If you enjoy nicely nuanced language - read this book. If you enjoy nicely nuanced almost worlds - read this book. If you enjoy nicely nuanced other-world characters - read this book. Summary - read this book as it is a total delight! An Advanced Reader Copy review - free books never buy my opinion!

A beautiful read with exceptional language features that creates unique and memorable images. As soon as I read the 1st page I became emerged into the young girl with feathers  journey, discovering her heritage, herself, and a world of mystery, magic and mermaids. A gentle, warm journey of exploration, exceptionally written by a first time author, one whose future books I will most definitely be looking out for in the future.

“A place full of memories can never be completely empty” Born covered in the feathers of a bird, and kept hidden in a crumbling house full of secrets, Marea has always known she was different, but never known why. And so to find answers, she goes in search of the father she has never met. The hunt leads her to the City of Murmurs, a place of mermaids and mystery, where jars of swirling mist are carried through the streets by the broken-hearted. And Marea will never forget what she learns there. I absolutely love fantasy books and this is a firm favourite which was filled with mystery, magic and love. The way Beth Cartwright creates the world-building so precisely is truly magical. One of my favourite characters was the Keeper of Hours but Marea, the protagonist, was portrayed in such an in depth way that you really got to see her development throughout the story. I look forward to reading more by this author.

This makes a pleasant change from those fantasy books where there are dragons and battles and destruction and chaos. Instead, this story is softer, slower and calmer and offers a sense of hope and poignancy. This is definitely Marea's story and we see her grow and gain her independence in a world of uncertainty. The obstacles she encounters are often of her making which is frustrating but also very relatable! It is a beautiful internal and external journey. I will definitely make this journey again, even if it's just to savour the imagery. A magical piece of escapism.

This book is a Gem. It is like being carried on a wave of enchantment and discovery. The city of Murmurs is full of original and fascinating characters that are described with such skill and imagery that I felt I was sharing Mareas' journey. I was bereft when the journey ended and now feel the need to read this clever multi-layered book again as I suspect it will reveal many different meanings and emotions the second time round. I could visualize this book being made into a Studio Ghibli type film. In a word Superb!!!!!