Based on an ancient Icelandic tale, this is the story of Irish princess Melkorka. Captured by Vikings and sold into slavery, she reinvents herself as a mute enchantress. A twist to this story is the power of silence rather than the power of speech.

I liked the story, and younger female readers will enjoy the empowerment of the Melkorka. Still, it was a sad tale. After all that she endured, I can not say that the ending was a happy one. But it wasn't a hopeless ending either.

Which brings me the need to rant a bit. Why is it that so many YA tales are dark, hopeless, tales? It would seem at that at this time in life, YA's would need the uplifting,hopeful stories of good/vs/evil and such. Maybe I am just missing something, though, but this is the fourth YA book that I have recently read that makes me feel bad about life and mankind.