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The Falcon's Heart
Saba is the daughter of an ambitious provincial king. She knows little beyond the constraints of palace life, until one night, a notorious woman outlaw steals her away.
Through her journey, Saba discovers joy and freedom beyond anything she has known. But her fate remains uncertain. The king is in pursuit, aided by a sorcerer who seeks to claim Saba as his own.
Can a princess and an outlaw find love together, or will malign magic destroy all they have gained?
54,000 words
Through her journey, Saba discovers joy and freedom beyond anything she has known. But her fate remains uncertain. The king is in pursuit, aided by a sorcerer who seeks to claim Saba as his own.
Can a princess and an outlaw find love together, or will malign magic destroy all they have gained?
54,000 words
203 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 22, 2020
37 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
Diana Green
8 books306 followersWith the close of 2023 I'm retiring from writing to focus on my health and family. I have thoroughly enjoyed the wonderful people encountered during my years as an author, and I will always appreciate the magic of a good story.
HOW I RATE BOOKS
5 STARS-This book is utterly brilliant. I loved it!
4 STARS-This book is better than most. I really enjoyed it and only noticed minor flaws.
3 STARS-This book is fairly good. I liked some aspects, while others didn't work for me.
If a book falls lower than 3 stars, I probably won't finish or shelve it. I'm picky and only want to remember the better ones. My ratings definitely don't reflect the objective merit of books but rather my subjective experience reading them.
HOW I RATE BOOKS
5 STARS-This book is utterly brilliant. I loved it!
4 STARS-This book is better than most. I really enjoyed it and only noticed minor flaws.
3 STARS-This book is fairly good. I liked some aspects, while others didn't work for me.
If a book falls lower than 3 stars, I probably won't finish or shelve it. I'm picky and only want to remember the better ones. My ratings definitely don't reflect the objective merit of books but rather my subjective experience reading them.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 1, 2020
3.75 Stars. This was an enjoyable fantasy novel. I have wanted to read a book by Green for a while so I was excited to hear she released her first WLW story. I knew with our similar love for spec-fic that there was a good chance I was going to enjoy this read and I’m happy to say that I did.
This is a fantasy story. There are outlaws, a princess and magic, but this isn’t heavy fantasy. While this story appealed to me as a fantasy fan, I think this story will work for readers that are newer to the genre too. The setting is great and you feel like you are there, but there is no heavy info-dumping, when it comes the world building, so the book reads well. It never gets bogged down in the weeds and instead moves along at a nice fast pace.
The character of Saba really steals the show. While I like the “Falcon”, her character doesn’t get to shine as much. Saba has such growth that the story really is about her. This is about Saba breaking her bonds and becoming the person she was always meant to be. The romance between the two is very sweet. I do wish that the characters had more time alone together. I’m a slow burn fan so I like a longer time for the chemistry to develop but that is just a personal preference.
This was an entertaining fantasy story that I enjoyed reading. The price is only 2.99 US right now which in my mind makes this a steal. Also, we get a little tease at the end that Green’s next book is a WLW paranormal. My interest is definitely peaked and I’m looking forward to reading more by Green.
A copy was given to me for a honest review.
This is a fantasy story. There are outlaws, a princess and magic, but this isn’t heavy fantasy. While this story appealed to me as a fantasy fan, I think this story will work for readers that are newer to the genre too. The setting is great and you feel like you are there, but there is no heavy info-dumping, when it comes the world building, so the book reads well. It never gets bogged down in the weeds and instead moves along at a nice fast pace.
The character of Saba really steals the show. While I like the “Falcon”, her character doesn’t get to shine as much. Saba has such growth that the story really is about her. This is about Saba breaking her bonds and becoming the person she was always meant to be. The romance between the two is very sweet. I do wish that the characters had more time alone together. I’m a slow burn fan so I like a longer time for the chemistry to develop but that is just a personal preference.
This was an entertaining fantasy story that I enjoyed reading. The price is only 2.99 US right now which in my mind makes this a steal. Also, we get a little tease at the end that Green’s next book is a WLW paranormal. My interest is definitely peaked and I’m looking forward to reading more by Green.
A copy was given to me for a honest review.
August 14, 2020
3.5* – An enjoyable read.
