What do you think?
Rate this book
A Skinful of Shadows
We see ghosts. And they are drawn to us.
Sometimes, when a person dies, their spirit goes looking for somewhere to hide. Some people have space within them, perfect for hiding.
Makepeace has learned to defend herself from the ghosts that try to possess her in the night, desperate for refuge - but one day a dreadful event causes her to drop her guard.
Now she has a spirit inside her. The spirit is wild, angry and strong, and it may be her only defence when she is sent to live with her father's cruel and powerful ancestors. But as she plans her escape to a country torn apart by civil war, Makepeace must decide which is worse: possession - or death.
Sometimes, when a person dies, their spirit goes looking for somewhere to hide. Some people have space within them, perfect for hiding.
Makepeace has learned to defend herself from the ghosts that try to possess her in the night, desperate for refuge - but one day a dreadful event causes her to drop her guard.
Now she has a spirit inside her. The spirit is wild, angry and strong, and it may be her only defence when she is sent to live with her father's cruel and powerful ancestors. But as she plans her escape to a country torn apart by civil war, Makepeace must decide which is worse: possession - or death.
417 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2017
About the author
Frances Hardinge
36 books2,651 followersFrances Hardinge spent her childhood in a huge, isolated old house in a small, strange village, and the two things inspired her to write strange, magical stories from an early age. She studied English at Oxford University and now lives in Oxford, England.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,390 reviews
December 1, 2021
“They had found the edges of each other’s temper, like jagged rocks under a placid skin of water.”
Frances Hardinge is an amazing writer. She is one of my favorites when it comes to word-smithing; never purple, but frequently vivid and full of emotional shading. Unfortunately, she tends to be the fantasy equivalent of Tana French: stories filled with a foreboding atmosphere, enough struggle to make one despair, and characters one would rather avoid.
I didn’t know what to expect with Skinful, which perhaps made my creeping realization of being in the wrong story all the more uncomfortable. It begins with a young girl, Makepeace, feeling her way through her outsider status in a small village. It turns out that the village is populated with Puritans who looks askance at a single mother. One day Mother starts leaving her in the local cemetery so she can learn to use her skills.
“Mother was like this sometimes. Conversations became riddles with traps in them, and your answers had consequences.”
I was curious to see where this would go, with Makepeace and the scratching, scrabbling, little cemetery ghosts, when it ended up taking an unexpected turn. Makepeace and her Mother get caught up in London riots against the King. Quickly we move from a semi-fantastical plot to a realistic and volatile setting, around the 1640s when England was in the midst of a civil war, with all its class and economic overtones. After a couple of terrible experiences, Makepeace ends up Grizehayes, an oppressive and ominous manor controlled by the Fellmotte family.
“Twenty-seven months is long enough for a place to seep into your bones. Its colours become the palette of your mind, its sounds your private music. Its cliffs or spires overshadow your dreams, its walls funnel your thoughts… but Makepeace was used to fighting against the slow poison of habit. Her life with Mother had taught her how to keep herself unrooted. This is not your home, she reminded herself again and again and again.”
I had a hard time with this one. The story was certainly readable while I was in it. However, I lacked the impetus to continue; I felt like every page turn was bringing some new betrayal into Makepeace’s life. There was no joy and little humor in these pages, only–eventually–a sense of satisfaction at taking control of one’s situation. Even the act of learning to read, which is usually an easy place to handhold readers into a book is described in a forbidding manner:
“But when she stared at the letters, they stared back, insect-splats of bulges and splayed legs.”
In that way, I appreciate the story, but can’t say that I loved it. I appreciate the message of success, and I was intrigued by the voices in Makepeace's head, but it was too dark and grim for me. Fly by Night was far preferable in terms of mood and humor, although I can see many of the thematic seeds that grew into a nettle-patch here.
Many thanks to my buddy-readers, Nataliya, Jennifer and Stephen!
Three and a half ghosts, rounding up because of the writing.
Frances Hardinge is an amazing writer. She is one of my favorites when it comes to word-smithing; never purple, but frequently vivid and full of emotional shading. Unfortunately, she tends to be the fantasy equivalent of Tana French: stories filled with a foreboding atmosphere, enough struggle to make one despair, and characters one would rather avoid.
I didn’t know what to expect with Skinful, which perhaps made my creeping realization of being in the wrong story all the more uncomfortable. It begins with a young girl, Makepeace, feeling her way through her outsider status in a small village. It turns out that the village is populated with Puritans who looks askance at a single mother. One day Mother starts leaving her in the local cemetery so she can learn to use her skills.
“Mother was like this sometimes. Conversations became riddles with traps in them, and your answers had consequences.”
I was curious to see where this would go, with Makepeace and the scratching, scrabbling, little cemetery ghosts, when it ended up taking an unexpected turn. Makepeace and her Mother get caught up in London riots against the King. Quickly we move from a semi-fantastical plot to a realistic and volatile setting, around the 1640s when England was in the midst of a civil war, with all its class and economic overtones. After a couple of terrible experiences, Makepeace ends up Grizehayes, an oppressive and ominous manor controlled by the Fellmotte family.
“Twenty-seven months is long enough for a place to seep into your bones. Its colours become the palette of your mind, its sounds your private music. Its cliffs or spires overshadow your dreams, its walls funnel your thoughts… but Makepeace was used to fighting against the slow poison of habit. Her life with Mother had taught her how to keep herself unrooted. This is not your home, she reminded herself again and again and again.”
I had a hard time with this one. The story was certainly readable while I was in it. However, I lacked the impetus to continue; I felt like every page turn was bringing some new betrayal into Makepeace’s life. There was no joy and little humor in these pages, only–eventually–a sense of satisfaction at taking control of one’s situation. Even the act of learning to read, which is usually an easy place to handhold readers into a book is described in a forbidding manner:
“But when she stared at the letters, they stared back, insect-splats of bulges and splayed legs.”
In that way, I appreciate the story, but can’t say that I loved it. I appreciate the message of success, and I was intrigued by the voices in Makepeace's head, but it was too dark and grim for me. Fly by Night was far preferable in terms of mood and humor, although I can see many of the thematic seeds that grew into a nettle-patch here.
Many thanks to my buddy-readers, Nataliya, Jennifer and Stephen!
Three and a half ghosts, rounding up because of the writing.
December 4, 2021
“I am not changed,’ she said. ‘You never knew me. None of you ever knew me.’ It occurred to her that perhaps she had not even known herself.”Yes, at this point I will read anything Frances Hardinge chooses to put her pen to. Books, grocery lists, back of the napkin doodles — if she writes it, I will read it. Not since Terry Pratchett* have I encountered a writer of such consistent quality combined with superb imagination and originality.
* It’s the hat, isn’t it? Is that the secret?
The quality of Hardinge’s writing is beyond solid. It’s that wonderful way she turns a phrase - precise and yet evocative, rich yet with distinct lack of purple prose. It’s that seriousness and darkness bordering on bleak at times — and yet with the undercurrent of hope and realism that is infused with subtle optimism, eventually. The way she makes the reader see the world is something I can’t help but appreciate and savor.
“If someone throws aside their pride and begs with all their heart, and if they do so in vain, then they are never quite the same person afterwards. Something in them dies, and something else comes to life. Afterwards, it was as if some understanding of the world had sunk into Makepeace’s soul like winter dew. She knew that she would never feel safe or loved as she had before. And she knew that she would never, ever beg that way again.”
Hardinge does not recycle her settings and ideas. In every book she creates something new, unique and complex, with solid internal rules and consistency, fleshed-out so well that these worlds feel alive and real. She does not fall prey to tropes and always takes her stories somewhere you wouldn’t be able to predict from the get-go.
“Conversations became riddles with traps in them, and your answers had consequences.”
This time we are in the mid-17th century England, in the middle of the English Civil War between the King and the Parliament, the Puritans and the Royalists. (“Give a man a sword and pistol,’ said Helen, ‘and leave him hungry for a few weeks, and everybody will start to look like the enemy.”) Young Makepeace Lightfoot, a daughter of a single mother in a Puritan village, learns early on to guard herself against ghosts who, as everyone knows, are aiming to invade you and set shop in your head. After losing her mother in London riots, she is taken in by her father’s rich family as a servant — and perhaps as something else, something more and infinitely terrifying.
“The dread that she herself was a ‘fattened goose’ had never stopped haunting her.”
Makepeace is pretty low on the totem pole as far as world is concerned. A servant, an illegitimate child, and a girl — all those are stacked against her. She is supposed to be thankful for the roof over the head and a hot meal — but as she learns what may be expected of her and her brother, she’s horrified. But horrified is not enough — you need to take action if you want to survive. And the characterization of her, the entire character arc and growth is wonderful.
