Review: A Song to Drown Rivers

Author: Ann Liang

Genre: Historical, Legend Retelling

Rating: 5 /5

Features:

• Retelling of the legend of Xishi

• Court intrigue, deception, and a complicated love triangle

• Set in a fantasy version of ancient China

• Explores themes around revenge, sacrifice, and beauty 

Summary

Beauty is a blessing. Beauty is a curse. Beauty is a weapon. Xishi is said to be so beautiful that nature itself is humbled by her presence. However, in a time of war where the Wu are a constant threat, Xishi remains hidden in her tiny village, away from any great fortune she once would have been fated to bring to her family. However, when she is discovered by Fanli, one of the Yue king’s advisors, it seems that fate might have its hand after all. But instead of the happily ever after everyone had envisioned, Xishi’s beauty will become the weapon that will take down the Wu from within. 

Thoughts

Wow! This retelling of the legend of Xishi had me hooked from the start! I was somewhat familiar with the original Chinese legend before picking up A Song to Drown Rivers and it seems to follow it pretty closely. Despite that, I found this rendition captivating and tragic with some twists I wasn’t quite expecting and it is worth picking up whether this story is new to you or not. Though Xishi is really only made interesting by the situation she is trying to navigate, the characters that surround her all stand out in their unique ways. Though Liang’s previous books have been romcoms and the synopsis makes it sound like this story will take a similar approach, don’t be fooled! This story quickly becomes a complicated and sad tale of deception and revenge that is only enhanced by the love triangle at its center. If you are unfamiliar with the legend of Xishi, know before going in that this is a tragic tale. This is the first book I have read by Liang and unless I had looked it up, I would not have known from this book that romcoms have been her bread and butter up until now. That alone deserves a round of applause!

What really made this book a stand out read for me was the writing itself. The story is written with poetic prose that feels appropriate for a ‘legend’ story and rarely feels overdone. You really feel transported to the time and place that this story is unfolding and are truly allowed to experience the world through the characters rather than sitting through bouts of long exhibition. Even with the rich world and storytelling that this book contains, it remains extremely accessible and never gets bogged down with details. There are definitely some slower parts of the story, but it never overstays its welcome and just feels like a natural part of the storytelling. This phenomenal read came just at the right time for me even though the ending left me in tears and I would highly recommend it! 

Get this book!

Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review!