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Song of the Blackbird
Healing must start from within...
Desperate to reconnect with her half-brother, Emma Edwards takes her new medical training and secures a doctor's job at the prison where he's serving a sentence. But what she finds there is worse than she ever imagined...tough rules and even tougher men, gangs powered by drug money and corruption. Emma must find a way to keep her brother alive until he's freed even if that means lying to the one man she should be able to trust...
Unless you find someone to share your pain...
Warden Maxim Chambers doesn't believe a woman should be working in a penitentiary, especially one like Emma - a woman even a hardened man like him can't get off his mind. He's spent too many years building walls around his heart to let himself care about anyone. But when Emma is almost hurt in a prison assault, Maxim can't deny his feelings for her. But what is the connection between Emma and the prisoner named Sam?
And accept your past.
When secrets are revealed, danger and death run through the prison. Only the truth can save Emma and Maxim...if it's not too late.
Song of the Blackbird immerses you in a whole new world - a gritty, violent world where things you have always believed turn out not to be true. It is a compelling story of sorrow and loss, of hope and second chances, and most of all, of the power of love.
Desperate to reconnect with her half-brother, Emma Edwards takes her new medical training and secures a doctor's job at the prison where he's serving a sentence. But what she finds there is worse than she ever imagined...tough rules and even tougher men, gangs powered by drug money and corruption. Emma must find a way to keep her brother alive until he's freed even if that means lying to the one man she should be able to trust...
Unless you find someone to share your pain...
Warden Maxim Chambers doesn't believe a woman should be working in a penitentiary, especially one like Emma - a woman even a hardened man like him can't get off his mind. He's spent too many years building walls around his heart to let himself care about anyone. But when Emma is almost hurt in a prison assault, Maxim can't deny his feelings for her. But what is the connection between Emma and the prisoner named Sam?
And accept your past.
When secrets are revealed, danger and death run through the prison. Only the truth can save Emma and Maxim...if it's not too late.
Song of the Blackbird immerses you in a whole new world - a gritty, violent world where things you have always believed turn out not to be true. It is a compelling story of sorrow and loss, of hope and second chances, and most of all, of the power of love.
331 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2016
1 person is currently reading
482 people want to read
About the author
D.B. Michaels
1 book118 followersDB Michaels is a life-long reader who fell in love with the field of medicine during college. Double boarded in internal medicine and emergency medicine, she enjoys using her skills to help those in need. Working as a doctor in the prison system inspired her to write Song of the Blackbird, the first installment in her Albatross Prison Series. Though the book is entirely fictional, it illustrates the power of love, hope, and second chances.
DB’s first passion has always been books and she is happiest when she is absorbed in a great novel or writing. When she has time off, she likes to watch old movies, dally in the sun, and spend time with her family.
DB loves to connect with readers on her website www.dbmichaels.com and on her Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/DBMichaelsAut....
DB’s first passion has always been books and she is happiest when she is absorbed in a great novel or writing. When she has time off, she likes to watch old movies, dally in the sun, and spend time with her family.
DB loves to connect with readers on her website www.dbmichaels.com and on her Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/DBMichaelsAut....
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 4, 2016
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
This is going to be one of those "it's me, not the book" type of reviews. This was a GOOD book. The writing was fabulous. The inner workings of the prison and the medical information was very realistically portrayed. Not that surprising because the author herself worked as a doctor in the prison system. That's really the gold in this book. Unfortunately the "romance" aspect left me bored.
To say this is a slow burn would be an understatement. There isn't a single sex scene in the whole book, and honestly maybe one or two kissing scenes. Because of that I just never really felt the connection between Maxim and Emma. They work together and rub each other the wrong way, but passion, love? Nope, wasn't feeling it.
Emma came off at times as ridiculously naive and immature. Maxim came off as a cold hearted judgy asshole for basically the whole book. In fact our first introduction to him, is him beating the crap out of an inmate. He repeats often throughout the book how inmates are trash and not redeemable and refuses to ever even consider another perspective. The way he reacts to something near the end which ultimately causes something terrible to happen to Emma was just the final straw.
