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The Executioner's Daughter #1
The Executioner's Daughter
Thrilling adventure set in the underbelly of the Tower of London and on the Thames in Tudor times
Moss hates her life. As the daughter of the Executioner in the Tower of London, it’s her job to catch the heads in her basket after her father has chopped them off. She dreams of leaving, but they are prisoners with no way out.
Then Moss discovers a hidden tunnel that takes her to freedom, where she learns that her life isn’t what she believes it to be and she doesn’t know who to trust.
Her search for the truth takes her on a journey along the great River Thames. Could the answers lie deep in its murky depths?
Moss hates her life. As the daughter of the Executioner in the Tower of London, it’s her job to catch the heads in her basket after her father has chopped them off. She dreams of leaving, but they are prisoners with no way out.
Then Moss discovers a hidden tunnel that takes her to freedom, where she learns that her life isn’t what she believes it to be and she doesn’t know who to trust.
Her search for the truth takes her on a journey along the great River Thames. Could the answers lie deep in its murky depths?
363 pages, Paperback
First published January 30, 2014
About the author
Jane Hardstaff
3 books15 followersJane Hardstaff grew up in Wiltshire with her brothers, hunting mayfly-nymphs with her father and reading fairytales with her mother. Now she lives in London’s East End, near the great, wild River Thames – inspiration for THE EXECUTIONER’S DAUGHTER and RIVER DAUGHTER.
When she's not writing, Jane is a television producer. All her work involves drinking tea and eating a lot of toast.
Her ideal dinner part guests would be: Hermione Granger, Lyra Belacqua, David Attenborough, Seamus Heaney, Neil Gaiman, Queen Elizabeth I and Han Solo.
When she's not writing, Jane is a television producer. All her work involves drinking tea and eating a lot of toast.
Her ideal dinner part guests would be: Hermione Granger, Lyra Belacqua, David Attenborough, Seamus Heaney, Neil Gaiman, Queen Elizabeth I and Han Solo.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
May 18, 2016
Received from: Egmont USA
Received Via: NetGalley.com
THE REVIEW
Actual rating 2.5 stars
Why this book?
When I saw this took place during the Tudor period I had to read it
What I thought
The Executioner’s Daughter is a historical fiction with magical elements set in the Tudor period which appealed to me. Moss was a frustrating character; I couldn’t stand her to tell you the truth. Her father tells her he’s trying to protect her and what does she do? She runs away, little idiot! I love Salter though his parts were a joy to read. Anne Boleyn's future is a significant part of the background which I found fascinating. There’s also a paranormal aspect which adds a little something. Overall an ok read.
Received Via: NetGalley.com
THE REVIEW
Actual rating 2.5 stars
Why this book?
When I saw this took place during the Tudor period I had to read it
What I thought
The Executioner’s Daughter is a historical fiction with magical elements set in the Tudor period which appealed to me. Moss was a frustrating character; I couldn’t stand her to tell you the truth. Her father tells her he’s trying to protect her and what does she do? She runs away, little idiot! I love Salter though his parts were a joy to read. Anne Boleyn's future is a significant part of the background which I found fascinating. There’s also a paranormal aspect which adds a little something. Overall an ok read.
February 4, 2015
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If I learned anything from Jane Hardstaff's The Executioner's Daughter, it's that Egmont and I define 'thrilling adventure' very differently. I mean no offense, but I struggled with this piece, more so than I care to admit considering it is young adult lit. I'd considered abandoning it early on over its juvenile prose alone, but when push comes to shove I'm a bit of a stubborn mule and surrender doesn't come easy.
I suppose the biggest difficulty I faced, was a lack of empathy for Moss. Hardstaff tried, but the character didn't interest me in the least and I was incredibly disappointed with how she was presented. She's supposed to be eleven, but there is nothing childlike in her makeup and that fact didn't sit well with me, not when her age is so important to the story at hand.
