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The GriffinSong Trilogy #1
Songbird
A twentieth century woman is lost in a fantasy world with nothing but the clothes on her back and her innate humanity. This is the story of her compelling need to redefine herself.
When Irenya O’Neil suffers a panic attack and falls into the realm of Dar Orien, a world with a failed MageGate system, she finds herself unable to return home to her infant son – she is trapped in a nightmare that tests her sanity.
Confronted with evidence that she possesses a Gift of power, Irenya attempts to control her fledgling talent through music. This could be her ticket home. But Irenya becomes mired in the civil unrest that has befallen Dar Orien. Sickened by the bloodshed and fearful for her own safety, Irenya is desperate to find her way home.
When Irenya O’Neil suffers a panic attack and falls into the realm of Dar Orien, a world with a failed MageGate system, she finds herself unable to return home to her infant son – she is trapped in a nightmare that tests her sanity.
Confronted with evidence that she possesses a Gift of power, Irenya attempts to control her fledgling talent through music. This could be her ticket home. But Irenya becomes mired in the civil unrest that has befallen Dar Orien. Sickened by the bloodshed and fearful for her own safety, Irenya is desperate to find her way home.
288 pages, Paperback
Published June 20, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
April 2, 2024
4.5 stars to this amazing first volume!
Songbird presents us with the tale of a modern woman that gets sent into a more magical world and must do what she has to come back home to her infant son. I just adore how this books develops, the firendship Irenya makes along the way and the narrative is so good too. I am also glad Irenya's over 30 years old, if only because I can see myself more in Irenya than I do in younger protagonists.
All the characters were so unique and lively, flawed and human as we all are, and all of them gave Irenya different points of view of her position in the castle. The way her relationship with Elaaron develops is worthy of mention as well, like two broken pieces that slowly fit together and share their sorrows. Although they both need to sort their feelings asap. What will happen next has me shaking with anticipation and longing. I need book 2 like right now.
This book is nothing like the fantasy I've read before, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys the Isekai genre. You won't be disappointed.
Songbird presents us with the tale of a modern woman that gets sent into a more magical world and must do what she has to come back home to her infant son. I just adore how this books develops, the firendship Irenya makes along the way and the narrative is so good too. I am also glad Irenya's over 30 years old, if only because I can see myself more in Irenya than I do in younger protagonists.
All the characters were so unique and lively, flawed and human as we all are, and all of them gave Irenya different points of view of her position in the castle. The way her relationship with Elaaron develops is worthy of mention as well, like two broken pieces that slowly fit together and share their sorrows. Although they both need to sort their feelings asap. What will happen next has me shaking with anticipation and longing. I need book 2 like right now.
This book is nothing like the fantasy I've read before, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys the Isekai genre. You won't be disappointed.
January 26, 2021
Wow, this book was really good!!
Following Ireyna's journey into the fantasy world that she falls into during this book was so engaging and incredible. I need to get my hands on book 2 becuase that ending was such a cliff hanger and oh boy do I need a lot of questions answered!
The characters in this book were so full of life and personality and I love them with all my heart, genuinely. It was really nice to see their flaws and their suffering as well as triumphing in their victories. I really felt Ireyna's pain at the start of the book and Elaaron is just amazing. I love that man so much but also, he needs to be nicer to Ireyna and sort out his feelings. The other characters like Aeryl and her husband were so wonderful too and I just felt like everyone had a distinctive feel to them which was great.
The plot was so well devised and as I have already said, I need the next book like right now!! The journey of discovery and acceptance, I guess, that Ireyna goes on is so compelling I just want to keep reading it and not stop. I have so many questions that still need answers as well as a lot of plot points I want resolved so I will definitely be tracking down the second book ASAP. The plot was well paced too, I didn't feel like it was lagging at any point or going to fast it felt perfect.
The writing style was delightful. I've already said how amazing the plot and character work was so I won't go into that again. But I will comment on the world building becuase that was just so wonderful. I found the world that Ireyna fell into to be so intricate and again, one that I want to know more about!!!!!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Following Ireyna's journey into the fantasy world that she falls into during this book was so engaging and incredible. I need to get my hands on book 2 becuase that ending was such a cliff hanger and oh boy do I need a lot of questions answered!
The characters in this book were so full of life and personality and I love them with all my heart, genuinely. It was really nice to see their flaws and their suffering as well as triumphing in their victories. I really felt Ireyna's pain at the start of the book and Elaaron is just amazing. I love that man so much but also, he needs to be nicer to Ireyna and sort out his feelings. The other characters like Aeryl and her husband were so wonderful too and I just felt like everyone had a distinctive feel to them which was great.
The plot was so well devised and as I have already said, I need the next book like right now!! The journey of discovery and acceptance, I guess, that Ireyna goes on is so compelling I just want to keep reading it and not stop. I have so many questions that still need answers as well as a lot of plot points I want resolved so I will definitely be tracking down the second book ASAP. The plot was well paced too, I didn't feel like it was lagging at any point or going to fast it felt perfect.
The writing style was delightful. I've already said how amazing the plot and character work was so I won't go into that again. But I will comment on the world building becuase that was just so wonderful. I found the world that Ireyna fell into to be so intricate and again, one that I want to know more about!!!!!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2021
It is a very interesting novel. Very creative idea and an emotional story. I like how the main character has a child who she needs to get back to even though she doesnt know how to get back home since she miraculously transported herself to another world. Her emotions are also conflicted because she learns to care about the people who are from the new world.
The story is full of relatable characters and events. Some parts made me reflect on things in my own life.
Betrayal, love, loneliness...the main character goes through so much and I cant help feeling sorry for her.
It just makes you want to know how the story ends and fills your mind with an endless amount of theories.
I really want to know what happens next.
The story is full of relatable characters and events. Some parts made me reflect on things in my own life.
Betrayal, love, loneliness...the main character goes through so much and I cant help feeling sorry for her.
It just makes you want to know how the story ends and fills your mind with an endless amount of theories.
I really want to know what happens next.
July 3, 2020
In pre-Christmas rush Melbourne, in the midst of a panic attack, Irenya falls through a glass panel into another realm. Treated with suspicion by the inhabitants of Dar Orien, Irenya's only wish is to find her way back to her toddler son and her partner.