Ultimately I just didn't buy into their HEA. I'm giving this one 3 stars because the writing was very good (I think this is the author's first book) and the storyline involving the prison workings and the little mystery kept me plugging along.
This is going to be one of those "it's me, not the book" type of reviews. This was a GOOD book. The writing was fabulous. The inner workings of the prison and the medical information was very realistically portrayed. Not that surprising because the author herself worked as a doctor in the prison system. That's really the gold in this book. Unfortunately the "romance" aspect left me bored.
To say this is a slow burn would be an understatement. There isn't a single sex scene in the whole book, and honestly maybe one or two kissing scenes. Because of that I just never really felt the connection between Maxim and Emma. They work together and rub each other the wrong way, but passion, love? Nope, wasn't feeling it.
Emma came off at times as ridiculously naive and immature. Maxim came off as a cold hearted judgy asshole for basically the whole book. In fact our first introduction to him, is him beating the crap out of an inmate. He repeats often throughout the book how inmates are trash and not redeemable and refuses to ever even consider another perspective. The way he reacts to something near the end which ultimately causes something terrible to happen to Emma was just the final straw.
Ultimately I just didn't buy into their HEA. I'm giving this one 3 stars because the writing was very good (I think this is the author's first book) and the storyline involving the prison workings and the little mystery kept me plugging along.
July 20, 2016
This is a very different story, much of it based inside prison, exploring the treatment of prisoners, the expectations and behaviour of staff and the influence of gangs in a riveting, emotional tale. Worried about how her half-brother, Sam, is coping with being imprisoned, Doctor Emma Edwards manages to get a post in Albatros Prison where he is incarcerated without letting anyone there know about their connection. She's determined to keep him alive and safe until he is released but to do so means keeping their relationship secret. Her first experience of prison life is witnessing a prisoner being physically assaulted by the prison warden, Maxim Chambers. She intervenes but soon finds out that life in prison isn't always clear cut. As she learns more about Maxim, finds her half brother is a porter in the hospital and discovers more about why Sam suddenly stopped keeping in touch with her. Life isn't always black and white, there are definite shades of grey in the system and not everyone lives up to their role or expectations. This is a story of double crossing, sorrow, death and ever present danger for everyone involved in the prison system.
This is an emotive story, exploring the reasons for some of the prisoners being in jail, showing that there are good and bad on both sides. Motivations, manipulations and past experiences all have significant roles for all concerned. It is a story with well developed characters and contains elements of contemporary romance interwoven with mystery, suspense and danger. The author's intimate knowledge of working as a doctor within the prison system shows throughout the story. I really enjoyed reading this and will definitely look forward to reading the sequel when it becomes available!
Many thanks to the author, publisher and Barclay Publicity for providing an ecopy of this book in exchange from my honest review.
This is an emotive story, exploring the reasons for some of the prisoners being in jail, showing that there are good and bad on both sides. Motivations, manipulations and past experiences all have significant roles for all concerned. It is a story with well developed characters and contains elements of contemporary romance interwoven with mystery, suspense and danger. The author's intimate knowledge of working as a doctor within the prison system shows throughout the story. I really enjoyed reading this and will definitely look forward to reading the sequel when it becomes available!
Many thanks to the author, publisher and Barclay Publicity for providing an ecopy of this book in exchange from my honest review.
June 14, 2016
For a debut novel DB Michaels has provided a well edited and plotted story. There is definitely basis for a series set in Albatross Prison. The information set in the prison is factual – no doubt due to the author’s time working in prisons as a physician. The characters are well developed. The blackbird thread that runs through the book is symbolic and foreshadows at times. For the most part I liked the book.
I felt while reading that this was a debut book with over the top moments, characters and plot devices that were at times very predictable (like the CMO). I felt Dr. Emma Edwards was naïve and an idiot in what she said and did at times within the prison. I could not understand how the warden, Maxim Chambers, got his job with his attitude toward prisoners and his behavior in the prison. I felt Emma was gullible and too forgiving.
I came away liking the blackbird thread, wishing Emma had been more honest so the conclusion might have been different, and wondering what Maxim and Emma really had to base a relationship on.
