A cyborg soldier, rejected by his family for his enhancements, finds solace and a new family on a space station during Christmas. Themes of found family, prejudice, and new beginnings are explored in this heartwarming science fiction novella.

Reader Review Summary

"Lost: A Christmas Novella" is a heartwarming science fiction tale that masterfully blends post-war themes with holiday spirit, earning its impressive 4.57/5 rating from over 300 readers. Author Jenny Schwartz has created a compelling story about found family and second chances that resonates deeply with readers.

The story follows Sergeant Ryan "Rye" Dabrowski, a cyborg veteran who faces rejection from his biological family due to his life-saving augmentations. What could have been merely a bitter tale of prejudice instead transforms into an uplifting story of hope and new beginnings when Rye encounters a robot child and his human nurse guardian at a space station.

The worldbuilding is particularly noteworthy, painting a complex future where humans, cyborgs, and robots coexist, though not without tension. The post-war setting adds depth to the narrative, touching on relevant themes of prejudice, acceptance, and what truly makes us human. The inclusion of the "Wishing Tree" tradition adds a unique sci-fi twist to traditional Christmas elements.

Character development shines throughout the novella. Rye is exceptionally well-crafted as the protagonist, coming across as courageous, ethical, and compassionate despite his hardships. The robot child Percy is consistently described as adorable and engaging, while the dynamic between the three main characters feels authentic and emotionally resonant.

While brief, the romance subplot develops naturally to a satisfying "Happy For Now" conclusion, avoiding the common pitfall of feeling rushed in shorter works. The story successfully balances heavier themes with hopeful moments, creating what many readers describe as a perfect holiday read.

Multiple readers note that this novella appears to be a prequel to an upcoming series, and the rich worldbuilding certainly suggests potential for expanded storytelling. The author's ability to create such a fully realized world and compelling characters in a novella-length work is particularly impressive.

The story especially connects with military veterans, as evidenced by several reviews, suggesting Schwartz has captured something authentic about the military experience and the challenges of returning home. The themes of chosen family and finding belonging resonate universally while feeling particularly poignant in the holiday season context.

If there's any criticism to be found, it's primarily that readers wanted more - a common complaint that actually speaks to the strength of the story and its world. The novella successfully leaves readers invested and eager for future works in this universe.

For fans of science fiction, holiday stories, or tales about found family, "Lost" offers a fresh take on Christmas themes while delivering emotional depth and contemporary relevance. It's a testament to how science fiction can explore very human stories while imagining new possibilities for our future.