the many different universes; my favorite was Jandra with flying carpets! One of my favorite lines: “Whatever. And monkeys will fly out my butt.” He shook his head and gave an odd little laugh. Maxian stared at the other young man in wonder. “You can conjure monkeys from your body orifices? Truly you must be a wizard of great power!” Best quote summed up the best for all children on the spectrum came from Miss Bryony ‘Bee’ Warrick: ‘I welcome life. I belong.’ Each child gave their all in this quest, especially our Bee who will steal your heart. I am sure many of the readers will know someone like Bee who excels in the world better than we do. Their uniqueness makes us all think how highly intelligent they can be with the right guidance and support. I work along many students on the spectrum for the past three years, it is amazing to see how they process tasks and complete them in their own unique way. Each own special talent they excel at, like Bee. THE LOST CHORD was a very hard book to put down and stop reading, I had to read it all in one day! I’ve read many books from this wonderful and talented author, I challenge you to find everything she has written and leap into her words and see why she is so enjoyable to read!” ~ reviewed by sci-fi-bug at Barnes & Noble [FIVE STARS]
“THE LOST CHORD is a fascinating insight into Autism and a darned good yarn. I thoroughly enjoyed this YA novel which is as much a mystery as it is Sci-Fi with relatable characters and a fabulous premise. Alexander pulls the reader into multiple universes populated by people of many different races, with an upbeat style and a straightforward voice. The combination of sibling rivalry, teen angst, runes, magic, time travel, and saving the world from the plight of the Scourge — ticks all the boxes for me.” ~ reviewed by M. Mcewen-askeron for Amazon Reviews [FIVE STARS]
“THE LOST CHORD is a multi-dimensional story that pulled me in and kept me enticed. I am not a sci-fi fan normally. However, I decided to pick up this novel because the heroine was a teenage girl with autism. I have been an autistic support teacher for thirteen years and this is book has had one of most realistic, believable portrayal of a person living with autism! I will be recommending this book to my colleagues because it gives an insight to the feelings and mind of people on the spectrum. It allows people to see the main character, Bee, as different, not less. I appreciate that! I am giving this book a five-star rating because of it has a unique premise and is well-written. This story follows “the conductor” through various universes in order to find the ‘keys’ need to heal all of the universes, which are being plagued by disease. THE LOST CHORD wraps alternate universes, chakras, stones, unique characters, and magic all into one amazing story that will captivate you until the end. I would love to see this made into a movie! Also, I’m dying to know what happens with Bee. Where does she decide to live? Are all of the universes healed? Will the conductor’s arch nemesis attempt to return? I will be keeping my eye out for a sequel!” ~ reviewed by Michelle Stone for Amazon Reviews [FIVE STARS]
“Once you read THE LOST CHORD, it will strike a chord within you that will resonate all the way to your soul. I first judge a book by its first chapter — does it capture and keep my interest? In this case a strong: YES! I give this book five stars because it contained all my likes, different universes, chakras, stones, believable characters and magic talismans. Once you read this, it will strike a chord within you that will resonate all the way to your soul. A conductor goes on a search to find the chosen few, each with their own special talents who set out to save ALL the universes! I was captured by her descriptions of the many planets of the many different universes; my favorite was Jandra with flying carpets! Each child gave their all in this quest, especially our Bee who will steal your heart. I am sure many of the readers will know someone like Bee who excels in the world better than we do. Their uniqueness makes us all think how highly intelligent they can be with the right guidance and support. I work along many students on the spectrum for the past three years, it is amazing to see how they process tasks and complete them in their own unique way. Each own special talent they excel at, like Bee. THE LOST CHORD was a very hard book to put down and stop reading, I had to read it all in one day! I’ve read many books from this wonderful and talented author. I challenge you to find everything she has written and leap into her words and see why she is so enjoyable to read!” ~ reviewed by Susan Sebrell for Amazon Reviews [FIVE STARS]
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PAPERBACK [EAN 978-1-941278-81-9 | ISBN 1-941278-81-7] 6×9 library trim (200 pages) | Average Price: $11.99
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