The plot posed another problem in that it was all over the place. Moss' eavesdropping seems preposterously implausible, as did her sojourn to Hampton Court. Anne and Henry's appearance makes absolutely no sense within the context of the narrative and don't get me started on the ridiculousness of the ragged man or the Riverwitch. Elizabeth C. Bunce made this idea work in A Curse Dark as Gold. Hardstaff not so much.
The Executioner's Daughter was obviously a miss in my book, but I will confess to a moment of genuine delight. "Gather round, gather round an’ watch,” said Salter. “'Watch carefully, ladies and gents.' He bent down and whisked off the cloth from the box. The smell of the taffetys wafted into the night air. 'Fresh taffetys, lovely as you like!'" It's a short scene, hardly worth mentioning really, but the gutter snipe's little stunt put a grin on my face. I was singing Tobias Ragg by the time I finished it, but I was in a good mood and that's more than I can say for the rest of book.
Bottom line, Hardstaff's debut wasn't something I enjoyed and is so disjointed and unpolished that I can't see myself recommending it on in future.
If I learned anything from Jane Hardstaff's The Executioner's Daughter, it's that Egmont and I define 'thrilling adventure' very differently. I mean no offense, but I struggled with this piece, more so than I care to admit considering it is young adult lit. I'd considered abandoning it early on over its juvenile prose alone, but when push comes to shove I'm a bit of a stubborn mule and surrender doesn't come easy.
I suppose the biggest difficulty I faced, was a lack of empathy for Moss. Hardstaff tried, but the character didn't interest me in the least and I was incredibly disappointed with how she was presented. She's supposed to be eleven, but there is nothing childlike in her makeup and that fact didn't sit well with me, not when her age is so important to the story at hand.
The plot posed another problem in that it was all over the place. Moss' eavesdropping seems preposterously implausible, as did her sojourn to Hampton Court. Anne and Henry's appearance makes absolutely no sense within the context of the narrative and don't get me started on the ridiculousness of the ragged man or the Riverwitch. Elizabeth C. Bunce made this idea work in A Curse Dark as Gold. Hardstaff not so much.
The Executioner's Daughter was obviously a miss in my book, but I will confess to a moment of genuine delight. "Gather round, gather round an’ watch,” said Salter. “'Watch carefully, ladies and gents.' He bent down and whisked off the cloth from the box. The smell of the taffetys wafted into the night air. 'Fresh taffetys, lovely as you like!'" It's a short scene, hardly worth mentioning really, but the gutter snipe's little stunt put a grin on my face. I was singing Tobias Ragg by the time I finished it, but I was in a good mood and that's more than I can say for the rest of book.
Bottom line, Hardstaff's debut wasn't something I enjoyed and is so disjointed and unpolished that I can't see myself recommending it on in future.
July 16, 2015
This middle grade novel starts like a historical novel. Moss lives with her father in the Tower of London. Anne Boleyn is still alive, but rumors hint that it won't be for long. Moss is frustrated by her life, circumscribed by the bounds of the tower. Even worse, she has to catch the heads (in a basket) of the people her father executes.
Then THE EXECUTIONER'S DAUGHTER takes a turn for the supernatural. The folkloric nature of that which lies in wait for Moss makes this seem like a natural transition. It might jar those who expected an actual historical novel, but it doesn't change the tone of the novel.
There's a good balance between Moss's legitimate grievances against her father and her inability to see the sacrifices he's made to give her a good life. Running into and banding together with a thief teaches Moss a lot about what it means to be hungry and desperate. That empathy serves her in good stead as the danger grows.
I liked that the historical aspects aren't dropped completely. Anne Boleyn's oncoming fate continues to be a significant part of the background, and the two children face realistic threats as often as they face supernatural ones. It's hard out there for a street urchin.
The sequel, THE RIVER'S DAUGHTER, is not available in the US. I just might order it from The Book Depository, however. THE EXECUTIONER'S DAUGHTER is a complete adventure; I don't know what the sequel might be about. It's a very good adventure, though, so I'd like to find out.
Then THE EXECUTIONER'S DAUGHTER takes a turn for the supernatural. The folkloric nature of that which lies in wait for Moss makes this seem like a natural transition. It might jar those who expected an actual historical novel, but it doesn't change the tone of the novel.