After the merciless and power-hungry local pasha Asab Kah Akbah had her father killed, Jehan had to fend for herself and became the Falcon, a good-hearted outlaw. So when her cousin, the only family she has left, is emprisoned in the pasha’s jail, she has to try everything to free him. Including taking the pasha’s daughter hostage. Saba hates her life in the palace, especially since the only person (other than her uncle) who ever cared for her was taken away for using her magic. Being kidnapped is not how she envisioned gaining her freedom, but it gives her the opportunity to discover what life can be.
The author did a good job at setting the world in which the story takes place but it’s got a déjà vu feel – think One Thousand and One Nights. It is however very suited to a fantasy story where a princess and an outlaw encounter magic and scary creatures.
I enjoyed accompanying Saba on her journey and watching her come into her powers and discovering herself. The chemistry between her and Jehan is convincing, and their relationship is what I liked best. The writing is really good too. I don’t know why exactly but I never felt really invested in the story. I enjoyed the ride, though.
ARC provided to Les Rêveur for an honest review.
After the merciless and power-hungry local pasha Asab Kah Akbah had her father killed, Jehan had to fend for herself and became the Falcon, a good-hearted outlaw. So when her cousin, the only family she has left, is emprisoned in the pasha’s jail, she has to try everything to free him. Including taking the pasha’s daughter hostage. Saba hates her life in the palace, especially since the only person (other than her uncle) who ever cared for her was taken away for using her magic. Being kidnapped is not how she envisioned gaining her freedom, but it gives her the opportunity to discover what life can be.
The author did a good job at setting the world in which the story takes place but it’s got a déjà vu feel – think One Thousand and One Nights. It is however very suited to a fantasy story where a princess and an outlaw encounter magic and scary creatures.
I enjoyed accompanying Saba on her journey and watching her come into her powers and discovering herself. The chemistry between her and Jehan is convincing, and their relationship is what I liked best. The writing is really good too. I don’t know why exactly but I never felt really invested in the story. I enjoyed the ride, though.
ARC provided to Les Rêveur for an honest review.
September 12, 2021
A unique romance set in a special new world, with lots of adventure, and magic too!
The MC love interests are both brave and true finding a lot of similarities in eachother and their circumstances despite outwardly being so different.
The 'bandit' Jehan also called The Falcon is a Robina Hood of sorts, who kidnaps the Princess Amira Saba, hoping to trade her for the release of a prisoner of her merry band.
However plans do not go according, when the princesses father is only concerned with power and corruption, allowing a sorcerer to lay claim to his daughter.
Many adventures, characters and tales are woven in this rich story and I truly hope we haven't seen the end of this world and the people therein.
I would love a series of books, especially if it features side characters we have come to know. Such as Malib and Bennu, perhaps telling of their backstory. I definitely want to know more of them!
Also the prince and princess of another neighbouring kingdom featured, whose backstory would also be interesting to discover.
I highly recommend this read!
The MC love interests are both brave and true finding a lot of similarities in eachother and their circumstances despite outwardly being so different.
The 'bandit' Jehan also called The Falcon is a Robina Hood of sorts, who kidnaps the Princess Amira Saba, hoping to trade her for the release of a prisoner of her merry band.
However plans do not go according, when the princesses father is only concerned with power and corruption, allowing a sorcerer to lay claim to his daughter.
Many adventures, characters and tales are woven in this rich story and I truly hope we haven't seen the end of this world and the people therein.
I would love a series of books, especially if it features side characters we have come to know. Such as Malib and Bennu, perhaps telling of their backstory. I definitely want to know more of them!
Also the prince and princess of another neighbouring kingdom featured, whose backstory would also be interesting to discover.
I highly recommend this read!
June 28, 2020
4 Stars - Solid well written fantasy adventure +lady romance.
You had me a lady outlaw and princess, seriously.
Jehan "The Falcon" is the bandit leader. Her father unjustly killed by the Pasha, left Jehan to fend for herself any way she could, leading her to a life of crime. She rules her band with fairness and only steals from those who can afford it, redistributing the booty to the less fortunate. We stan.
Amira Saba is the first born daughter of said Pasah and has lived a life of leisure but mental hardship and has learned to keep her head down and be quiet. She has grown up thinking her whole life worth is in being an object her father can barter to a husband to grow his own power and influence.
There is an evil sorcerer, magic, goddesses, romance and poetic justice. I loved it all.
The story ends with a tidy epilogue, but I really hope Diana Green revisits our heroes and this world she has built. There are a lot more stories to tell here and I want to read them.
