I was delighted to be approved to list to this book because I love Sally Gardner's other novels.

The narration of this book is fairly unemotional but this does not detract from the story. Other than a slower speech pattern to voice the character Misha, there were no noticeable voices of other characters or intonation for the story. However, the narration is clear and crisp and allows the story to flow so I actually found I quite liked the style in this audio book.

The story is as wonderful as any of Gardner's other novels. Edith is presented as a strong character who defies the accepted order of a patriarchal world and refuses to marry according to her father's (and the village elders') wishes. I was struck by the power in silence in this novel: by what she doesn't (is unable) to say.

The story has the feeling of a classical fairy-tale with many plots twists, but it also has elements of ghost and supernatural due to Edith's relationship with Demetrius, her lost love.

I enjoyed the story and the way in which it has been produced for this audio book.

The Snow Song - Sally Gardner

"Edith lives alone with her alcoholic father who is forcing her to marry the village butcher. But she is in love with a shepherd who promised to return to her. As the village becomes isolated in a sea of snow, Edith loses her power of speech"

I was immediately drawn to this book by its stunning cover and not really knowing much more about it, however there is such a mixture of darkness and magic within that it takes you to another world. With aspects such as Edith's hair turning white and her losing her voice, it feels other-worldly. The setting in the magical white snow, feels perfect for a fairy tale like read. It really is beautifully written and I think it would be an excellent book for all ages.

Many thanks to NetGalley and publishers for allowing me the opportunity to enjoy and review this book!