There's a good balance between Moss's legitimate grievances against her father and her inability to see the sacrifices he's made to give her a good life. Running into and banding together with a thief teaches Moss a lot about what it means to be hungry and desperate. That empathy serves her in good stead as the danger grows.
I liked that the historical aspects aren't dropped completely. Anne Boleyn's oncoming fate continues to be a significant part of the background, and the two children face realistic threats as often as they face supernatural ones. It's hard out there for a street urchin.
The sequel, THE RIVER'S DAUGHTER, is not available in the US. I just might order it from The Book Depository, however. THE EXECUTIONER'S DAUGHTER is a complete adventure; I don't know what the sequel might be about. It's a very good adventure, though, so I'd like to find out.
June 1, 2023
You never know what's gone until you've lost it.
I know this isn't a groundbreaking quote - almost everyone has heard it at some point. And this story is something like that.
The lore is interesting in that it combines historical and supernatural to weave an interesting setting for the novel. It really does give the book a somewhat victorian era feeling (this is not historically accurate - but these vibes are what I'm going for), but obviously from the peasant side. The book does rely on your imagination to be able to construe a good setting - but unfortunately mine only had the budget for half-assed shed (so we just zoomed in on the characters).
And so the plot itself isn't anything new. A lot of it does revolve around the earlier motif. In combination with the setting - it does feel a little novel, which is why it piqued my interest. So the start of the novel felt strong, but then as she discovers the truth and ventures on her own is when I started to lose interest.
Overall, it wasn't a bad book at all - it definitely had a concise plot, a good lore, and some solid character development. The characters were somewhat likeable (if somewhat rigid to their forms). But I might be a bit old for it....
(But what's killing me is that there is a second book. For what I have no idea - the book wrapped up beautifully - this was in no need of a duology)
I know this isn't a groundbreaking quote - almost everyone has heard it at some point. And this story is something like that.
The lore is interesting in that it combines historical and supernatural to weave an interesting setting for the novel. It really does give the book a somewhat victorian era feeling (this is not historically accurate - but these vibes are what I'm going for), but obviously from the peasant side. The book does rely on your imagination to be able to construe a good setting - but unfortunately mine only had the budget for half-assed shed (so we just zoomed in on the characters).
And so the plot itself isn't anything new. A lot of it does revolve around the earlier motif. In combination with the setting - it does feel a little novel, which is why it piqued my interest. So the start of the novel felt strong, but then as she discovers the truth and ventures on her own is when I started to lose interest.
Overall, it wasn't a bad book at all - it definitely had a concise plot, a good lore, and some solid character development. The characters were somewhat likeable (if somewhat rigid to their forms). But I might be a bit old for it....
(But what's killing me is that there is a second book. For what I have no idea - the book wrapped up beautifully - this was in no need of a duology)
October 17, 2014
This was an exciting and action-packed read, with ages 9 to 12 in mind. It is historical fiction with magical elements, taking place during the Tudor period. At the centre of it all, is our young heroine, Moss, who is plucky, stubborn, and courageous. As daughter of the Tower of London’s Executioner, Moss is tasked with removing the heads of those beheaded, earning her the moniker of “basket girl.” Wanting to escape a life shrouded in death, Moss finds a way beyond the Tower walls, and goes in search of the waterwheel on the Thames, the place where she was born and her mother died. However, this journey is more dangerous than it seems — there is something frightening and otherworldly lurking in the depths of the river, seeking her out.
Along the way, Moss befriends a clever, cunning, and crude young thief, Salter, who is not only the source of much entertainment, but also provides the reader with a look at how a living could be made on the river during this time period. With guest appearances from the Duke of Norfolk, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, and Henry VIII, this is a great novel for young readers who show an interest in historical fiction, as well as those who enjoy tales with a fantastical twist.
Along the way, Moss befriends a clever, cunning, and crude young thief, Salter, who is not only the source of much entertainment, but also provides the reader with a look at how a living could be made on the river during this time period. With guest appearances from the Duke of Norfolk, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, and Henry VIII, this is a great novel for young readers who show an interest in historical fiction, as well as those who enjoy tales with a fantastical twist.
