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The Huntress #5
The Songbird
Her songs were her secret—until they became his deliverance.
Tove Volfsbydottir is willing to do anything for the Shieldmaiden who redeemed her from slavery, even enter into a marriage alliance with a near stranger. But soon she finds herself homesick and heartbroken in her new village—and alone except for a little slave girl whose sorrows Tove understands well. Dark forces are at work around her, including a mysterious army sweeping through the land, looking to rid every village of those who follow The Christ. The one man willing to help Tove is the last person she has reason to trust.
Gerritt the Grimheart flaunts the most feared name on the northern sea, created one battle at a time in a desperate grasp at honor and atonement. But even after he abandons piracy, his attempts to live a new life result in havoc. When he loses Sanne, the child who means more to him than any treasure, his sole purpose becomes her rescue. Will the woman he knows only as the Songbird help him save Sanne, or will Gerritt end up destroying her life as well?
Can the simple melody of truth break through their sorrows and save the Northlands before it’s too late?
The Songbird is book 5 in The Huntress series, but can be read as a standalone. It is a closed door, kisses only, Christian romance.
Tove Volfsbydottir is willing to do anything for the Shieldmaiden who redeemed her from slavery, even enter into a marriage alliance with a near stranger. But soon she finds herself homesick and heartbroken in her new village—and alone except for a little slave girl whose sorrows Tove understands well. Dark forces are at work around her, including a mysterious army sweeping through the land, looking to rid every village of those who follow The Christ. The one man willing to help Tove is the last person she has reason to trust.
Gerritt the Grimheart flaunts the most feared name on the northern sea, created one battle at a time in a desperate grasp at honor and atonement. But even after he abandons piracy, his attempts to live a new life result in havoc. When he loses Sanne, the child who means more to him than any treasure, his sole purpose becomes her rescue. Will the woman he knows only as the Songbird help him save Sanne, or will Gerritt end up destroying her life as well?
Can the simple melody of truth break through their sorrows and save the Northlands before it’s too late?
The Songbird is book 5 in The Huntress series, but can be read as a standalone. It is a closed door, kisses only, Christian romance.
498 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 2, 2026
About the author
Carrie Cotten
11 books530 followersCarrie is a Louisiana born, Texas transplant and recent North Carolina resident. She earned her BA in English from East Texas Baptist University where she met and fell in love at first sight with her hunky husband, Jeffrey Craig Cotten.
After a short tour in Alaska with the Army, Carrie and Jeff returned to Texas to start a family. Fifteen years and four kids later, they answered God's call to enter the ministry, embarking on a wild adventure that led them to the Appalachian mountains.
When Carrie isn't writing, you can find her cuddling a chicken, petting a pig or snuggling a sheep on their small family farm. She loves the freedom they've found in homeschooling and the unlimited opportunities to explore the mountains. Camping, farming, and watching movies are some of their favorite family activities. Carrie and Jeff serve together at a small church where Jeff is the youth pastor.
Her favorite thing to do is steal a quiet moment to sit on her front porch and take in the most beautiful view she's ever seen in her life.
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March 28, 20265 ⭐
The Songbird is the fifth installment in Carrie Cotten’s medieval Christian fiction series, The Huntress. It’s an encouraging read about a lost sister’s journey back to hope, healing and love. Cotten reminds us (1) to be patient and keep our eyes fixed on the One who has a plan and a purpose for us and (2) to remember that He is with us always.
Trove (Reidar’s sister) learns that she hasn’t been forgotten and that the journey back to hope may be longer than she expected. I love the encouragement this book holds for those of us who are feeling heavy and rudderless.
Three main themes were the stars of this book for me: belonging, renewal, and the power of one.
The emotion Cotten mixes into these foundation themes makes them so much more memorable. Tove and her brother had been sold into slavery when their mother was murdered, and Tove, although mourning the loss of a perfect dream of family and a place to belong, still clings to the hope that one day she can be made whole again. She endures the cruel treatment of her circumstances by relying on God’s love and hope, making sure that she doesn’t allow betrayal and loss to make her bitter. Gerritt and Sanne, Frisians, also find belonging through Christianity and found family.
The theme of renewal is introduced through an unexpected character, Gerritt the Grimhart, a pirate whose name struck fear into every crew that sailed on the North Sea. When God gives him a new identity, he tries to put his past where it belongs and discovers that it’s an uphill battle when his notoriety precedes him. My heart hurt when he explained that he kept looting and attacking, hoping to gain treasure to take him home again, only to realize that it was taking him further away. This stopped me in my tracks. We can be so misled by glitter. Gerritt’s faith story pulled at my heartstrings.
The final theme hits home when they meet a lone villager and when they get embroiled in battle. Gerritt and Tove see the power of a single person (in multiple instances) doing what s/he can. I love the thought that the solitary moments embolden, give purpose, and set others aflame.
There’s so much to love about this book! I don’t think I’ll look at a bird again without thinking of Tove and Gerritt. I was excited to hear that there will be another installment.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
The Songbird is the fifth installment in Carrie Cotten’s medieval Christian fiction series, The Huntress. It’s an encouraging read about a lost sister’s journey back to hope, healing and love. Cotten reminds us (1) to be patient and keep our eyes fixed on the One who has a plan and a purpose for us and (2) to remember that He is with us always.
Trove (Reidar’s sister) learns that she hasn’t been forgotten and that the journey back to hope may be longer than she expected. I love the encouragement this book holds for those of us who are feeling heavy and rudderless.