You had me a lady outlaw and princess, seriously.
Jehan "The Falcon" is the bandit leader. Her father unjustly killed by the Pasha, left Jehan to fend for herself any way she could, leading her to a life of crime. She rules her band with fairness and only steals from those who can afford it, redistributing the booty to the less fortunate. We stan.
Amira Saba is the first born daughter of said Pasah and has lived a life of leisure but mental hardship and has learned to keep her head down and be quiet. She has grown up thinking her whole life worth is in being an object her father can barter to a husband to grow his own power and influence.
There is an evil sorcerer, magic, goddesses, romance and poetic justice. I loved it all.
The story ends with a tidy epilogue, but I really hope Diana Green revisits our heroes and this world she has built. There are a lot more stories to tell here and I want to read them.
July 4, 2020
Ahhh... how I've missed reading a wlw fantasy. This story just flowed and I couldn't put it down. A highly enjoyable read, indeed!
Saba truly is The Falcon's Heart, and mine.
Saba truly is The Falcon's Heart, and mine.
July 13, 2020
This one makes sure that it hits all of its story beats in exactly the places that were planned, but I feel like it lost alot of the emotional impact because of it. I loved the world building, and the imposition of the magic system, but there were times where ideas seem to be dropped. For example, the princess Saba is an empath - and it is used to great affect in one scene at the beginning of the book, but that ability disappears once the plot moves in a different direction. I think it would have been interesting to play around with that skill even as the plot moved forward.
I guess what I am saying is that I clearly see the structure of the book - its all there, the set up is there, there's foreshadowing and clearly attempts at romantic tension, but some of the emotional payoff doesn't hit for me because it is so clearly laid out. I think that is due to the page count - Green had to hit all the things that she needed, so some of the exploration had to be put to the side.
And yet, I still think that romance readers would enjoy this one. Even though it has fantasy elements in it, and is set in a fictional middle east (maybe Babylon or Mesopotamia), the romance is the most important part of the book. There are more fantastical things near the end, but it comes into the fray very naturally. If you read it as a traditional fantasy, you might be a little disappointed, but if you are reading it as a fantasy romance, then this is a satisfying read.
Many thanks to the author for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I guess what I am saying is that I clearly see the structure of the book - its all there, the set up is there, there's foreshadowing and clearly attempts at romantic tension, but some of the emotional payoff doesn't hit for me because it is so clearly laid out. I think that is due to the page count - Green had to hit all the things that she needed, so some of the exploration had to be put to the side.
And yet, I still think that romance readers would enjoy this one. Even though it has fantasy elements in it, and is set in a fictional middle east (maybe Babylon or Mesopotamia), the romance is the most important part of the book. There are more fantastical things near the end, but it comes into the fray very naturally. If you read it as a traditional fantasy, you might be a little disappointed, but if you are reading it as a fantasy romance, then this is a satisfying read.
Many thanks to the author for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 1, 2020
What a fabulous story. I don't read a lot of fantasy type stories, but the author did a great job of bringing the characters and setting to life. The imagery is luscious and rich.
Towards the end, the magic stuff got a bit much for me, but other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed the journey.
Towards the end, the magic stuff got a bit much for me, but other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed the journey.
June 27, 2020
This was my first toe-dipping into the wlw genre. I felt right at home! The characters were vivid and of a wide variety. The emotions felt authentic. The setting did not come across as sterotype. according to the author's notes, I think this was well-researched. Plot is a strong feature of The Falcon's Heart.
August 9, 2020
I was sent this book as an advance copy by author for reviewing purposes, but all opinions are my own.
My first book by Green and so glad it was a sapphic one. I really liked the main pairing with a princess and an outlaw leader of a group of bandits. The setting was inspired by the Ottoman empire but with magic and I think it was clear from the number of details that the author did her research in order to create a vivid world.
This story is a novella so the pace was rather fast but there was enough time to get to know the main characters in a way that made them feel well fleshed out, and even the side characters felt like real people and there was a bit of found family too which I always appreciate in fiction and especially fantasy.
A bit of a sore spot that I find often in wlw fantasy is the rampant misogyny and the fact that one of the main characters is in an arranged marriage with a man. The way the princess was treated by her father and her future husband and the way they had so many conversations about her staying "pure" for marriage, even putting a spell on her, is so despicable and obviously they're the antagonists and that's the point but as a wlw reader myself I simply don't want to read about shitty men treating queer women like breeding cattle. If that's the main source of conflict and especially if that's so present right at the beginning of the book it's going to make it hard for me to continue reading and I confess I almost didn't.