What stops her from returning? Why are people afraid of her? How can she ever get back?
Dar Orien is a fantasy world complete with medieval-style clothing, weapons and values. Its magic system was recently disrupted by a vicious invasion that destroyed an important castle of the ruling archprince Elaaron, killing hundreds including Elaaron's wife and one of his children.
Could Irenya be involved in the attacks on Dar Orien?
The juxtaposition of the everyday world with another, with characters moving between them, is an effective storytelling technique that allows the reader to reflect on that intriguing question: what if? Sometimes, as in for example the Outlander Outlander series, the two worlds are separated by time, although they are part of a continuous historical world. In other stories, the slips between worlds occur through the veil of magic (the Daggerspell Deverry series is a good example), by space travel (Dr Who), or as alternate realities separated by momentary choices (like Sliding Doors Sliding Doors).
In Songbird, the alternative universe is delightfully complex, characters have multiple motivations, and Irenya has to deal with her apparent Gift and the distrust of those around her.
Songbird is intelligent fantasy for grown ups - don't look here for sad and tired shortcuts like gratuitous violence, sex or foul language. This book captures and engages you with strong characters and a fascinating plot. I'm waiting eagerly for the next instalment.
A promising series for readers of quality fantasy and paranormal adventures.
What stops her from returning? Why are people afraid of her? How can she ever get back?
Dar Orien is a fantasy world complete with medieval-style clothing, weapons and values. Its magic system was recently disrupted by a vicious invasion that destroyed an important castle of the ruling archprince Elaaron, killing hundreds including Elaaron's wife and one of his children.
Could Irenya be involved in the attacks on Dar Orien?
The juxtaposition of the everyday world with another, with characters moving between them, is an effective storytelling technique that allows the reader to reflect on that intriguing question: what if? Sometimes, as in for example the Outlander Outlander series, the two worlds are separated by time, although they are part of a continuous historical world. In other stories, the slips between worlds occur through the veil of magic (the Daggerspell Deverry series is a good example), by space travel (Dr Who), or as alternate realities separated by momentary choices (like Sliding Doors Sliding Doors).
In Songbird, the alternative universe is delightfully complex, characters have multiple motivations, and Irenya has to deal with her apparent Gift and the distrust of those around her.
Songbird is intelligent fantasy for grown ups - don't look here for sad and tired shortcuts like gratuitous violence, sex or foul language. This book captures and engages you with strong characters and a fascinating plot. I'm waiting eagerly for the next instalment.
A promising series for readers of quality fantasy and paranormal adventures.
October 26, 2020
‘Songbird’ tells the story of Irenya. When she suffers a panic attack, she finds herself in a strange place in another realm.
Irenya is in a turmoil as she finds herself stuck in a world she now finds herself in. She soon finds out her panic attack was her powers which she never knew existed and she had tapped into that brought her over.
There are those in the world she finds herself in who believe she has the potential to do more but not everyone trusts her. Mistaken for someone else from the past, she’s left wondering who the person from the past is, what her powers are and what it means.
Irenya is desperate to get back home to her family but is unable to unlock her powers. But Irenya is unable to figure out how to open up the mirror again which would get her to return home. Despite this, she soon finds herself setting up a new life for herself.
Things take a turn for the worst though when she finds herself in danger after things get worse at Dar Orien and it is not deemed safe anymore. However, she soon finds that she can not return home until she can save Dar Orien from the worst fate possible.
Beautifully described, well-written with some great character development. I love the world that the author has built here which has a Game of Thrones-esque feel and can’t wait to see what happens next in the next part of this trilogy.
Irenya is in a turmoil as she finds herself stuck in a world she now finds herself in. She soon finds out her panic attack was her powers which she never knew existed and she had tapped into that brought her over.
There are those in the world she finds herself in who believe she has the potential to do more but not everyone trusts her. Mistaken for someone else from the past, she’s left wondering who the person from the past is, what her powers are and what it means.
Irenya is desperate to get back home to her family but is unable to unlock her powers. But Irenya is unable to figure out how to open up the mirror again which would get her to return home. Despite this, she soon finds herself setting up a new life for herself.
Things take a turn for the worst though when she finds herself in danger after things get worse at Dar Orien and it is not deemed safe anymore. However, she soon finds that she can not return home until she can save Dar Orien from the worst fate possible.
Beautifully described, well-written with some great character development. I love the world that the author has built here which has a Game of Thrones-esque feel and can’t wait to see what happens next in the next part of this trilogy.
October 5, 2021
So what happens when you fall through a mirror, out the other side and find yourself in the middle ages? Shock would be one word I would use. Irenya O’Neil suffered a panic attack and that's exactly what happened. She was named "Woman Who Travels Through Mirrors" in a realm called Dar Orien. She learnt from this place that she is "Gifted" and to get back home she had to use her gifts, in the meantime while she's trying to figure this out, she has to adjust to a different life altogether.
I loved the world of Dar Orien, where there are Griffin birds, where dry onion skins is used as dye for the colouring of clothes. Oils of almonds were used as perfume along side, lavender. The protagonist in this story is interested in music, so picks up what I would say in our world is a Harp, in Dar Orien it's called a "cirayla" ... something that was mentioned that took me to my childhood days, making daisy chains, also if you like maps, there is one at the beginning to get the feel of this realm. I found facinating a wedding taking place and beautiful description of masks, robes and their colours,and jewellery used.
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I want to thank the publishing company, OdysseyBooks for gifting me this book in exchange for an honest review.
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Giving this a whole hearty 5 star review and recommending this to all Fantasy Fiction lovers. This sure did keep me entertained and nothing was revealed on how the protagonist was going to get back to her normal world, the ending being ... very interesting, hmmmm.
I loved the world of Dar Orien, where there are Griffin birds, where dry onion skins is used as dye for the colouring of clothes. Oils of almonds were used as perfume along side, lavender. The protagonist in this story is interested in music, so picks up what I would say in our world is a Harp, in Dar Orien it's called a "cirayla" ... something that was mentioned that took me to my childhood days, making daisy chains, also if you like maps, there is one at the beginning to get the feel of this realm. I found facinating a wedding taking place and beautiful description of masks, robes and their colours,and jewellery used.