December 29, 2016
-POTENTIAL SPOILERS-
I was surprised when I saw all the hate for this book! While it's not the greatest book I've read, I don't think it deserved all the negative reviews. Most also categorized this as a YA novel, and I even found this in my library's YA section, but I don't think it belongs there, it's very obviously a childrens' book, and while there's nothing wrong with that, I don't know why people keep categorizing it wrong.
I'm also disappointed the sequel isn't available in America! While I thought the story wrapped up nicely and didn't need a sequel, I love to finish what I start and therefore that's a bummer.
I liked the plot, honestly! I was surprised nobody compared this to Rapunzel, since in my eyes this is definitely a Rapunzel retelling. Girl with strange name is born under bad circumstances and a witch offers to help the mother only if she can have her daughter, and the daughter is thus locked away for several years to prevent the witch from getting her and therefore longs to see the world outside....the minute I read the plot summary I thought: "This is a Rapunzel retelling!" Whether that's true or not there's way too many similarities, hence my tags up there.
Honestly not too much happens in the way of the water witch, which disappointed me since that's why I read it, and I like how at the end she is defeated by love, the one thing she wanted that she was never able to get, but for the most part, she doesn't make an appearance and is instead mentioned by other characters.
As for the historical fiction part of the novel, apparently there's some inaccuracies there but as usual I don't really care about this time period so the smaller details others noticed just slipped right by me.
Overall, the novel wasn't good, but it wasn't awful either. It was a quick, decent read, and I'm glad I read it, although honestly I'll probably forget about it in the coming weeks as more interesting books take its place in my recent memory.
I was surprised when I saw all the hate for this book! While it's not the greatest book I've read, I don't think it deserved all the negative reviews. Most also categorized this as a YA novel, and I even found this in my library's YA section, but I don't think it belongs there, it's very obviously a childrens' book, and while there's nothing wrong with that, I don't know why people keep categorizing it wrong.
I'm also disappointed the sequel isn't available in America! While I thought the story wrapped up nicely and didn't need a sequel, I love to finish what I start and therefore that's a bummer.
I liked the plot, honestly! I was surprised nobody compared this to Rapunzel, since in my eyes this is definitely a Rapunzel retelling. Girl with strange name is born under bad circumstances and a witch offers to help the mother only if she can have her daughter, and the daughter is thus locked away for several years to prevent the witch from getting her and therefore longs to see the world outside....the minute I read the plot summary I thought: "This is a Rapunzel retelling!" Whether that's true or not there's way too many similarities, hence my tags up there.
Honestly not too much happens in the way of the water witch, which disappointed me since that's why I read it, and I like how at the end she is defeated by love, the one thing she wanted that she was never able to get, but for the most part, she doesn't make an appearance and is instead mentioned by other characters.
As for the historical fiction part of the novel, apparently there's some inaccuracies there but as usual I don't really care about this time period so the smaller details others noticed just slipped right by me.
Overall, the novel wasn't good, but it wasn't awful either. It was a quick, decent read, and I'm glad I read it, although honestly I'll probably forget about it in the coming weeks as more interesting books take its place in my recent memory.
April 5, 2021
This one of the first times I had accidentally picked up a YA novel, not realizing it until I was already in the middle of it. The book tells the story of a girl who is transitioning into an angsty teen, living a life which is, in some ways, very sheltered as she has never left the walls of the tower in which she lives; yet at the same time living a decidedly unsheltered existence as she helps her father carry out his duties as chief executioner. Yes, she lives in the Tower of London, during the reign of Henry VIII, which means her father and herself were rather 'busy' most of the time. She dreams of a different life beyond the tower walls and starts setting out to achieve it.
I think this book was a little scattered in terms of storyline. The author seemed to really want to include certain real historical tidbits to ground the story in the chosen historical context but which, in my opinion, didn't really fit well with the rest of the main storyline. It also had paranormal elements. Honestly I think the story would have been better off if either the angsty teen rebellion, paranormal stuff or real historical scenarios were eliminated or greatly reduced.
