Guess I am going to be the minority here, but I just couldn't bring myself to give this book a higher rating. My disappointment can be attributed in part to the high expectations I held when I requested an eARC from NetGalley. And what did I get? An embellished replica of the Wikipedia page.
Since the novel is based on the legend of Xishi, one of the four renowned beauties of ancient China, I did some background research to get a better idea. As someone who brought down the kingdom of Wu through her sexpionage operation, her story intrigued me. So could you fault me for expecting a story full of court politics, palace intrigue and unexpected twists? Unfortunately, this novel delivered none.
The characters, particularly Xishi and Fanli, are bland and failed to capture my interest. Unsurprisingly their doomed fate didn't create any ripples in my heart. The character that stood out the most and displayed some semblance of growth was the villain, Fuchai. Even Xishi herself comes to realize that not all individuals from Wu are inherently evil. Beyond this, I struggle to find any noteworthy aspects to comment on. The overall reading experience felt like flipping through a history book with some random dialogues thrown in, featuring characters that just didn't resonate with me.

thank you NetGalley & Pan Macmillan for the free e-ARC in exchange for a honest review!💙

this book has been in my wishlist way before it was released, since it is written by ann liang, who singlehandedly led me to rediscover my long buried dreams of being an author this year. plus, the angst promised by the book seemed like my cup of tea; which is why i was overjoyed to have been able to get my hands on its ARC 🥹❤️

as it turned out, this book was truly a masterpiece. from the ethereal description of the scenes, to the slow-rising romantic tension that grips on my heart, to the characterization that made me weep for each of the characters, to the beautiful dialogues that made me want to highlight every single line — ann liang surely have brought the legend of xishi to another level with her genius wordplay. and since i am a sucker for books about action with romance on top (something like The Hunger Games), this book hits right on the spot for me. in fact, i can testament that it has a similar effect — it keeps you agitated throughout the journey & left you feeling empty afterwards:')

despite the fact that it is heavily advertised as romance, i like the fact that the book actually makes us contemplate about deeper themes, like war — and what nationalism should truly mean. the book indeed had such a profound ending for me.

thank you, ann, for the rollercoaster, & i'm looking forward to see more masterpieces coming from you 🥹🙏

Elegantly written, rendered with effortless, sweeping prose and a piercing eye for detail. Loved it.

Thanks to NetGalley and Tor for the eARC of this book in exchange for a review.

Xishi is an extremely complex and troubled character, all people see is her beauty but she is so much more than that. The story was an absolutely gorgeous piece of writing and it made me cry ugly tears. I loved this book so much, and now I’ve had time to think on it too.

I’ve read a couple of books from Ann Liang before, and I really enjoy her writing. I am definitely keen to read more from this author. I am likely to purchase this book soon too.

Gorgeous book. I’ll be sending my therapy bill to you haha

Back in the summer, when I had a bit more free time to read, I ploughed my way through a load of books I'd received as ARC from Netgalley - sadly, many of them left minimal impression on me, so I'm having to go back to the blurbs to try and remind myself about the ones which passed me by.

A Song to Drown Rivers was one of those I had to look up. Girl from small village is recruited by mysterious organisation to infiltrate the palace of the neighbouring kingdom as a spy, naturally there's a romance sub-plot between her and the man who recruits her (he's young and handsome, if a bit two-dimensional) and then she's off to the king after the requisite training montage.

There's not much new here, to be honest, and I probably wouldn't have carried on reading if I hadn't got it from Netgalley. If you're a c-drama fan like me, I'd say this is basically the book equivalent of those palace intrigue dramas full of idol actors, all very pretty but much not much actual plotline since the writers aren't quite up to 3-d characters. It also has a very typical c-drama ending (if you know, you know).

Although it's being touted as the adult historical debut of a YA writer, it still feels very YA in a lot of ways - the big time jump partway through doesn't help with the pacing issues. Not someone who's books I'll look to pick up, based on this outing.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher, via Netgalley. This is my honest review of the book in question.

🐱 Favourite Quote:

"In a world where everyone will demand some thing from you, it requires a certain degree of selfishness to be happy, you know.”

🐈 My thoughts:

The cover and title of this book drew my attention. I went in blindly, without reading the blurb and fully expecting a fantasy book... it's not! 😅 I'm glad that I didn't realize that this was historical fiction, because I tend to avoid them, and this turned out to be a very good read.

I have never read a book based in ancient China before, so this grabbed my attention right away. It left me super curious about the legend the story is based on.

The romance is a slow burn, but I never lost interest. And the end is just... heartbreaking 💔

I really enjoyed this and will keep an eye on the writer and look for more books set in ancient China.

As someone who typically enjoys Ann Liang's YA romances, I was so excited when I heard about this book - it sounded exactly up my alley.

