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Beautiful

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Beautiful

By: Juliet Marillier
Narrated by: Gemma Dawson
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About this listen

With the Nordic fairy tale East of the Sun and West of the Moon as her inspiration, Juliet Marillier weaves a magical story of a young princess’ search for her true self.

Hulde is a queen’s daughter and lives in a palace. But her life is lonely. Growing up atop the glass mountain, she knows only her violent and autocratic mother and a household of terrified servants.

Then a white bear named Rune comes to visit, and Hulde learns what kindness is.

But the queen has a plan for Hulde. When she turns 16, she will wed the most beautiful man in all the world. Hulde has never met her intended husband, and her mother refuses to explain the arrangement. Hulde becomes desperate to find out more and seeks the help of a magic mirror. Perhaps someone is coming to her rescue.

On her wedding day, Hulde’s existence is turned upside down. For the first time she leaves the glass mountain behind, setting out to be as brave as the heroines in her beloved storybook.

The journey will test Hulde to the limit. Can she overcome her fears and take control of her own life?

©2019 Juliet Marillier (P)2019 Audible Originals, LLC. Classics Fantasy

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All stars
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Ms. Marillier knows how to reach my heart. Every time her stories grab me so strongly. This was no exception. So so beautiful.

I loved every minute

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It was nice to listen too but didn't have much depth or intrigue for a fantasy book. The main character isn't particularly likable and I didn't feel myself cheering for her. There were some odd things about the plot I'm still not sure about. no criticism of the actress at all, but as a casting decision the voice wasn't young enough.

It's okay but don't get too excited

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As with all Juliet's stories I loved this one. I felt completely transfixed by it and could not stop listening. Despite the heroine not being quite like usual I loved this and found myself feeling all kinds of emotions. A really powerful and emotive story.

A powerful and emotive story.

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Pronunciation seems not to be a priority for readers. It can spoil a good story.

good listen

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I think if this story was told by a good narrator it would be lovely, however Gemma Dawson was flat, monotoned and dull. It was hard to tell just who was talking during conversations as everyone had the same voice, the only attempt to differentiate them seemed tho be the speed with which she talked.
This seems to be a theme with many of Juliet Marillier's books. I cannot understand why her publishers do it to her.

let down by the narration

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I might have mentioned before that I love Ms Marillers writing! This was no exception. Lovely main character. Great narration. My only complaint - it's too short.

Lovely story and well read

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Narration was OK. Story itself is is an easy listen. The plot is very simple. An interesting idea in the beginning, but no real depth to the characters, or real sense of why.

An easy listen

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