I want to shout from the rooftops about how much I loved this book! I went back and forth between the ebook and the audio. Usually I am not a big fan of historical mythology fantasy. But I absolutely adored this book. The m/c is so bad a**, she made such a good character!

Thanks to NetGalley and St. martins Press for the chance to read a copy in exchange for a honest review.

This story was a beautiful retelling of the legend of Xishi. One exceptionally beautiful woman holds the fate of two kingdoms in her hands. She must go undercover and work as a spy to infiltrate a kingdom by bewitching the ruler and becoming his favored concubine. All the while, her heart remains in her kingdom. It was heart-wrenching to read at times, and I still feel raw after that ending.

Thank you NetGalley, Ann Liang and St. Martin's Press for this incredible e-ARC.

I picked this up exclusively because Shelley Parker-Chan said it was "exquisite and devastating," and I've read a lot of wonderful books thanks to their reviews. Unfortunately this one did not work for me at all.

The truth is that it's absolutely bog-standard romantasy, complete with all of the requisite trembling and jaw-clenching and ridiculously communicative facial expressions and plot devices like a "trained spy" accidentally saying her boyfriend's name while kissing her spy target. The characters pine for each other the same way my cat pines for his chicken paté every night: as bluntly and unambiguously as possible, so as to telegraph to the audience via billboard-obvious body language that "HEY. I WANT THAT." Someone's knuckles going white as their eyes roll back in their head every time their crush walks by is just lazy writing. It just is.

The saving grace of the story is the ending. I liked that, full stop. But everything that happens up until that point is basically just poorly written.

Inspired by a true legend? Fantasy? A strong, beautiful heroine who is also a death-or-glory warrior? A forbidden love interest?
All these storylines serve as utterly transporting themes in this historical fiction that mixes fantasy, romance, espionage, politics, loyalty, revenge, and the mystical landscape and culture of two kingdoms bound to destroy one another.

We all need a fantasy world more than ever right about now, don’t you agree?
This immersive, epic novel, "A Song to Drown Rivers," by Ann Liang, takes you to another world. To another magical time and place.

The story will lead you to ask yourself, “What would you sacrifice for love?”

At the heart of the novel is Xishi, one of the famous Four Beauties of Ancient China, and Fanli, the dedicated young military advisor, who on behalf of their king, presents her with a rare opportunity: to use her beauty as a weapon to save their people from the evil Wu empire. And to seal the deal, she will avenge the bloody death of her sister in one of the Wu kingdom’s village raids.

Beauty is power. Xishi’s beauty is the realm of the coin of the realm that Fanli uses as a weapon to eventually score the ultimate Wu defeat.
Fanli’s strategy is to lure the Wu ruler King Fuchai so that his total infatuation with Xishi could lead to the Wu downfall.

The story brings us into the mysterious, mythical legend as Xishi trains as a kind of Mata Hari; rising to the top of Fuchai’s court, influencing politics and executing her job as a spy. A very, very cunning spy.
Fuchai takes the bait and falls hard for Xishi. You can’t help aligning yourself with him, looking beyond his savage ruling and painful warring.
That she manipulates the king while holding off any actual consummation in their "love" relationship is a tender triumph.

The deep love that has blossomed between Xishi and her dedicated, heroic trainer, Fanli, unfolds with a palpitating throb beat that pulses with vibrating passion, unrealized because loyalty to their mission to save their kingdom is paramount. The seduction and their mutual parts in the plan ate an enormous yet delicate balance.

The seasons change with a mystical beauty, friendships are formed and alliances are built. Deceptions abound.
Bit by bit, the suspense crescendos.

In the end, you will cry with deep emotion as a more invested, devastating, nuanced kind of Romeo and Juliet fate awaits the lovers. Or does it?

"A Song to Drown Rivers" offers a spellbinding tale of Love manifested in many relationships: with one’s homeland, family and friends, a romantic lover; a cause.

What would you sacrifice for love?

I so very much enjoyed this novel and heartily recommend it to you. Liang’s mastery of storytelling is sublime.

I thank NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to review this book.
(I look forward to the film 🤩)

"A Song to Drown Rivers" is a New York Times and USA Today bestseller, a Good Morning America book club pick, an October 2024 Indie Next Pick, an October 2024 LibraryReads Pick.

Further, according to the publisher, you can order now and receive the stunning DELUXE LIMITED EDITION while supplies last―featuring a gold foiled cover, gorgeous sprayed edges with stenciled artwork, as well as exclusive metallic ink patterned endpapers and unique foiled front and back case stamps. This breathtaking collectible is only available on a limited first print run, a must-have for any book lover.

Happy Reading.

I was initially intrigued by the story but then I didn’t find what I was originally looking for. While advertised as a historical fantasy and romance, the only true thing about that is it is historical, but there was no fantasy element, beyond it being a retelling, and I found the romance lacking. I would’ve appreciated a better romantic build up between Xishi and Fail, but instead we got something of an insta love where we never get to see them actually fall in love and barely interact in there time together. I just didn’t believe that she would’ve had such intense feelings for him. On the other hand she could’ve had a good romantic arc with the King of Wu, who could’ve been a great morally grey character but instead felt like a child so enchanted with Xishi even after the barely doing anything. For an adult book, there were little adult scenes or even the hint of an adult scene and it read more like a ya novel. I was looking forward to reading this book, but unfortunate it was not as advertised in multiple ways.