I would like to also state that having taken nursing students into Patton State Hospital for the Criminally Insane (decades ago) I learned a lot and was on guard at all times. I did not get that sense of awareness from Emma’s character and wish she had been more aware and honest both with herself and with others.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dream Tower Publishing for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. As mentioned above I believe there is a future for this series and have a feeling that over time Ms Michaels will grow as an author.
I felt while reading that this was a debut book with over the top moments, characters and plot devices that were at times very predictable (like the CMO). I felt Dr. Emma Edwards was naïve and an idiot in what she said and did at times within the prison. I could not understand how the warden, Maxim Chambers, got his job with his attitude toward prisoners and his behavior in the prison. I felt Emma was gullible and too forgiving.
I came away liking the blackbird thread, wishing Emma had been more honest so the conclusion might have been different, and wondering what Maxim and Emma really had to base a relationship on.
I would like to also state that having taken nursing students into Patton State Hospital for the Criminally Insane (decades ago) I learned a lot and was on guard at all times. I did not get that sense of awareness from Emma’s character and wish she had been more aware and honest both with herself and with others.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dream Tower Publishing for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. As mentioned above I believe there is a future for this series and have a feeling that over time Ms Michaels will grow as an author.
June 22, 2016
SONG OF THE BLACKBIRD by DB Michaels is an captivating Women’s fiction/Contemporary Romance. #1 in her Debut “Albatross Prison” Series. Danger, corruption, deception, brutality, and romance within the Prison System makes, "Song of the Blackbird" an amazing debut novel!
Captivating, compelling and dangerous. Ms. Michaels is a new author to watch for in the future. I look forward to reading more of "Albatross Prison", series.
Received for an honest review from Net Galley.
Rating: 4
Heat rating: Hot due to violence
Reviewed by: AprilR
Captivating, compelling and dangerous. Ms. Michaels is a new author to watch for in the future. I look forward to reading more of "Albatross Prison", series.
Received for an honest review from Net Galley.
Rating: 4
Heat rating: Hot due to violence
Reviewed by: AprilR
June 8, 2020
I was intrigued by this debut novel's unusual setting, and the fact that the author has worked as a prison doctor, which is the job of heroine Emma Edwards.
Just out of medical school, Emma accepts a position at Albatross Prison in California with hopes of reconnecting with her younger brother Sam, an inmate. As Emma strives to protect Sam, she endures violent prisoners, a corrupt system, danger, as well as the contempt of several of her co-workers, including warden Maxim Chambers.
The author drew upon her experiences to bring the prison setting to life, and the details--including several depictions of medical treatments, offered a lot of authenticity. I really enjoyed the relationship between Emma and Sam, and the sweet story line about their mutual love of birds. It was a nice way to counter the harsh, cruel setting in which they found themselves and I admired Emma's courage and compassionate treatment of the prisoners in her care.
Where the story didn't work as well for me was in Emma's romance with warden Maxim Chambers. We first meet Maxim as he's mercilessly beating an elderly prisoner and that old adage about not getting a second chance to make a good first impression definitely held true here. While we later learn the reason for his harshness toward the prisoners, beating up a frail old man is still tough to excuse. Michaels attempts to redeem Maxim, and I tried to set aside my initial dislike, but when he jumps to a horribly wrong conclusion about Emma late in the book, it all came back. It didn't help that Emma's former fiance actually seemed like a decent guy, and it would be nice to see him as the hero of a future book in the series.
Just out of medical school, Emma accepts a position at Albatross Prison in California with hopes of reconnecting with her younger brother Sam, an inmate. As Emma strives to protect Sam, she endures violent prisoners, a corrupt system, danger, as well as the contempt of several of her co-workers, including warden Maxim Chambers.
The author drew upon her experiences to bring the prison setting to life, and the details--including several depictions of medical treatments, offered a lot of authenticity. I really enjoyed the relationship between Emma and Sam, and the sweet story line about their mutual love of birds. It was a nice way to counter the harsh, cruel setting in which they found themselves and I admired Emma's courage and compassionate treatment of the prisoners in her care.
