When The Mountains Sing

Written By Amanda Kussin
Custom artwork by Iz Martinsen

When The Mountains Sing character art by Iz Martinsen

Pitch:

For the past 738 days, Enikő has begged the Mountains to sing to her, to allow her to search for her brother, who never returned home after he answered their call. She fears he has been swept away in the Mountain’s fabled illusions and may never escape.

When the Mountains finally call upon Enikő, she has 9 days to find him and survive their games. In a world of riddles and deception, Enikő must decide just how far she’s willing to go to find her brother or be lost to the Mountains forever.

Tropes & Themes:

  • Hungarian Folklore

  • Journey of Self Discovery

  • High Stakes

  • Slow burn Romance + Witty Banter

  • Found Family

  • Strength Takes Many forms

  • Riddles & Puzzles

  • Atmospheric

  • Dark & Whimsical

Comparative Titles:

  • High stakes and a sinister setting in the vein of a YA STARLING HOUSE by Alix E. Harrow

  • Twists and oddities like STARLINGS by Amanda Linsmeier

  • The slow-burn romance and journey of self-discovery of A STUDY IN DROWNING by Ava Reid.

Inspiration:

I found inspiration for this story through my Hungarian grandmother, and my summers spent in Leadville, CO for work. While living in the mountains, I’ve come to realize that they can be wild and unforgiving, but they’ll also find you when you need them the most. You’ll even find some magic if you just look hard enough.

What Readers Are Saying:

Note: A couple of these are from literary agents. I’m happy to share the full quote + name upon request.

  • “Great work. This was really quite wonderful.”

  • “This was one of the packages where I was SAD when I got to the last page, because I loved it so damn much.”

  • “You have a fresh and compelling story here.”

  • “It feels polished and purposeful, as if you chose your words and descriptions carefully and with good reason.”

  • “This story will live with me for a while.”

  • “WOW! This is so so good. And such a unique and cool idea.”

  • “I can't wait to see who snatches this up because I know it's going to go fast!!!”

  • “I really really like this story and I think you've done a wonderful job with it. It has a lovely tone and your skill is really impressive.”

Custom mood board by Makayla Bryant

Amanda Kussin
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Published - Wanderer