.
I want to thank the publishing company, OdysseyBooks for gifting me this book in exchange for an honest review.
.
Giving this a whole hearty 5 star review and recommending this to all Fantasy Fiction lovers. This sure did keep me entertained and nothing was revealed on how the protagonist was going to get back to her normal world, the ending being ... very interesting, hmmmm.
September 26, 2021
I was kindly sent a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
J. Victoria Michael's debut novel is a light fantasy tale with a light romance and a lightly-developed magic system. It's light in many ways, right down to the limited displays of violence despite its pseudo-medieval setting, and sex scenes that don't linger too much on the fleshy details.
The story is about a young mother, Irenya, who lives in Melbourne Australia and suffers from panic attacks. She suddenly finds herself transported to another realm, one that was recently ravaged by war. She's an unwelcome visitor at first and treated with suspicion, but over time she earns the trust of the nobility among who she lives.
Despite the miracle of the magical world around her, Irenya's overriding desire is to return home to her husband and infant son, but it's a desire that remains unfulfilled as she struggles to find a way back. I found Irenya's persistent need to leave the realm of Dar Orien pretty distracting in the early parts of the book, especially given that we barely meet her family so it's hard to feel too concerned about her separation from them. As the story progressed I looked forward to learning more about the world outside the Imperial estate, but I never get a clear picture of it - partly, I think, because nearly everything is narrated from Irenya's viewpoint and she shows limited curiosity about things other than her own concerns and desires, especially in the early parts of the book.
Ultimately this is probably not the sort of thing that sustains my interest enough to persevere with the subsequent books in the series, but at the same time it's hard to dislike because it doesn't overreach. It doesn't do anything new, but for fans of light fantasy romance keen to support new voices in the genre, I suggest you give it a go.
J. Victoria Michael's debut novel is a light fantasy tale with a light romance and a lightly-developed magic system. It's light in many ways, right down to the limited displays of violence despite its pseudo-medieval setting, and sex scenes that don't linger too much on the fleshy details.
The story is about a young mother, Irenya, who lives in Melbourne Australia and suffers from panic attacks. She suddenly finds herself transported to another realm, one that was recently ravaged by war. She's an unwelcome visitor at first and treated with suspicion, but over time she earns the trust of the nobility among who she lives.
Despite the miracle of the magical world around her, Irenya's overriding desire is to return home to her husband and infant son, but it's a desire that remains unfulfilled as she struggles to find a way back. I found Irenya's persistent need to leave the realm of Dar Orien pretty distracting in the early parts of the book, especially given that we barely meet her family so it's hard to feel too concerned about her separation from them. As the story progressed I looked forward to learning more about the world outside the Imperial estate, but I never get a clear picture of it - partly, I think, because nearly everything is narrated from Irenya's viewpoint and she shows limited curiosity about things other than her own concerns and desires, especially in the early parts of the book.
Ultimately this is probably not the sort of thing that sustains my interest enough to persevere with the subsequent books in the series, but at the same time it's hard to dislike because it doesn't overreach. It doesn't do anything new, but for fans of light fantasy romance keen to support new voices in the genre, I suggest you give it a go.
August 31, 2020
Received an EPub copy from Odyssey Books in exchange for an honest review.
Summary:
Irenya O’Neil, an ordinary woman living in the 20th century, suffers a panic attack when she visits a grocery store late at the night. On the way back to her car, she stumbles down the ramp, cart and all, and finds herself in an unknown place. Turns out that Irenya ended up in a fantasy world, unknowingly using her magic to transport herself through a mirror in the King’s palace. As she struggles to come to terms with what had happened, she is dealing with the hatred and confusion from those around her, while also trying to understand her magic power. The King begins to pressure her to control her magic since he believes that she is the only one who could save his world, Dar Orien. The King declares that Irenya will not be permitted to leave until she helps him save his world. Desperate to make it back to her child and partner, she discovers that music is how she can learn to control her feelings and powers, which possibly could help transport her back through the mirror to her world. Can she save Dar Orien and return to her world? You’ll have to read Songbird to find out.
My Thoughts:
This is a well-written book. The descriptions and prose allow you to picture everything that is happening. Her characters have real emotions, are very likeable, and relatable. You can feel the heartache of the mother separated from her young child, and her desperation to get back to him. You can also feel Irenya’s passion when it came to her music playing. I have often found myself losing track of time while indulging in one of my passions (pouring over a book, or a new piece I was writing), so that is a very relatable moment. It was also nice to read about a character struggling with anxiety. Mental illness is a very important issue that should be talked about, and seen more prevalently, in daily lives.
The only thing is that I didn’t feel like this book was for me. I prefer fast-paced, action-packed Fantasy novels. This book lacked in the action field. We see Irenya living in the palace over the months that she was there, but the book detailed mostly everyday activities. I understand that this approach was necessary since the main character needed time to come to terms with her new life, her new powers, her new daily tasks, but I craved more. Ever since I was young, I dreamed and imagined myself in a fantasy world, and since this book is about that, I think I just had higher expectations.
Altogether, Songbird: Griffingsong Trilogy#1 was a good read; it just wasn’t a perfect fit for my tastes. This book is definitely better suited for those who enjoy romance novels, period pieces, and slice-of-life stories. I would still read the rest of the trilogy as it comes out, just to see how it ends.
3/5 Wyrms.
See my other reviews at: www.avidbookwyrm.com
Summary:
Irenya O’Neil, an ordinary woman living in the 20th century, suffers a panic attack when she visits a grocery store late at the night. On the way back to her car, she stumbles down the ramp, cart and all, and finds herself in an unknown place. Turns out that Irenya ended up in a fantasy world, unknowingly using her magic to transport herself through a mirror in the King’s palace. As she struggles to come to terms with what had happened, she is dealing with the hatred and confusion from those around her, while also trying to understand her magic power. The King begins to pressure her to control her magic since he believes that she is the only one who could save his world, Dar Orien. The King declares that Irenya will not be permitted to leave until she helps him save his world. Desperate to make it back to her child and partner, she discovers that music is how she can learn to control her feelings and powers, which possibly could help transport her back through the mirror to her world. Can she save Dar Orien and return to her world? You’ll have to read Songbird to find out.