Where the story didn't work as well for me was in Emma's romance with warden Maxim Chambers. We first meet Maxim as he's mercilessly beating an elderly prisoner and that old adage about not getting a second chance to make a good first impression definitely held true here. While we later learn the reason for his harshness toward the prisoners, beating up a frail old man is still tough to excuse. Michaels attempts to redeem Maxim, and I tried to set aside my initial dislike, but when he jumps to a horribly wrong conclusion about Emma late in the book, it all came back. It didn't help that Emma's former fiance actually seemed like a decent guy, and it would be nice to see him as the hero of a future book in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2019
This story is essentially a romance set in a prison context. A young female doctor has chosen to work at the hospital her younger brother is being held prisoner in. Her new boss however, seems less pleased to have her. He has little regard for inmate wellbeing and seems like a brute. Is there more to the surly warden beneath the surface?
Song of the Blackbird had the potential to be a thoroughly enjoyable debut novel. However, the story seemed repetitive and fairly predictable at times. There’s only so many times you can split a couple up over trivial things and get them back together again. Nobody says I love you as quickly as it seemingly happens here either.
There were however some lovely elements to this story. Though seemingly a background character, Sam and some of his fellow inmates have fantastic characterisation. The blackbird aspects and symbolic meaning tied the story together nicely.
All in all this has the potential to be great with a well thought out plot. This isn’t a bad debut novel, but I isn’t a great one either.
Song of the Blackbird had the potential to be a thoroughly enjoyable debut novel. However, the story seemed repetitive and fairly predictable at times. There’s only so many times you can split a couple up over trivial things and get them back together again. Nobody says I love you as quickly as it seemingly happens here either.
There were however some lovely elements to this story. Though seemingly a background character, Sam and some of his fellow inmates have fantastic characterisation. The blackbird aspects and symbolic meaning tied the story together nicely.
All in all this has the potential to be great with a well thought out plot. This isn’t a bad debut novel, but I isn’t a great one either.
March 10, 2020
It was an OK story, it had for me high pote,ntial, some great moments, but also lot of dékà vu, of standard lalala dialogues. Good but not unforgettable
July 6, 2016
Healing must start from within...
Desperate to reconnect with her half-brother, Emma Edwards takes her new medical training and secures a doctor's job at the prison where he's serving a sentence. But what she finds there is worse than she ever imagined...tough rules and even tougher men, gangs powered by drug money and corruption. Emma must find a way to keep her brother alive until he's freed even if that means lying to the one man she should be able to trust...
Unless you find someone to share your pain...
Warden Maxim Chambers doesn't believe a woman should be working in a penitentiary, especially one like Emma - a woman even a hardened man like him can't get off his mind. He's spent too many years building walls around his heart to let himself care about anyone. But when Emma is almost hurt in a prison assault, Maxim can't deny his feelings for her. But what is the connection between Emma and the prisoner named Sam?
And accept your past.
When secrets are revealed, danger and death run through the prison. Only the truth can save Emma and Maxim...if it's not too late.
Copy provided in exchange of honest review.
Captivating story about love, family, forgiveness and hope.
I love prison stories. I had loved the show Prison Break, and of course Orange Is The New Black. So when I came across SONG OF THE BLACKBIRD I knew that I had to check it out, and it was a first prison story that I had read. Once that I had read it, I was glad that I did, it was intense and there was always something happening there and there was always mystery surrounding the prison. Fact that was medical based also captured my attention, considering that medical , medicine based always something that interested me , and I thought that it was interesting how it all works inside the prison system. I think that it was brave of Emma to go through that, to become doctor in a prison where you never know who might attack, or try to kill you. I know that if I had been in her situation, I wouldn’t been able to go through it, actually I don’t think I would lasted as long as Emma did. Emma has courage, and even though they were all Imamates, she treated each of them with respect and despite their situation, she tried to save them. I don’t think that not every doctor do that, especially considering their environment but Emma did. You can’t help but love her. Not only does she have courage, she had determination, and hope. Plus she listened to her patient’s concerns.