So, I enjoyed this book for the most part and what I didn't enjoy comes from a place of this being the 80th time I read the same trope in a sapphic fantasy this year. I think the magic and the world were interesting and I'd recommend checking it out for the wlw romance which was really cute, if you can get past the shitty men.
My first book by Green and so glad it was a sapphic one. I really liked the main pairing with a princess and an outlaw leader of a group of bandits. The setting was inspired by the Ottoman empire but with magic and I think it was clear from the number of details that the author did her research in order to create a vivid world.
This story is a novella so the pace was rather fast but there was enough time to get to know the main characters in a way that made them feel well fleshed out, and even the side characters felt like real people and there was a bit of found family too which I always appreciate in fiction and especially fantasy.
A bit of a sore spot that I find often in wlw fantasy is the rampant misogyny and the fact that one of the main characters is in an arranged marriage with a man. The way the princess was treated by her father and her future husband and the way they had so many conversations about her staying "pure" for marriage, even putting a spell on her, is so despicable and obviously they're the antagonists and that's the point but as a wlw reader myself I simply don't want to read about shitty men treating queer women like breeding cattle. If that's the main source of conflict and especially if that's so present right at the beginning of the book it's going to make it hard for me to continue reading and I confess I almost didn't.
So, I enjoyed this book for the most part and what I didn't enjoy comes from a place of this being the 80th time I read the same trope in a sapphic fantasy this year. I think the magic and the world were interesting and I'd recommend checking it out for the wlw romance which was really cute, if you can get past the shitty men.
March 18, 2021
I loved the atmosphere and vividness of the world built. The prose and details, on Saba's palace life, her dancing skills, desert life (gecko observation, how desert town people adapted to enroaching dunes), the rebel settlement, the stone temple and Saba's meeting with the Viper Goddess, etc. brought the story to life.
The story was well-paced. Although the plot was simple, I liked the clever plot turns - in particular, Saba's decision not to escape when given the opportunity changed her 'status' from prisoner to guest. This enables us to fully embrace the development of the romance arc between her and Jehan. Later in the story, Saba's transformation to a bird also facilitated the resolution of the secondary plotline - she was able to eavesdrop and foil her Father's scheme.
The story was well-paced. Although the plot was simple, I liked the clever plot turns - in particular, Saba's decision not to escape when given the opportunity changed her 'status' from prisoner to guest. This enables us to fully embrace the development of the romance arc between her and Jehan. Later in the story, Saba's transformation to a bird also facilitated the resolution of the secondary plotline - she was able to eavesdrop and foil her Father's scheme.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2020
"The Falcon's Heart" by fantasy author Diana Green provides all the requisite ingredients for a lush romance set in a medieval Arabian setting that brings to mind the magic and playfulness of Aladdin's world. But Green pens no ordinary romance - our heroine is the traditional beautiful maiden, yes, the princess Saba, daughter of an arrogant and cruel local pasha who is looking to sell her off in marriage for his benefit. And the Falcon, owner of the eponymous heart, is the renowned female bandit Jehan, a Middle Eastern "Robin Hood" figure who works for social justice and her own tribe of outlaws and misfits.
So, yes, I read my first lesbian romance! And it was a pretty fine read, too!
Green was easy on this neophyte reader of lesbian fiction. There were no gratuitous sexual details that might have made me uncomfortable; instead there was a sweet love story that developed as Saba and Jehan grew to know each other over the course of the 'bandit kidnapping the princess' scenario. Green pays special attention to developing the world that Saba and Jehan inhabit, and I was quickly swept into the story and was able to picture it in my mind's eye. In this area, Green excels at her craft, using lush and melodic language to describe the palace grounds, the seraglio, the bandit camp, the mountain passes to the Viper Goddess' temple.
What I found somewhat lacking to my tastes, however, were the characterizations and the plotting. Things seemed to happen too conveniently and quickly at times, it seemed to me, in order to pull the plot along. For example, when Jehan and her band arrive at her camp with the captive Saba, Jehan is quickly called away to raid a caravan, giving Saba convenient alone time to figure out her feelings and reunite with her old maid from the palace. Likewise, other events also seemed hurried along, such as the finale where the pasha is beaten and Saba is given the governorship of northern lands. It seemed too easy, too tied-up-in-a-bow for me.
