A Skinful of Shadows

Everyone should read Frances Hardinge. Everyone. Right now. -- Patrick Ness 'A Skinful of Shadows confirms Hardinge's status as one of our finest storytellers. The striking originality of its magical element is matched by a thrilling depiction of a 17th century England riven with political and religious unease. At the centre of the novel, young Makepeace is a vital and engaging presence amid a cast of extraordinary and villainous characters, and she had my heart from the first. It's rare to find a book which is every bit as intelligent and stylish as it is riveting - I was enthralled' -- Sarah Perry, author of <i>The Essex Serpent</i> Hardinge is a talent who deserves to be read by children and adults alike. * Guardian * Hardinge's hypnotic prose and resourceful heroine will appeal to young adults and adult readers alike. * The Mail on Sunday * Hardinge’s tale of ghosts, puritans and shaping your own destiny is an unmissable, hypnotic treat. * Observer Children’s Book of the Week * Creepy, clever and mind-blowing. * Emerald Street * Chillingly atmospheric, historically fascinating, it’s also blackly comic in parts and beautifully written. * Daily Mail * Frances Hardinge’s latest novel, A Skinful of Shadows has a plot every bit as strange as her last, Costa-winning The Lie Tree. The thrilling story follows a 12-year-old girl who has imbibed the spirit of a bear, and is in danger from demonically possessed aristocrats. * Daily Telegraph (Books of the Year) * Electrifyingly good, A Skinful of Shadows dances between reason, compassion and the supernatural with exceptional artistry. Even in a remarkable year for children's books, it strikes gold. * New Statesman *