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A Face Like Glass cover art

A Face Like Glass

By: Frances Hardinge
Narrated by: Cassie Layton
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Summary

A Face Like Glass is an astonishing and imaginative novel from the Costa Award-winning author of The Lie Tree, Frances Hardinge.

In the underground city of Caverna the world's most skilled craftsmen toil in the darkness to create delicacies beyond compare - wines that can remove memories, cheeses that can make you hallucinate and perfumes that convince you to trust the wearer, even as they slit your throat. The people of Caverna are more ordinary, but for one thing: their faces are as blank as untouched snow. Expressions must be learned, and only the famous Facesmiths can teach a person to show joy, despair or fear - at a price.

Into this dark and distrustful world comes Neverfell, a little girl with no memory of her past and a face so terrifying to those around her that she must wear a mask at all times. For Neverfell's emotions are as obvious on her face as those of the most skilled Facesmiths, though entirely genuine. And that makes her very dangerous indeed....

2013, The CILIP Carnegie Medal, Long-listed

2013, The Kitschies Red Tentacle Award for Best Novel, Short-listed

©2012 Frances Hardinge (P)2019 Macmillan Digital Audio
  • Unabridged Audiobook

Critic reviews

"Everyone should read Frances Hardinge. Everyone. Right now." (Patrick Ness, author of A Monster Calls)

What listeners say about A Face Like Glass

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Captivating

Not my usual genre at all, but l really enjoyed this audio recording- l found myself engaged throughout by virtue of the story, the well crafted and descriptive writing and the narration.

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Beautiful and unique

I loved every second of this book. It was magical and so inventive and I could picture the city underground in my head.

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Excellent!

What a beautiful tale and fitting narration. Really lovely.

Are you thinking about downloading this? Do it!

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Mesmerising

I listened with my 11y/o and 13y/o daughters and we were all completely gripped, mesmerising and magical. Another incredible adventure with Frances Hardinge.

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Wow, what a wonderfully original story

I've never read anything like this, and it is refreshing and full of wonders. Excellent world building, with exposition and pace that is easy to follow without feeling condescending.

I love the main character and Cassie Layton narrated this really well, her voice almost has an ASMR effect on me. I especially love the ending which left a wonderful resonance in my mind.

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Stunning fantasy novel for ANY age

Wow, it's been a good while since I've listened to such an enjoyable fantasy novel. A wonderful premise, flawlessly written and expertly narrated. Very clever, quirky and fascinating. Don't be put off by the fact it is published as a children's/young adult novel, this book simply shines. Initially sceptical myself, I am so glad I gave it a listen. In no time at all I was completely smitten. I am very much looking forwards to sharing this with my young nephews and niece! Amazing book, very much recommend.

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Absolutely beautiful, vast and crazy clever (classic Hardinge)

I can’t recommend this enough. Surprising, beautifully plotted and characters that stand up and whack you in the heart. Love.

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Excellent book. Excellent Acting

My first Frances Hardinge novel and this is such an excellent book. Luscious world building, unusual characters and a tale which leads in unexpected directions Cassie Layton performance is superb and I'll definitely be looking out for other books read by her. Will also try some more Frances Hardinge. Recommended purchase.

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Probably my favourite

Although I have a big soft spot for Mosca Mye, I think this is my favourite of all of Hardinge’s books.
Narration is excellent and the characters and story are just fantastic

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A very entertaining read for adults & kids

Frances Hardinge has fashioned an intriguing world populated with a great cast of characters and an endearing heroine. I thoroughly enjoyed the tale and thought Cassie Layton did an excellent job.

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