Three main themes were the stars of this book for me: belonging, renewal, and the power of one.
The emotion Cotten mixes into these foundation themes makes them so much more memorable. Tove and her brother had been sold into slavery when their mother was murdered, and Tove, although mourning the loss of a perfect dream of family and a place to belong, still clings to the hope that one day she can be made whole again. She endures the cruel treatment of her circumstances by relying on God’s love and hope, making sure that she doesn’t allow betrayal and loss to make her bitter. Gerritt and Sanne, Frisians, also find belonging through Christianity and found family.
The theme of renewal is introduced through an unexpected character, Gerritt the Grimhart, a pirate whose name struck fear into every crew that sailed on the North Sea. When God gives him a new identity, he tries to put his past where it belongs and discovers that it’s an uphill battle when his notoriety precedes him. My heart hurt when he explained that he kept looting and attacking, hoping to gain treasure to take him home again, only to realize that it was taking him further away. This stopped me in my tracks. We can be so misled by glitter. Gerritt’s faith story pulled at my heartstrings.
The final theme hits home when they meet a lone villager and when they get embroiled in battle. Gerritt and Tove see the power of a single person (in multiple instances) doing what s/he can. I love the thought that the solitary moments embolden, give purpose, and set others aflame.
There’s so much to love about this book! I don’t think I’ll look at a bird again without thinking of Tove and Gerritt. I was excited to hear that there will be another installment.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Vikings, an imprisoned pirate, orphaned girl in his protection, new believers navigating the faith, danger from warring villages, ministers of the gospel standing firm in the faith of death, and a songstress who's a pawn facing a forced marriage unless her protective brothers can get there in time...
The action, faith, and swoony moments don't let up. I love how clearly the Gospel shines in this book! Cotten never loses sight of the plot - that faith in Jesus and obedience to Him is the most important thing in this life.
Maybe you're wondering why these books are so hyped up. It's because they're emotionally intense, deeply romantic, and strongly Christian.
All the books are chronological with connected characters, so while you can read Songbird on its own, you probably will want to start with The Huntress and get the full effect.
The action, faith, and swoony moments don't let up. I love how clearly the Gospel shines in this book! Cotten never loses sight of the plot - that faith in Jesus and obedience to Him is the most important thing in this life.
Maybe you're wondering why these books are so hyped up. It's because they're emotionally intense, deeply romantic, and strongly Christian.
All the books are chronological with connected characters, so while you can read Songbird on its own, you probably will want to start with The Huntress and get the full effect.
Review of advance copy received from Author
6 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐!!! (ARC review)
🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️
I. AM. BLOWN. AWAY.
I do not have the words to describe how phenomenal this book is. It's truly a masterpiece!
I cried tears of sadness more than once, and I'm not talking "my eyes filled with tears", I'm talking, the tears were running down my face. One scene in particular was so heartbreaking but yet so beautiful in how, as Christians, we know death isn't the end.
I also cried tears of LITERAL joy. I'm not really one to cry from happiness, but I was so happy and it was so beautiful that I cried.
This book made me so emotional; there were points where my eyes would constantly fill with tears every 10 seconds because of how deep and truly beautiful this book is. I WAS CRYING BECAUSE OF THE BEAUTY OF IT ALL. I cannot even describe to you all the emotions this book made me feel. 😩
You simply MUST read this series. I'm actually begging you, READ THIS SERIES. I have ZERO complaints about this book. It's so beautiful and perfect that I don't have the words to describe it. This series is life-changing and I'm not exaggerating!
🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️
More Thoughts 🧠
SETTING: I love the world-building in this book and the series in general. I love how the different lands are expanded upon with each book. We went from knowing of a few kingdoms in the first book to seeing, what feels like, a whole world.
PLOT: The plotline is fantastic as always. There are some great twists and it never felt slow or boring. I was so invested in the plot and the well-being of the characters, and I was not disappointed with the outcome! The way that little details from the previous books were taken and made into a big part of this book was so masterfully done. Everything happens for a reason in this series, even if it didn't seem important at first.
WRITING: The writing style is simply beautiful, and I know I keep saying beautiful but that's truly the best word for it. Every aspect of this book is written so well and feels so vivid and real. Especially the emotions the characters felt. When they were happy, I felt their joy as if it was my own and when they were in pain, I could feel their sorrow. The emotion in this book is so well written that it palpable. I felt like these things were happening to me. I cannot even describe to you how REAL this book felt.
ROMANCE: SO HEARTBREAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL. I have no words. Their love felt so real and pure and godly that I want it for myself. This is what a relationship should be and the emotions it made me feel... it's simply perfect, I can't even explain it.
CHARACTERS:
🐦 Tove: she was so incredibly strong but in a gentle way. She is unbelievably loving, despite all the hardship she's been through. Her faith and strength are so inspiring, I wish I was just like her. I was so proud of her.🥹
🏴☠️ Gerritt: said it before, I'll say it again: CARRIE COTTEN CAN WRITE A MAN. I'm amazed. I'm in love. I don't even know what to say. The respect in which he treated Tove was so admirable and the way he shows his love for the people he cares about brought me to tears more than once. His protectiveness and his entire personality... ugh, he's so charming and... hold on, I need a moment because I'm swooning again. I fear he may take Eowin's place as my favorite mmc from Carrie Cotten.
🌷 Sanne: I love this girl! she's such a sweet little kid!
Ødger: he's literally barely in this book, but I had to put him on this list because I love him so much. 😩 I love all of Tove's siblings, but he's probably my favorite (besides Reidar). I really want to see more of him!