Here I will digress. This is fantasy, and a certain suspension of belief is necessary. There is magic afoot in this book (or afowl, but I don't want to spoil the fun), as well as an awesome deity known as the Viper Goddess. (And I wish more were done with this aspect of the story, but there's the fantasy lover in me speaking). But, as a fantasy reader, I had no trouble with magical transformations and divine manifestations. But I had difficulties with an HEA. Go figure.
I also wanted the characters to be more true to life and less caricatures of themselves. Jehan is the honorable bandit, daddy pasha is the evil bad guy. There's an evil sorcerer who plays his part to script, a benevolent uncle who stays benevolent, and a kind-hearted but slightly out-of-touch Sultan. The only character development that I noticed was Saba, who transforms from a kind-hearted beautiful princess to a kind-hearted beautiful magic-user.
Overall, however, my minor criticisms do not detract from the overall beauty of the story. When I first obtained this book I was immediately drawn to the cover image, which I believe fits well with the contents. Green creates a wonderful love story between two people who happen to be women, in a setting that is both magical and historical. A true winner in my book. Kudos.
So, yes, I read my first lesbian romance! And it was a pretty fine read, too!
Green was easy on this neophyte reader of lesbian fiction. There were no gratuitous sexual details that might have made me uncomfortable; instead there was a sweet love story that developed as Saba and Jehan grew to know each other over the course of the 'bandit kidnapping the princess' scenario. Green pays special attention to developing the world that Saba and Jehan inhabit, and I was quickly swept into the story and was able to picture it in my mind's eye. In this area, Green excels at her craft, using lush and melodic language to describe the palace grounds, the seraglio, the bandit camp, the mountain passes to the Viper Goddess' temple.
What I found somewhat lacking to my tastes, however, were the characterizations and the plotting. Things seemed to happen too conveniently and quickly at times, it seemed to me, in order to pull the plot along. For example, when Jehan and her band arrive at her camp with the captive Saba, Jehan is quickly called away to raid a caravan, giving Saba convenient alone time to figure out her feelings and reunite with her old maid from the palace. Likewise, other events also seemed hurried along, such as the finale where the pasha is beaten and Saba is given the governorship of northern lands. It seemed too easy, too tied-up-in-a-bow for me.
Here I will digress. This is fantasy, and a certain suspension of belief is necessary. There is magic afoot in this book (or afowl, but I don't want to spoil the fun), as well as an awesome deity known as the Viper Goddess. (And I wish more were done with this aspect of the story, but there's the fantasy lover in me speaking). But, as a fantasy reader, I had no trouble with magical transformations and divine manifestations. But I had difficulties with an HEA. Go figure.
I also wanted the characters to be more true to life and less caricatures of themselves. Jehan is the honorable bandit, daddy pasha is the evil bad guy. There's an evil sorcerer who plays his part to script, a benevolent uncle who stays benevolent, and a kind-hearted but slightly out-of-touch Sultan. The only character development that I noticed was Saba, who transforms from a kind-hearted beautiful princess to a kind-hearted beautiful magic-user.
Overall, however, my minor criticisms do not detract from the overall beauty of the story. When I first obtained this book I was immediately drawn to the cover image, which I believe fits well with the contents. Green creates a wonderful love story between two people who happen to be women, in a setting that is both magical and historical. A true winner in my book. Kudos.
February 3, 2021
2.5 - I read this in a single sitting, so it is an easy read, but it only felt half finished to me. I did not connect emotionally with the characters at all. It felt like the author sat down with a beat sheet, filled in the plot points and forgot about emotion and the power of language. There was a lot of telling here and not a lot of showing, info dumps to explain the world disguised as chunks of speech from one character, and lots of exclamation marks - 5 in 7 lines at one point - that had me shouting half the dialogue in my head. An action tag on the dialogue showing us the character's surprise or anger might have worked better.
There were also some references that felt out of place, like mention of clockwork and a compass as descriptors. At no point are we told mechanical clocks or compasses exist in the world so how could the characters liken something to them? Based on how things were set up and described through most of the book, the characters seemed to tell time and navigate via the sun and stars. It's small things like that that pulled me from the story.