“The world was turning cartwheels, Makepeace realized, and nobody was sure which way was up any more. Rules were breaking, but nobody was certain which ones. If you had enough confidence, you could walk in and act as if you knew what the new rules were, and other people would believe you.”
It starts as a horror story, a haunted story, and transforms into historical fantastical mystery/intrigue, with ghosts and spies and war and cruelty and conspiracies. It’s not the supernatural that’s the most terrifying and bleak, but the realistic aspects - war, poverty, subjugation, classism. The world is grey and full of shadows and nuances, and scaffolded on power structures that sometimes need to be shifted a bit.
“He’s no better than the other Fellmottes. Another rich man bent on what he thinks the world owes him, and willing to pay any price, as long as it’s in the blood of others.”
———
“Sometimes you had to be patient through pain, or people gave you more pain. Sometimes you had to weather everything and take your bruises. If you were lucky, and if everyone thought you were tamed and trained … there might come a time when you could strike.”
With time, Hardinge’s books have become darker, more serious and more atmospheric. She takes on societal prejudices, opinion echo chambers, shifting loyalties, and the need for periodic well-aimed subversion. She excels at difficult emotions and situations - betrayal, fear, loss, longing, pain. Even supposedly happy endings are bittersweet () — but that’s what makes them feel real and earned, as opposed to cotton candy-like sweetness some writers choose to please the readers. Me, I’ll take Hardinge’s darker and greyer shades of ambiguity any day.
“Is the world ending?’ James asked huskily.
Makepeace moved over, wrapped her bruised arms around him and hugged him tightly.
‘Yes,’ she said.
‘What do we do?’
‘We walk,’ she said. ‘We find food, and a place to sleep. Tomorrow we do it again. We survive.”
I think it’s fantastic, just as most of Frances Hardinge’s books are. And yes, as long as she keeps writing, I’ll remain her faithful reader.
4.5 ursine stars.
—————
My reviews of other Frances Hardinge’s books:
The Lie Tree
A Face Like Glass
Gullstruck Island
Verdigris Deep
Deeplight
Cuckoo Song
—————
Buddy read with Carol, Jennifer and Stephen. You guys are the best!
November 19, 2017
Frances Hardinge's latest offering certainly didn't disappoint, in fact, she may just be one of my new favourite authors. Her writing is so original, innovative and different, I don’t know where she gets all her ideas from but I’m praying she never runs out. This novel blends historical fiction with the supernatural, and the pair get along famously. The central character is Makepeace, a girl who grew up in a Puritan community in the years leading up to the English Civil War in the 1640s. After the death of her mother, she is taken in by her formerly estranged father’s family, the Fellmottes. She soon discovers that the members of this ancient, aristocratic family have the ability to capture, and be used as a vessel for, spirits, and that maybe there was more behind her mother’s decision to hide Makepeace from them than she realised. Before she even has a chance to understand her gift, Makepeace is inhabited by the violent spirit of a murdered circus bear, who she henceforth has to share her head-space with, and, although it may sound ridiculous, Hardinge managed to develop their initial animosity toward each other into a genuine, and quite moving, friendship. The Fellmottes are quickly revealed to have sinister plans in store for Makepeace and her abilities, and her bear becomes her faithful guardian and the only one in the world she can trust.
Makepeace has the trademark of all Hardinge’s heroines; she’s resourceful, curious and recognises her differences as her greatest strengths. The narrative is incredibly absorbing and while the plot is driven by the feud between Makepeace and the Fellmottes over her supernatural abilities, there are still numerous references to the historical context and, more than anything, it is the brutality of the Civil War that really sets the tone of the story. Hardinge ultimately seems to have a rather scathing assessment of both sides in the conflict, with characters like Livewell, the disillusioned Puritan, and Symond, the Royalist who becomes a Parliamentarian simply to be free of his duties as a Fellmotte, illustrating that no side had the monopoly on righteous ideology and each was spouting their own version of ‘fake news’.
Hardinge creates such a richly enchanting atmosphere and brings the terror of the Fellmottes and the violence of the Civil War to life so vividly that I was barely able to put this book down. A very memorable read.
Makepeace has the trademark of all Hardinge’s heroines; she’s resourceful, curious and recognises her differences as her greatest strengths. The narrative is incredibly absorbing and while the plot is driven by the feud between Makepeace and the Fellmottes over her supernatural abilities, there are still numerous references to the historical context and, more than anything, it is the brutality of the Civil War that really sets the tone of the story. Hardinge ultimately seems to have a rather scathing assessment of both sides in the conflict, with characters like Livewell, the disillusioned Puritan, and Symond, the Royalist who becomes a Parliamentarian simply to be free of his duties as a Fellmotte, illustrating that no side had the monopoly on righteous ideology and each was spouting their own version of ‘fake news’.
Hardinge creates such a richly enchanting atmosphere and brings the terror of the Fellmottes and the violence of the Civil War to life so vividly that I was barely able to put this book down. A very memorable read.
November 8, 2017
November 2017
I always knew I would be reading this book after being lucky enough to read the sampler from Netgalley back in the summer. And what a wonderful treat of a book this was. Set during the English civil war, at the height of witch hunts, comes the story of a family with a very unusual gift. Makepeace, our main heroine, was an excellent character and her journey to maturity and peace is a difficult one for her but a terribly satisfying one for the reader. And what a wonderful set of companions to travel with!
Highly recommended.
This was a 5 chapter sampler given by Netgalley as an ARC. It was great! This in itself is no surprise if you have read The Lie Tree by the same author.
Makepeace our young main character hasn't had a happy life so far, being raised by a loveless mother within a puritanical family. This is set in the past in a time of superstition and ghosts, where things go bump in the night. Her mother seems to be training Makepeace to endure the presence of ghosts but this is cut short by ma' s untimely demise. Makepeace is sent to her relative Obadiah- and there is a strong sense of danger around her. She is exhibiting aggressive behaviour, linked to a recent entanglement with the ghost of a bear and she fears Obadiah could have her persecuted as a witch or sent to Bedlam. Just at the point where it starts to get really interesting, where Makepeace works out what has happened and starts to communicate with the bear, the sampler finished. How frustrating! I can't wait to get stuck in where the sampler left off.
I always knew I would be reading this book after being lucky enough to read the sampler from Netgalley back in the summer. And what a wonderful treat of a book this was. Set during the English civil war, at the height of witch hunts, comes the story of a family with a very unusual gift. Makepeace, our main heroine, was an excellent character and her journey to maturity and peace is a difficult one for her but a terribly satisfying one for the reader. And what a wonderful set of companions to travel with!
Highly recommended.
This was a 5 chapter sampler given by Netgalley as an ARC. It was great! This in itself is no surprise if you have read The Lie Tree by the same author.
Makepeace our young main character hasn't had a happy life so far, being raised by a loveless mother within a puritanical family. This is set in the past in a time of superstition and ghosts, where things go bump in the night. Her mother seems to be training Makepeace to endure the presence of ghosts but this is cut short by ma' s untimely demise. Makepeace is sent to her relative Obadiah- and there is a strong sense of danger around her. She is exhibiting aggressive behaviour, linked to a recent entanglement with the ghost of a bear and she fears Obadiah could have her persecuted as a witch or sent to Bedlam. Just at the point where it starts to get really interesting, where Makepeace works out what has happened and starts to communicate with the bear, the sampler finished. How frustrating! I can't wait to get stuck in where the sampler left off.
February 25, 2018
“A Skinful of Shadows” by Frances Hardinge is the follow-up to her 2015 book “The Lie Tree”. However, “Shadows” is set just prior to the English civil war in the 1650’s era and utilizes as a background the gaining momentum of that war. The seventeenth century is not a common time period in which to set a YA book.
The book gives us castles, hungry soldiers, plagues, and suspicious townsfolk. Did I mention it also gives us ghosts? Oh yes, a number of ghosts. One of the great aspects of the story is that we the reader learn, grow, and gain knowledgeable life lessons along with our POV character, the young Makepeace, who learns early in the narrative she is being groomed to be the receptacle of centuries old ghosts aka souls. Like all primary characters in YA narratives, Makepeace is rebellious and strong willed, so wants a say in the proceedings.
Her first rescue, to which she becomes host, is a mistreated circus bear. Makepeace discovers just how difficult it is to trust people, a good life lesson. This becomes more and more important as she wanders through the countryside searching for safety.
A rich and endearing story “A Skinful of Shadows” becomes a bit episodic due to just when it seems like Makepeace has finally figured things out she must venture further on again seeking new answers to new questions.