FAITH: The way God is portrayed in the book is phenomenal! His love for us, His protection and provision, the way He can help us through our grief, the forgiveness He gives us, the fact that His will and plan for us is do much better than we could ever imagine, and every other aspect of who God is is shown so PERFECTLY in this book. It really spoke to my heart and I truly believe that God used this book to tell me something that I need to hear at the exact time I read this. Also, the way the characters grew in their faith and how they learned to trust God was so beautiful and inspiring. If you ever feel hopeless, or like things will never get better, read this book, I beg you. 🙏🏻
🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️
Content Notes
🤬 Language: none
🌶️ Spice/Sexual: clean. a little bit of kissing (not overly detailed)
💀 Violence: battles, death, murder (not overly gorey or descriptive), fighting, talk of execution, injuries.
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ: none at all
⚠️ Trigger Warnings: religious persecution, death of spouse, parent death, possible infertility, slavery, brief illusions to r@pe (in the past and not an explicit description at all), grief, abuse.
I received a free e-book copy of this book from the author but all the thoughts and opinions expressed are completely my own.
🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️
I. AM. BLOWN. AWAY.
I do not have the words to describe how phenomenal this book is. It's truly a masterpiece!
I cried tears of sadness more than once, and I'm not talking "my eyes filled with tears", I'm talking, the tears were running down my face. One scene in particular was so heartbreaking but yet so beautiful in how, as Christians, we know death isn't the end.
I also cried tears of LITERAL joy. I'm not really one to cry from happiness, but I was so happy and it was so beautiful that I cried.
This book made me so emotional; there were points where my eyes would constantly fill with tears every 10 seconds because of how deep and truly beautiful this book is. I WAS CRYING BECAUSE OF THE BEAUTY OF IT ALL. I cannot even describe to you all the emotions this book made me feel. 😩
You simply MUST read this series. I'm actually begging you, READ THIS SERIES. I have ZERO complaints about this book. It's so beautiful and perfect that I don't have the words to describe it. This series is life-changing and I'm not exaggerating!
🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️
More Thoughts 🧠
SETTING: I love the world-building in this book and the series in general. I love how the different lands are expanded upon with each book. We went from knowing of a few kingdoms in the first book to seeing, what feels like, a whole world.
PLOT: The plotline is fantastic as always. There are some great twists and it never felt slow or boring. I was so invested in the plot and the well-being of the characters, and I was not disappointed with the outcome! The way that little details from the previous books were taken and made into a big part of this book was so masterfully done. Everything happens for a reason in this series, even if it didn't seem important at first.
WRITING: The writing style is simply beautiful, and I know I keep saying beautiful but that's truly the best word for it. Every aspect of this book is written so well and feels so vivid and real. Especially the emotions the characters felt. When they were happy, I felt their joy as if it was my own and when they were in pain, I could feel their sorrow. The emotion in this book is so well written that it palpable. I felt like these things were happening to me. I cannot even describe to you how REAL this book felt.
ROMANCE: SO HEARTBREAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL. I have no words. Their love felt so real and pure and godly that I want it for myself. This is what a relationship should be and the emotions it made me feel... it's simply perfect, I can't even explain it.
CHARACTERS:
🐦 Tove: she was so incredibly strong but in a gentle way. She is unbelievably loving, despite all the hardship she's been through. Her faith and strength are so inspiring, I wish I was just like her. I was so proud of her.🥹
🏴☠️ Gerritt: said it before, I'll say it again: CARRIE COTTEN CAN WRITE A MAN. I'm amazed. I'm in love. I don't even know what to say. The respect in which he treated Tove was so admirable and the way he shows his love for the people he cares about brought me to tears more than once. His protectiveness and his entire personality... ugh, he's so charming and... hold on, I need a moment because I'm swooning again. I fear he may take Eowin's place as my favorite mmc from Carrie Cotten.
🌷 Sanne: I love this girl! she's such a sweet little kid!
Ødger: he's literally barely in this book, but I had to put him on this list because I love him so much. 😩 I love all of Tove's siblings, but he's probably my favorite (besides Reidar). I really want to see more of him!
FAITH: The way God is portrayed in the book is phenomenal! His love for us, His protection and provision, the way He can help us through our grief, the forgiveness He gives us, the fact that His will and plan for us is do much better than we could ever imagine, and every other aspect of who God is is shown so PERFECTLY in this book. It really spoke to my heart and I truly believe that God used this book to tell me something that I need to hear at the exact time I read this. Also, the way the characters grew in their faith and how they learned to trust God was so beautiful and inspiring. If you ever feel hopeless, or like things will never get better, read this book, I beg you. 🙏🏻
🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️🐦⚔️🐦🏴☠️
Content Notes
🤬 Language: none
🌶️ Spice/Sexual: clean. a little bit of kissing (not overly detailed)
💀 Violence: battles, death, murder (not overly gorey or descriptive), fighting, talk of execution, injuries.
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ: none at all
⚠️ Trigger Warnings: religious persecution, death of spouse, parent death, possible infertility, slavery, brief illusions to r@pe (in the past and not an explicit description at all), grief, abuse.
I received a free e-book copy of this book from the author but all the thoughts and opinions expressed are completely my own.
Read
December 4, 2025Perhaps my favorite yet! Phenomenal storytelling!
February 1, 2026
“Whatever happens, whatever tomorrow might bring, make your life matter. God gave it to you, and He wants for you not to waste it.”
