A Song to Drown Rivers follows Xishi, a beautiful village girl who is recruited for a dangerous plot. Xishi’s parents will be taken care of for life- but she will need to go undercover as a spy who must capture the heart of a cruel king. Fanli is the king’s advisor who will train her. When a connection blooms between them, there’s no way to act on it without sacrificing valuable battle plans. Does Xishi have what it takes to steal the king’s heart and bring his kingdom down?

I loved this book so much and literally couldn’t put it down! Ann Liang’s beautiful prose was breathtaking. Every sentence feels written with care and deep intention. Liang does a wonderful job describing all the senses and building a vivid atmosphere. Xishi was my favorite character, with Fanli a close second. Xishi must make terrible sacrifices, but always stays true to the mission no matter the cost. Fanli is a principled character who is protective and swoonworthy. The poignant yearning between Xishi and Fanli is expertly written. Even the smallest touch is weighted with unbearable longing that leaps off the page. The ending was devastating in all the best ways!!

A Song to Drown Rivers is a beautiful and memorable standalone. I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys stunning prose, C-dramas, and a slow-burn romance of intense yearning.

Thank you to Ann Liang, St. Martin’s Press, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

For publisher: My review will be posted on Goodreads, Amazon, Storygraph, and Barnes & Noble etc.

I forgot to leave a review for this, but I really enjoyed it! It's already out, so I won't say much more than I need to for my star rating. <3

✨️💙⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars 💙✨️

°•*⁀➷・❥・“𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓶𝓲𝓷𝓭 𝓭𝓮𝓼𝓽𝓻𝓸𝔂𝓼, 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓱𝓮𝓪𝓻𝓽 𝓭𝓮𝓿𝓸𝓾𝓻𝓼.”・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷

𝙼𝚢 𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚜💭:

Did I go in knowing this would take me, drown me, and destroy me when I finish this book? Absolutely YES, because it was one of my all-time favourite author's @annliangwrites book, and I would absolutely devour anything this woman writes, even if it kills me.🙂‍↕️🫶🏻 When I started this book, I was really curious to know why the book is titled like that, but when I finished it, oh boy😩 It should be "A Book to Drown Readers", not A Song to Drown Rivers alright, because this book drowned me, left me gasping for air and I'm still not able to come out of it 😭✋🏻

Coming back, this book was pretty different from all her previous books I read. Reading this felt like I was watching one of the ancient C-dramas that I would usually skip if I knew that it's going to be a sad ending, but here I couldn't even skip because...it was so hard to put down once you start. This book is the only book where the Villain became my favourite, and the rest just simply didn't make it except for Zhengdan, she deserved so much better🥺💗. “A hero would sacrifice you for the world, but a villain would sacrifice the whole world for you.”- this line actually fits perfect for this whole book.

Don't let the cover fool you into thinking this will be a cute read. If I have to put it in simple words, 'It's the most heartwrenching, heart-numbing, mind-exploding read'. Get your tissues ready if you plan on reading this🤧

If you haven't read any of Ann Liang's books yet, then I would suggest you not read this as your first book. Go for her other books first, like "I Hope This Doesn't Find You" or "If You Could See The Sun." 🥰💘

ˋ°•*⁀➷・❥・𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷

🌙23/09/24
With shattered pieces of an aching heart, and swollen red eyes, RTC soon in the upcoming release week. GOODBYE. LET ME GO REWIND WHAT I READ 🤧

Thankyou to Netgalley, the Author and St.Martin's Press for this wonderful ARC !🥺💖

P.S. WHAT THE HELL ANN?! WHY ANN JUST WHYYYYYYYYYYYYY??????😭😭😭💔💔💔

🌙19/09/24
*mic drops🎤* Am I going to read this book even though knowing this will undo me? ✨️YeSs✨️ It's finally time to read the biggest, most anticipated read of this year!🤩💙