The book gives us castles, hungry soldiers, plagues, and suspicious townsfolk. Did I mention it also gives us ghosts? Oh yes, a number of ghosts. One of the great aspects of the story is that we the reader learn, grow, and gain knowledgeable life lessons along with our POV character, the young Makepeace, who learns early in the narrative she is being groomed to be the receptacle of centuries old ghosts aka souls. Like all primary characters in YA narratives, Makepeace is rebellious and strong willed, so wants a say in the proceedings.
Her first rescue, to which she becomes host, is a mistreated circus bear. Makepeace discovers just how difficult it is to trust people, a good life lesson. This becomes more and more important as she wanders through the countryside searching for safety.
A rich and endearing story “A Skinful of Shadows” becomes a bit episodic due to just when it seems like Makepeace has finally figured things out she must venture further on again seeking new answers to new questions.
April 1, 2019
Ms Hardinge was on my radar for a very long time, and finally managed to read her. Bad thing I never knew that it was a follow up but the good thing was I never realized before or after reading it that it was a follow-up to The Lie Tree. Only after reading other reviews I came to know of this fact. But I guess it does not matter because I enjoyed this book and never felt that it had some references from some other book.
Anyways, coming back to the book I never thought this would be such a dark book. I see people mention that the author writes children’s stories but this was definitely not for kids. Set in the times of English Civil War, a 12 year old Makepeace has been living in a small village with her mother. Things changes soon after her mother dies. Her relative sent her to her father’s home, Grizehayes. Makepeace has a special magic within her which she thought was a curse upon her but slowly she realized that this magic makes her an important part of the powerful Fellmotte family. There she met her step brother James, and they started making escape plans but alas life was not so easy for these two. James got stranded in a deeper conspiracy and Makepeace does everything in her power to cling to this last person whom she calls her brother.
The magic system in this book was new to me. Makepeace’s rebellion against Fellmote is quite inspiring. She takes some great decision many times but at others her naïve and honest self puts her in dangerous situation. It was a remarkable journey of a girl who wanted to be loved but got herself tangled in the power struggle of Fellmotte family and then later on English civil war. Also, I loved how Makepeace’s transition from a timid girl to a clever girl. I was worried for her survival but the author made her change flawless. It was not sudden but gradual hence so believable.
Ms. Hardinge writes beautifully. She knitted a web with her characters, their weaknesses and strengths and a spellbinding story, it was hard to put it down. It was haunting and yet mesmerizing too. I was expecting children’s story but this turned out to be a darker tale of coming of age.
Now I why everyone loves Ms Hardinge. Highly recommended.
Anyways, coming back to the book I never thought this would be such a dark book. I see people mention that the author writes children’s stories but this was definitely not for kids. Set in the times of English Civil War, a 12 year old Makepeace has been living in a small village with her mother. Things changes soon after her mother dies. Her relative sent her to her father’s home, Grizehayes. Makepeace has a special magic within her which she thought was a curse upon her but slowly she realized that this magic makes her an important part of the powerful Fellmotte family. There she met her step brother James, and they started making escape plans but alas life was not so easy for these two. James got stranded in a deeper conspiracy and Makepeace does everything in her power to cling to this last person whom she calls her brother.
The magic system in this book was new to me. Makepeace’s rebellion against Fellmote is quite inspiring. She takes some great decision many times but at others her naïve and honest self puts her in dangerous situation. It was a remarkable journey of a girl who wanted to be loved but got herself tangled in the power struggle of Fellmotte family and then later on English civil war. Also, I loved how Makepeace’s transition from a timid girl to a clever girl. I was worried for her survival but the author made her change flawless. It was not sudden but gradual hence so believable.
Ms. Hardinge writes beautifully. She knitted a web with her characters, their weaknesses and strengths and a spellbinding story, it was hard to put it down. It was haunting and yet mesmerizing too. I was expecting children’s story but this turned out to be a darker tale of coming of age.
Now I why everyone loves Ms Hardinge. Highly recommended.
November 12, 2017
4.5 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2017/11/11/...
Earlier this year I had the pleasure of reading Frances Hardinge’s A Face like Glass, and afterward I just knew I had to read more of her work. Because of this, I picked up the audiobook of A Skinful of Shadows, and I’m happy to say it did not disappoint. The book turned out to be one of the most wonderfully magical and imaginative Young Adult novels I’ve ever read—in other words, everything I expected from the author.
Set in the mid-17th century in the time of the English Civil War, the story stars our protagonist Makepeace who lives with her mother Margaret in the very Puritan town of Poplar. For as long as she can remember, terrible ghostly figures and other tortured spirits have haunted Makepeace’s dreams, but Margaret has remained stubbornly tightlipped about the topic, even when it is clear she knows why the dead are interested in her daughter. Instead, Margaret forces Makepeace to spend one night every few months locked up by herself in the darkness of the town’s cemetery crypt, telling the girl she must confront her fears in order to build stronger defenses against the ghosts. “One day you will thank me,” Margaret tells her daughter, but as the years pass, Makepeace grows more resentful of the cruel treatment, and the relationship with her mother was never the same again.
Then one day, during a particularly bitter argument, Margaret accidentally lets slip an important piece of information about Makepeace’s father, a subject rarely spoken of in their household. This precipitates a chain of tragic events that leads Makepeace to the discovery of where she came from, as well as the origin behind her nightmares. Never did she imagine that the truth would be so terrible though, as she suddenly realizes the forces of evil her mother had been trying to protect her from. Understanding much too late, Makepeace lets her guard down in a moment of weakness, unwittingly allowing a ghost to invade her mind—except this ghost is different from the ones she has encountered before, being the spirit of a frightened, angry bear.
One thing I’ve learned from reading Hardinge is that you can never predict how her stories will play out. When I first read an early synopsis for this book which describes Makepeace and the ghosts in her head—which includes a motley crew of outcasts, misfits, criminals and one dead bear—I had no idea what I was going to be in for. I certainly did not expect the plot to be so darkly twisted and yet so whimsically magical at the same time. The ideas in A Skinful of Shadows are astonishing in their originality and complexity, and I can’t tell you how refreshing it is to read a YA novel that isn’t clogged t0 the gills with rehashed tropes and paint-by-number characters.
On that note, I also loved the protagonist Makepeace, who exhibits uncommon bravery in the face of the unknown. All her life, she has been surrounded by lies, even from her own mother, who was admittedly just trying to protect her. Still, by withholding the truth, Margaret has only managed to make her daughter more defiant, and like most confused adolescents, Makepeace occasionally lets her temper get the better of her. Still, instead of turning me off, the protagonist’s little acts of defiance only endeared her even more to me, because it made her feel genuine and easily relatable.
As a coming-of-age tale, this book really shines in showing the emotional impact of living a life caught in the middle. Makepeace has never felt like she belonged in Poplar, and later finds out that her ability to see ghosts and absorb them into herself is the result of her father’s bloodline. And yet, when she finds herself at Grizehayes, the ancestral home of her father’s family, she is quite horrified to discover what exactly her powers can be used for. Worst of all, instead of finding acceptance with others like her, she is threatened and manipulated, and the only person she ends up trusting is a half-brother named James, who shows her kindness.
And then, of course, there’s the bear. Out of all of Makepeace’s relationships, the one she has with her ghostly beast passenger was by far my favorite—and not just because it’s so strange and wonderful. Having the spirit of a wild animal in your head is as scary as it sounds, but eventually a deep rapport forms between the two of them, with Makepeace trusting the bear’s instincts and “forest wisdom” to guide her. For a companion who isn’t even human, and mainly only communicates with our protagonist through senses and emotions, bear was a surprisingly deep and heartfelt character.
This is only my second novel by Frances Hardinge, but I already feel confident in saying this is not a fluke. She is one of the most creative storytellers I’ve ever read, with a clear talent for crafting strong and evocative narratives whose depth of emotion will stun you. A Skinful of Shadows has firmly placed her on my must-read authors list, and I can’t wait to see what she’ll write next.
Audiobook Comments: Absolutely loved the audiobook. The narrator Hallie Ricardo did a great job and she has an amazing range of voices which really brought all the characters to life. Highly recommended.
Earlier this year I had the pleasure of reading Frances Hardinge’s A Face like Glass, and afterward I just knew I had to read more of her work. Because of this, I picked up the audiobook of A Skinful of Shadows, and I’m happy to say it did not disappoint. The book turned out to be one of the most wonderfully magical and imaginative Young Adult novels I’ve ever read—in other words, everything I expected from the author.