My Thoughts:
This is a well-written book. The descriptions and prose allow you to picture everything that is happening. Her characters have real emotions, are very likeable, and relatable. You can feel the heartache of the mother separated from her young child, and her desperation to get back to him. You can also feel Irenya’s passion when it came to her music playing. I have often found myself losing track of time while indulging in one of my passions (pouring over a book, or a new piece I was writing), so that is a very relatable moment. It was also nice to read about a character struggling with anxiety. Mental illness is a very important issue that should be talked about, and seen more prevalently, in daily lives.
The only thing is that I didn’t feel like this book was for me. I prefer fast-paced, action-packed Fantasy novels. This book lacked in the action field. We see Irenya living in the palace over the months that she was there, but the book detailed mostly everyday activities. I understand that this approach was necessary since the main character needed time to come to terms with her new life, her new powers, her new daily tasks, but I craved more. Ever since I was young, I dreamed and imagined myself in a fantasy world, and since this book is about that, I think I just had higher expectations.
Altogether, Songbird: Griffingsong Trilogy#1 was a good read; it just wasn’t a perfect fit for my tastes. This book is definitely better suited for those who enjoy romance novels, period pieces, and slice-of-life stories. I would still read the rest of the trilogy as it comes out, just to see how it ends.
3/5 Wyrms.
See my other reviews at: www.avidbookwyrm.com
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August 31, 2020This was a terrific book for me, especially during the pandemic. It transcends genre. Hints of lots of things, like time travel, possible worlds, classical epics like the Labours of Hercules ... and so on---but with a voice all its own.
I am impatient to get hold of Volume 2 ... because Songbird is the first in a Trilogy and leaves me thirsty for more. I feel like I am in a waiting room, waiting for life to continue when I can finally get my hands locked onto Volume 2. Things are not resolved yet, there is more to find out ...
There is a line in a Bob Dylan song, "I wouldn't worry about it none though, those old dreams are only in your head". In the song, this is heavily ironic (it is placed in the mouth of a psychiatrist). And what on earth is the word "only" doing in that line? Something is "only" of value to us when we do get it into our heads. What is in someone's head is more interesting, not less interesting, than what they have in their pocket. What is in one person's head is both similar and different from what is in another person's head --- and what is in anyone's head is built almost entirely from what they have contracted (like a virus) from the contents of other people's heads.
And Songbird has certainly enriched what is in my head.
Dante's Divine Comedy begins with the author saying that in the middle of life's journey he found himself lost in a dark forest where he met a leopard and ... off we go from there into "another world". So the Divine Comedy is "only" an objectification of a man's midlife crisis. Songbird is a voyage of internal discovery---not for a middle aged man but for a young woman --- a woman who is separated from a very young child. This is a story-line that is close to the heart of anyone with an imagination. A story for any time; but especially for this time.
I am impatient to get hold of Volume 2 ... because Songbird is the first in a Trilogy and leaves me thirsty for more. I feel like I am in a waiting room, waiting for life to continue when I can finally get my hands locked onto Volume 2. Things are not resolved yet, there is more to find out ...
There is a line in a Bob Dylan song, "I wouldn't worry about it none though, those old dreams are only in your head". In the song, this is heavily ironic (it is placed in the mouth of a psychiatrist). And what on earth is the word "only" doing in that line? Something is "only" of value to us when we do get it into our heads. What is in someone's head is more interesting, not less interesting, than what they have in their pocket. What is in one person's head is both similar and different from what is in another person's head --- and what is in anyone's head is built almost entirely from what they have contracted (like a virus) from the contents of other people's heads.
And Songbird has certainly enriched what is in my head.
Dante's Divine Comedy begins with the author saying that in the middle of life's journey he found himself lost in a dark forest where he met a leopard and ... off we go from there into "another world". So the Divine Comedy is "only" an objectification of a man's midlife crisis. Songbird is a voyage of internal discovery---not for a middle aged man but for a young woman --- a woman who is separated from a very young child. This is a story-line that is close to the heart of anyone with an imagination. A story for any time; but especially for this time.
January 29, 2021
I got this book as a digital copy in ePub format by the publisher Odyssey Books in return for an honest review. All thoughts are my own!
I really enjoyed this book, took awhile to read cause I'm not really into e-books but this was well worth the try.
Irinya is an interesting woman to follow and this story hooked me with the very first page and I will look for the rest of this trilogy as it comes out. I think the author made an excellent job to capture the audience and really show her own love for music in this book, cause music seems to be in the center of this story and I for one enjoyed it immensely.
At parts I found it lagging a bit in the pacing but then it picked back up. Therefore it gets 4 stars. I really enjoyed this and wish the rest was out already so I get to know what happens with Irinya and her family and friends.
If you enjoy fantasy with some mystery and musical elements this is a story for you!!
I really enjoyed this book, took awhile to read cause I'm not really into e-books but this was well worth the try.
Irinya is an interesting woman to follow and this story hooked me with the very first page and I will look for the rest of this trilogy as it comes out. I think the author made an excellent job to capture the audience and really show her own love for music in this book, cause music seems to be in the center of this story and I for one enjoyed it immensely.
At parts I found it lagging a bit in the pacing but then it picked back up. Therefore it gets 4 stars. I really enjoyed this and wish the rest was out already so I get to know what happens with Irinya and her family and friends.
If you enjoy fantasy with some mystery and musical elements this is a story for you!!
March 2, 2022
Thank you Odyssey Books for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
This was an interesting read! Songbird follows Irenya O'Neil, who while on a shopping run suffers a panic attack and ends up in a completely different realm. This realm, named Dar Orien, is nothing like the modern world she comes from. A place mixed with magic, the realm and it's inhabitants suffer from past destruction wrought by invaders. The people of Dar Orien initially view Irenya with distrust and fear but come to see that she has a Gift and may be what their realm needs to survive. Irenya spends much of the novel trying to find a way to return home to her world but more importantly to the baby son she unintentionally left behind.