Her beauty is destined to change history

Xishi lives in the small Yue village of Zhuhji with her mother and father in the time after her land’s defeat by the neighboring Wu. Hard work and limited food are part of daily life, as is unexpected violence against the Yue like the night soldiers from Wu burst into her home when her parents were out and killed her young sister Susu. XIshi has good reason to hate and fear the Wu, as does her best friend Zhengdan whose father was killed by them during the war. What makes XIshi unique is her exceptional beauty, so great that her mother insists she veil her face when she leaves their home, a loveliness that is said to have the power “to topple kingdoms and overturn cities”. It could not have been a surprise, therefore, to have the handsome advisor to King Gouijian of Yue come to her family’s door to propose that XIshi leave them and be offered to King Fuchai of the Wu Kingdom as a tribute, essentially a concubine given for political benefit. But Fanli’s plan is far more calculating than just offering a two young women as concubine and a palace lady to accompany her (Zhengdan); he envisions sending a woman so beautiful and captivating that the notorious womanizer Fuchai will become devoted to and trust her. In return, the young woman will act as both a spy for the Yue and also help her kingdom’s forces to invade Wu and topple Fuchai. XIshi and Zhengdan both have more than sufficient reason to hate the Wu and want them punished, and make the choice to set aside their own happiness for the good of their people. Fanli trains them in court behavior and the arts of seduction and deception so that they will be able to survive inside Fuchai’s palace, but it will be up to these two young peasant women to transform themselves into beautiful but deadly agents of destruction. Inside the luxurious court of the Wu wait continual danger, attempts on their lives, and the challenging task of keeping their hatred alive while appearing to become happy and willing members of the court. Can they succeed in their mission, and if so will they survive to enjoy the fruits of their sacrifice?
Based on the Chinese legend of the Four Great Beauties of ancient China, this is part adventure and part fairy tale. The commoner of exceptional beauty attracts the attention of a powerful king and he falls in love with her, but this is not a happily-ever-after in the making. This young woman willingly becomes a tool in her kingdom’s quest for revenge, and she must leave behind her family and village, give her body to a man she hates, and live a duplicitous life. She also must ignore the attraction to and connection with Fanli that she develops and which, she suspects, he reciprocates….duty must prevail over happiness for them both. She must be brave and observant, and exercise wisdom in her attempts to rise to power in Fuchai’s court. She comes to realize that few people are all good or all bad, and like many who lead an undercover existence must deal with conflicting emotions towards those she has targeted. A beautifully written story with complicated characters who do their best to fulfill roles about which they had little say, where love, regret, war, and power exert their influence against them all, and none will emerge unscathed. This elegant novel will appeal to readers of Lisa See, Yangsze Choo and Grace D. Li, as well as anyone fascinated with legends and folklore. Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for allowing me early access to this delightful read.

I typically love tragic, slow-burn romance, and political intrigue. Maybe it was tough to spend enough time on the plot and character development within one book or perhaps I read it too fast, but this whole book felt rushed. I was supposed to feel bad for Xishi and Fanli, but I never felt it. Xishi never really came to any of the realizations I thought she would, the author hinted at the humanization of the Wu civilians, the whole "history is written by the victors" theme but because the ending... was the way that it was, it felt so unfinished to me. I wish we had gotten 200 more pages of this so that more time could been spent on all the undeveloped themes. I loved the writing style; I really struggled with the plot, theme, and character dynamics.

Also, Liang wrote the most YEARNING and MISERABLE character for Xishi and we were supposed to want her to be with Fanli? I might just be sick in head, idk.

Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this ACR Copy!

This is my first Ann Liang book so I did not really know what to expect from this story. I was hoping for a tale that was deeply steeped in mythology and tradition and found that that those elements were somewhat lacking. The world was somewhat vague but regardless of that it was still a beautiful story, very lyrical and whimsical. The FMC has to make the hard decision to leave everything behind to save her people from the tyrant king, it read a lot like a YA, which is not a problem at all, I read a lot of YA, I just though that this was an Adult book so that may have been where my disconnect lied. Regardless, I really enjoyed the story.

This was a beautiful book. I enjoyed the story very much. It tugged on the heartstrings and showed the hardships of war. I liked the fantasy aspects of the story, it added to it.
It kept my interest because everything was not as it seemed. It showed that in this was there were good/bad people on both sides. Sometimes the ones who are “supposed” to be the bad guys are not as bad as they seem and vice versa.
This was definitely a great book that would satisfy both the history and fantasy reader. I have read a few fantasy books set in China, and this one did not disappoint.

3.5⭐️

Overall, I did enjoy the story. It feels really unique in the sense that I haven’t read another book where the concubine works behind the scene to overthrow the king. I have seen other kdrama or cdramas where the concubine works in secret… So it was nice to see this in a book format.

I think the thing that fell flat for me was I wanted to see more power struggle when she was trying to become the top concubine. It felt like a very easy win for her… I thought things moved a little too smoothly…. And I think her journey to becoming the favorite concubine should’ve been explored more.

I also wished that Fanli’s story was a little bit more flushed out. It kind of felt flat.