Set in the mid-17th century in the time of the English Civil War, the story stars our protagonist Makepeace who lives with her mother Margaret in the very Puritan town of Poplar. For as long as she can remember, terrible ghostly figures and other tortured spirits have haunted Makepeace’s dreams, but Margaret has remained stubbornly tightlipped about the topic, even when it is clear she knows why the dead are interested in her daughter. Instead, Margaret forces Makepeace to spend one night every few months locked up by herself in the darkness of the town’s cemetery crypt, telling the girl she must confront her fears in order to build stronger defenses against the ghosts. “One day you will thank me,” Margaret tells her daughter, but as the years pass, Makepeace grows more resentful of the cruel treatment, and the relationship with her mother was never the same again.
Then one day, during a particularly bitter argument, Margaret accidentally lets slip an important piece of information about Makepeace’s father, a subject rarely spoken of in their household. This precipitates a chain of tragic events that leads Makepeace to the discovery of where she came from, as well as the origin behind her nightmares. Never did she imagine that the truth would be so terrible though, as she suddenly realizes the forces of evil her mother had been trying to protect her from. Understanding much too late, Makepeace lets her guard down in a moment of weakness, unwittingly allowing a ghost to invade her mind—except this ghost is different from the ones she has encountered before, being the spirit of a frightened, angry bear.
One thing I’ve learned from reading Hardinge is that you can never predict how her stories will play out. When I first read an early synopsis for this book which describes Makepeace and the ghosts in her head—which includes a motley crew of outcasts, misfits, criminals and one dead bear—I had no idea what I was going to be in for. I certainly did not expect the plot to be so darkly twisted and yet so whimsically magical at the same time. The ideas in A Skinful of Shadows are astonishing in their originality and complexity, and I can’t tell you how refreshing it is to read a YA novel that isn’t clogged t0 the gills with rehashed tropes and paint-by-number characters.
On that note, I also loved the protagonist Makepeace, who exhibits uncommon bravery in the face of the unknown. All her life, she has been surrounded by lies, even from her own mother, who was admittedly just trying to protect her. Still, by withholding the truth, Margaret has only managed to make her daughter more defiant, and like most confused adolescents, Makepeace occasionally lets her temper get the better of her. Still, instead of turning me off, the protagonist’s little acts of defiance only endeared her even more to me, because it made her feel genuine and easily relatable.
As a coming-of-age tale, this book really shines in showing the emotional impact of living a life caught in the middle. Makepeace has never felt like she belonged in Poplar, and later finds out that her ability to see ghosts and absorb them into herself is the result of her father’s bloodline. And yet, when she finds herself at Grizehayes, the ancestral home of her father’s family, she is quite horrified to discover what exactly her powers can be used for. Worst of all, instead of finding acceptance with others like her, she is threatened and manipulated, and the only person she ends up trusting is a half-brother named James, who shows her kindness.
And then, of course, there’s the bear. Out of all of Makepeace’s relationships, the one she has with her ghostly beast passenger was by far my favorite—and not just because it’s so strange and wonderful. Having the spirit of a wild animal in your head is as scary as it sounds, but eventually a deep rapport forms between the two of them, with Makepeace trusting the bear’s instincts and “forest wisdom” to guide her. For a companion who isn’t even human, and mainly only communicates with our protagonist through senses and emotions, bear was a surprisingly deep and heartfelt character.
This is only my second novel by Frances Hardinge, but I already feel confident in saying this is not a fluke. She is one of the most creative storytellers I’ve ever read, with a clear talent for crafting strong and evocative narratives whose depth of emotion will stun you. A Skinful of Shadows has firmly placed her on my must-read authors list, and I can’t wait to see what she’ll write next.
Audiobook Comments: Absolutely loved the audiobook. The narrator Hallie Ricardo did a great job and she has an amazing range of voices which really brought all the characters to life. Highly recommended.
April 2, 2022
oh my god
October 23, 2017
I loved The Lie Tree by Frances Hardinge, and had high hopes for her next offering. I wasn't disappointed. This was the perfect blend of history, magical realism and dark fantasy.
Set in the early days of the English Civil War, Makepeace has been raised by her mother to fear and fight off the dead who want to inhabit her body. When events force her to leave her home and live with her powerful father's family, Makepeace must confront the shadows that lurk in the dark and learn more about her 'inheritance' in order to retain her freedom.
I loved the background of Puritan England. Frances Hardinge paints a vivid picture of this time period, and I really felt part of the story. I never felt at a disadvantage for knowing little about this historical period because everything is explained so well - although I'm sure I would have gained even more from the text if I knew more about King Charles I. There also wasn't extensive details about various battles or sieges aside from what is integral to the plot itself - which allowed me to really just enjoy the story, and stopped it from getting bogged down in facts.
The plot itself starts out a little slow. I wasn't fond of Makepeace's mother, and I found the possessions in the early sections confusing. With no backstory yet developed for Makepeace's family, her mother comes across as extremely strict and almost zealous in her religious fervour without really having a reason behind it. Thankfully, these chapters are swift to get through, and the rest of the story is well paced and carries a good 'adventure' feel to it. The magical realism aspect is well explained, with a good level of mysticism and air of dark fantasy. The Fellmottes are great villains, and the opportunity to have a family completely devoted to living forever through their absolute belief in what they call 'The Inheritance' is wonderful. It's such a unique concept, and I loved it.
Makepeace is great. She's almost a shadow herself in the beginning, an almost parallel to the ghosts who wish to inhabit her. Yet we see as she sets out to save her companions, and with each subsequent possession, how much she grows as a character, and develops an aspect of each character she possesses. She's deeply kind, loyal and at heart a just individual. Unlike James, she doesn't try to better herself in front of her Elders, nor is she swayed by the enticement of power. She's also practical. Whereas James has numerous ideas to escape the ancestral home on discovering her families secrets, she's the voice of reason.
I didn't really warm to James. Aside from when we first meet him, and he rescues Makepeace he comes across as a 'jack the lad'. Easily swayed and taken in, he also readily drops Makepace when a better offer comes along - leaving her behind to face the music.
The story itself is well developed, and well concluded. I felt Makepeace really comes full circle, and I was left feeling satisfied and yearning for more.. Hardinge really is shining at the moment. I don't know anyone who quite blends fantasy and history together quite like she does.
Set in the early days of the English Civil War, Makepeace has been raised by her mother to fear and fight off the dead who want to inhabit her body. When events force her to leave her home and live with her powerful father's family, Makepeace must confront the shadows that lurk in the dark and learn more about her 'inheritance' in order to retain her freedom.
I loved the background of Puritan England. Frances Hardinge paints a vivid picture of this time period, and I really felt part of the story. I never felt at a disadvantage for knowing little about this historical period because everything is explained so well - although I'm sure I would have gained even more from the text if I knew more about King Charles I. There also wasn't extensive details about various battles or sieges aside from what is integral to the plot itself - which allowed me to really just enjoy the story, and stopped it from getting bogged down in facts.
The plot itself starts out a little slow. I wasn't fond of Makepeace's mother, and I found the possessions in the early sections confusing. With no backstory yet developed for Makepeace's family, her mother comes across as extremely strict and almost zealous in her religious fervour without really having a reason behind it. Thankfully, these chapters are swift to get through, and the rest of the story is well paced and carries a good 'adventure' feel to it. The magical realism aspect is well explained, with a good level of mysticism and air of dark fantasy. The Fellmottes are great villains, and the opportunity to have a family completely devoted to living forever through their absolute belief in what they call 'The Inheritance' is wonderful. It's such a unique concept, and I loved it.
Makepeace is great. She's almost a shadow herself in the beginning, an almost parallel to the ghosts who wish to inhabit her. Yet we see as she sets out to save her companions, and with each subsequent possession, how much she grows as a character, and develops an aspect of each character she possesses. She's deeply kind, loyal and at heart a just individual. Unlike James, she doesn't try to better herself in front of her Elders, nor is she swayed by the enticement of power. She's also practical. Whereas James has numerous ideas to escape the ancestral home on discovering her families secrets, she's the voice of reason.
I didn't really warm to James. Aside from when we first meet him, and he rescues Makepeace he comes across as a 'jack the lad'. Easily swayed and taken in, he also readily drops Makepace when a better offer comes along - leaving her behind to face the music.
The story itself is well developed, and well concluded. I felt Makepeace really comes full circle, and I was left feeling satisfied and yearning for more.. Hardinge really is shining at the moment. I don't know anyone who quite blends fantasy and history together quite like she does.
October 24, 2017
Amazing. Incredible. Fabulous.
