Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Oran’s home is the far isle of Little Drum. Here, music is everything to everyone; they live and breathe music. They are each born with an instrument which, when they play, their ancestors – ghasts – listen to the beautiful music they create.

When the Red Duchess, who rules over on the mainland, visits and brings with her an order of silence, it threatens not only the way of life on the island but also the existence of the ghasts themselves. Oran hears of a mystical instrument that can manipulate hearts and she knows this might be the only way to overthrow the Duchess’ wishes. Can she and her best ghast friend, Alick, find it in time to save the music?

I am a big fan of Bowling’s books, in particular ‘In The Shadows of Heroes’, which meant I was especially excited to read his recent offering, Song of the Far Isles. This is a beautifully written tale which really inspires the reader to think about how important music is and the impact it can have on our lives.

The characters were well-developed and I particularly enjoyed the interactions between the ghasts and the living; Alick and Oran have a friendship that brings real depth to the story. Oran is a strong female lead who must go against those she loves in order to go on an adventure which may save them all. Despite the challenges they face, she continues with her quest and shows determination and compassion along the way.

Bowling has a way of writing which brings the settings to life in your mind. I loved the imagery this book created. If you want a book to curl up with and read in one sitting, this one is for you!

Buy it here.

Emily x

📚Book gifted by publisher