I enjoyed reading this story and following Irenya on her journey. I did find Irenya at times to be annoying as there were moments when she seemed a bit rude to the people of Dar Orien. However, I would then remember that she's essentially been ripped from the only world she's known and thrust into a completely different one. She suffered from increasing anxiety in her modern world and this new experience has her questioning her sanity. When I reminded myself of that I was better able to understand her actions and I was able to appreciate that it wasn't one of those works where the heroine is instantly okay with her new surroundings.
This is a well-written story and I really enjoyed the world-building of Dar Orien with the slight bit of romance added into the plot. I will definitely read the next book to see how Irenya's story continues!
My Overall Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
This was an interesting read! Songbird follows Irenya O'Neil, who while on a shopping run suffers a panic attack and ends up in a completely different realm. This realm, named Dar Orien, is nothing like the modern world she comes from. A place mixed with magic, the realm and it's inhabitants suffer from past destruction wrought by invaders. The people of Dar Orien initially view Irenya with distrust and fear but come to see that she has a Gift and may be what their realm needs to survive. Irenya spends much of the novel trying to find a way to return home to her world but more importantly to the baby son she unintentionally left behind.
I enjoyed reading this story and following Irenya on her journey. I did find Irenya at times to be annoying as there were moments when she seemed a bit rude to the people of Dar Orien. However, I would then remember that she's essentially been ripped from the only world she's known and thrust into a completely different one. She suffered from increasing anxiety in her modern world and this new experience has her questioning her sanity. When I reminded myself of that I was better able to understand her actions and I was able to appreciate that it wasn't one of those works where the heroine is instantly okay with her new surroundings.
This is a well-written story and I really enjoyed the world-building of Dar Orien with the slight bit of romance added into the plot. I will definitely read the next book to see how Irenya's story continues!
My Overall Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
November 14, 2022
Songbird is a very creative fantasy novel that follows the main character Irenya, as she has a panic attack and falls through a mirror into the realm of Dar Orien.
Doesn't everyone at one time or another fantasize about being in a different time and place?
However, what about the life you were forced from, and the people back home who you love? You want to get back to them, but the longer you are forced to stay the more you care about the new place and people...especially if you think you may never be able to get home.
This novel deals with a modern woman who after being thrust into an unknown world full of civil unrest discovers her gift of power. She then has to learn to control her power while navigating through this new and complex world all while trying to get back home.
Although a bit slow at times I really enjoyed this intriguing story and the interesting characters in this well written book.
I look forward to continuing the story in the next book!
Doesn't everyone at one time or another fantasize about being in a different time and place?
However, what about the life you were forced from, and the people back home who you love? You want to get back to them, but the longer you are forced to stay the more you care about the new place and people...especially if you think you may never be able to get home.
This novel deals with a modern woman who after being thrust into an unknown world full of civil unrest discovers her gift of power. She then has to learn to control her power while navigating through this new and complex world all while trying to get back home.
Although a bit slow at times I really enjoyed this intriguing story and the interesting characters in this well written book.
I look forward to continuing the story in the next book!
November 14, 2020
Great storyline though I found it a little slow to begin with, however once I became more intrigued by the timeline and how Elaaron and Irenya were getting along I couldn't wait to find out what happened next. Looking forward to the next one.
October 15, 2021
It’s been a while since I was able to sit down and actually start reading again. And I guess Odyssey Books must have sensed the moment was right because they sent me this book at the perfect time.
In the midst of a late grocery run on Christmas Eve, Irenya O’Neil suffers a panic attack and tumbles through a mirror, somehow transporting herself into the realm of Dar Orien: a foreign, fantastical land, ravaged by war, and filled with strange magic. There, Irenya discovers that she possesses a magical Gift of power, and the people start to believe that she is the one destined to save them.
But she couldn’t care less about this strange new land or her new abilities; her only concern is returning home to her infant son. As she is pulled deeper into the unrest in Dar Orien, Irenya attempts to control her Gift through her love of music, desperate to find her way home.
To start with, the book is very well written, with the strongest parts being focused on Irenya’s love of music and the use of song throughout. The author’s style is emotional and engaging and there’s a soft, lyrical quality to the prose that made it very lovely to read. You can feel how Irenya gets swept up in her passion, and there were moments when I could almost hear the melodies in my head.
Additionally, while the world-building isn’t as in-depth as I usually prefer, there’s still enough detail given to the reader to create a solid impression with a few interesting quirks and ideas sprinkled throughout the magical world. The people of Dar Orien are the best part of this world, providing history and humanity to the setting without dumping information all over the reader.
Unfortunately, while the writing can be beautiful, the slow pace of the plot just didn’t appeal to me. Particularly in the beginning, there was a lot focus on day-to-day tasks and events in Dar Orien, but very little towards advancing the story. I also found myself struggling to relate to Irenya. From the start, we know very little about her; the very first chapter transports her to the magical world without first establishing who Irenya is, or any connection to the family she is trying so hard to return to. The flashes back to the normal world help, but it’s difficult to relate to see her grow as a character without those elements.
With that said, as someone who also suffers from a mental illness, it was nice to read about a protagonist who faces these same sort of challenges. The author’s portrayal, particularly of Irenya’s panic attacks, were very relatable and empathetic, and bring to light an important issue that deserves more recognition and understanding. I hope to see more of this type of main character in stories more often.
While Songbird didn’t end up being a favourite for me, it’s still a well written book with some beautiful prose, and fans of the more slice-of-life style of plot with a little romance on the side will likely find this book to be a sweet, enjoyable read. And with a sequel already out, there’s no better time to check it out.
In the midst of a late grocery run on Christmas Eve, Irenya O’Neil suffers a panic attack and tumbles through a mirror, somehow transporting herself into the realm of Dar Orien: a foreign, fantastical land, ravaged by war, and filled with strange magic. There, Irenya discovers that she possesses a magical Gift of power, and the people start to believe that she is the one destined to save them.
But she couldn’t care less about this strange new land or her new abilities; her only concern is returning home to her infant son. As she is pulled deeper into the unrest in Dar Orien, Irenya attempts to control her Gift through her love of music, desperate to find her way home.