A Skinful of Shadows is everything I know Hardinge is capable of. The story is creepy and brilliant, but heartfelt and emotive. I loved the main character, Makepeace, but as is usual for Frances Hardinge, all of her characters are vivid and filled with life. No complaints about the quality of the writing either; it is a joy to read.
This is a great book for Hardinge fans, but also a wonderful starting place if you haven't read her before. As expected, this one is going directly on my favourites 2017 shelf.
A Skinful of Shadows is everything I know Hardinge is capable of. The story is creepy and brilliant, but heartfelt and emotive. I loved the main character, Makepeace, but as is usual for Frances Hardinge, all of her characters are vivid and filled with life. No complaints about the quality of the writing either; it is a joy to read.
This is a great book for Hardinge fans, but also a wonderful starting place if you haven't read her before. As expected, this one is going directly on my favourites 2017 shelf.
February 26, 2019
I had a REALLY strong horror vibe in the first part of this book. Great atmosphere, vivid emotional impact, and I felt like I had no control. Beautiful. Hardinge is really great at this. :)
After that, however? The book went from being possessed by the ghost of a bear to a story of fantasy intrigue in the days of England's Civil War in the 17th century.
Say what?
Oh, yeah. Very period historical fantasy. Fun historical fantasy. Great characters.
Our MC's life stalls in the household of her biological family after she loses her mom who escaped from the horrors there, but she eventually escapes using her wits and ghosts and has an adventure across England. This wasn't so much horror at this point but it sure was fun. The rest is about survival, intrigue, and being hunted by a cadre of ancient ghosts. And what she learns is just as important as the adventure.
Color me impressed. Hardinge has always been a writer to look out for and I'm very happy to keep reading her work. :) This is my third. I expect to read everything. :)
After that, however? The book went from being possessed by the ghost of a bear to a story of fantasy intrigue in the days of England's Civil War in the 17th century.
Say what?
Oh, yeah. Very period historical fantasy. Fun historical fantasy. Great characters.
Our MC's life stalls in the household of her biological family after she loses her mom who escaped from the horrors there, but she eventually escapes using her wits and ghosts and has an adventure across England. This wasn't so much horror at this point but it sure was fun. The rest is about survival, intrigue, and being hunted by a cadre of ancient ghosts. And what she learns is just as important as the adventure.
Color me impressed. Hardinge has always been a writer to look out for and I'm very happy to keep reading her work. :) This is my third. I expect to read everything. :)
July 18, 2023
коли очікуєш легкої підліткової фентезійної історії, а тут отримуєш моторошну книжку про привидів, які в більшості випадків нахабно рвуться потрапити у твою голову 🔥
October 12, 2017
If authors have golden periods during their careers than surely Frances Hardinge is in one now. Cuckoo Song and The Lie Tree were both brilliant dark fantasy stories with younger protagonists and this continues in that vein.
Makepeace and her mother live in a puritan village in England just prior to the English Civil War. From a young age Makepeace is trained to protect herself in a very strange way: her mother has her sleep in the village graveyard overnight to force her to learn to defend herself against the ghosts that she senses there. The ability that makes her able to see ghosts also makes her the perfect target for possession by them, something that she finds out all about when a traumatic event leaves her possessed by the spirit of a beast. But the beast may be all that can save her when she encounters her father's family, many of whom also have the gift.
Like in the The Lie Tree Hardinge brings this historical period to intricate life, but not without keeping the story suspenseful as Makepeace's family are revealed in their full horrific detail. Her journey is an interesting one for YA in that the issue is not so much about defining her identity, but the much more basic one of whether she is entitled to an identity separate from that of her family at all.
One of the things I love about all this author's stories is the way they end, with the protagonists at the beginning of even more adventures, ones which I'd love to read more of. No sequels as yet for any of them, but I can easily imagine where they'd go.
Makepeace and her mother live in a puritan village in England just prior to the English Civil War. From a young age Makepeace is trained to protect herself in a very strange way: her mother has her sleep in the village graveyard overnight to force her to learn to defend herself against the ghosts that she senses there. The ability that makes her able to see ghosts also makes her the perfect target for possession by them, something that she finds out all about when a traumatic event leaves her possessed by the spirit of a beast. But the beast may be all that can save her when she encounters her father's family, many of whom also have the gift.
Like in the The Lie Tree Hardinge brings this historical period to intricate life, but not without keeping the story suspenseful as Makepeace's family are revealed in their full horrific detail. Her journey is an interesting one for YA in that the issue is not so much about defining her identity, but the much more basic one of whether she is entitled to an identity separate from that of her family at all.
One of the things I love about all this author's stories is the way they end, with the protagonists at the beginning of even more adventures, ones which I'd love to read more of. No sequels as yet for any of them, but I can easily imagine where they'd go.
December 3, 2017
I don’t know what to say about this one. It had a fantastic start, but the last hundred pages was a chore to read. I actually sat this down for almost a week before I picked it back up to try to finish it.
The begin felt like a weird, creepy horror story, which I loved, but then the novel takes an unexpected bad turn. The spirit possession plot is set aside and the focus is more about the war, family secrets, and staying in the king’s good graces. There’s also a betrayal angle. For a large chunk of the novel, it felt like I was reading a historical fiction novel — taking place in the mid-1600s — but I was expecting more of a horror novel with just some historical elements.
If this entire novel had been like the first fifty pages, this would have been a four-star read. It had the right pacing and intrigue until it slowed down and changed directions. There were some nice twists, and parts that I thought were foreshadowing turned out to be misdirects. I did enjoy that aspect of it, because it kept me guessing.
Overall, I’m disappointed. It’s definitely not my favorite Hardinge novel. I'm not sure if I misread the summary or if the summary was misleading. If you’ve never read a Frances Hardinge novel, I suggest that you begin with Cuckoo Song.
The begin felt like a weird, creepy horror story, which I loved, but then the novel takes an unexpected bad turn. The spirit possession plot is set aside and the focus is more about the war, family secrets, and staying in the king’s good graces. There’s also a betrayal angle. For a large chunk of the novel, it felt like I was reading a historical fiction novel — taking place in the mid-1600s — but I was expecting more of a horror novel with just some historical elements.
If this entire novel had been like the first fifty pages, this would have been a four-star read. It had the right pacing and intrigue until it slowed down and changed directions. There were some nice twists, and parts that I thought were foreshadowing turned out to be misdirects. I did enjoy that aspect of it, because it kept me guessing.
Overall, I’m disappointed. It’s definitely not my favorite Hardinge novel. I'm not sure if I misread the summary or if the summary was misleading. If you’ve never read a Frances Hardinge novel, I suggest that you begin with Cuckoo Song.
February 26, 2019
The dead are often easier praised than the living.
Folk look for things far and wide, but seldom close.
This story takes place during the English Civil War (ca. 1640 – 1643) so it takes place roughly 200 years prior to the first novel I read by this author and thus shows quite a different kind of England. The two books are independent of one another. However, they show that the author is good at any historic setting. Battlefields, alleys in Oxford and old manors come to life equally in this tale of ghosts possessing bodies and a little girl losing her way with only an unlikely companion to help her along the way.
Makepeace has grown up in a Puritan community. After her mother is gone, she is no longer welcome in the village (and not only because she was born out of wedlock). Thus she is sent to her father’s family who are willing to take her in. Lucky girl, right? No, not really. Because while this family is rich and powerful, they also have more secrets than one can count. And they are all lethal.
As it turns out, Makepeace is not the only one with the ability to see and feel ghosts and she is not the only person these ghosts are trying to possess. If she wants to survive amongst all these predators, supernatural and otherwise, she has to reign in her ability and ally.
Before the backdrop of clashing armies, spying, the unseating of a king and the resulting civil unrest we meet this shy little girl who is self-reliant but also way out of her league. So is her companion. However, they complement one another.
I loved Makepeace. Especially since she lost it every time someone was cruel to an animal. I don’t care which century we’re talking about, it’s wrong. It was interesting to see her navigating life alone with her mother, then life completely alone, the life with Bear, followed by life amongst her ancestors, life amongst ghosts, eventually life as a spy ... all while trying to figure out where to go, what to do and who to be …
It’s fascinating how, once again, the author chose to show at least some religious people. And, once again, they aren’t quite right in the head. Self-righteous monsters who deny a person to be buried in the cemetery simply for . While claiming the moral highground. Seriously?! One can say about old Obediah whatever one wants, but he was absolutely right in his assessment of these people. Of course, that does not mean I agreed with his other world views (especially the ones about women and girls) or actions. But the author also used the religions as well as the ghosts to weave the intricate tapestry that is this book in a such a way that it illuminated humanity's neverending desire not to die.