However I still managed to enjoy it and was engaged enough to want to find out the ending the whole way through. 3.5 stars rounded up
I think this book was a little scattered in terms of storyline. The author seemed to really want to include certain real historical tidbits to ground the story in the chosen historical context but which, in my opinion, didn't really fit well with the rest of the main storyline. It also had paranormal elements. Honestly I think the story would have been better off if either the angsty teen rebellion, paranormal stuff or real historical scenarios were eliminated or greatly reduced.
However I still managed to enjoy it and was engaged enough to want to find out the ending the whole way through. 3.5 stars rounded up
October 12, 2014
Somewhere between three and four stars. I enjoyed it, but I didn't love it. The story was enjoyable but predictable. The characters were a little flat but I did enjoy Moss' growth by the end of the book.
Moss is the executioner's daughter. She catches heads after they've been removed from their bodies, but longs for freedom. The story takes a paranormal twist that I did not expect, with the introduction of a 'witch' and a curse. Not surprisingly, I enjoyed the deviation from the usual historical fare. There are mentions of Anne Boleyn, and one really nice scene featuring her as well. I'm a little hazy on my history but it seemed accurate enough to pass muster for an almost YA book.
A little different, but highly readable. Fast paced too, but might be a little gruesome for younger readers. The age and thoughts of Moss aren't YA though either. At 25, I can appreciate it from all angles and I like what I saw!
Moss is the executioner's daughter. She catches heads after they've been removed from their bodies, but longs for freedom. The story takes a paranormal twist that I did not expect, with the introduction of a 'witch' and a curse. Not surprisingly, I enjoyed the deviation from the usual historical fare. There are mentions of Anne Boleyn, and one really nice scene featuring her as well. I'm a little hazy on my history but it seemed accurate enough to pass muster for an almost YA book.
A little different, but highly readable. Fast paced too, but might be a little gruesome for younger readers. The age and thoughts of Moss aren't YA though either. At 25, I can appreciate it from all angles and I like what I saw!
August 19, 2016
This has to be one of the greatest books of all time!!!!
It's starts out with a basket girl named Moss during King Henry the 8th's reign, the daughter of the kings executioner, knowing only that she is to stay inside the walls of the castle because she and her father are prisoners.
Over the course of the book, she runs away, meets Anne Boleyn, and makes a bond with a thief, all while fleeing from the river witch to go back to the place she was born. But in the end, is the witch really chasing her to kill her?
This book was sort of violent, so kids under age 8 shouldn't read it, but when you're older than that, it's a great book!
It's starts out with a basket girl named Moss during King Henry the 8th's reign, the daughter of the kings executioner, knowing only that she is to stay inside the walls of the castle because she and her father are prisoners.
Over the course of the book, she runs away, meets Anne Boleyn, and makes a bond with a thief, all while fleeing from the river witch to go back to the place she was born. But in the end, is the witch really chasing her to kill her?
This book was sort of violent, so kids under age 8 shouldn't read it, but when you're older than that, it's a great book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2016
Honestly, this was not the best book. Although the end was heartwarming, the majority of the book was boring and hard to get through. I read this in bookclub, and no one really liked it. Everyone said the end changed it. But I can't get past the beginning of the book. I feel as though there was maybe to much detail, and maybe not enough action. Also this book had a different cover when I read it. Not a fan of this cover. If you read it, prepare to cry. Also don't quit, it is all worth it in the end.
April 27, 2022
I would have given up on this audiobook in the first few chapters had it not been for the great narration from Sarah Ovens. My willing suspension of disbelief was stretched to snapping point time and time again. Moss is very unlikeable and has the lung capacity and cold-resistance of a superhero, not a 12 year old girl. And don’t get me started on the idea of keeping a child safe from all rivers by taking a job in the Tower of London which is RIGHT NEXT TO A RIVER.