Xishi is known for her extreme beauty. Yet she has remained humble in her small village washing silks and recovering from the loss of her young sister during the last Wu invasion. Enter Fanli, military advisor to her country’s king. He is seeking a tool to use to break the Wu king, and Xishi’s beauty is the answer. As she sets on this journey to learn how to be a spy to weaken the Wu nation, Xishi must protect her heart to understand the game of seduction and of what is real and not. What does Fanli mean to her? How much of herself will she leave behind and will she sacrifice her entire self for country?

This was a very well written, captivating read that flowed effortlessly through Xishi’s eyes. The storytelling is just plain good. Everything is written with a purpose and pulls you completely into this tragic romance. Xishi’s heart is pure and she is a perfect heroine. 5 stars.

Review based on a digital Advanced Reader’s Copy provided by St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley. Thank you! All opinions are my own.

If ever there was a bittersweet ending, this is it.

Now, if you are a fan of Chinese historical dramas, I'd say this book is nothing new to you. It follows a familiar mold. But if you are into those types of stories you would also likely enjoy this.

The writing is lovely and relatively easy to follow. The protagonist was likable enough. However, I was never fully sold on the romance. There was pining on many sides, but I didn't feel it in my core. My heart didn't ache as I was expecting it to. I think the issue lies in the fact that not enough time was spent seeing the main couple fall in love. It was all rather quick, which I suppose is to be expected given that this is a standalone fantasy.

In the end, I just wanted more of everything: more romance, more yearning, more feelings, and heartbreak.

I enjoyed the book overall. But I don't think it is one that will stick with me for long.

4 stars! I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it reminded me of c-drama levels of romance, politics, world-building, and character development.

Our main character is smart and brave. Even the side characters are super intriguing! If you like political intrigue, romance, badass female characters, I highly recommend you check this book out! There was just enough romance to satisfy the romance lovers and the plot has lots of scheming and twists that will keep you on your toes. I liked the book more and more as it went on. The plot isn't groundbreaking, but it's executed very well in my opinion.

The only reason I gave 4 stars is because I do feel the beginning dragged on for a bit too long. My favorite part of the book was when she got to the castle and the real action began. I understand though it really depends on whether you're a romance lover or an action lover. I happen to be both, but lean more towards action. If it weren't for the slow start I would have definitely finished it sooner. I'm glad I stuck through with it!

Overall, I am happy to have read it. Thank you to Ann Liang and her team for the ARC. It's for sure a book that is different from her other books but I think she is a skilled author to have pulled off a genre-switch this well! Bravo!

I’ll start of by saying this book will NOT be for everyone.

This is a story that is slow going, tragic, and it’s more about coming to terms with/learning how the world works with people in power. The stakes don’t seem very high when Xishe infiltrates the palace of the neighboring to be a concubine spy because the king seems like a lost puppy and easy to manipulate. But that’s NOT the point.

It’s about the destination not the journey with this one. I’ll admit that for 75% of the book I was just coasting along waiting for the ‘good stuff’ to happen, but then I got hit with the last bit of the book and it made much more sense. It’s dark and raw and unveils the reality of war when you least expect it. If you want a full out fantasy, this is not for you. If you want a romance for the ages, this is not it. If you want an action packed spy book, sorry but no.

This story is about endurance, patience, loss, survival, and power — who has it, who doesn’t, who wants it, and what one will do to get and keep it.

From breathtaking prose to a beautifully tragic storyline to bittersweet romance, A Song to Drown Rivers stole my heart and soul from the beginning to the end.

Known for her beauty, Xishi is approached by infamous military advisor Fanli to be a crucial part of a secret plot to overthrow their rival kingdom by seducing their king. Xishi agrees to help save her people and avenge her sister’s death but soon finds herself in an entanglement of hearts, loyalty, and trust, one that is deadly and dangerous.

Instantly, I was drawn into this world of secrets, betrayal, love, and heartbreak. As the story went on, every piece of it became star-crossed, and I loved every devastating minute of it. It was so beautiful yet tragic. I loved seeing Xishi grow and embrace her power as a strong main character, fall in love, and take calculated risks.

I can’t wait to read more books by Liang. I just absolutely LOVED this read!!

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

ann liang is an amazing author... this is devastating and beautiful and i will always be thinking about xishi and fanli

“What a bittersweet fate we shared, balanced so precariously on the fine line between life and death, union and separation, joy and despair.”