Personally, This book was not for me. I did enjoy the characters and the premise but I felt the timeline to be a bit confusing. I felt at times it was dragged out where as others it was rushed. I would read more by this author, I do believe she is talented and I would read another book by her. This one did not land with me personally but it would not stop me from recommending it to people. I know many people loved this book! Unfortunately the pacing and the almost insta love between the two characters did not work for me.

Overall a good story but felt like there was not a lot of effort put in to the characters love interest which kept it from unfolding better.

Every now and then, a book comes along that sweeps you off your feet, dunks you in its world, and leaves you gasping for air. The Song to Drown Rivers by Ann Liang is exactly that—a spellbinding, heart-wrecking experience that had me clutching my metaphorical pearls and an actual tissue box. What is it about being drawn to books that ultimately break your heart?

Our main character Xishi is the kind of protagonist you can’t help but root for. Her story is a testament to resilience, and her journey feels as intricate as a silk tapestry.

Let's talk about the romance. Oh, the romance. Xishi and Fanli’s dynamic is a masterclass in tension and subtlety. This is my personal favourite when it comes to romance —you don’t need explicit scenes to bring the heat, and these two proved it.

But it’s not just the characters or the romance; it’s Liang’s writing itself. Her prose pulls you under like the tide, immersive and impossible to resist. From the opening sentence to the final, bittersweet page, the story never lets you go.

If you’re into historical fantasies with rich Chinese and Japanese-inspired settings, this book will hit all the right notes. It’s beautiful, emotional, and unforgettable.

I would absolutely recommend The Song to Drown Rivers. Just be prepared for it to steal your breath and break your heart—because it will.

A quick read that got me out of a reading slump. It could have been so much more if it was a true adult fantasy, but felt right f0r what it ended up being, which is a YA historical fiction. Once I adjusted my expectations, I had a good time with the story.

This was a fascinating read and one that I will stick with me for a while. Devastating and heartbreaking.

Thank you, NetGalley and author for this arc. This book was absolutely amazing and heartbreaking at the same time. I really enjoyed this every moment of this book. It was a very quick read with an unexpected twist. I’ll never forget the way this book made me feel. I definitely recommend that everyone should check it out.

I had the amazing opportunity to read this before it was officially released. This is NOT a fantasy, though I’m seeing some promote it as such. So be aware. However, it is a beautiful story based on the ancient Chinese tale of Xishi- one of the Four Great Beauties of China. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, though the characters and storyline came across almost too YA- I’d call it a borderline YA/Adult fiction novel.

Wonderfully done 4/5 ⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

A beautifully written meditation on grief and memory, though its slow pace may not suit all readers. Still, for those willing to immerse themselves in its reflective world, it’s a powerful and evocative read.

A very good story. I was unaware that it was based on a myth until after I finished, so I just read it thinking it was a good story that sucked me in from beginning to end. There was romance, espionage, and drama that kept me on the edge of my seat.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this.

A Song to Drown Rivers by Ann Liang tells the story of Xishi helping out her people.

Can Xishi topple the kingdom of Wu?

Xishi
Xishi is a beautiful young lady from a small village in the kingdom of Yue. Her mom had Xishi hide her beauty with a shawl so no one could kidnap her for unseemingly things. Xishi got hired by Fanli, the military advisor for the kingdom of Yue, for a mission that could easily be Xishi's end. The reason is that her beauty would be perfect to use as a weapon against the Wu. Xishi ends up honing everything Fanli has taught her and does excellent work in getting everything the kingdom of Yue needs.

I must say that I loved Xishi and how she has done everything. Xishi is an excellent character, and I like how Ms. Liang tells her story.

The Story
Xishi ends up leaving her small village to help her kingdom get the kingdom of Wu to go down. She uses everything Fanli taught her during their lessons and while she was in the kingdom of Wu, getting their king wrapped around her fingers. Xishi does this for revenge. I have to say that I did look up Xishi, and her story is sad. Ms. Liang does an excellent job of telling the story in her own way while also giving the story an end that the original legend never did.

Five Stars
Ms. Liang is a fabulous storyteller and this one is my first story from her. My rating is five stars for A Song to Drown Rivers by Ann Liang and I'm recommending it. Ms. Liang brings forth a fresh look on a legend while giving enough angst to bring everyone to tears.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of A Song to Drown Rivers by Ann Liang.

Until the next time,
Karen the Baroness

If you would like to see other reviews like this one, check out Baroness Book Trove.