February 20, 2015
What an interesting, interesting fable-like patch of folklore this is. Woven with magic and set against the tumultuous life of London’s ominous tower, Moss and her blacksmith father ( not to mention Salter, the sly river rat) pepper an unforgettable children’s tale. Lush, sparse and so vivid, this reminded me why I love Children’s Literature as much as I do. title provided by Netgalley
July 18, 2016
DNF - I did not finish the novel as I could not get into the story or the characters. It may be due to the fact it is written for children and not one that is for all ages. Based on other reviews I stopped reading as I don't think I will enjoy it. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this book.
October 23, 2016
I loved this one.
November 7, 2017
Moss is an easy to relate to, fierce character. Her role as the basket girl in catching the heads the executioner/Pa chops off is morbidly interesting. There are several passages that are so well written that you can't help but want to share them. Passages of suspense and "hooks" that intrigue the reader are prevalent throughout the story.
The descriptions of the variety of settings is extensive and producers many opportunities to visualize. In addition, the historic elements of the Tudor lifestyle and King Henry are sprinkled in enough to let the reader know there is another society existing within the community of Moss and her story.
Finally, the concepts of the Riverwitch and her fantasy contribution to this fiction genre add a unique yet mysterious twist to a seemingly obvious plot.
Zero inappropriate language and the violence isn't any worse than the title implies. It isn't graphic, but describes the mood surrounding the be-headings.
The descriptions of the variety of settings is extensive and producers many opportunities to visualize. In addition, the historic elements of the Tudor lifestyle and King Henry are sprinkled in enough to let the reader know there is another society existing within the community of Moss and her story.
Finally, the concepts of the Riverwitch and her fantasy contribution to this fiction genre add a unique yet mysterious twist to a seemingly obvious plot.
Zero inappropriate language and the violence isn't any worse than the title implies. It isn't graphic, but describes the mood surrounding the be-headings.
February 5, 2021
My 10 year old is reading this for English lessons with his class. He asked me to buy him a copy as he didn't want to wait to read the next chapter (it's not really the type of story my son would have gone for) as his teacher was only sending out readings per chapter with school being closed due to lockdown. So far he is really enjoying it to the point he's also asked me to purchase the next book 'River daughter'. So today I decided I think it's time I read it too. I have not been able to put this book down this evening (yes it has only taken this evening once I've sent my kids to bed to read it! It's been years since I've managed to finish a book in one sitting!)
I have thoroughly enjoyed the story. This would have been something I would have read at 10 years old.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the story. This would have been something I would have read at 10 years old.
June 23, 2022
This book has been one of those books I've had on my shelves for years at this point. Not the most mature or thought-provoking read but a very easy one. I've seen a lot of reviews hating on the mc which is fair because she is entitled and arrogant but a lot of people forget that she is 12? and the whole plot is based around the idea of her not knowing what she has and taking it for granted till she no longer has it.
I didn't like her at the beginning which I feel is on purpose as towards the end, after the main bulk of the plot and her character development, this changed. The book didn't have the most exciting plot but I enjoyed as a spacer between more hefty reads.
I didn't like her at the beginning which I feel is on purpose as towards the end, after the main bulk of the plot and her character development, this changed. The book didn't have the most exciting plot but I enjoyed as a spacer between more hefty reads.
September 15, 2018
I liked the book overall. It was very inventive and the mystery/adventure featured in it kept me hooked. It's hard for me to find a book and not want to put it down, especially if it's not one I chose. I chose this book when I was browsing the library and had to find a book, any book, that I'd enjoy reading and want to write annotations for. At first, I wasn't so sure about this book, but after reading it, it's safe to say I enjoyed it thoroughly.
Can't wait to read the second book!
(Also, I gave an estimate about when I started the book and ended the book. Just putting it out there.)
Can't wait to read the second book!
(Also, I gave an estimate about when I started the book and ended the book. Just putting it out there.)