WOW. @authorcarriecotten has done it again. This book was absolutely phenomenal. From enemies-to-lovers and forced proximity to found family, pirates, and Vikings—every page pulled me deeper into the story. I genuinely couldn’t put it down.
Not only is the writing immersive and a joy to read, but what truly stood out to me was how beautifully the Gospel is woven throughout the entire book. Faith is not an afterthought here—it’s intentional, meaningful, and powerful.
WOW. @authorcarriecotten has done it again. This book was absolutely phenomenal. From enemies-to-lovers and forced proximity to found family, pirates, and Vikings—every page pulled me deeper into the story. I genuinely couldn’t put it down.
Not only is the writing immersive and a joy to read, but what truly stood out to me was how beautifully the Gospel is woven throughout the entire book. Faith is not an afterthought here—it’s intentional, meaningful, and powerful.
January 23, 2026
super stoked to receive an eARC and for sure recommend if you’ve enjoyed the rest of the huntress series so far. I wasn’t sure what to expect with this one, but was definitely won over by the end. it definitely topped the Valkyrie for me.
March 26, 2026
Oh my I was completely swept away by this one.
The Songbird by Carrie Cotten is such a beautiful faith filled story. Tove stole my heart. Her strength, her kindness, and the way she cares for the little girl stayed with me long after I finished reading. You feel her loneliness, her hope, and her courage all at once.
Gerritt’s story hit me too. His past, his mistakes, and his search for redemption made him so real. Seeing their lives come together and watching how faith and truth guide them felt so right.
It is a clean, with kisses only but the emotional connection is everything. Moments of danger, tenderness, hope, and redemption are all here and handled beautifully.
I received an early e-copy and was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts are my own
The Songbird by Carrie Cotten is such a beautiful faith filled story. Tove stole my heart. Her strength, her kindness, and the way she cares for the little girl stayed with me long after I finished reading. You feel her loneliness, her hope, and her courage all at once.
Gerritt’s story hit me too. His past, his mistakes, and his search for redemption made him so real. Seeing their lives come together and watching how faith and truth guide them felt so right.
It is a clean, with kisses only but the emotional connection is everything. Moments of danger, tenderness, hope, and redemption are all here and handled beautifully.
I received an early e-copy and was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts are my own
Review of advance copy received from Author
Of course Carrie does it again! This series is so special. With each book we get to see these characters grow, evolve and develop on such a deep level. Carrie is a master at intertwining the characters from each book in unique and unexpected ways. The best part is the strong faith... these characters seek Christ deeply and battle their faith in such realistic ways. 💙💙💙
April 1, 2026
Carrie has done it again!! Words cannot describe just how much I truly ADORE this series!! Filled with deep themes of faith, love, and belonging, The Songbird sweeps you away to Nordic shores where pirates give their life to Christ and seemingly unimportant people do great things for the Gospel and God’s Plan!
Gerrit was one of my absolute favorite characters. I loved his faith journey and watching him mature in Christ as he learned what it truly meant to be a Christian. His connection and loyalty to Tove was so inspiring and his love for her tugged on my heart.
Tove was truly an inspiration! From being timid in her faith, to becoming the Songbird the Northlands needed was such a strong character arc! I loved how strong she was, yet her heart remained soft and she allowed herself to feel sadness and anger. I always love reading heroines like that!
The Songbird possesses one of my favorite endings of the whole series, as well as so many amazing full circle moments that had me tearing up! I can’t wait to continue the journey through the Northlands with this phenomenal series!!!
CONTENT CONSIDERATIONS
Brief descriptions of slavery, piracy, war, murder, assault (not sexual), mild violence.
I received an ARC copy of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Gerrit was one of my absolute favorite characters. I loved his faith journey and watching him mature in Christ as he learned what it truly meant to be a Christian. His connection and loyalty to Tove was so inspiring and his love for her tugged on my heart.
Tove was truly an inspiration! From being timid in her faith, to becoming the Songbird the Northlands needed was such a strong character arc! I loved how strong she was, yet her heart remained soft and she allowed herself to feel sadness and anger. I always love reading heroines like that!
The Songbird possesses one of my favorite endings of the whole series, as well as so many amazing full circle moments that had me tearing up! I can’t wait to continue the journey through the Northlands with this phenomenal series!!!
CONTENT CONSIDERATIONS
Brief descriptions of slavery, piracy, war, murder, assault (not sexual), mild violence.
I received an ARC copy of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 4, 2026
This series is seriously so good. Every story is full of God's pursuit of hearts and His people. This story is full of courage, bravery, and resilience. This is book five in the Huntress series, while it is a standalone I would highly recommend reading the first four.
Tove is Reidar's sister and is claimed by Randi the chieftess of Volfsby. She is handfasted to a neighboring tribe to form an alliance. Trouble falls and she finds herself in the middle of a complex and sinister scheme. She has the gift of song and blesses everyone who hears it. Through a fortunate and unfortunate series of events she is united with Gerritt the man who was accused of murdering her late husband. They go on a quest to rescue a girl he promised to protect. She has a past full trauma that has left it's mark.
Gerritt is a Fresian in a land full of Vikings. He is the renowned Gerritt Grimhart the notorious pirate. He is held captive after the recent raid of his boat. He also has a past he is running from.