I felt the over descriptive writing a bit much at times - which is strange, because that usually doesn't bother me, and I love poetic sounding writing. But I think for all the descriptions, the book could've used more depth in the pacing and the characters.

The main love interest fell completely flat for me, mainly because he was barely in the story. Even during the 10 week training we barely got a glimpse into the characters falling for each other, but since most of it was skipped over with a time jump, it wasn't explored as much as I would've preferred. Because of this, I didn't really feel connected to the couple as a whole.

In terms of the pacing, the first 20% was quite slow, but then all the time jumps in the middle also felt quite out of place - next thing you know, Xishi has been in the palace for 2 years!

I don't often say this, but I really felt like the story could've been a duology to give more depth to the characters and the plot.

I did end up enjoying the story, and Fuchai's character especially was very intriguing - just wish it could've been explored more!

Ann Liang's writing overall is beautiful, and there were definitely some highlight worthy lines in this.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan for the free digital copy of this book!

──★ ˙ ₊ 3.5 stars

thank you to netgalley, pan macmillan and the author, ann liang, for providing me with this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

review.
this is my first ann liang book, and i was super excited when i found out i got the arc for this. this started off strong, minus the insta-love portion of the story, and i was hooked from the very beginning, but towards the end everything just kind of fell flat, and i noticed many plot holes in the story. there were multiple storylines that could've been expanded on, but it didn't give anything. the characters did not have any development whatsoever, and their potential was wasted. however, i did enjoy how powerful xishi was portrayed, but i wish it was more realistic. i also loved the side actors; they definitely gave more depth to the story, and everything between fanli and xishi was written beautifully.

I love anything that Ann Liang writes and this was a such a delight to read. I was hesitant since I only read Romance by her, but this proved me otherwise.

Rating: 4.5

Ann Liang's writing beautifully reflects the immense journey of a deep undercover mission, with its outcome being a life or death for the people of its nation. This is not a simple love story, but one that revolves around lies, manipulation and betrayal.

Xishi is a commoner but with immense beauty. With this beauty, she becomes a pawn in a dangerous game of deceit. Her character is pretty straightforward - for the sake of her family and the greater good of her nation, she will use her wiles and beauty to distract and manipulate, alongside her dearest and feisty friend, Zhengdan. She has flaws and isn't perfect, yet she cannot let this reflect on the surface.

The intense yearning between Xishi and Fanli was almost torturous, a forbidden love between the two with no expectations it will ever come to fruition. The relationship with Fuchai was also complicated, and I wish his character was developed more, despite his place in actual history.

A short but concise retelling of the Legend of Xishi, one of the Four Beauties of Ancient China. Beauty can be underestimated, and in this instance it was used to its fullest.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book!

the mind destroys, the heart devours

A stunning, heart-rending feat of a story. A Song to Drown Rivers retells ancient legend with phenomenal voice, bringing a truly worthwhile addition to the historical fiction genre.

This was a beautiful but tragic tale of the most beautiful woman from a distant village made to seduce and betray the king of a neighbouring kingdom who ruthlessly took over hers. The slowburn and yearning between xishi and fanli was insane, Ann Liang. debut adult novel is as promising as her heartfelt YA fiction works that I truly adored. I was impressed with the writing, as there were very poetic lines and felt very true to the time period/genre, but there was also a simplicity and pacing to it where I never felt bogged down.

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♟️Rating:3/5⭐
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Minor spoilers ahead!! Before I begin, can I just say that Ann Liang’s writing peaked here? The words came flying out of the pages the moment I started reading it. I actually have some mixed feelings about this one and I hate myself for feeling this way. (I REALLY LOVED IHTDFY 😭)

I think the main reason why I struggled to wholeheartedly enjoy this book was due to the lack of connection to the romantic aspect of the book. Xishi’s interaction with Fanli was quite rushed and I really wished that their training of the cottage could have been just a tad bit longer so that it’s not just insta love. I NEED MORE ANGST!! I NEED THE INEXPLICABLE LONGING!! (Because meanwhile she was literally with Fuchai for about 1-2 years but there’s no changes to her feelings??) Plus, Fanli pretty much disappeared halfway through the book and I kind of forgot about him.

Furthermore, I wished there was more build up to Xishi getting Fuchai’s attention instead of just her using her beauty+plot armour to get his attention. A lot of the skills she had learnt with Fanli weren’t fully displayed later on in the book. I was also surprised at the lack of court place drama amongst the concubines because I’m certain that they will not just let Xishi waltz her way in. (Even Su Daji had to work for it 😭 and she had a whole gang helping her out) We want more shows instead of just telling. A lot of these plot points could have been expanded into something bigger but they were quickly brushed off. Speaking of plot points, there were minor plot points and character development that weren’t fully explained or resolved which seemed strange to me now that I recall about it. For example, Fuchai, our lovesick boy. Come on my love, I know you can do better than this and be the morally grey villain you’re meant to be. The character development was also pretty rushed and there was little to no difference as to how Xishi or Fuchai acted later on in the book. War weighs people down and people change. Even if you were to sit far from the front lines, hearing the political discourse taking place every single day will surely change your mind even if it’s just a little.

