Scholastic Press
2011
336p.
Princess Solveig and her siblings are trapped in a hidden fortress tucked between towering mountains and a frozen fjord, along with her best friend and an army of restless soldiers, all awaiting news of the king's victory in battle, but as they wait for winter's end and the all-encompassing ice to break, acts of treachery make it clear that a traitor lurks in their midst.
Wow - beautiful writing, stunning setting, and characters you really grow to care about. Solveig's voice rang true and memorable, and the gradual uncovering of Haka's personality fit naturally with the developing plot. I loved the message of the power of words and stories, and the importance of finding your identity. So many passages I want to reread, to savor! The plot develops slowly at first, but by the end builds up to suspense you can't put down.
ReplyDeleteI highly recommend the audiobook, which he library has both on CD and for electronic download. The pronunciation of the Norse names and words flowed so smoothly that it made the story even more beautiful. Although I read the last few chapters myself, I still wanted to listen to them again just to hear the voices!