The journey they go on is epic and so much happens. I love the slow building of trust and letting down of walls. They have to lean on each other, and trust even when they don't want to. I love that her song saved him and her tears were cherished by him. Their banter was 👌🏻 top tier. As usual Carrie got me with a couple plot twists. The fleshing out of their faith and sharing it with others was beautiful and so heartfelt. There was heartbreak throughout this book, but it just makes the victories that much sweeter.
I will say that this seriesis emotional and mentally heavy, so I had to wait awhile from finishing the last one to starting this one.
Thank you Carrie for this arc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Remarks •
No spice - just kisses
No language
TW - hostage, torture, battle, injuries, oppression because of faith
Favorite things:
Tove's song
The bird pendant
Lionheart
Bravery
The wedding 😭😭
Old Tove vs New Tove
Ask me.
Tove is Reidar's sister and is claimed by Randi the chieftess of Volfsby. She is handfasted to a neighboring tribe to form an alliance. Trouble falls and she finds herself in the middle of a complex and sinister scheme. She has the gift of song and blesses everyone who hears it. Through a fortunate and unfortunate series of events she is united with Gerritt the man who was accused of murdering her late husband. They go on a quest to rescue a girl he promised to protect. She has a past full trauma that has left it's mark.
Gerritt is a Fresian in a land full of Vikings. He is the renowned Gerritt Grimhart the notorious pirate. He is held captive after the recent raid of his boat. He also has a past he is running from.
The journey they go on is epic and so much happens. I love the slow building of trust and letting down of walls. They have to lean on each other, and trust even when they don't want to. I love that her song saved him and her tears were cherished by him. Their banter was 👌🏻 top tier. As usual Carrie got me with a couple plot twists. The fleshing out of their faith and sharing it with others was beautiful and so heartfelt. There was heartbreak throughout this book, but it just makes the victories that much sweeter.
I will say that this seriesis emotional and mentally heavy, so I had to wait awhile from finishing the last one to starting this one.
Thank you Carrie for this arc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Remarks •
No spice - just kisses
No language
TW - hostage, torture, battle, injuries, oppression because of faith
Favorite things:
Tove's song
The bird pendant
Lionheart
Bravery
The wedding 😭😭
Old Tove vs New Tove
Ask me.
April 28, 2026
I loved loved loved it..
BUT
It was released April 2nd....
or THIS year
Did you get that?
Do you get what it means??
Probably at best
a year before the next in the series!!!
So it had everything
The faith content, the scriptures,
the prayers, God love and protection,
etc. etc. just beautiful!
The romance, was lovely
I guess if I had to find a 'fault'
kind of
it would be that is was a bit long on the fight scenes
and the evil people were really evil
but
that is all I can come up with.
Oh
wait
and
the fact,
I have to wait
a year
which is way toooo long!
Sigh!
BUT
It was released April 2nd....
or THIS year
Did you get that?
Do you get what it means??
Probably at best
a year before the next in the series!!!
So it had everything
The faith content, the scriptures,
the prayers, God love and protection,
etc. etc. just beautiful!
The romance, was lovely
I guess if I had to find a 'fault'
kind of
it would be that is was a bit long on the fight scenes
and the evil people were really evil
but
that is all I can come up with.
Oh
wait
and
the fact,
I have to wait
a year
which is way toooo long!
Sigh!
April 4, 2026
All I can say is I cried a lot more in this one than the others. 🥹
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am utterly in awe of yet another of Carrie's books.
Am I surprised? Not really.
Did I cry, a lot? Oh absolutely.
Did I root for Tove and Gerritt all the way through this book? Uh duh!
Hard topics are not something Carrie shies away from. A renewing or finding of faith is always around the corner throughout her books, this one included!
You are constantly on the edge of your seat. It is utterly impossible to not root for each FMC and MMC she writes. Tove and Gerritt were beautifully written and I fell in love with their story instantly!
Randi again shows how she's the best shieldmaiden around and yeah, I'd want to be adopted by this strong ass woman too!
Carrie has such a way with her writing. Using her talent she brings a beautiful, haunting story to life. Every. Single. Time.
She also is so deeply connected to who God is, you can feel it in her writing. I personally find it brings me closer to Him with every book of hers I read.
And honourable mention to always including an epilogue because, yes! I want to know where they are a few years later💕
Next book was necessary yesterday, I will be impatiently waiting 🤣
Am I surprised? Not really.
Did I cry, a lot? Oh absolutely.
Did I root for Tove and Gerritt all the way through this book? Uh duh!
Hard topics are not something Carrie shies away from. A renewing or finding of faith is always around the corner throughout her books, this one included!
You are constantly on the edge of your seat. It is utterly impossible to not root for each FMC and MMC she writes. Tove and Gerritt were beautifully written and I fell in love with their story instantly!
Randi again shows how she's the best shieldmaiden around and yeah, I'd want to be adopted by this strong ass woman too!
Carrie has such a way with her writing. Using her talent she brings a beautiful, haunting story to life. Every. Single. Time.
She also is so deeply connected to who God is, you can feel it in her writing. I personally find it brings me closer to Him with every book of hers I read.
And honourable mention to always including an epilogue because, yes! I want to know where they are a few years later💕
Next book was necessary yesterday, I will be impatiently waiting 🤣
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2026
This book is something special to say the very least. My heart is swelling still just thinking about how beautifully it was written, and how beautifully the gospel was displayed. More on that later. Miss Carrie, your writing is simply unmatched.