As in the other book I read by this author, I’m very much impressed with the atmosphere she conjured. The world created here is simultaneously familiar through the (accurate) historic setting and fantastical through the ghost element; the blurring of the lines was done splendidly. Just like the feel of the battlefield and danger of discovery.
Moreover, the characters, while not all being likeable, were vivid and fascinating and I imagine that isn’t too easy considering that many characters were made up of up to seven others!
Grim, dark, quest-like, keeping you engaged from the first to the last page.
While the narrator of my audio edition wasn’t as good as the one of yesterday’s book, she had a very pleasant voice and style of narration. Almost soothing, making even horrible happenings sound less gruesome (which was actually creepy but that, oddly enough, worked so enormously well with this particular story).
July 4, 2017
I received the first few chapters of this book from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
A richly imagined, eerie start to the novel - more please!
I read Frances Hardinge's The Lie Tree a while back and really enjoyed it, so was hoping for something similar in this latest book. I certainly wasn't disappointed!
The story (so far) follows Makepeace, a strange young girl with the ability to see dead things. Except, these aren't the sort of ghosts you'd want to meet on a dark night - we're talking wild, dangerous wisps that try to enter her mind and take over. Her mother tells her to arm herself against these spirits, before dying herself - which leaves Makepeace at the mercy of her father's strange and sinister family...
There's much about these opening chapters to completely love - not least Hardinge's ability to weave extraordinary ideas into her tales. Words cannot express how much I loved the idea of the ghost bear (without spoiling too much) - such a stunning depiction, and such an unusual angle to come from. I was growing to love Makepeace too - the author seems to have a knack of portraying awkward, yet highly intelligent young girls.
My appetite was very much whetted by this sampler - more please, and soon!
A richly imagined, eerie start to the novel - more please!
I read Frances Hardinge's The Lie Tree a while back and really enjoyed it, so was hoping for something similar in this latest book. I certainly wasn't disappointed!
The story (so far) follows Makepeace, a strange young girl with the ability to see dead things. Except, these aren't the sort of ghosts you'd want to meet on a dark night - we're talking wild, dangerous wisps that try to enter her mind and take over. Her mother tells her to arm herself against these spirits, before dying herself - which leaves Makepeace at the mercy of her father's strange and sinister family...
There's much about these opening chapters to completely love - not least Hardinge's ability to weave extraordinary ideas into her tales. Words cannot express how much I loved the idea of the ghost bear (without spoiling too much) - such a stunning depiction, and such an unusual angle to come from. I was growing to love Makepeace too - the author seems to have a knack of portraying awkward, yet highly intelligent young girls.
My appetite was very much whetted by this sampler - more please, and soon!
October 29, 2017
"Bear, I need your eyes. I need your nose. I need your night-wits and forest-wisdom."
A Skinful of Shadows was, in short, magical and mesmerizing. This was my first Frances Hardinge book and it absolutely will not be my last. I have been completely taken by her imagination and vivid characters. This is the sort of book that is just as beautiful, if not more so, on the inside as the cover (and just LOOK at that cover!).
We are given an intriguing balancing act of well-researched historical detail surrounding the English civil war and a whimsical, sometimes dark, ghost story. It was such an earthy, autumnal read and getting to experience this book while the leaves were falling outside my window was so incredibly cozy and nostalgic.
The writing is minimalistic enough that it can be easily digested by any level of reader from middle grade and up - and yet it is masterfully crafted and full of beauty that will also appeal to adults who have an appreciation for imaginative stories.
The story is driven by lively characters who will draw you right in with promises of friendship, precarious loyalty, and plenty of secrets and intrigue. Makepeace (which isn't really her name, though we never get to learn what her true name is) displays a surprising strength and resourcefulness. She may be a small girl with little worldly influence but her wit and patience enable her to accomplish incredible things in an age where girls are considered mostly worthless. The quirky cast of side characters are humorous, not always reliable, and are introduced in such a unique way that I can't say too much about.
I'm not going to give too much more away because much of my enjoyment was in discovering it for myself and getting carried away by the whimsical details. If you like ghost stories, plucky female protagonists, and an atmospheric historical setting, pick this book up.
Like a call to some wild and beautiful adventure, this book spoke to some deep part of me that dreams of experiencing life with limitless freedom and earthly boundaries. I resonated so strongly with Makepeace every step of the way and she won't be a character I quickly forget.
Thank you to the publisher for providing a review copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A Skinful of Shadows was, in short, magical and mesmerizing. This was my first Frances Hardinge book and it absolutely will not be my last. I have been completely taken by her imagination and vivid characters. This is the sort of book that is just as beautiful, if not more so, on the inside as the cover (and just LOOK at that cover!).
We are given an intriguing balancing act of well-researched historical detail surrounding the English civil war and a whimsical, sometimes dark, ghost story. It was such an earthy, autumnal read and getting to experience this book while the leaves were falling outside my window was so incredibly cozy and nostalgic.
The writing is minimalistic enough that it can be easily digested by any level of reader from middle grade and up - and yet it is masterfully crafted and full of beauty that will also appeal to adults who have an appreciation for imaginative stories.
The story is driven by lively characters who will draw you right in with promises of friendship, precarious loyalty, and plenty of secrets and intrigue. Makepeace (which isn't really her name, though we never get to learn what her true name is) displays a surprising strength and resourcefulness. She may be a small girl with little worldly influence but her wit and patience enable her to accomplish incredible things in an age where girls are considered mostly worthless. The quirky cast of side characters are humorous, not always reliable, and are introduced in such a unique way that I can't say too much about.
I'm not going to give too much more away because much of my enjoyment was in discovering it for myself and getting carried away by the whimsical details. If you like ghost stories, plucky female protagonists, and an atmospheric historical setting, pick this book up.
Like a call to some wild and beautiful adventure, this book spoke to some deep part of me that dreams of experiencing life with limitless freedom and earthly boundaries. I resonated so strongly with Makepeace every step of the way and she won't be a character I quickly forget.
Thank you to the publisher for providing a review copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 7, 2024
This was my last "unread" Hardinge novel - I very much wanted to read it, but I do this weird thing where I like to stockpile an unread book by a favorite author. For emergencies you know. Because I was pretty sure this would be good. I hoarded it for a few years, while trusting trusted friends 5 star reviews.
I finally heard it, on audiobook format, and well it was wonderful. You know that marketing lingo "X at the height of her/his powers"? That. Premium Hardinge novel, better than the earlier ones, and IMO better than her more recent novels and middlegrade novella.
Pre-English Civil War scenario, London puritans household, creepy royalist manor house in the country, a girl who can see and talk to ghosts, a bear ghost, an incredibly creepy noble family. And Hardinge's wisdom , the believable viewpoints and motivations of all her characters (well, one which seemed unlikely apparently is a real historical figure! Jane Whorwood). I loved the epilogue (not called that but functions as it) and the ending, ah the ending is perfect. I am kind of revelling in the afterglow of a good book, and oddly sad that I got no more unread Hardinge novels waiting for me unread.
Incidentally as somebody who read all of her novels, this is a good candidate for her best.
I heard this on audiobook, on purpose, trying to expand my audiobook "range" so to speak. It was read wonderfully by Tuppence Middleton, whose accents and voices were fantastic - I could listen to her read the phone book (and will look for her reading other things). But I am not sure if that was a good choice. On that question if you get the same from an audiobook as from print, the answer for me is that it depends on how the story is told (and who reads it. No flaws in this case) and Hardinge's style, where a lot can be revealed in a single line, with a complex plot, I did not understand it 100%, even with many 30 seconds rewinds as I would have written down (with some books I am sure I am getting 100% though. It depends on the style, seriously). I might reread it, in print, for fun, one day...
I finally heard it, on audiobook format, and well it was wonderful. You know that marketing lingo "X at the height of her/his powers"? That. Premium Hardinge novel, better than the earlier ones, and IMO better than her more recent novels and middlegrade novella.
Pre-English Civil War scenario, London puritans household, creepy royalist manor house in the country, a girl who can see and talk to ghosts, a bear ghost, an incredibly creepy noble family. And Hardinge's wisdom , the believable viewpoints and motivations of all her characters (well, one which seemed unlikely apparently is a real historical figure! Jane Whorwood). I loved the epilogue (not called that but functions as it) and the ending, ah the ending is perfect. I am kind of revelling in the afterglow of a good book, and oddly sad that I got no more unread Hardinge novels waiting for me unread.
Incidentally as somebody who read all of her novels, this is a good candidate for her best.