The magic system also seemed unpolished. What happened to Saba's empathic ability? It sort of fizzles into disuse. How can she slip out of the woven bonds of a complex debilitating spell with the aid of a goddess transforming her into a snake, but leave a basic ward about her neck, wrists and ankles untouched? Wouldn't she slither out of those as well? I don't mind so much that she didn't, just that based on the info we are given about how the magic works, some things seemed contrived for the purpose of plot rather than being true to the system.
I think this would have been a much more enjoyable read for me if the author has spent some more time getting to know her characters before writing, or at least exploring them a little more rather than sticking so rigidly to a plot outline, so they were more rounded and their growth through the story was more organic and emotive. As it stands, the main characters, Jehan - who has trouble trusting - and Saba - who lacks confidence in herself - have their character growth relegated to a line in the epilogue, "Saba had gained confidence and clarity, while Jehan learned how to soften and trust..." It feels like it's tacked on as an after thought to tick the 'by the end of the story, characters must experience self realisation and growth' box.
It's clear from other reviews that most people really liked this read. Unfortunately, it just didn't work wonders for me. With a bit of a polish and style edit to make it come alive, I think I'd enjoy it more, but as it is, it falls flat for me.
There were also some references that felt out of place, like mention of clockwork and a compass as descriptors. At no point are we told mechanical clocks or compasses exist in the world so how could the characters liken something to them? Based on how things were set up and described through most of the book, the characters seemed to tell time and navigate via the sun and stars. It's small things like that that pulled me from the story.
The magic system also seemed unpolished. What happened to Saba's empathic ability? It sort of fizzles into disuse. How can she slip out of the woven bonds of a complex debilitating spell with the aid of a goddess transforming her into a snake, but leave a basic ward about her neck, wrists and ankles untouched? Wouldn't she slither out of those as well? I don't mind so much that she didn't, just that based on the info we are given about how the magic works, some things seemed contrived for the purpose of plot rather than being true to the system.
I think this would have been a much more enjoyable read for me if the author has spent some more time getting to know her characters before writing, or at least exploring them a little more rather than sticking so rigidly to a plot outline, so they were more rounded and their growth through the story was more organic and emotive. As it stands, the main characters, Jehan - who has trouble trusting - and Saba - who lacks confidence in herself - have their character growth relegated to a line in the epilogue, "Saba had gained confidence and clarity, while Jehan learned how to soften and trust..." It feels like it's tacked on as an after thought to tick the 'by the end of the story, characters must experience self realisation and growth' box.
It's clear from other reviews that most people really liked this read. Unfortunately, it just didn't work wonders for me. With a bit of a polish and style edit to make it come alive, I think I'd enjoy it more, but as it is, it falls flat for me.
July 13, 2020
Diana Green - you made me a believer :)
I’m not usually one to read fantasy but this was pretty good. It had a little bit of a Robin Hood feel to it and the sorcery/magic wasn’t too over the top. I was a little creeped out by the depiction of the Viper Queen, however. Snakes *shudders*
Also - The Falcon- is pretty badass!! I think the name adds to the image. “Hey what’s up ladies - I’m The Falcon. Maybe you’ve heard of me?” *smoldering look* She is everything a glorious MC should be: brave, strong, protective, intriguing, chivalrous, starved of love, and of course posses the ability to kill dinner while riding a horse no-hands. :)
I’m really hoping there will be more books to this story. I want to know what happens to the group!! I suppose I’ll just have to check out the other books by this author while I wait.
In closing - you can call me The Honey Badger. Perhaps it will have the same effect as The Falcon for my image ;)
I’m not usually one to read fantasy but this was pretty good. It had a little bit of a Robin Hood feel to it and the sorcery/magic wasn’t too over the top. I was a little creeped out by the depiction of the Viper Queen, however. Snakes *shudders*
Also - The Falcon- is pretty badass!! I think the name adds to the image. “Hey what’s up ladies - I’m The Falcon. Maybe you’ve heard of me?” *smoldering look* She is everything a glorious MC should be: brave, strong, protective, intriguing, chivalrous, starved of love, and of course posses the ability to kill dinner while riding a horse no-hands. :)
I’m really hoping there will be more books to this story. I want to know what happens to the group!! I suppose I’ll just have to check out the other books by this author while I wait.