May 10, 2026
This Christian historical romance is more than a story about the love that develops between the FMC and MMC. This book highlights the unique love and support of siblings, the unwavering love a parent has for their child, the strength of love that is built in a “found family,” the love within the body of followers of Christ, and of course, the romantic and swoony love between a man and a woman. Then there is the overwhelming love, grace, and peace of God that comes from Christ Jesus. This book shares the gospel, and I think it shares it well.
Amidst all of the love there is peril, intensity, sweetness, violence, fear, humor, and some incredible twists!
The Songbird is book 5 in The Huntress series, and it does mention some of the characters and events from the earlier books in the series. While it can be read as a standalone, I think the reader would definitely benefit greatly from reading the books in order. I highly recommend this book, and the entire series, to anyone who likes Christian fiction, historical fiction, and stories that highlight the gospel.
Amidst all of the love there is peril, intensity, sweetness, violence, fear, humor, and some incredible twists!
The Songbird is book 5 in The Huntress series, and it does mention some of the characters and events from the earlier books in the series. While it can be read as a standalone, I think the reader would definitely benefit greatly from reading the books in order. I highly recommend this book, and the entire series, to anyone who likes Christian fiction, historical fiction, and stories that highlight the gospel.
May 15, 2026
This book is BRILLIANT. It is so fun to read a slow burn/yearning, forbidden love, found family, in a Christian historical romance with no spice and no language that’s actually really well written!
Boy does Carrie Cotten know how to write a good story! These characters she has created have such a charm and grit and strength about them. The pacing was great. I absolutely love the way she navigates the Christian themes and conversations. I found myself getting teary eyed over some scene or another. This book definitely had me feeling some type of way. 🥹🥰
Boy does Carrie Cotten know how to write a good story! These characters she has created have such a charm and grit and strength about them. The pacing was great. I absolutely love the way she navigates the Christian themes and conversations. I found myself getting teary eyed over some scene or another. This book definitely had me feeling some type of way. 🥹🥰
January 24, 2026
What a good book! I mean this whole series is BRILLIANT and I'm OBSESSED with it. But I really enjoyed reading this so much! Carrie does such a good job getting you inside the characters and feeling the pain they feel. This is a wonderful book and will take you on a journey of love and joy and hope. It's an amazing story intertwining faith and love, loss and family. Please pick it up! You won't be disappointed!
May 7, 2026
My favorite book of the series
Phenomenal book, phenomenal series! It’s a must read… start with book one. Clean suspense. Medieval. Christian. Faith. Great storyline. 10 out of 10 recommend
Phenomenal book, phenomenal series! It’s a must read… start with book one. Clean suspense. Medieval. Christian. Faith. Great storyline. 10 out of 10 recommend
April 2, 2026
Listen y’all, if you are not reading Carrie Cotten yet you are missing out on not only exceptionally written characters arcs, but you are also missing out on a complete blessing and balm to your soul. This girl has got skills!!
The Songbird is book five of The Huntress series, and while it can totally be read as a standalone, do not do yourself an injustice by skipping out on the preceding stories. You will thank me. The Huntress series is incredibly moving and uplifting. And Carrie continues to raise the bar ridiculously higher each time.
Carrie’s stories are unapologetically bold and rooted in God’s word. If you don’t like too much religion then this is not for you. Jesus’s message of repentance, forgiveness, and redemption is woven into every page. She uses this platform to show God’s mercy and His grace. She also shows that no one is too far from God’s reach.
Tove and Gerrit’s journey is filled with pain, suffering, and sorrow, and I’m talking not just physically, but emotionally. Trusting in God is their only hope. And His plan, though mysterious at times, will bring beauty from ashes.
Carrie, thank you for blessing us with these stories. You are a master of your craft!
I was provided an advanced copy; all opinions are my own.
Christian Fiction * Medieval Fiction * Vikings * Clean Romance
The Songbird is book five of The Huntress series, and while it can totally be read as a standalone, do not do yourself an injustice by skipping out on the preceding stories. You will thank me. The Huntress series is incredibly moving and uplifting. And Carrie continues to raise the bar ridiculously higher each time.
Carrie’s stories are unapologetically bold and rooted in God’s word. If you don’t like too much religion then this is not for you. Jesus’s message of repentance, forgiveness, and redemption is woven into every page. She uses this platform to show God’s mercy and His grace. She also shows that no one is too far from God’s reach.
Tove and Gerrit’s journey is filled with pain, suffering, and sorrow, and I’m talking not just physically, but emotionally. Trusting in God is their only hope. And His plan, though mysterious at times, will bring beauty from ashes.
Carrie, thank you for blessing us with these stories. You are a master of your craft!
I was provided an advanced copy; all opinions are my own.
Christian Fiction * Medieval Fiction * Vikings * Clean Romance
April 1, 2026
Carrie Cotten is an auto-read author for me. The Songbird just might be her most theologically deep book to date. I didn't expect a book set in the 800s with a former slave and a pirate as the main characters would speak God's truth to my heart so clearly and yet tenderly.
The romance between Tove and Gerritt is perfection (because duh... it's Carrie Cotten), but that wasn't my favorite part. Gerritt and Tove's development might be my favorite character arcs that I have read in the past couple of years. Tove starts as a timid new follower of The Christ and grows to be the one whose voice is the battle cry of the faithful. There were multiple scenes where I teared up or cried because of her bravery in the face of life-threatening events. "He was the Lion who roared in her heart." Oh the transformative power of Jesus.