I heard this on audiobook, on purpose, trying to expand my audiobook "range" so to speak. It was read wonderfully by Tuppence Middleton, whose accents and voices were fantastic - I could listen to her read the phone book (and will look for her reading other things). But I am not sure if that was a good choice. On that question if you get the same from an audiobook as from print, the answer for me is that it depends on how the story is told (and who reads it. No flaws in this case) and Hardinge's style, where a lot can be revealed in a single line, with a complex plot, I did not understand it 100%, even with many 30 seconds rewinds as I would have written down (with some books I am sure I am getting 100% though. It depends on the style, seriously). I might reread it, in print, for fun, one day...
December 4, 2021
3.5 stars. Frances Hardinge books grab you by the ankle and drag you under the current. They're not exactly pleasant (any more than drowning is), but they are certainly immersive, creative, and intensely disturbing. A Skinful of Shadows is the darkest of the three I've read by this author, and this one is a ride.
Here is the story of a girl whose mind can be inhabited by ghosts - a family characteristic of the aristocratic Fellmottes, and one highly prized in both its heirs and bastards (who are not so much expendable as...harvestable). One of the latter, Makepeace grows up unaware of her connection to the family, knowing only that she suffers from nightmares, that she senses bad things in cemeteries, that her mother has secrets.
The book opens with Makepeace being locked in crypts overnight by her mother (no explanation, no tutorial on how to keep hungry ghosts out of her head) and gets worse from there as Makepeace becomes embroiled in the nefarious plans of the Fellmottes, loyalists to Charles I in opposition to the Parliamentarians in a wartorn England. Nothing is safe - no one can be trusted, not even herself.
This is one of the grimmest coming of age stories I have ever read - not because there's tons of gore or violence, but because Makepeace is broken a little at a time so many times:
And
Frances Hardinge writes brilliantly, and the story pulled me along despite the fact I wasn't really enjoying it except for a precious few scenes in which Makepeace well and truly kicks butt. I appreciate the crystalline mercilessness of Hardinge's writing even when she is describing ordinary things: "at last exhaustion closed itself around her mind like the fingers of a soft, dark hand," "Her face was lined in a way that made Makepeace think of a rain-streaked window pane." This is an author who never takes the easy way out or allows her characters to, either. (Makepeace needs therapy and a hug like whoa.)
I'll never reread this one and feel no desire to own it, but it would have been the perfect October read: sinister, twisty, and teeming with ghosts.
I have never felt compelled to offer a trigger warning before, but although there is no sex in A Skinful of Shadows, there are definite and unexpected rape-y undertones to some of the events in this one.
Buddy read with Nataliya, Carol., and Stephen.
Here is the story of a girl whose mind can be inhabited by ghosts - a family characteristic of the aristocratic Fellmottes, and one highly prized in both its heirs and bastards (who are not so much expendable as...harvestable). One of the latter, Makepeace grows up unaware of her connection to the family, knowing only that she suffers from nightmares, that she senses bad things in cemeteries, that her mother has secrets.
The book opens with Makepeace being locked in crypts overnight by her mother (no explanation, no tutorial on how to keep hungry ghosts out of her head) and gets worse from there as Makepeace becomes embroiled in the nefarious plans of the Fellmottes, loyalists to Charles I in opposition to the Parliamentarians in a wartorn England. Nothing is safe - no one can be trusted, not even herself.
This is one of the grimmest coming of age stories I have ever read - not because there's tons of gore or violence, but because Makepeace is broken a little at a time so many times:
If someone throws aside their pride and begs with all their heart, and if they do so in vain, then they are never quite the same person afterwards. Something in them dies, and something else comes to life. Afterwards, it was as if some understanding of the world had sunk into Makepeace's soul like winter dew. She knew that she would never feel safe or loved as she had before. And she knew that she would never, ever, beg that way again.
And
Trust was like mould. It accumulated over time in unattended areas. Trusting her was convenient; distrusting her would have been inconvenient and tiresome. Over the years, Makepeace had become encrusted with other people's inattentive trust.
Frances Hardinge writes brilliantly, and the story pulled me along despite the fact I wasn't really enjoying it except for a precious few scenes in which Makepeace well and truly kicks butt. I appreciate the crystalline mercilessness of Hardinge's writing even when she is describing ordinary things: "at last exhaustion closed itself around her mind like the fingers of a soft, dark hand," "Her face was lined in a way that made Makepeace think of a rain-streaked window pane." This is an author who never takes the easy way out or allows her characters to, either. (Makepeace needs therapy and a hug like whoa.)
I'll never reread this one and feel no desire to own it, but it would have been the perfect October read: sinister, twisty, and teeming with ghosts.
I have never felt compelled to offer a trigger warning before, but although there is no sex in A Skinful of Shadows, there are definite and unexpected rape-y undertones to some of the events in this one.
Buddy read with Nataliya, Carol., and Stephen.
August 5, 2023
Десь 4,5 ⭐
Усвідомлюю наскільки більше я люблю читати дитячі книги, аніж недолугі ромкоми 😬
Це хороша історія. Мені певною мірою сподобалась!
Правда на початку матір дуже вибішувала, але потім її вбили, тому проблема нейтралізувалась ...
Усвідомлюю наскільки більше я люблю читати дитячі книги, аніж недолугі ромкоми 😬
Це хороша історія. Мені певною мірою сподобалась!
Правда на початку матір дуже вибішувала, але потім її вбили, тому проблема нейтралізувалась ...
January 31, 2018
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
While interesting and original this young adult horror story had a bit of an identity crisis as it tried to marry its horror story with historical war.
A Skinful of Shadows starts out very solid as we learn about our lead gals odd ghost 'issues'. Her Mother that appears cruel and the Aunt and Uncle who have no interest in her sets our lead gal up as a neglected, alone and forgotten soul. Not unlike some ghost/spirits might be.
And without a doubt Frances Hardinge is a superb writer. She sets excellent scenes and can create a creep factor without being gory or over the top. But...
Historical + Horror
There's no real reason A Skinful of Shadows needed to have an identity crisis. Set during the English civil war, our horror story is the focus, but certainly our characters are affected by the battle events around them. Which was all well and good until our lead gal ends up caught up in a scheme that will benefit one side of the war. While it gets our characters away from certain situations this interlude of smuggling, spies, infantry movements and battlement sieges is just dull. Instead of having an engaging reason to care, and partially because our lead gal doesn't care who wins, I just couldn't bring myself to feel any passion about the war or whose side wins or losses.
If you're hoping for information about the civil war setting this is the absolute wrong book as the majority of the information is fictional.
Uniqueness
While there are many ghost/spirit haunting stories, and there may even be some in which the spirits haunt live bodies, A Skinful of Shadows still stood out for me as an unique and compelling story. The added touch of a dynasty family with great political and financial power helped put our characters front and centre to many situations we may not have encountered otherwise. This use of a non-noble but high ranking household is brilliant by Hardinge. And while servants, like our main gal, embroiled in high family affairs is not a new setting, Hardinge takes it to a whole new level by defining a servant as something more than a pushy kitchen girl and instead she is a rare commodity that the main family cannot afford to lose.
Disney's Brave
Perhaps it's very sad and pathetic of me but the use of a bear spirit in this kept reminding me of Disney's Brave. Don't get me wrong I adored our bear and his ferocious, confused and yet protective role in our story. But each time a bear spirit was referenced all I saw was our lead girl dressed up as Meredith. This was distracting for me. And so I think a different animal might have been a better choice. A cougar could easily have played the same role and maybe helped distance the small similarities to Brave bear spirit.
Overall
This was my first Hardinge book. I have more a couple more of hers on my shelf for the future and I'm definitely excited to read them. While I give this a 3.5 stars it's a solid 3.5. Assuming you can push through the dragging war bound middle of the novel then I believe most will enjoy Hardinge's creepy and (mostly) compelling ghost story.
For this and more of my reviews please visit my blog at: Epic Reading
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
While interesting and original this young adult horror story had a bit of an identity crisis as it tried to marry its horror story with historical war.
A Skinful of Shadows starts out very solid as we learn about our lead gals odd ghost 'issues'. Her Mother that appears cruel and the Aunt and Uncle who have no interest in her sets our lead gal up as a neglected, alone and forgotten soul. Not unlike some ghost/spirits might be.
And without a doubt Frances Hardinge is a superb writer. She sets excellent scenes and can create a creep factor without being gory or over the top. But...
Historical + Horror
There's no real reason A Skinful of Shadows needed to have an identity crisis. Set during the English civil war, our horror story is the focus, but certainly our characters are affected by the battle events around them. Which was all well and good until our lead gal ends up caught up in a scheme that will benefit one side of the war. While it gets our characters away from certain situations this interlude of smuggling, spies, infantry movements and battlement sieges is just dull. Instead of having an engaging reason to care, and partially because our lead gal doesn't care who wins, I just couldn't bring myself to feel any passion about the war or whose side wins or losses.