To start with, the book is very well written, with the strongest parts being focused on Irenya’s love of music and the use of song throughout. The author’s style is emotional and engaging and there’s a soft, lyrical quality to the prose that made it very lovely to read. You can feel how Irenya gets swept up in her passion, and there were moments when I could almost hear the melodies in my head.
Additionally, while the world-building isn’t as in-depth as I usually prefer, there’s still enough detail given to the reader to create a solid impression with a few interesting quirks and ideas sprinkled throughout the magical world. The people of Dar Orien are the best part of this world, providing history and humanity to the setting without dumping information all over the reader.
Unfortunately, while the writing can be beautiful, the slow pace of the plot just didn’t appeal to me. Particularly in the beginning, there was a lot focus on day-to-day tasks and events in Dar Orien, but very little towards advancing the story. I also found myself struggling to relate to Irenya. From the start, we know very little about her; the very first chapter transports her to the magical world without first establishing who Irenya is, or any connection to the family she is trying so hard to return to. The flashes back to the normal world help, but it’s difficult to relate to see her grow as a character without those elements.
With that said, as someone who also suffers from a mental illness, it was nice to read about a protagonist who faces these same sort of challenges. The author’s portrayal, particularly of Irenya’s panic attacks, were very relatable and empathetic, and bring to light an important issue that deserves more recognition and understanding. I hope to see more of this type of main character in stories more often.
While Songbird didn’t end up being a favourite for me, it’s still a well written book with some beautiful prose, and fans of the more slice-of-life style of plot with a little romance on the side will likely find this book to be a sweet, enjoyable read. And with a sequel already out, there’s no better time to check it out.
February 27, 2022
The main character, Irenya, is wrestling with a lot of separation anxiety throughout the story. Without knowing how, she brings herself in a strange world, where she is lead to believe she will, on her own accord or by compulsion, play an important role in the power struggle of the world’s rulers.
What her role actually is supposed to be is unclear, no named characters mention it because none of them actually know it either. They do speculate, based on circumstantial evidence, but the reader isn’t really told most of it. Even when on-page speculation occurs, it’s like when you’re a kid listening in on what the grown-ups are saying, you do not have the necessary knowledge pool or insight to really figure out what they mean. And, often, the book itself doesn’t seem to care. Most of the focus is spent on Irenya making herself comfortable, and how much she misses her infant son. While it is mentioned she has some magical ability, another problem I’ll dive into soon enough, it takes her months in-story to actually start developing it, and by then a sizable chunk of the story has already passed, and it takes an equally long time for the dimensions of the power struggle the world is embroiled in to be revealed. I will credit Irenya for, eventually, figuring out that she needs to play a more active role in the world and in the development of her position and abilities, but by then it comes across as too little, too late.
This book has a major case of what I will call Twilight Syndrome, where the main character(s) being bland harms every other aspect of an otherwise quite interesting story. While the perspectives of other characters besides Irenya are occasionally employed, they do not come up often enough to expand the reader’s comprehension of the world in meaningful ways. You could argue Irenya is going through some mental health issues, given what’s happening to her within the story, but the text doesn't really mention her wrestling with her conscience in a way that would showcase something like that. Also, her anxiety is hinted as being tied into her magical ability, which is, in and of itself, a problematic trope to say the least.
Are there any positives to this character? Yes, there actually are. She is quite adept at mending and assessing relationships, which does allow her to make connections at the archprince’s court, and her interest in and knowledge of music is explored and presented in a very natural and believable way. As for other aspects of the story, I found them very interesting. The political organisation of Dar Orien is unique within fantasy, and the magic system of the story holds a lot of promise as pertains to developments and narrative use. Unfortunately, it will all have to be explored in the later novels, which do not interest me right now.
Overall, while I am not fond of the main perspective this book uses, it still has plenty of other aspects that keep and hold my attention.
What her role actually is supposed to be is unclear, no named characters mention it because none of them actually know it either. They do speculate, based on circumstantial evidence, but the reader isn’t really told most of it. Even when on-page speculation occurs, it’s like when you’re a kid listening in on what the grown-ups are saying, you do not have the necessary knowledge pool or insight to really figure out what they mean. And, often, the book itself doesn’t seem to care. Most of the focus is spent on Irenya making herself comfortable, and how much she misses her infant son. While it is mentioned she has some magical ability, another problem I’ll dive into soon enough, it takes her months in-story to actually start developing it, and by then a sizable chunk of the story has already passed, and it takes an equally long time for the dimensions of the power struggle the world is embroiled in to be revealed. I will credit Irenya for, eventually, figuring out that she needs to play a more active role in the world and in the development of her position and abilities, but by then it comes across as too little, too late.
This book has a major case of what I will call Twilight Syndrome, where the main character(s) being bland harms every other aspect of an otherwise quite interesting story. While the perspectives of other characters besides Irenya are occasionally employed, they do not come up often enough to expand the reader’s comprehension of the world in meaningful ways. You could argue Irenya is going through some mental health issues, given what’s happening to her within the story, but the text doesn't really mention her wrestling with her conscience in a way that would showcase something like that. Also, her anxiety is hinted as being tied into her magical ability, which is, in and of itself, a problematic trope to say the least.
Are there any positives to this character? Yes, there actually are. She is quite adept at mending and assessing relationships, which does allow her to make connections at the archprince’s court, and her interest in and knowledge of music is explored and presented in a very natural and believable way. As for other aspects of the story, I found them very interesting. The political organisation of Dar Orien is unique within fantasy, and the magic system of the story holds a lot of promise as pertains to developments and narrative use. Unfortunately, it will all have to be explored in the later novels, which do not interest me right now.
Overall, while I am not fond of the main perspective this book uses, it still has plenty of other aspects that keep and hold my attention.
February 9, 2021
I was asked to read the book in exchange for an honest review on here and/or Amazon.
Overall, this is a well-written book besides the grammar mistakes, but that's the editor in me being picky. The most thought-out character might be Aeryl; her story was interesting. The imagery throughout is cool. The dialogue felt real. I'm glad it got a fantasy map as well. The plot itself is interesting, and I do wish I knew more about what's going on.
But I also didn't connect with the main character well. I'm someone who enjoys action, but it felt like Irenya doesn't do much. She kind of takes a step forward and two steps back.
