Author: June Hur
Publisher: Feiwel + Friends, 2020
Link to online store *
June Hur’s elegant and haunting debut The Silence of Bones is a bloody YA historical mystery tale perfect for fans of Kerri Maniscalco and Renée Ahdieh.
I have a mouth, but I mustn’t speak;
Ears, but I mustn’t hear;
Eyes, but I mustn’t see.
1800, Joseon (Korea). Homesick and orphaned sixteen-year-old Seol is living out the ancient curse: “May you live in interesting times.” Indentured to the police bureau, she’s been tasked with assisting a well-respected young inspector with the investigation into the politically charged murder of a noblewoman.
As they delve deeper into the dead woman’s secrets, Seol forms an unlikely bond of friendship with the inspector. But her loyalty is tested when he becomes the prime suspect, and Seol may be the only one capable of discovering what truly happened on the night of the murder.
But in a land where silence and obedience are valued above all else, curiosity can be deadly.
Source: publisher’s website
LKL says:
A fast-paced detective novel set in 1800 Seoul, with the central character a refreshingly empowered sixteen-year-old girl. Although the success of such a character in a Joseon criminal investigation department is an historical improbability, this is of course fiction, and in other respects the historical background is very well-researched. It’s great to have a strong female character and should do well in its target YA market. An entertaining read.
LKL rating: 
. Read our review of this book here.
Entry on Goodreads.com here.
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