November 19, 2018
Two and a half stars. Not horrible but not exactly GOOD either. The bit with Moss and Anne Boleyn is frankly embarrassing. Even in middle grade fiction the way the author has Anne speaking is ridiculous. Also for a supposedly bad winter it seems odd that the main character is running around with no cloak, shawl, or any outerwear of any kind it shoes at one section and is also often set from the river and somehow isn't sick or frostbitten. People literally froze to death or died suddenly after catching pneumonia or the flu.
July 15, 2023
I think this is a fairly good book, I came across it at a local library a month ago and realised that I read it back in year 6, so I read it again. Although it wasn't as good as it was to read it the first time, I still enjoyed this book and it was one of my favourites when I first read it. I do think it's better as a book for children that aren't quite teenagers yet (9-12), as I saw someone suggest in the another review I read, but it's still very exciting and I would never say that I wasted my time reading it because it was worth it.
May 20, 2017
This book has some interesting aspects, including a great premise and a spectacular setting, but suffers from not quite knowing what it wants to be. The plot meanders; themes change as the novel progresses; the magical elements appear and disappear; too many characters make only cameo appearances; and while its grittiness and grisliness seem more suited for young adults, the writing and the plot (such as it is) are clearly aimed at middle grade readers.
July 7, 2020
Excellent book
I read this book after my 10year old daughter 's school has recommended it. The story was full of emotion. My daughter could imagine the places as she has been lucky enough to have visited the sites. It was well written and kept my daughter's attention right the way to the end. She's eager to carry on with the story so I've downloaded the next book . I highly recommend this wonderful book.
I read this book after my 10year old daughter 's school has recommended it. The story was full of emotion. My daughter could imagine the places as she has been lucky enough to have visited the sites. It was well written and kept my daughter's attention right the way to the end. She's eager to carry on with the story so I've downloaded the next book . I highly recommend this wonderful book.
April 7, 2025
Fijn kinderboek dat zich afspeelt in een fascinerende periode (toen het einde naderde van de periode waarin Anne Boleyn koningin was). De uitgangspunten van het verhaal vond ik veelbelovend- de dochter van de beul die enkel de Tower of London kent en een weesjongen die overleeft nabij/op de Thames. Helaas maakte het ganse magische aspect van het verhaal het geheel voor mij net wat minder sterk in plaats van er iets aan toe te voegen.
Read
October 26, 2016Great book to read! Interesting how a girl has to go through the hardships of life, even if she is lied to her who life. I love how there is a good ending to Salter and Moss. I especially love how Salter talks to Moss all the time. " Hey leatherboots, is that you?" I also enjoy that Moss has to go through despair, and then she runs away from home, even though she goes near the river. I would recommend this book to anyone who would love a great twist to read. This is such a great book, so, go ahead, try and read this wondrous book right here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2018
Lagged at parts but Im happy with Moss realizing how much her father truly did care... it's easy to see her as ungrateful and impulsive but as an 11 year old her notions and behavior are more forgivable opposed to if she'd been older. And I loved Salter in this, and was glad nothing took a romantic turn, with how young they were.
January 5, 2020
The book starts off well setting the scene, however through the book there are numerous dramatic events with little explanation, so overall the book was quite confusing. Additionally little emotion is shown throughout despite how dramatic some of the events were so I found it quite unrealistic, especially with the inevitable happy ending.
June 22, 2023
Initially the title got my attention and I started reading. I thought it would be a quick read to pass the time. It was so well written though that I really enjoyed it and found myself reading parts over again to commit it to memory. It set the hook quickly, and held me tight to the end. Wonderful story.
September 25, 2017
The main issue with this book is Moss, the heroine. Although she is believable as a frustrated pre-teen, she's also obnoxious, and comes off as ungrateful. While it makes sense for her age, it doesn't make her a character I want to read about.
November 29, 2017
As a YA read, this novel had a little bit of everything - history, fantasy, family dynamics & teenage friendship. It was well written & carried you along at a rapid rate. You really had a sense of being a part of Tudor England. Would definitely recommend to readers around 13+
August 8, 2017
Although this book was good, the fantasy with the Riverwitch didn't really get me spooked. I didn't really get sucked into this book, and so it's just a 3 stars from me. :)
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