Maxium and Emma, You couldn’t help but wonder what is going to happen between the two of them, if something is going to happen between the two of them. The two of them seemed to have a hate/ love relationship for most of the book. Despite that, I could tell that there was something between the two of them, even if the two of them tried to deny it at first. However, I knew that there was something there, especially the way he came to Emma’s rescue when she got attacked and made sure that she was okay, even assigned her a guard. I had a feeling that there was something there, he was just trying very hard to deny it. Of course I couldn’t help but wonder how long that denial would actually last. You could tell that the two of them had a special bond when they were together and eventually it was even hard for them to deny it. I just wish that the two of them weren’t so stubborn about the whole thing. You could tell that being with each other, made them happy. The way they looked out for one another. The two of them belonged together.
Of course I loved how much Emma cared about her brother Sam. What the two of them had was a real sibling love. What other sibling would get a job at prison, just to be close to their brother? The way she looked out for him, and ways she tried to help him. I feel like she would done anything for him. Even though he tried to push her away at first, to get her to stay away from him. Emma didn’t give up. My heart broke for her when he died. I know that there was part of her that feel responsible, that felt that she could protected him more somehow. I thought the beginning started a little slow, for me but it picked up within couple pages and afterwards I couldn’t get enough. After reading the book, the title fit the book perfectly, it all made sense to me.
An astonishing Debut novel. Magical. Heartbreaking.
Desperate to reconnect with her half-brother, Emma Edwards takes her new medical training and secures a doctor's job at the prison where he's serving a sentence. But what she finds there is worse than she ever imagined...tough rules and even tougher men, gangs powered by drug money and corruption. Emma must find a way to keep her brother alive until he's freed even if that means lying to the one man she should be able to trust...
Unless you find someone to share your pain...
Warden Maxim Chambers doesn't believe a woman should be working in a penitentiary, especially one like Emma - a woman even a hardened man like him can't get off his mind. He's spent too many years building walls around his heart to let himself care about anyone. But when Emma is almost hurt in a prison assault, Maxim can't deny his feelings for her. But what is the connection between Emma and the prisoner named Sam?
And accept your past.
When secrets are revealed, danger and death run through the prison. Only the truth can save Emma and Maxim...if it's not too late.
Copy provided in exchange of honest review.
Captivating story about love, family, forgiveness and hope.
I love prison stories. I had loved the show Prison Break, and of course Orange Is The New Black. So when I came across SONG OF THE BLACKBIRD I knew that I had to check it out, and it was a first prison story that I had read. Once that I had read it, I was glad that I did, it was intense and there was always something happening there and there was always mystery surrounding the prison. Fact that was medical based also captured my attention, considering that medical , medicine based always something that interested me , and I thought that it was interesting how it all works inside the prison system. I think that it was brave of Emma to go through that, to become doctor in a prison where you never know who might attack, or try to kill you. I know that if I had been in her situation, I wouldn’t been able to go through it, actually I don’t think I would lasted as long as Emma did. Emma has courage, and even though they were all Imamates, she treated each of them with respect and despite their situation, she tried to save them. I don’t think that not every doctor do that, especially considering their environment but Emma did. You can’t help but love her. Not only does she have courage, she had determination, and hope. Plus she listened to her patient’s concerns.
Maxium and Emma, You couldn’t help but wonder what is going to happen between the two of them, if something is going to happen between the two of them. The two of them seemed to have a hate/ love relationship for most of the book. Despite that, I could tell that there was something between the two of them, even if the two of them tried to deny it at first. However, I knew that there was something there, especially the way he came to Emma’s rescue when she got attacked and made sure that she was okay, even assigned her a guard. I had a feeling that there was something there, he was just trying very hard to deny it. Of course I couldn’t help but wonder how long that denial would actually last. You could tell that the two of them had a special bond when they were together and eventually it was even hard for them to deny it. I just wish that the two of them weren’t so stubborn about the whole thing. You could tell that being with each other, made them happy. The way they looked out for one another. The two of them belonged together.