This was also marketed as fantasy historical but there was no fantasy related thing in the book (Unless you count that last few chapters but it’s still not really fantasy). It was just historical. I think there was some misinformation from the marketing theme because where is the magic? Where is the fantasy twist or magic system? Nonetheless, Ann Liang did a terrific job at following the actual historical events of Xishi. The ending did not take me by surprise since I did some reading on Xishi prior to reading this novel but I still appreciated Ann Liang not just stopping there but broadening further. (I did hope for a twist though…since it was more of a recount) Also, this is supposed to be an adult novel but it surely doesn't feel like it. It feels ya and there was nothing explicit or gory about the writing.

All in all, yes I did survive. I needed more angst and character development if you want to make me cry. I think Ann Liang’s strength currently lies in writing ya and it shows. Perhaps after writing a few more books, can we see a bigger improvement in her other (if any) adult novels. And yes, I will still read Ann Liang’s future works because her ya novels are my guilty pleasure after a long day of work. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you NetGalley and Pan MacMillan for this eCopy to review

A Song to Drown Rivers” by Ann Liang is a historical fiction novel that blends mythology and romance, set in ancient China. The story follows Xishi, a character inspired by one of the Four Beauties of Ancient China. Xishi is tasked with using her beauty to infiltrate the enemy kingdom of Wu and bring it down from within.

What I really appreciated about the book was the character development and thematic depth. Xishi’s journey felt both emotional and thought-provoking, and her growth throughout the story was natural and realistic. The romance between Xishi and Fanli, a military advisor, added a compelling layer to the narrative

On the downside, I felt the plot could be a bit rushed in places. Some aspects of the narrative, especially the political intrigue, could have been expanded further. Despite these issues, the novel’s lyrical prose and the emotional depth of its characters were definite strengths.

First of all, a big thank you to Ann Liang and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this arc

4.5 stars :)

I just want to say THE ENDING??? I'm really stupid for actually thinking there would be another chapter or an epilogue after that 😭 it's Ann Liang.
But the writing style was fast-paced and such an easy read, I absolutely love Xi Shi and FanLi, but I wish we'd have gotten more romance. I think all Ann Liang books are like that though, the plot takes up most of the story line and the romance is a background theme. I've only read 'I Hope This Doesn't Find You' though, so I may come back and edit this review after I've read a few more of her books.
I don't know why, but I think Fuchai could've been so good with someone else, if they'd be willing to help him change, because the actual love and dedication he had for Xi Shi was insane, and even while he was dying he still loved her. I don't know, I feel like if there was another book about Fuchai and someone else, and I hadn't read this book, I probably would've loved it.
I feel like the reason why I liked it so much is because it felt like I was truly there and I could follow along super easily.
I hope I receive more arcs from this author in the future and thank you again :)

When I read her other titles I wondered what it would be like if she wrote a fantasy book and NOW IT'S HERE. I feel like her prose is pretty yet simple so I thought it would fit this genre really well, and I am so glad she did it because it is amazing.

I have to admit that I am writing this before finishing the book, because I have a lot of work stress, but I wanted to share my thoughts until now.. This will be edited and reshared on socials once I finished.

Ann Liang's writing style draws you in from the beginning and there are no boring parts. I was so curious about Xishi and wanted to know what would happen with her and how she would continue to change. It sort of felt like witnessing a trainwreck, in like you couldn't stop or predict it, but contrary to the trainwreck, you are surprised with its results, for it had me hooked and wanted to know more.

I wonder if now the author willl continue with this genre or go back to romance. I would be happy with both.

A Song to Drown Rivers (2024)
By Ann Liang
Publication Date: 3rd October

Thank you so much to Pan Macmillan for this amazing ARC!

Like its protagonist, this book can be summed up by one word: deceptive, as it lured me in with the premise of a predictable tale and proceeded to sweep me off of my feet, with a series of neck-breaking twists and turns! Do not be convinced by its folkloric beginning nor its romantic undertones, for this is a book that will lulled me into a false sense of security again and again. The strength in this story is in its plot, beginning with a meek village girl, who gets the chance to take revenge on an evil despot. Despite being labelled as romantasy, it also adds in some thriller aspects, court politics, and masterclasses at manipulation for some extra spice.

The development of the protagonist Xishi from village girl to manipulator kept me hooked, even if at times I did find her naive and perhaps delusional, despite her training. The two main men, Fanli and Fuchai, worked as fascinating foils, adding necessary tension and unpredictability - especially as I had no idea how their stories would unfold or who should be trusted. The romance started off cliche and soon became more interesting, making for a scenario that was so messy, I had no idea how it would be resolved. However, I do admit that my favorite character ended up being Zhendang who, as a witty and fierce sword-wielder, should have had more page time.