This book is more of a romance book with a side-line plot than a fantasy one. So, if you're looking for a fantasy story, I wouldn't recommend it. But if you're looking for a romance book set in an old time-period, I'd recommend it.
I find romance books boring, so it's not the book for me.
************************************spoilers:************************************
To expand on Irenya:
It takes the whole book for her to realize obvious signs like the fact she shouldn't trust the guy she cheated on her partner with. (She cares about her son, Mikey, but does she even care for David much?) Despite finding them talking behind her back and refusing to say certain things, she doesn't seem to grasp the part where they don't trust her much. She thinks some weird things as well. Like I felt uncomfortable when she was thinking:
"But a man who spoke nicely wouldn’t hurt her. She took a step forward."
"She backed away, tried to kick him, but he came after her into the alcove. They circled, intimate as lovers. He was a man. She would spread her thighs, let him take her, spill his seed as long as he did not spill her blood. Fucking her was all he wanted, surely. She wasn’t a princess. She had no value. She wasn’t worth killing."
She needs to realize her self-worth as a character and that anyone will kill you if they're a murderer anyway. Also, was she willing to be raped instead of killed? That feels backward.
Overall, this is a well-written book besides the grammar mistakes, but that's the editor in me being picky. The most thought-out character might be Aeryl; her story was interesting. The imagery throughout is cool. The dialogue felt real. I'm glad it got a fantasy map as well. The plot itself is interesting, and I do wish I knew more about what's going on.
But I also didn't connect with the main character well. I'm someone who enjoys action, but it felt like Irenya doesn't do much. She kind of takes a step forward and two steps back.
This book is more of a romance book with a side-line plot than a fantasy one. So, if you're looking for a fantasy story, I wouldn't recommend it. But if you're looking for a romance book set in an old time-period, I'd recommend it.
I find romance books boring, so it's not the book for me.
************************************spoilers:************************************
To expand on Irenya:
It takes the whole book for her to realize obvious signs like the fact she shouldn't trust the guy she cheated on her partner with. (She cares about her son, Mikey, but does she even care for David much?) Despite finding them talking behind her back and refusing to say certain things, she doesn't seem to grasp the part where they don't trust her much. She thinks some weird things as well. Like I felt uncomfortable when she was thinking:
"But a man who spoke nicely wouldn’t hurt her. She took a step forward."
"She backed away, tried to kick him, but he came after her into the alcove. They circled, intimate as lovers. He was a man. She would spread her thighs, let him take her, spill his seed as long as he did not spill her blood. Fucking her was all he wanted, surely. She wasn’t a princess. She had no value. She wasn’t worth killing."
She needs to realize her self-worth as a character and that anyone will kill you if they're a murderer anyway. Also, was she willing to be raped instead of killed? That feels backward.
November 7, 2022
CW: mental illness, violence, on-page sex, infidelity
Irenya is a refreshing protagonist. She's a mother, for one. She also battles with a history of mental illness in the family — though is it, really? — and most of all, it takes her quite a long time to grasp and believe that she's been transported to another world. I've read other portal fantasy stories and most heroes accept their new lives rather quickly. Irenya doesn't. She cycles between denial and bewilderment and anger and fear and emotional breakdowns so many times, even to the point of exasperation. But I suppose I would be the same if I'm separated from an infant son and I'm not the type who reads, thinks and breathes fiction. Her inability, and later fear, to wrap her mind around that makes for a very human contrast to her apparent Gift: bringing grandiose visions to life and coaxing emotions from other people through song.
But, yes, she can try your patience. As might the lack of answers. Dar Orien is a rich, fascinating world, yet the book closes with more questions than answers. How did Irenya get there? Why does she have a doppelganger in Tire? Is it even a doppelganger or is it another version of herself, you know, multiverse and all? What does the griffin want with her, if she's not the new MageGate? And what's the deal with the Mikey that's in Dar Orien?
It's been a fun read, and I can't wait to get my hands on the sequels!
RECOMMENDED LISTENING: Into the Unknown by AURORA
Irenya is a refreshing protagonist. She's a mother, for one. She also battles with a history of mental illness in the family — though is it, really? — and most of all, it takes her quite a long time to grasp and believe that she's been transported to another world. I've read other portal fantasy stories and most heroes accept their new lives rather quickly. Irenya doesn't. She cycles between denial and bewilderment and anger and fear and emotional breakdowns so many times, even to the point of exasperation. But I suppose I would be the same if I'm separated from an infant son and I'm not the type who reads, thinks and breathes fiction. Her inability, and later fear, to wrap her mind around that makes for a very human contrast to her apparent Gift: bringing grandiose visions to life and coaxing emotions from other people through song.
But, yes, she can try your patience. As might the lack of answers. Dar Orien is a rich, fascinating world, yet the book closes with more questions than answers. How did Irenya get there? Why does she have a doppelganger in Tire? Is it even a doppelganger or is it another version of herself, you know, multiverse and all? What does the griffin want with her, if she's not the new MageGate? And what's the deal with the Mikey that's in Dar Orien?
It's been a fun read, and I can't wait to get my hands on the sequels!
RECOMMENDED LISTENING: Into the Unknown by AURORA
June 14, 2022
Songbird is the first book in the GriffinSong Trilogy. It has an interesting plot and a good story building for what is to come. I enjoyed the book and am interested to find out what happens next.
Irenya lives in Australia with her boyfriend and their infant son Mikey. One night while out to do some quick grocery shopping she somehow finds herself transported to a different realm. At first she has no idea what is going on or how she got to Dar Orien. Everyone there is very suspicious of her and thinks that she is there to somehow cause trouble. The people seem to think that she is "gifted". It takes some time but then most of the people there start to become more friendly towards Irenya. Some even become good friends of hers. I found myself questioning if the relationships were real or if there were other intentions to find out the real truth about Irenya.
The first half of the book seemed to be focused on Irenya finding a way back home through the mirror that she somehow came through. There are lots of things going on throughout and the second half of the book was more action filled, exciting and interesting. By the end I was invested in the characters and want to find out what is next for Irenya. I was provided an e-book copy in exchange for an honest review.