That ending truly hurt my feelings and made me feel physically unwell!! 😭 I’ve never read a book quite like this one. It was so beautifully written, Ann Liang is an expert at immersing readers into her stories. This one started a little slow for me and I had some trouble staying focused, but once Xishi infiltrated the Wu kingdom I was HOOKED!! I thought I was going to hate Fuchai but why do I kind of love him?!?! I’m so sad his story ended tragically. I was really hoping for a redemption arc and then he was just…gone. Humanizing the enemy is no easy task but it was done SO well in this book!!

Fanli, my sweet Fanli 😭😭😭 I don’t have the right words I just love him so much. He deserved so much better from the world and my heart is broken for him. Xishi….ANN WHYYYYYY?! 😭😭😭😭😭 I am so beyond hurt and shocked by her fate and that ending. I was not expecting her to actually die, I was hoping Fanli would find her in time but she just DIED?! This is some game of thrones level plot twist. My heart hurts so much and I cried so much reading the last 10%. I’ll never get over it but I also hope I never have to think about it again.

The romance in this book was so tender and full of passion. I wish we had some more moments between Xishi and Fanli, but I understand they had to be apart. It’s just so unfair 😭 One thing I’d like to point out is that this labeled as a Romantasy, but there was no fantasy in this book?? There was romance but no spice, so I do feel like it’s not categorized correctly. I would honestly put this down as a YA book.

Other than that, I loved it and would definitely recommend to anyone who wants to cry 😭 thank you Netgalley and St. Martins Press for the arc!!!

Based on the ancient Chinese legend of Xishi (Xi Shi), one of the renowned Four Beauties, A Song to Drown Rivers tells the tale of a poor village girl discovered by Fanli, minister to the Yue King Goujian, and gifted to the enemy King Fuchai of Wu as a concubine – and spy – to exact revenge after humiliating losses. Fuchai becomes so preoccupied with Xishi that she drives a wedge between him and his closest advisor and gives the Yue the key to Wu’s defenses, allowing for Goujian to defeat his enemies.

Ann Liang’s version is a tragic romance, preoccupied with the longing feelings between Xishi and Fanli, and Xishi learning to become devious and manipulative enough to change the course of history. Coming in having never heard original as I was, I enjoyed this as an introduction to an important piece of an unfamiliar canon.

Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

4 1/2 stars

This book is a bit of historical fiction blended with some magical realism. I don't know if I'd classify it as fantasy, yet I truly enjoyed it and inhaled it immensely. It's beautifully written even if also has some tragedy flowing throughout.

In ancient China, there are two main factions (or kingdoms), The Wu and the Yue. The Wu kingdom has conquered the Yue, and it was brutal and bloody. They believe that they've conquered them, and all is good but what they did was leave behind a group of people who have a thirst for vengeance. This is where our main character, Xishi comes in. She watched Wu soldiers kill her younger sister. She wants nothing more than to avenge her. She's recruited by Fanli to go undercover as a concubine to the Wu king. Fanli is the adviser to the Yue king and is responsible for training Xishi to function in the Wu court.

During their time together, Xishi and Fanli find themselves connected in a way that can never be. As she is destined to go to the Wu court and he has to deliver her there, their feelings can never be acted upon. The author does an outstanding job of writing Xishi's character. Her feelings are so confused at times as she connects with some of the people at the Wu court. She comes to slowly realize that things are often a matter of perspective. The Wu people viewed the Yue as violent monsters when she and her people had always thought of the Wu that way. It just depends on which side of the battle you're on.

A Song to Drown Rivers delivers several messages and also shows that events are unpredictable. It's an excellent book.

I was also fortunate enough to receive an early copy of the audiobook and it was outstanding. The narration truly made the book feel as if it came alive. I enjoyed it even more because of being able to listen to the story at times. 5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley for both of the early copies. I chose to read and listen to them to be able to review them. The thoughts and opinions in my reviews are my own.

After this book, I will read anything Ann Liang publishes, even her grocery list if she lets me. My queen, please never stop writing these angsty romances that give me just enough to keep me on my toes. I adore the characters in this book and although it is not technically a love triangle, I still ate the romance up. Yes, I am still upset about the ending. I was not expecting this to be a standalone fantasy, since that is not typical of the genre. I appreciate Ann Liang and how she is able to craft the plot twist. She created an atmosphere of tension and hope, balancing the two so that you can never really know if it will be a happy or sad ending. I really enjoyed this book and I wish it got more love.

I was very eager to read this book as I have heard many good things about Ann Liang's other works. This was the first book of hers that I was reading and went into it with high expectations. Unfortunately, this novel missed its mark for me. The writing felt quite flat and the main characters failed to be compelling as individuals and within the purpose of the story. I assumed I was simply not the target audience for this novel only to find out that this is considered to be in the "Adult" genre, however to me - it seemed written like a Young Adult novel. I found certain plot points to be convenient and the romance felt forced and inorganic. Lastly the fantasy aspect of this novel was extremely minimal.

This book could have definitely with more time. More time to develop the plot and characters as well as editing and writing. Overall it felt like a story that was still in its initial stages of development and drafting. I was disappointed since I was looking forward to experiencing this author's writing especially given this was her first official foray into the fantasy and adult genre.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for giving me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.