A review by 2treads
A Song to Drown Rivers by Ann Liang

tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

I loved the premise of this book and enjoyed the execution for the most part. The only thing I wanted more of was detailed descriptions of Xishi's training. The fast pace of the plot may have hurt more than helped the evolution of the story, but enough was done in setting the political scene at court and the machinations of both concubines and advisors to maintain favour to keep me engaged.

Know thine enemy is the foundation of this read. For only then can you defeat them. Enough was done with character building for the reader to form opinions of each of the main characters and to follow their actions in the page. Definitely a read I'd recommend.