Irenya lives in Australia with her boyfriend and their infant son Mikey. One night while out to do some quick grocery shopping she somehow finds herself transported to a different realm. At first she has no idea what is going on or how she got to Dar Orien. Everyone there is very suspicious of her and thinks that she is there to somehow cause trouble. The people seem to think that she is "gifted". It takes some time but then most of the people there start to become more friendly towards Irenya. Some even become good friends of hers. I found myself questioning if the relationships were real or if there were other intentions to find out the real truth about Irenya.
The first half of the book seemed to be focused on Irenya finding a way back home through the mirror that she somehow came through. There are lots of things going on throughout and the second half of the book was more action filled, exciting and interesting. By the end I was invested in the characters and want to find out what is next for Irenya. I was provided an e-book copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 15, 2022
To be honest, this was my second attempt to read Songbird. With the release of the third book in the Griffinsong trilogy getting closer, I thought I'd give the book another chance - I'm glad I did!
I would definitely classify this book as a slow burn plotline...it takes a good portion of the book to really get moving. I think this is where I got caught up during my first read. However, the storyline eventually picks up and really grabs your attention.
Songbird is a very unique story, with music playing a large role. Music lovers will definitely enjoy the detailed accounts of our main character, Irenya, as she sings for crowds and learns new instruments, as well as the power her musical abilities seems to possess.
Michael's writing is very beautiful and flowy, but at times it can almost be too lyrical. Some scenes better bogged down with too much detail, which can distract from the plot.
I do think this first installment in the series takes its time to introduce the world and characters, while leaving enough of a mystery to bring the reader back for more in the second. I'll be very interested to see where Irenya's story goes in book 2.
I would definitely classify this book as a slow burn plotline...it takes a good portion of the book to really get moving. I think this is where I got caught up during my first read. However, the storyline eventually picks up and really grabs your attention.
Songbird is a very unique story, with music playing a large role. Music lovers will definitely enjoy the detailed accounts of our main character, Irenya, as she sings for crowds and learns new instruments, as well as the power her musical abilities seems to possess.
Michael's writing is very beautiful and flowy, but at times it can almost be too lyrical. Some scenes better bogged down with too much detail, which can distract from the plot.
I do think this first installment in the series takes its time to introduce the world and characters, while leaving enough of a mystery to bring the reader back for more in the second. I'll be very interested to see where Irenya's story goes in book 2.
May 20, 2021
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from LibraryThing in return for an honest review.
After a late night visit to a Melbourne supermarket, Irenya O’Neil falls through a glass panel into different world while suffering a panic attack. Dar Orien is medieval-style society full of magic and civil unrest. The inhabitants of Dar Orien are suspicious of Irenya and her arrival. All Irenya wants to do is to find only wish is to find her way home to her son Mikey. But after discovering Irenya possesses a magic of her own things only get more complicated for her.
This story is well written however I found the characters to be flat and the story to drag. Not much happened till the last couple of chapters of the book. I found the world of Dar Orien to be very intriguing but this book was not for me.
After a late night visit to a Melbourne supermarket, Irenya O’Neil falls through a glass panel into different world while suffering a panic attack. Dar Orien is medieval-style society full of magic and civil unrest. The inhabitants of Dar Orien are suspicious of Irenya and her arrival. All Irenya wants to do is to find only wish is to find her way home to her son Mikey. But after discovering Irenya possesses a magic of her own things only get more complicated for her.
This story is well written however I found the characters to be flat and the story to drag. Not much happened till the last couple of chapters of the book. I found the world of Dar Orien to be very intriguing but this book was not for me.
October 21, 2021
This world is alive!
From the loveable (and some not-so-loveable) characters to the incredible and magical land of Dar Orien, this book had me deep in its grips. I loved following Irenya on her journey—from her struggle to deal with being away from her child and husband, to her struggle with her newfound powers, and beyond. Michael built the tension masterfully. I found myself picking up this book each night, no matter how tired I was—I wanted to get lost in the realm of Dar Orien again.
Excellent character development and tension drive this novel and give it a lasting impact. If you're a fantasy fan, check this one out. You won't regret it.
Thank you to Odyssey Books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
From the loveable (and some not-so-loveable) characters to the incredible and magical land of Dar Orien, this book had me deep in its grips. I loved following Irenya on her journey—from her struggle to deal with being away from her child and husband, to her struggle with her newfound powers, and beyond. Michael built the tension masterfully. I found myself picking up this book each night, no matter how tired I was—I wanted to get lost in the realm of Dar Orien again.
Excellent character development and tension drive this novel and give it a lasting impact. If you're a fantasy fan, check this one out. You won't regret it.
Thank you to Odyssey Books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2020
I love high fantasies where you have your modern-day hero/heroine whisked into a different world. Something about it resonates with me, and I was excited to pick up
Songbird
for the adventure I knew it would take me on.
On a technical standpoint, J Victoria Michael is an engaging writer. Our main character Irenya is very well-imagined and I sympathized with her really well, as someone who would probably react to everything similarly as her (hint: anxiously!). However, the story never took it any further for me than that. Dar Orien never really came completely to life for me, and neither did any of the supporting characters. I struggled with the pacing; I felt like I constantly had to switch mindsets in order to keep up. It's probably owed to the short length of the novel- wherein I'm more used to letting a more ambitious world unfold over many more pages.
On the surface, Songbird is a good read to pass the time; although it never really gets there for me. This is, however, J Victoria Michael's debut novel, and I can see that she could definitely improve given more books. I'd follow the rest of what this author writes in the future.
Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of this book free from the publisher.
On a technical standpoint, J Victoria Michael is an engaging writer. Our main character Irenya is very well-imagined and I sympathized with her really well, as someone who would probably react to everything similarly as her (hint: anxiously!). However, the story never took it any further for me than that. Dar Orien never really came completely to life for me, and neither did any of the supporting characters. I struggled with the pacing; I felt like I constantly had to switch mindsets in order to keep up. It's probably owed to the short length of the novel- wherein I'm more used to letting a more ambitious world unfold over many more pages.
On the surface, Songbird is a good read to pass the time; although it never really gets there for me. This is, however, J Victoria Michael's debut novel, and I can see that she could definitely improve given more books. I'd follow the rest of what this author writes in the future.
Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of this book free from the publisher.
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