If you're hoping for information about the civil war setting this is the absolute wrong book as the majority of the information is fictional.
Uniqueness
While there are many ghost/spirit haunting stories, and there may even be some in which the spirits haunt live bodies, A Skinful of Shadows still stood out for me as an unique and compelling story. The added touch of a dynasty family with great political and financial power helped put our characters front and centre to many situations we may not have encountered otherwise. This use of a non-noble but high ranking household is brilliant by Hardinge. And while servants, like our main gal, embroiled in high family affairs is not a new setting, Hardinge takes it to a whole new level by defining a servant as something more than a pushy kitchen girl and instead she is a rare commodity that the main family cannot afford to lose.
Disney's Brave
Perhaps it's very sad and pathetic of me but the use of a bear spirit in this kept reminding me of Disney's Brave. Don't get me wrong I adored our bear and his ferocious, confused and yet protective role in our story. But each time a bear spirit was referenced all I saw was our lead girl dressed up as Meredith. This was distracting for me. And so I think a different animal might have been a better choice. A cougar could easily have played the same role and maybe helped distance the small similarities to Brave bear spirit.
Overall
This was my first Hardinge book. I have more a couple more of hers on my shelf for the future and I'm definitely excited to read them. While I give this a 3.5 stars it's a solid 3.5. Assuming you can push through the dragging war bound middle of the novel then I believe most will enjoy Hardinge's creepy and (mostly) compelling ghost story.
For this and more of my reviews please visit my blog at: Epic Reading
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
December 26, 2019
Ahoy there mateys! I read the author's book, the lie tree, at the beginning of the year as me first 19 in 2019 book. That one was set in 1860 and I liked it enough that I wanted to try another of her books. This book be set in the 1650s prior to the English civil war. The author definitely knows how to pick interesting time periods and write unusual world building. The main character Makepeace has a problem with ghosts trying to possess her. I loved her and I loved reading about her weird circumstances. Her early life was rough. The consequences of what happen when she lets her guard down are cool and I don't want to spoil it. In addition I like the magic held by the bad guys and how it worked. This book was very creepy. Much like in the lie tree, the atmosphere, characters, and magic are what fascinated me. I still had some problems with the plot but not as much as in the lie tree. Once Makepeace escapes the evil people and runs away through England, most of the creepiness went away. I enjoyed it but loved the beginning much more. That said, I am certainly finding the author's work to be different and refreshing in the YA genre. I will be reading more of it. Arrrr!
Read
October 18, 2017Really, I just want to type “OH EM GEE FRANCES HARDINGE IS THE BEST” over and over in this space, but I will also add that this is a wildly imaginative dark historical fantasy set during the English Civil War, about ghosts, inheritance, and a dead bear. Hardinge is the empress of delightfully weird and creepy books.
Backlist bump: The Lie Tree by Frances Hardinge
Tune in to our weekly podcast dedicated to all things new books, All The Books: http://bookriot.com/listen/shows/allt...
Backlist bump: The Lie Tree by Frances Hardinge
Tune in to our weekly podcast dedicated to all things new books, All The Books: http://bookriot.com/listen/shows/allt...
December 4, 2017
This now joins the top ranks of being one of my favorite Hardinge novels. I absolutely loved it! The first half was interesting enough and I liked the setting. But the second half really took off for me as some unexpected things happened. And the ending was perfect.
April 1, 2019
Definitely had fun with this book, it was filled with eerie promise and twisty plot and I like that about Hardinge's books. She always delivers a story that is age appropriate but still very alluring and dark and ominous all at once. This story deals with the idea of ghosts who can live inside people and a young girl who does not wish to inherit her family's curse. The premise is easy to enjoy and I found it a good read on the whole. 4*s from me :)
December 25, 2020
Was für ein super klasse Buch...!
Die Geschichte war etwas besonderes und außergewöhnliches für mich: Die Umgebung war düster, deprimierend und auch Makepeace selbst nicht unbedingt eine Heldenfigur. Der Einstieg in die Geschichte war kurios und hat definitiv mein Interesse geweckt. Die Seelen/Geister, die Familie Fellmotte und London als Hintergrund mit den Kämpfen zwischen dem König und dem Parlament waren wirklich fantastisch. Das Buch hat mich bis zum Ende überzeugt, vor allem auch weil Makepeace zum Ende hin sympathischer wird und an den tödlichen Situationen wächst. Ich will aber nicht zu viel erzählen und Dinge vorweg nehmen, ich fand die Geschichte auch deswegen spannend, weil ich einfach ohne Vorwissen gelesen habe.
Das Buch war sehr spannend, die Idee der Geister interessant und auf jeden Fall was anderes, als was ich erwartet hatte. Im Großen und Ganzen hat es mir sehr viel Spaß gemacht! Wer eine etwas düstere Fantasy YA Geschichte lesen will, ist hier genau richtig.
** Dieses Buch wurde mir über NetGalley als E-Book zur Verfügung gestellt **
Die Geschichte war etwas besonderes und außergewöhnliches für mich: Die Umgebung war düster, deprimierend und auch Makepeace selbst nicht unbedingt eine Heldenfigur. Der Einstieg in die Geschichte war kurios und hat definitiv mein Interesse geweckt. Die Seelen/Geister, die Familie Fellmotte und London als Hintergrund mit den Kämpfen zwischen dem König und dem Parlament waren wirklich fantastisch. Das Buch hat mich bis zum Ende überzeugt, vor allem auch weil Makepeace zum Ende hin sympathischer wird und an den tödlichen Situationen wächst. Ich will aber nicht zu viel erzählen und Dinge vorweg nehmen, ich fand die Geschichte auch deswegen spannend, weil ich einfach ohne Vorwissen gelesen habe.
Das Buch war sehr spannend, die Idee der Geister interessant und auf jeden Fall was anderes, als was ich erwartet hatte. Im Großen und Ganzen hat es mir sehr viel Spaß gemacht! Wer eine etwas düstere Fantasy YA Geschichte lesen will, ist hier genau richtig.
** Dieses Buch wurde mir über NetGalley als E-Book zur Verfügung gestellt **
January 10, 2018
Puritans and Royalists and their lead-up to the English Civil War in the mid-1600s are the backdrop of a good story about Makepeace Lightfoot, a young woman who was raised in some secrecy by her mother and taught to defend herself from ghosts entering her mind. With her mother's death, Makepeace is sent to Grizehayes, the ancestral home of her father and his noble family, the Fellmottes. Little do they know that Makepeace inadvertently allowed a maddened spirit to enter her while she was grieving for her mother. Once at Grizehayes, Makepeace keeps her head down, and discovers there is some large secret around the family that allows them their success, in addition to their support for the monarchy. Makepeace begins plotting her escape from the Felmottes, and this is where one discovers just how smart, kind, determined and strong-willed she is. Skinful of Shadows is a terrific book, and Makepeace's struggles to gain her independence and safety without compromising her self-respect, while dodging the expectations of the Felmottes and anyone else she encounters, are a pleasure to witness.
October 24, 2017
This was such a disappointment to me.
I almost DNF this book and I need to forced every cells of my body in order to finish it.
I simply didn't care nor about the main character or the story.
I kind of care about the bear.
It was my only Halloween-ish book that I own and since I am in a book buying ban it will probably be the only Halloween book that I am going to read for Halloween.
So disappointed. It kind of set my mood of the entire month = DISAPPOINT.
I will probably still try "The lie tree". It still is on my wishlist.
I almost DNF this book and I need to forced every cells of my body in order to finish it.
I simply didn't care nor about the main character or the story.
I kind of care about the bear.
It was my only Halloween-ish book that I own and since I am in a book buying ban it will probably be the only Halloween book that I am going to read for Halloween.
So disappointed. It kind of set my mood of the entire month = DISAPPOINT.
I will probably still try "The lie tree". It still is on my wishlist.
February 12, 2019
[Gifted]
I don't think I'm exaggerating when I say that this is the most original book I've ever read. Absolutely unique & mesmerising. Frances Hardinge is a national treasure. Makepeace, the girl with a bear in her soul, is going to stay with me for a long time.
I don't think I'm exaggerating when I say that this is the most original book I've ever read. Absolutely unique & mesmerising. Frances Hardinge is a national treasure. Makepeace, the girl with a bear in her soul, is going to stay with me for a long time.
July 8, 2021
enjoyeable, full of adventure & magical
FULL RTC
FULL RTC
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,390 reviews