This book walked the line between folklore and reality well, making for an interesting mix of truth and lies, sweetened fantasy and painful reality. This melded well with the tension and the pacing, which kept me on my toes all the way until the end, where I would have thrown the book across the room if it was a physical copy. Every prediction I made for this book was either wrong, overturned, or exceeded my expectations. It even got one or two gasps out of me – which is really hard to do, nowadays!

But do I think it relies too much on shock factor?

Maybe so, as quite a few plot decisions hinged upon it, disrupting character arcs and failing at completely suspending my belief. I see why it would be used to maintain the pace and intensity of Xishi's long con, but at the expense of Xishi’s decisions making sense, at the extent of cutting off the arcs of certain characters and the culmination of various relationships? In the end, I believe that less shock factor would have allowed me to better emotionally connect with the narrative, and become more engrossed in the plot. There were also points where I found this book shallow in reasoning. From the emphasis of Xishi’s beauty, to Fuchai not quite leaving up to evil king or womanizer that he was proclaimed to be, and the other promises the story made and never quite fulfilled. Then, at the end, I felt like it almost became too heavy-handed in its message and emphasis, making this feel even more like a book of almost, but not quite.

That being said, this is a magical and unpredictable story full of potential, one that shall linger in my memory and be recommend to others in future, just so I can see their reading reactions from chapter to chapter!

I am STUNNED by just how beautiful this was, and upon finishing it, I kind of lay there in a sort of daze because it was just that impactful.
I don’t wanna give too much away, as I kind of went into this blind without knowing anything, but I learned a heck of a lot. Over the years I’ve become a bit of a historical story buff, especially ones that are based on real historical events or people. This was no exception! 

A Song to Drown Rivers was the perfect dose of historical fantasy, with a touching and heartrending romance that unexpectedly leaves a lasting impact. War is such a hurtful terrible and traumatizing situation, and this book is definitely an eye-opener to just how detrimental it can be for anyone involved. Emotionally gripping to the last page, I really blitzed through this, even though it was a tough read on occasion. The world building is nothing short of spectacular, and Ann Liang has definitely put a LOT of thought into the universe she built and the story she sets out to tell. 

This was my first Ann Liang book and it certainly won’t be my last. I actually have been intending to read her other books for quite some time but for some reason didn’t get around to doing so - I’ll definitely be rectifying that now.

For those who know me, you’ll know how much I’ve loved Ann’s work since reading her debut IYCSTS and my love for her work has not changed since. I had no idea what to expect from her this time with this new venture into adult fiction with this historical fiction novel and my god did she do a fantastic job.

The world the story is set in feels so real, every room and environment our protagonist Xishi finds herself described in such a way that I feel as though I’m stood right beside her from the first chapter. Each character felt like a fully realised person with their own personal desires that you get attached to.

Even if I hadn’t seen the reactions to people crying after having finished the book, I would’ve still felt a sense of unease the entire time reading it from the melancholic tone the narrative has, especially as it is from Xishi’s point of view. Seeing an entire story from the eyes of a character of a doomed love story I’ve found is pretty rare, and makes it all the more heartbreaking. By the end, I couldn’t stop the tears from falling and chest from aching. The ending was such a perfect bittersweet close to such a poignant story.

My only gripe with the book was that the romance did feel insta-love. It was really on both sides, but particularly from Fanli and meant I really struggled to connect to their romantic story but I do appreciate how it ended

I want to thank NetGalley and the publishing team for allowing me to read this e-arc.

This book is a five-star read for me. I've never read a book from Ann Liang but I cannot wait to read more of her work.
I really enjoyed her writing and the world she built. The author managed to portray sublime landscapes, but also the duality in which our main character find herself in. The characters are engaging, complex and realistic given the conditions in which they find themselves.
I recommend this book for everyone who wants a gripping stand-alone fantasy.
I think this book is a perfect fit for every reader of fantasy, romantasy or even historical fiction.

Oh wow, I've just finished this book and I thought I knew I knew where it was going a few times and each time I was completely wrong!

The book reminds me of the legends that children would be told at bedtime, especially because of how the story unfolds and the ending, which I just didn't expect. I was so surprised every time I checked how much progress I was making and it was just down to me being hooked and reading it as fast as my eyes could drink the words.

I loved the connection between Xishi and Fanli and was rooting for them so hard, but it was also so believable how complicated her feelings towards Fuchai became. Each character was interesting to read about and I never found myself bored or wanting to skim.

It was fast paced, not overly descriptive but had enough detail to help set the scene and it's not a story I will easily forget.

Thank you to Pan Macmillan, Tor and the author for the review copy, provided in exchange for an honest opinion.