Fantasy is a genre completely outside of my wheelhouse but a fellow reader suggested I give this new novel a try. Inspired by an Ancient Chinese legend, Ann Liang provides stunning imagery with her prose and after one chapter I was hooked.

Xishi has a rare and exquisite beauty and a thirst for revenge. A young minister to her king recognizes her exceptional elegance and makes her a pawn in a dangerous game. After rigorous training, Xishi is embedded into the court of a rival kingdom, to seduce their king in hopes of gathering intelligence to regain her kingdom’s independence. The minister Fanli guides her through lengthy training and delivers her to the den, setting into motion an entangled plot where life hangs in the balance for multiple characters.
Xishi’s beauty is a blessing and a curse as she navigates a minefield of duty, affection and guilt, while she is confronted with blurred lines about heroes vs victims.
The Helen of Troy (the face that launched a thousand ships) undercurrent is just one aspect of what made this an appealing read for me, and those who enjoy Madeline Miller mythology retellings, may find this to be their ideal fall book.

Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press and Net Galley for the early copy in exchange for my honest review!

Generous 3 ⭐ - until the end I was really rating it 4-4.25 ⭐

<b>GOOD:</b>
Don’t get me wrong, I binged the audio hard and adored 75%. The audio was extremely immersive and I loved the narration by Natalie Naudus. There were so many parts of this book I loved. The setting and the writing were some of my favorites. Espionage, power games and court politics in a warring kingdom? YES PLEASE. I loved when Xishi started to realize she had her own power even if it was different than that a man has.

<b>BAD:</b>
Where was the fantasy? Other than being a world loosely based off a Chinese myth, there is absolutely no magic or fantasy elements. Our FMC was just a random village girl with immeasurable beauty & her friend felt like a knock off Mulan even though we forgot about her quickly.

<b>UGLY:</b>
The ending made me rage - a few days later I'm still pissed while writing the review. I cared for the relationship and interactions with the king, not her insta-love wannabe romance. We never saw any of the pining and tension between Fanli and Xishi. The relationship that Xishi built over multiple YEARS with the Wu King Fuchai was more impactful to me than the 10 week relationship she decided she had with Fanli.


Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio & St. Martin's press for the eARC & ALC of A Song to Drown Rivers by Ann Liang

I had a decent time reading A Song to Drown Rivers. My favorite part of the book was Xishi's character development. I enjoyed her character's journey and watching her grow into her role as a spy. The book focused primarily on her journey. I am surprised that this book is being advertised as a romantasy. This did not feel like a romantasy. The romance in this book was very backseat. I struggled with Xishi and Fanli's relationship. It was a lot of telling instead of showing. I wish the author showed more of their characters together. I had a hard time justifying their love with so few scenes together. I thought Fanli's character was severely underdeveloped. I didn't really feel one way or another about him. I actually had more feelings about the enemy! I thought the author did a fantastic job creating a layered character in Fuchai. I found myself feeling bad for him. There were some things that bugged me. I felt like the whole heart thing was never fully explained. I also thought the ending of the book could have been less rushed. I wish there was more climax at the end. The fight scenes could have been better. I didn't like how Xishi's story ended. The author's writing was strong and compelling. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the ARC.

A moment of silence for this gorgeous cover, please...

This book is filled with excellent world-building, compelling characters, interesting eastern mythology and is both beautifully written and heartbreaking at the same time.

I can't wait to see what happens next!

Tysm for the ARC!

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the eARC.

A Song to Drown Rivers gave me so much more than I anticipated. Grab all the tissues. Wow.

🌊 Book Review 🌊

A Song to Drown Rivers by Ann Liang
🌊
This is a captivating, poetically written, stunningly tragic book filled with yearning, heartbreak, female rage, and vengeance. It’s an epic tale about war, duty, sacrifice, and love. I adored the characters, especially Xishi, Fanli, and even Fuchai. This book was intriguing, fast-paced, and almost hauntingly beautiful. Natalie Naudus does an excellent job with the audio. She truly embodies Xishi, and brings her character to life perfectly. I was completely unprepared for the ending; it absolutely destroyed me, and I may never recover. I will be thinking about this book for a long time.
🌊
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️
🌊
Read if you like:
▫️Chinese legends
▫️historical fantasy
▫️warring kingdoms and court politics
▫️arranged marriage
▫️forbidden love
🌊
Thank you to St. Martins Press, Macmillan Audio, NetGalley, and Ann Liang for the ARC. I received an advanced copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.