I had a schedule to read Song of the Abyss for the 12 Friends 12 Books project, but I fell into a black hole while reading. In a few days I was finished and had no idea where the time went. I thought I’d love it, but I wasn’t prepared for how much! Keep reading this book review for my full thoughts.
Summary
As the granddaughter of a famed navigator, seventeen-year-old Reyna has always lived life on her own terms, despite those who say a girl could never be an explorer for the royal house of St. John del Mar. She is determined to prove them wrong, and as she returns home after a year-long expedition, she knows her dream is within reach. No longer an apprentice, instead: Reyna, Master Explorer.
But when menacing raiders attack her ship, those dreams are pushed aside. Reyna’s escape is both desperate and dangerous, and when next she sees her ship, a mystery rises from the deep. The sailors–her captain, her countrymen–have vanished. To find them, Reyna must use every resource at her disposal . . . including placing her trust in a handsome prince from a rival kingdom.
Together they uncover a disturbing truth. The attack was no isolated incident. Troubling signs point to a shadowy kingdom in the north, and for once, the rulers of the Sea of Magdalen agree: something must be done. But can Reyna be brave enough to find a way?
Review
Reading Song of the Abyss was an experience where time lost all meaning. I always kept wanting to read the next chapter after finishing for the night. Promised nautical adventures, I loved how Song of the Abyss balances intriguing and political action with Reyna’s character development. At the beginning I was entirely captivated by how passionate, determined, and brave Reyna is. Talk about a heroine after my own heart. She charmed me with her fierce loyalty and her commitment to being extraordinary even as the world discounts her.
But then Song of the Abyss hooked me with a truly fantastic sense of adventure. At the beginning the pace slowly reels you in, making sure you are aware of how passionate Reyna is, only for her to be thrown headfirst into danger. (But can we also talk about how resourceful her best friend is too?!) So many of the characters have found their way into my heart. And my notes for the whole last half just devolves into, “OMG WAIT WHAT?!” Seriously.
Song of the Abyss is intriguing and criminally under hyped. I am amazed at all that Lucier manages to pack into this companion novel which is certainly my favorite of this world. Initially drawn in by the characters, I ended up being entranced by the action! Highly recommend this series for anyone who loves the ideas of nautical adventures, fantastic heroines, and politics.
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