“This is fantasy at its best.” Daily Telegraph
“A tale that sparkles with frosty magic.” Thomas Taylor
A gorgeous, snowy adventure, set in the wilds of Siberia, full of magic and wonder, for junior readers.
A world of magic is only a whisper away… Born in a Soviet prison camp, Lina has never seen the world outside until the night she escapes with her best friend, Bogdan. As the pair journey across a snowy wilderness, they are pursued by a vengeful sorceress and her pack of shadow wolves. The children will need every ounce of courage – and a whisper of magic – if they are to survive…
Perfect for fans of Abi Elphinstone, Sophie Anderson and Catherine Doyle.
Praise for Nevertell:
Shortlisted for the Branford Boase Award
“A coming-of-age tale that’s compelling, exciting and as chilling as the snow-bound landscape in which it is set.” Financial Times
“Readers will be captivated … A magical, snowy adventure perfect for winter nights.” BookTrust
“Featuring themes of bravery, friendship, sorcery and survival, this beautifully written story is ideal for fans of magical adventure tales.” The Week Junior
“Orton's use of language is masterful and her vivid descriptions bring the journey to life … Perfect to snuggle up with on a winter's afternoon.” ReadingZone
“It’s an unusual juxtaposition – the harsh world of political prisoners in a forced labour camp versus one of ice castles, spirit children and giant eagles. Katharine Orton pulls it off brilliantly.” The Bookseller
Resources
Creators
After gaining an English degree and an MA in creative writing, Katharine Orton worked for Barefoot Books in Bath before leaving to focus on her writing and her young family. She signed with her agent after taking part in the brilliant WoMentoring Scheme. Nevertell is Katharine's first novel. She currently lives in Bristol.
Reviews
This compelling debut novel is full of surprises; it starts like a historical fiction set during Stalin’s reign of terror but quickly morphs into a breathless life and death struggle with a powerful sorceress and her invisible wolf pack in a saga so steeped in Russian folklore and enchantment it transports the reader into another realm.This compelling page-turner, alive with mystery and breath-holding suspense is highly recommended for readers 10+.
Readings
THIS WAS SUCH A FANTASTICALLY ICY MAGICAL ADVENTURE! I really loved how it tangled historical fiction and Russian fairytales together — it was full of snow and ice and dubious sorceresses (which I loved because that gave me Narnia throwbacks…I grew up with the audiobooks on repeat!). So I just really enjoyed gobbling up this middle-grade magical fantasy this afternoon. Also that cover? Can we just say entirely gorgeous
Paper Fury
Nevertell is a brilliant and addictive middle grade novel. It’s an action-packed and mysterious read that pulls you in from page one. It’s the kind of book that infiltrates your mind and leaves a strange and mystic feeling in your belly — a questioning feeling that makes you wonder if the myths and legends you’ve heard of might be real.
Kids' Book Review
a vibrant and entertaining read… brilliantly written
Blue Fairy Tales
