Kya Clark has never known anyplace other than the marshes around Barclay Cove, North Carolina. Her impoverished family splintered because of her abusive alcoholic father and eventually she was left alone at the tender age of eleven when he walked away and never returned. Kya managed to support herself by selling mussels to a kind owner of a marina and learned to read with the help of a friend. But more importantly, she learned about life through the ecology and wildlife in the marshes.
I don’t normally appreciate lots of descriptions about settings unless they are critical to the story and integrated expertly with the plots and characterizations. My instincts were to listen to this book instead of read it on my kindle app as I feared the marsh elements would overwhelm the story. I was right to listen to the book but for completely different reasons. The narrator, one of my favorites, brought the beautiful writing and imagery to life. Instead of being bored, I was enthralled. I could see the landscape that Kya saw, its beauty, sustenance and sanctuary amidst the poverty and bigotry of that era. The presentation was poetic in its delivery (I don’t normally like poetry!) and helped to create loveliness in Kya’s perspectives. Yes, this was expertly written.
It’s not all imagery because Kya’s story is fraught with disappointments, danger and ugliness along with her appreciation of her life in the marshes. Known as the “Marsh Girl” by the people in town, you can imagine how she was treated whenever she ventured into their midsts. People fear and ostracize what they don’t understand and Kya is definitely misunderstood. A childhood friend becomes her lifeline who knows her heart and captures his. He becomes a symbol for all those who can see beyond their discomfort with the unknown.
I loved this story that carried me through the course of Kya’s life and immersed me in her solitary world. The ending was one I foresaw but was still stunned by, leaving me reeling in the aftermath. I will always remember this character and story. I’ve a new appreciation for the satisfaction that can come from being alone when surrounded by natural beauty.
Book Info
- Release Date: August 14, 2018
- Narrator: Cassandra Campbell
- Audio Length: 12 hours, 12 minutes
- Publisher: Penguin Audio
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(I received an advance copy from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review)
This sounds like such a beautiful read. I’ve purchased a copy of this book but haven’t made time to read it yet. I need to do that soon!
I’ve had this audiobook for months and kept letting it slip. A friend of mine started a new face-to-face book club and this is the first book. I’m kicking myself for waiting this long. Right now, it tops my favorites list for the year and will be tough to beat.
Great review!
I love beautiful descriptions of nature in books. They really help with atmosphere and setting and whatnot. Just listened to the sample – pretty good! Can’t wait to read this.
Norrie, this is the gold standard for atmospheric novels, hands down. I’m certain, being a fan of nature descriptions, you’re going to love this book.
I’ve seen this book around quite a lot with many positive reviews, yours has sealed the deal!
Cathy, it surpasses the hype.
It should be winging it’s way to me very soon 🙂
I love Kya, one of the best books 🙂 great review 👍
Thank you, Monika! I adore Kya and this book will be with me for a long time.
So very happy that you liked this book. It was one that made quite an impression on me. Terrific review of a wonderful book, Jonetta!
Thanks, Marialyce! I’m still reeling from the story.
Beautiful review, Jonetta! You’ve captured this stunning book well! ♥️ I’ll never forget Kya!
Thanks, Jennifer! No, I won’t forget Kya either.
I’ve seen this book featured a ton, but this is one of the only reviews I’ve read of it. It sounds fantastic. Great review!
Thank you, Christopher! I’m late to the party and regretting that it took me so long.
Hey! You made it, and that’s what’s important.
Lovely review! I have this on audio as well and I am reading it for my bookclub over the summer, super excited!😍
Thank you 💜 Berit, you’re in for a real treat.
I have been wanting to read this book!! Now I am thinking I should listen to the audio version. It sounds wonderful!
Tina, I can’t sing the praises enough about the audiobook. If you have a choice, go in that direction.
I will definitely keep it mind when I am ready!
Brilliant review! It sounds very atmospheric!
Thank you, Meggy! It’s the most atmospheric story I’ve read to date.
Excellent review! I have been seeing this and it is set in NC. But it’s not the genre I read often. It sounds too sad.
Thanks, Anne! It has its sad moments but it’s more triumphant than maudlin. It really is a beautiful story.
You really capture the essence of what this one is all about, Jonetta. And truly, I really must get around to reading it, as it seems to have touched so many readers for it’s depth and poetic nature.
Thank you, Alexandra. That story touched me in a way I haven’t experienced in a long, long time.
I think that’s what Norrie said too. Ha! I just went online and put this one on my to buy list! 😀
Jonetta, I have this to read for review since it’s coming out in paperback and have been hesitant to begin for some reason. After reading your review, however, I cannot wait to begin. Wonderful write up for this one!
Thanks, Mackey! I think you’ll love this story!
Wow excellent review…again! You make me want to run out and buy it!
Thank you, Diane 💜 I certainly hope you do!
Such a lovely review. This is on my wishlist.
Thank you, Kim! I hope your wish comes true💜
I love your review! I’ve seen this one around with such glowing praise, I don’t know why I haven’t picked up my copy yet!
Thank you, Janel! I dawdled, too, thinking it would be a slow read. Not hardly!
This seems like one of the best books of 2019! Definitely on my TBR list 😊
It definitely tops my list right now!
Wonderful review, Jonetta! So glad you loved this one!
Thank you, Brenda💜
Fabulous review, Jonetta! This was a favorite book last year and I’m so glad that you loved it too.
Thanks. Stephanie! I never meant to wait this long😏
You’re welcome! Oh, I have tons of books like that. It definitely happens. 😉
Yaaay! I’m so glad you enjoyed it as much as I did! Great review 🤗
Thank you, Beth! Loved it💜
Oh, this does sound like a great story. I can’t remember if I’ve listened to her or not. Need to find some books by her, because I’ve heard really great things about her narration
Melanie @ Hot Listens & Books of My Heart
I’ve always enjoyed her but she outdid herself here.
Amazing review Jonetta. I am so glad you loved this audiobook as much as I did. I felt totally immersed in this book when I listened to it. The narrator was amazing. 5 stars from me for sure.
Thank you, Carla! You’re so right about the narrator.