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Family Album

by CandyStix (link)

Genre cest, drama/angst
Pairings Isaac/OFC, Zaylor
Length 8 chapters
Status Completed (second in a series of three)

While I’m not in love with this title, it is in keeping with the first story of the series. In that story, Parts of a Picture, Candystix gave us a few glimpses, over years and months, at the deep secrets of the Hanson family. I can only assume that some of those secrets will be revealed in Family Album.

The story actually begin’s from the point of view of Zac’s daughter–who it seems Zac does now know is his daughter. Her mixed emotions at accidentally discovering her uncles (as she knows them to be) together are difficult to read. The conclusions Dylan jumps to as she uncovers the family secrets aren’t always correct and never get any easier to read, especially when I know the truth better than she does. It’s the worst sort of dramatic irony ever.

Family Album covers a lot less time than the first story, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The entire story hinges on Dylan’s revelations–and a few others–and ultimately, her choice. It may be a short story, but it packs a pretty strong emotional punch, even in spite of some strange and unexpected characterization of several people. Whether the hopeful note it ends on will play out in the third story… I can only hope.

Review by Bethany (website)