Sophie's Light

By: Matthew S. Cox

Narrated by: Heather Taylor

Length: 2 hrs and 26 mins

Publisher's summary

Sophie lives in a most peculiar cottage at the center of the Forgotten Forest, its inside much larger than its outside. You see, the house must be large, for it holds a great troll as well as a little girl.

As one might expect, working for such a creature is rather frightening to a seven-year-old, but the endless expanse of black trees outside is even scarier. She’s afraid to make even the slightest sound, for the troll abhors loud children. He’s not terribly fond of quiet children either - unless they’re in his stew.

Sophie’s precious light offers comfort in her darkest moments. She can’t remember where it came from, but it’s her only source of hope holding back the gloom that yearns to devour her soul. Trolls are covetous beasts, and when he spots her shiny bauble and steals it, Sophie faces two terrible options: stay and suffer the wrath of a furious troll or take her chances in a forest of her deepest fears.

©2018 Matthew S. Cox (P)2018 Matthew S. Cox

Just like a Grimm's fairy tale.............

Seeing the picture of the book, I expected a cute, fairy tale-like story about a young girl. This could not be further from the truth. The author skillfully uses symbolism to tell the story of a young girl living with the proverbial bad guy, represented as a troll in this story. He uses a softly glowing gem to represent a fairy godmother. Far from being cute, this story is chilling and scary, but always in a good way. I think that it could easily be read by older kids, teenagers and adults, but it might be too scary for kids under 10 or so. You really need to pay attention to the entire story because so much of the symbolism becomes clear at the end, which still has me wiping away a tear or two. I think I might listen to the entire story again just so I can pick up on more of the hidden meanings embedded in the story. In short, although this book is a quick novella-length listen, it packs a lot of story into a small space.

Heather Taylor's narration is very enjoyable. She has a light, youthful voice, so she is a good choice for seven year-old Sophie. I would listen to her again in the future.

I received a copy of this audiobook at my request in exchange for this honest review.

Magical and yet Grounding.

Sophie is a sweet young girl lost in a world that doesn't make sense. She is trapped by and angry beast and her only source or comfort emanates from a small source of light which also wants to lead her away from the ugly creature. How does Sophie manage in such a frightening place and what does she do to get away? Once she breaks free from her captor her situation does not appear to get much better. She is attacked from the world outside as much so as the one she just ran from. Sophie's plight is a struggle that will leave you wondering how does she manage as little girl in a foreign realm. Her source of light brings her to a place of grounding. You won't be let down. The writer has an excellent descriptive style. I loved the story and look forward to more stories from Matthew S. Cox.

great YA book

I a few months ago but wanted to wait and let my son listen as well. He is the perfect target for YA being 12. We both loved the story. For me some parts were a little predictable but told very well. My son loved every twist and turn and was caught off guard in several places. I highly recommend this book and all of Matt Cox's books. He is a great up and coming writer!