Unraveller
by Frances Hardinge (Macmillan, 2022)
audiobook read by Eleanor Bennett (Macmillan Children’s, 2022)
In terms of character arcs this is standard YA fare (and overlong at that), but Hardinge commits all-in to the fantasy scenario, weaving a world whose magics and creatures seem as natural as they are wondrous. The destination more-or-less warrants the journey.
House of Hollow
by Krystal Sutherland (G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2021); audiobook read by Eleanor Bennett (Bolinda, 2021)
YA with slow-festering horror elements and excellent characterisation (memorably voiced by Eleanor Bennett). The story unfolds in well-pitched reveals, blending action and reflection. The ending lacks punch but Sutherland deserves credit for trusting the concept, not fiddling retroactively or adding extraneous twists.