In closing - you can call me The Honey Badger. Perhaps it will have the same effect as The Falcon for my image ;)
August 18, 2021
The Falcon’s Heart (20 chapters + Epilogue) — Diana Green Aug. 12-14, 2021
An unhappy princess is kidnapped by the Falcon, a ruthless leader of a rebel group, as a bargaining chip in exchange for one of their own. But as the days pass and the reality emerges that the king has no desire to bargain, the Falcon grows closer to Princess Jehan. And with it, the realization that not only does the Falcon possess skills that would aid the rebels, but that she is falling for the princess.
This was one of the best lesbian fantasy books I have read in a long time. I dreamed of reading these types of stories as a child, where I ended up substituting, in my mind, the characters being female/female instead of male/female.
The story read quickly and was very well thought out. I am going to watch this author and read other stories by her.
Four stars.
An unhappy princess is kidnapped by the Falcon, a ruthless leader of a rebel group, as a bargaining chip in exchange for one of their own. But as the days pass and the reality emerges that the king has no desire to bargain, the Falcon grows closer to Princess Jehan. And with it, the realization that not only does the Falcon possess skills that would aid the rebels, but that she is falling for the princess.
This was one of the best lesbian fantasy books I have read in a long time. I dreamed of reading these types of stories as a child, where I ended up substituting, in my mind, the characters being female/female instead of male/female.
The story read quickly and was very well thought out. I am going to watch this author and read other stories by her.
Four stars.
September 23, 2021
Very enjoyable book
I recommend this book. The characters are interesting and likable. I love stories where a women finds her voice and takes control of her own destiny. Thanks for a very good read.
I recommend this book. The characters are interesting and likable. I love stories where a women finds her voice and takes control of her own destiny. Thanks for a very good read.
February 4, 2025
Great for the genre
This is a sapphic fantasy with a few unique spins and twists.
The novel has an ancient fictional setting reminiscent of Persia, similar to The Scorpion King, Aladdin, or Dorne (GoT).
Princess Saba is betrothed to be married for the strategic gain of her father, whose ambitions are selfish and misogynistic.
"The Falcon" Jehan is an outlaw, living free in the desert with her family-like community, basically as a Robin Hood out to steal from the rich to survive.
Jehan cooks up a plot to kidnap Saba and use her for a prisoner exchange, but unexpectedly Saba follows her heart to forge a new path.
Overall, I loved the premise and characters, but felt that most of the inciting incidents, action, and conflict in the Falcon's Heart were too easily resolved. Several critical moments happened off-page, so the reader misses that suspense.
I also felt the first half of the book could have been expanded, and many sections of the second half could have likely been written into a second book, making this a series. There could be much more story built from this detailed universe. However, the author has shared that they are retired from writing -- which is unfortunate.
3.5 stars
This is a sapphic fantasy with a few unique spins and twists.
The novel has an ancient fictional setting reminiscent of Persia, similar to The Scorpion King, Aladdin, or Dorne (GoT).
Princess Saba is betrothed to be married for the strategic gain of her father, whose ambitions are selfish and misogynistic.
"The Falcon" Jehan is an outlaw, living free in the desert with her family-like community, basically as a Robin Hood out to steal from the rich to survive.
Jehan cooks up a plot to kidnap Saba and use her for a prisoner exchange, but unexpectedly Saba follows her heart to forge a new path.
Overall, I loved the premise and characters, but felt that most of the inciting incidents, action, and conflict in the Falcon's Heart were too easily resolved. Several critical moments happened off-page, so the reader misses that suspense.
I also felt the first half of the book could have been expanded, and many sections of the second half could have likely been written into a second book, making this a series. There could be much more story built from this detailed universe. However, the author has shared that they are retired from writing -- which is unfortunate.
3.5 stars
March 1, 2023
✔Sapphic Book Bingo Challenge 2023 🌈✨: Main board - ‘Heart’ in the title
4 stars. I really liked the world. The setting was very vivdi and well done due to Green’s fantastic writing style. The plot kept me interested and this was a really quick read for me. The romance between Jehan and Saba was good and I liked the way it developed. Their chemistry felt organic. My only complaint is the characters themselves. They felt very underdeveloped and one dimensional. That goes for the side characters as well. I didn’t really get to know any of them. Other than that this was still really good.
4 stars. I really liked the world. The setting was very vivdi and well done due to Green’s fantastic writing style. The plot kept me interested and this was a really quick read for me. The romance between Jehan and Saba was good and I liked the way it developed. Their chemistry felt organic. My only complaint is the characters themselves. They felt very underdeveloped and one dimensional. That goes for the side characters as well. I didn’t really get to know any of them. Other than that this was still really good.
