The Language of Kin


Fiction - Literary
372 Pages
Reviewed on 05/23/2023
Buy on Amazon

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    Book Review

Reviewed by Christine Nguyen for Readers' Favorite

The Language of Kin by Lynne Hugo is an intricate tale about attempts to rehabilitate a severely mistreated chimp named Eve, who was brutally taken from her mother at the vulnerable age of three and put into cruel experimental labs for eight long years. Renowned primatologist Kate and up-and-coming Marc work at the Ohio Zoo where they have opposing views on what approach is best in adjusting chimps to their new habitat. Little do they know that their private lives parallel each other as both bear the responsibility for the well-being of their respective mothers. Kate and Marc find common ground as Marc’s deaf mother teaches Kate’s mother sign language. Office politics at the zoo intervene and place Kate and Marc on opposite sides as the welfare of Eve the chimp is put on a tenuous hold.

The Language of Kin is a compelling story about how so many chimps like Eve are brutally captured as babies and made to suffer in experimental laboratories for selfish human interests. My compassion and attention were captured immediately by Lynne Hugo’s painful and bloody introduction of how bush hunters murder big groups of mother chimps caring for their babies in the wild. Although this is a work of fiction, I was deeply moved that in today’s modern world, these horrific crimes against beautiful, endangered animals can and still exist. My favorite passages were about Eve learning to trust Marc. I would have loved to read more about Eve’s inner world and feelings. An engrossing novel that is sure to tug at anyone’s heartstrings.

Denise Birt - Wild Sage Book Blog

The Language of Kin by author Lynne Hugo

Where do I begin reviewing a novel that has left such an imprint on my heart, and left me speechless...

The Language of Kin is nothing short of phenomenal! Ms. Hugo has masterfully created a story that brought my life to a screeching halt until I read the very last word on the last page... Outstanding and beautiful, this is a story I'll never forget!

This Award-Winning author has flawlessly taken Women's Fiction to another level by transporting her reader to a place where communication takes on a whole new meaning. Through her strong yet flawed characters, be it human or primate, we're shown how far they will go in helping and protecting those closest to them from the complexities and cruelties that encompass their worlds.

Kate, Marc, and Eve, as well as others, not only captured my heart, they inserted themselves in a way I felt I was living within their story. From the romantic to the scientific, along with elements of what family truly is, this is a welcoming, profoundly touching, and meaningful read for anyone looking to experience something very unique and refreshing.

A literary gem, a must-read, The Language of Kin is thoroughly captivating. Don't miss it...

Thank you, author Lynne Hugo, for giving life to this story and allowing me the opportunity to experience every twist, turn, and heartfelt word.

5+ Stars

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