Gerritt the Grimheart, a notorious pirate, wasn't the heartless man I assumed he would. I should have known this, because again... Carrie Cotten. Gerritt grapples with his past and his mistakes, making him think he isn't good enough. It's true. He's not. But oh, how Jesus is. Cotten is clear in her writing that Gerritt's past mistakes do not disqualify him from the gift of grace given to him by Jesus. Seriously some heavy theology going on in these pages.
While this can be a standalone read, I would HIGHLY recommend reading the first four books in the Huntress series first. The ending was just 🥹 Well done, Carrie Cotten. Well done.
I received a complimentary eARC from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own!
The romance between Tove and Gerritt is perfection (because duh... it's Carrie Cotten), but that wasn't my favorite part. Gerritt and Tove's development might be my favorite character arcs that I have read in the past couple of years. Tove starts as a timid new follower of The Christ and grows to be the one whose voice is the battle cry of the faithful. There were multiple scenes where I teared up or cried because of her bravery in the face of life-threatening events. "He was the Lion who roared in her heart." Oh the transformative power of Jesus.
Gerritt the Grimheart, a notorious pirate, wasn't the heartless man I assumed he would. I should have known this, because again... Carrie Cotten. Gerritt grapples with his past and his mistakes, making him think he isn't good enough. It's true. He's not. But oh, how Jesus is. Cotten is clear in her writing that Gerritt's past mistakes do not disqualify him from the gift of grace given to him by Jesus. Seriously some heavy theology going on in these pages.
While this can be a standalone read, I would HIGHLY recommend reading the first four books in the Huntress series first. The ending was just 🥹 Well done, Carrie Cotten. Well done.
I received a complimentary eARC from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Advanced Copy From Author...all opinions are my own.
Beautiful.
Beautiful.
April 30, 2026
🔹The Songbird by @authorcarriecotten
🔹Huntress, book 5
Beautiful. Peaceful. Heartwarming. Tender. Inspiring. Hopeful. Faith filled.
“It is alright to cry, swēt hjarte.”
Every single time I open one of Carrie’s books I’m transported while also feeling like I’m getting a warm hug. The emotions evoked through her writing are strong. You can’t step in without shedding a tear and coming away more inspired to do good.
“Just sing, lovely Tove. Sing those comforting words of the one true God, that she might hear the hope that I did today.”
Tove, the Songbird. Battered and bruised she heals through song. Her music is her prayer. Her faith shared through her singing. She is ever stalwart. She is ever caring. She sees the good in everyone, until she loses everyone she trusts and she has to be weary. And Gerritt softens her heart again while keeping her warrior spirit alive.
“Ask me.”
Gerritt. Youthful choices set him on a path of trying to prove his worth and so he becomes the most fearsome pirate, Gerritt the Grimhart. Though this doesn’t bring him peace and though his heart is stubborn he sees the truth before it’s too late. Gerritt protects those who need protection and Tove is in need, though she saves him first with her songs.
“Do not apologize for your tears. They mean that you feel. That you love. They mean that your heart is soft, and that is the best thing for a heart to be. Stone hearts belong to the dead.”
Sanne is the key to these two connecting. They both have grown to fiercely love this orphan. When she is sold they scour the earth to find her. Many a Cave is the setting in their journey and 🫠🫠🫠
Content:
Closed door romance
Christian
Wartime Violence
Slavery
Death
POW type Abuse
All done with care and consideration
🔹Huntress, book 5
Beautiful. Peaceful. Heartwarming. Tender. Inspiring. Hopeful. Faith filled.
“It is alright to cry, swēt hjarte.”
Every single time I open one of Carrie’s books I’m transported while also feeling like I’m getting a warm hug. The emotions evoked through her writing are strong. You can’t step in without shedding a tear and coming away more inspired to do good.
“Just sing, lovely Tove. Sing those comforting words of the one true God, that she might hear the hope that I did today.”
Tove, the Songbird. Battered and bruised she heals through song. Her music is her prayer. Her faith shared through her singing. She is ever stalwart. She is ever caring. She sees the good in everyone, until she loses everyone she trusts and she has to be weary. And Gerritt softens her heart again while keeping her warrior spirit alive.
“Ask me.”
Gerritt. Youthful choices set him on a path of trying to prove his worth and so he becomes the most fearsome pirate, Gerritt the Grimhart. Though this doesn’t bring him peace and though his heart is stubborn he sees the truth before it’s too late. Gerritt protects those who need protection and Tove is in need, though she saves him first with her songs.
“Do not apologize for your tears. They mean that you feel. That you love. They mean that your heart is soft, and that is the best thing for a heart to be. Stone hearts belong to the dead.”
Sanne is the key to these two connecting. They both have grown to fiercely love this orphan. When she is sold they scour the earth to find her. Many a Cave is the setting in their journey and 🫠🫠🫠
Content:
Closed door romance
Christian
Wartime Violence
Slavery
Death
POW type Abuse
All done with care and consideration
April 23, 2026
Carrie Cotten, each one just continues to be better and better. God has a plan for everything, and this book was so needed during these times. A reminder of sharing our Faith even when it's scary, and the reality of the persecution that so many brothers and sisters face throughout the world every day.
Both Tove and Gerritt's Spiritual growth through the book was amazing, the yearning was so well done, and I always love getting to see characters from past books.
**spoiler ahead
I also appreciated the infertility struggle. God calls us to have families and given us a desire to do so, but it doesn't always happen for all of us. With all the other characters so far having all the babies they could ask for, I appreciated having a representation of wanting a family and God having a different plan or timeline. His ways and timing are always perfect!
