"A breathtaking journey through 1400s Korea. ... The mystery complements the setting perfectly, and the conclusion is well-plotted and satisfying. ... A must for all collections." --
School Library Journal,
starred review"Haunting and lyrical. Beware, this tale will draw you deeper into the forest than you want to go." --Stacey Lee, award-winning author of
The Downstairs Girl"A brilliant historical fiction mystery that is suspenseful, gorgeous and absolutely riveting! Hur brings Jeju Island during the early Joseon period completely to life in a rich, evocative manner that reminds me of watching my favorite historical Kdrama. ... I adored this book from start to finish!" --Ellen Oh, author of the Prophecy series
The Silence of Bones:
ABA Indies Introduce Selection"At once haunting and evocative, June Hur's
The Silence of Bones is a gorgeous, tightly-woven debut. Prepare to delve deep into the lush and dangerous world of Korea in the 1800's for a page-turner you won't soon forget." --Hafsah Faizal,
New York Times-bestselling author of
We Hunt the Flame"An emotionally gripping journey.
The Silence of Bones is a suspenseful, thrilling read, and readers will be swept away by Hur's meticulous weaving of historical detail and the depth of her characters' family ties." --Elizabeth Lim, author of
Spin the Dawn
"An intriguing tale that touches on class, honor, the value of one's beliefs, and the lengths one is willing to go for loyalty and family. Hur presents such a vivid portrayal of the Joseon Era that it's like stepping back in time. With its breathtaking prose and complex characters, this mystery novel is sure to keep you guessing until the very end!" --Kat Cho, author of
Wicked Fox
"With exquisite prose and an astonishing eye for detail, June Hur's
The Silence of Bones will keep you up all night reading." --Nafiza Azad, author of
The Candle and the Flame
"This gripping drama is definitely one you're not going to want to miss." --
Buzzfeed"In this striking debut, Hur has crafted an intriguing historical mystery set in a time period often overlooked in YA ... A compelling mystery for lovers of Victorian murder cases who are ready for an alternative to the London setting." --
Booklist
"This book is beautifully written, and moves at a brisk pace. ... Engaging and dynamic. Hur's first novel does an excellent job of exploring a topic that isn't found widely in YA literature." --
School Library Journal "The Korean concept of han, as well as customs, language, and politics, are woven flawlessly into the narrative ... Seol's determined pursuit of literacy and freedom, as well as the bittersweet ending, make for a memorable and worthwhile read." --
Publishers Weekly"I was struck by the depth of this gripping story. ... The meditative quality of the narration of this historical mystery felt perfectly suited to the Korean setting and the backdrop of political and religious struggles. Seol's courage, curiosity, and dedication make her a character I can't get enough of." --Tegan Tigani, Queen Anne Book Company
"
The Silence of Bones is a historic and richly atmospheric mystery that is utterly unique and difficult to put down! ... Mesmerizing." --Sarah True, Joseph-Beth Booksellers
"A well-written depiction of a part of history that we rarely see, led by a smart heroine who defies everyone's expectations of her." --Jackie Jou, Mysterious Galaxy Books
"Had me gripped from the first page!" --Robyn Broderick, The Reading Bug
"I came out with tears in my eyes and a weight lifted off my soul. ...
The Silence of Bones not only brings something fresh to YA mysteries, but also transcends most adult mystery novels I've read ... Stunningly visual." --
Sun and Chai