"Hawksong" by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes is a captivating and original fantasy novel that tells a tale of complex peace negotiations between two rival clans, the Avians and the Serpiente. The story follows Danica Shardae, the Avian princess turned ambassador, as she strives to forge a lasting peace between the warring factions. However, her mission takes an unexpected turn when she develops a forbidden bond with Zane Cobriana, the Serpiente prince.
Atwater-Rhodes skillfully blends political intrigue, forbidden love, and the pursuit of peace in this gripping book. The novel delves into the intricate dynamics of both the human and Avian/Serpiente natures, exploring themes of trust, loyalty, and the sacrifices individuals must make to overcome deep-seated prejudices. Danica and Zane's forbidden love intensifies the story, serving as a microcosm for the larger conflicts plaguing their clans.
The world-building in "Hawksong" is immersive and vivid, with detailed descriptions of the Avian and Serpiente cultures, traditions, and landscapes. Atwater-Rhodes effortlessly transports readers into this world, allowing them to deeply connect with the characters and their struggles. The author's lyrical and poetic writing style adds to the enchanting and ethereal atmosphere of the narrative.
Available on Audible
The characters in "Hawksong" are well-crafted and multifaceted. Danica is a strong and determined protagonist torn between her responsibilities as a princess and her personal desires. Zane, in contrast, is brooding and burdened by the weight of his clan's history. The supporting characters also contribute to the narrative's complexity, each bringing their own unique layer to the story.
Overall, "Hawksong" is an enchanting and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to fans of fantasy and romance alike. Atwater-Rhodes showcases her storytelling prowess in this book, leaving readers emotionally invested in the characters and their world. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a unique and immersive reading experience.
What are readers saying?
The novel "Hawksong" by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes has received a range of opinions from readers. While some readers praised the book for its original world-building and compelling characters, others felt that it lacked depth and character development.
Many positive reviewers highlighted Atwater-Rhodes' imaginative creation of a world where two warring species, the avians and the serpiente, attempt to establish a fragile peace through a political marriage. Readers appreciated the distinct cultures and customs of each species and how the author explored the complexities of their relationship. The book's concept of shapeshifting and the intricacies of diplomatic negotiations were also commended.
However, some readers felt that the character development was lacking. While they found the idea of a forbidden romance between a hawk and a snake intriguing, they desired more emotional depth and connection between the main characters, Danica and Zane. Some readers found their relationship to be too simplistic and wished for more complexity and tension.
The pacing of the story was another aspect that divided reviewers. Some found it engaging and steady, enjoying the political intrigue and the gradual development of the romance. On the other hand, a few readers felt that the plot dragged in certain parts, leading to a lack of excitement and a feeling of repetition.
The writing style of "Hawksong" also received mixed feedback. Some admired Atwater-Rhodes' lyrical prose and found it immersive, while others felt that it was overly descriptive and slowed down the pace of the story even more.
Hawksong ShapeshifterSaga YABooks