Some of my favorite quotes:
"The standard by which man should be judged, God's standard, is perfection. For we desperately desire a God that cannot fail, a heaven that is perfect. No one longs for an eternal resting place that is anything less."
"He said I should trust God's heart even when I could not understand His ways."
"Sometimes the strongest thing you can do is hand your dreams to God and trust Him with them."
Another favorite from this series! 🕊️🏴☠️
Both Tove and Gerritt's Spiritual growth through the book was amazing, the yearning was so well done, and I always love getting to see characters from past books.
**spoiler ahead
I also appreciated the infertility struggle. God calls us to have families and given us a desire to do so, but it doesn't always happen for all of us. With all the other characters so far having all the babies they could ask for, I appreciated having a representation of wanting a family and God having a different plan or timeline. His ways and timing are always perfect!
Some of my favorite quotes:
"The standard by which man should be judged, God's standard, is perfection. For we desperately desire a God that cannot fail, a heaven that is perfect. No one longs for an eternal resting place that is anything less."
"He said I should trust God's heart even when I could not understand His ways."
"Sometimes the strongest thing you can do is hand your dreams to God and trust Him with them."
Another favorite from this series! 🕊️🏴☠️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another amazing addition to the Huntress series. This review will be very general so as not to give any spoilers away. The characters are so real that I could easily put myself in their shoes and feel for them deeply. Christian values and the struggle to be Christ-like is woven throughout the story in such a thoughtful way. There were also plenty of powerful quotes that I felt compelled to pause and reflect on. I just loved it and wish I could read it for the first time all over again.
Note: I was blessed with the opportunity to receive an advanced reader copy but this review is entirely my own.
Note: I was blessed with the opportunity to receive an advanced reader copy but this review is entirely my own.
April 4, 2026
ONE MILLION STARS + OUT
TODAY!
Spice: none, kissing only
Language: none
I have a feeling the Songbird is going to be my top read of 2026. Carrie Cotten has once again woven a story of adventure, daring, redemption, and most of all the grace and mercy of Christ. She writes real and raw characters that show faith in unimaginable circumstances and the beauty of redemption.
This story features Vikings, a pirate MMC, the harsh realities of slavery, adventures, high stakes, and so much more. There is grace woven into hardship, joy in the midst of grief, hope beyond death, and a love that strengthens and restores.
Tove and Gerritt are incredible. I cried. I laughed. And I swooned.
Thank you Carrie Cotten for the chance to arc read this incredible story. I hold the truths within close to my heart.
All thoughts are my own.
{pirate mmc, Viking romance, high stakes, enemies to lovers, Christian fiction, clean reads, no spice romance}
TODAY!
Spice: none, kissing only
Language: none
I have a feeling the Songbird is going to be my top read of 2026. Carrie Cotten has once again woven a story of adventure, daring, redemption, and most of all the grace and mercy of Christ. She writes real and raw characters that show faith in unimaginable circumstances and the beauty of redemption.
This story features Vikings, a pirate MMC, the harsh realities of slavery, adventures, high stakes, and so much more. There is grace woven into hardship, joy in the midst of grief, hope beyond death, and a love that strengthens and restores.
Tove and Gerritt are incredible. I cried. I laughed. And I swooned.
Thank you Carrie Cotten for the chance to arc read this incredible story. I hold the truths within close to my heart.
All thoughts are my own.
{pirate mmc, Viking romance, high stakes, enemies to lovers, Christian fiction, clean reads, no spice romance}
April 3, 2026
If I could give it 6 🌟 ….I would! This book has been such a beautiful blessing. Each book in this series keeps getting better and better. Carrie Cotten is phenomenal! Immediately pulling you in and immersing you with the vivid characters and setting. The strong Christian message and faith are the cherry on top! I absolutely love this no-spice story of authentic love and faith. ❤️
April 14, 2026
Oh man what a beautiful story. Learning to trust, forgiveness, growth in Christ, & God's sovereignty.
I loved the tension, the healing, & the fight these two had.
Tove, Gerritt, & Sanne are probably my fav main characters so far in this series, but I'm so excited for Randi's story!!!!
📖: 3rd person, dual POV
🌶️: kisses only
🤬: no foul language
⚠️: death, battles, past abuse, captivity
I loved the tension, the healing, & the fight these two had.
Tove, Gerritt, & Sanne are probably my fav main characters so far in this series, but I'm so excited for Randi's story!!!!
📖: 3rd person, dual POV
🌶️: kisses only
🤬: no foul language
⚠️: death, battles, past abuse, captivity
April 17, 2026
Carrie Cotten has truly impressed me with this latest installment of the series. The world she has built in these harsh, midieval times is fascinating. Intertwining Christian persecution and the power of the Gospel with that background made for an immensely poignant novel. It also left me with such hope and a love for these characters she so expertly developed.
March 23, 2026
No words. 🤍🤍
I loved it!
Every time I read a Carrie Cotten book it leaves a print on me. Faith, Vikings, pirates, hope, loss, love and more on each page.
It’s worth the read. I can’t wait for more!
I loved it!
Every time I read a Carrie Cotten book it leaves a print on me. Faith, Vikings, pirates, hope, loss, love and more on each page.
It’s worth the read. I can’t wait for more!
April 3, 2026
This book cannot be described in words. I didn’t think that this series could be better because all of the other books have been so amazing, but Carrie did it again! The relationship between Tove and Gerrit is so so sweet and amazing, I love them. And Sanne!! I can’t even describe how much I loved her. If I could give a book ten stars, I would give it 11⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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