September 17, 2021
A light but entertaining read
There was some clever world building and the core relationship is mostly believable. However, there isn't a lot of depth. So many aspects of this story could have been explored further and the ending was particularly rushed. Having said that, I quite enjoyed reading this. It was a quick read, taking me about 3.5 hrs. The love scenes, though not explicit were passionate. The plotting was tense and interesting. I would love for the author to further explore this universe.
There was some clever world building and the core relationship is mostly believable. However, there isn't a lot of depth. So many aspects of this story could have been explored further and the ending was particularly rushed. Having said that, I quite enjoyed reading this. It was a quick read, taking me about 3.5 hrs. The love scenes, though not explicit were passionate. The plotting was tense and interesting. I would love for the author to further explore this universe.
April 17, 2021
This book was just 'ok' I completed it, but it took several days, it just was not compelling enough for me to complete in one sitting. There was nothing special I can recommend other than the location was unique for F/F books. I do like the fact (and call me old) the love story was tastefully done. If you are into magic, princesses that get kidnapped and don’t want to go back, female outlaws and foreign places than you may want to pick up this book.
December 15, 2021
I’m not really sure why, but the story didn’t work for me, it wasn’t bad and there was a decent ending, but for most of the way through it just irritated me.
Perhaps it started with Jehan’s plan which was never going to work, she should have realised this, the Pasha’s response was always going to be, kill everybody.
The further into the story, the more it felt like it was being made up on the spur of the moment.
If possible I would have given 2.5 stars.
Perhaps it started with Jehan’s plan which was never going to work, she should have realised this, the Pasha’s response was always going to be, kill everybody.
The further into the story, the more it felt like it was being made up on the spur of the moment.
If possible I would have given 2.5 stars.
July 20, 2021
This is a basic outlaw saves the princess tale complete with horses, desert, misogynistic men and a large helping of magic. Since the story is more of a novella the plot moves quite quickly leaving little time for relationship building. That said the main characters seem to be a good match and well deserving of their bounty-filled HEA.
November 19, 2020
This one really transported me to another place, and I loved that. It has a fairy tale vibe, in a good way, and I liked how the ending came together for these great characters. If left me feeling happy.
June 26, 2021
To be completely honest, the plot itself is a little predictable and might only be worthy of three stars, but it is the warm, comfortable predictability of an old sweater. The slow-burning romance is worth the four stars, most definitely and maybe more.
July 3, 2021
A princess meets a bandit and feathers fly!
Nicely written story with a mystery hidden talent and "magician" wishing having something he never have for himself. A greedy father wants it all. Find out if the princess finds her hidden talent. Enjoy !
Nicely written story with a mystery hidden talent and "magician" wishing having something he never have for himself. A greedy father wants it all. Find out if the princess finds her hidden talent. Enjoy !
July 10, 2021
Was ok
It was a good story with a bit of a different thematic and trope but it wasn’t really for me. I gave it 4 stars even though I didn’t love the story there was nothing wrong with the writing or character development.
It was a good story with a bit of a different thematic and trope but it wasn’t really for me. I gave it 4 stars even though I didn’t love the story there was nothing wrong with the writing or character development.
August 11, 2022
desert divinations
This novel was way outside my usual reading genres and I was surprised by how well written it was, I found myself very interested in the concepts of freedom, fear and finding oneself, concepts I didn’t expect to explore in a supernatural book.
This novel was way outside my usual reading genres and I was surprised by how well written it was, I found myself very interested in the concepts of freedom, fear and finding oneself, concepts I didn’t expect to explore in a supernatural book.
July 19, 2020
3,5 stars. It was a short read, and it was entertaining enough, but I feel the character development and the conflict could have used a bit more work.
June 27, 2021
Loved it
This was a fantastic story that I really enjoyed despite the insta-love between Jehan and Saba. Would love to read more about them in their new home
This was a fantastic story that I really enjoyed despite the insta-love between Jehan and Saba. Would love to read more about them in their new home
July 11, 2021
Short and sweet f/f fantasy novel with strong female leads, travel, and relationship building. 4 stars as the overall story was simplistic and fast.
August 3, 2021
good reading
Well written, slow development of respect, understanding and passionate love between two strong women. Enjoyable reading from beginning to end.
Well written, slow development of respect, understanding and passionate love between two strong women. Enjoyable reading from beginning to end.
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