Of course I loved how much Emma cared about her brother Sam. What the two of them had was a real sibling love. What other sibling would get a job at prison, just to be close to their brother? The way she looked out for him, and ways she tried to help him. I feel like she would done anything for him. Even though he tried to push her away at first, to get her to stay away from him. Emma didn’t give up. My heart broke for her when he died. I know that there was part of her that feel responsible, that felt that she could protected him more somehow. I thought the beginning started a little slow, for me but it picked up within couple pages and afterwards I couldn’t get enough. After reading the book, the title fit the book perfectly, it all made sense to me.
An astonishing Debut novel. Magical. Heartbreaking.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2016
SONG OF THE BLACKBIRD by DB Michaels is an captivating Women’s fiction/Contemporary Romance. #1 in her Debut “Albatross Prison” Series. What an amazing debut novel. Ms. Michaels managed to draw readers into this captivating tale of a Prison Doctor, the conditions of prison and the trials of finding love within the prison walls.
Meet, Warden Maxim Chambers, the warren of Albatross Prison, Emma Edwards, the new Prison Doctor, and Emma’s brother who, to her horror, is a inmate at the prison.
Emma, must protect her brother until he is freed. So she lies to Maxim and hides her identity. Maxim is a hard, rude, arrogant and powerful warren.
Ms. Michaels has written a poignant tale of deception, the workings of prison life, danger, drugs within the walls of Albatross Prison, corruption, attempting changes in the prison with dire consequences, deception, and romance. Can love survive with all the turmoil, secrets, and danger within Albatross?
Secrets and trying to help the conditions within Albatross, brings danger to Emma and shows Maxim his true feelings. But can they overcome Emma’s deception and the danger within.
The characters are well developed and evolves through the story. The storyline is unique, dark, suspenseful, emotional, and at times a bit predictable, however, this does not take away from the story. “Song of the Blackbird” is an emotional, captivating tale. Ms. Michaels’ has written, a well-crafted tale where truth combines with fiction. Can romance survive among the turmoil of Prison life? Pick up the “Song of the Blackbird”, and find out, you won’t be sorry you did. Ms. Michaels is a crafted storyteller. She shows readers the brutality, violence, betrayal, and more, within the walls of a prison. I look forward to the next installment. A great read which was enjoyable as well as satisfying.
Received for an honest review from Net Galley.
Rating: 4
Heat rating: Hot due to violence
Meet, Warden Maxim Chambers, the warren of Albatross Prison, Emma Edwards, the new Prison Doctor, and Emma’s brother who, to her horror, is a inmate at the prison.
Emma, must protect her brother until he is freed. So she lies to Maxim and hides her identity. Maxim is a hard, rude, arrogant and powerful warren.
Ms. Michaels has written a poignant tale of deception, the workings of prison life, danger, drugs within the walls of Albatross Prison, corruption, attempting changes in the prison with dire consequences, deception, and romance. Can love survive with all the turmoil, secrets, and danger within Albatross?
Secrets and trying to help the conditions within Albatross, brings danger to Emma and shows Maxim his true feelings. But can they overcome Emma’s deception and the danger within.
The characters are well developed and evolves through the story. The storyline is unique, dark, suspenseful, emotional, and at times a bit predictable, however, this does not take away from the story. “Song of the Blackbird” is an emotional, captivating tale. Ms. Michaels’ has written, a well-crafted tale where truth combines with fiction. Can romance survive among the turmoil of Prison life? Pick up the “Song of the Blackbird”, and find out, you won’t be sorry you did. Ms. Michaels is a crafted storyteller. She shows readers the brutality, violence, betrayal, and more, within the walls of a prison. I look forward to the next installment. A great read which was enjoyable as well as satisfying.
Received for an honest review from Net Galley.
Rating: 4
Heat rating: Hot due to violence
July 3, 2016
After watching tv shows like Wentworth and visiting Alcatraz , I have a liking for Prison stories which is why when I saw Song of the Blackbird available I wanted to read it. Song of the Blackbird was an amazing and touching story and in quite a few parts , I definitely had my heartstrings tugged as the story does contain a few emotional scenes. Emma Edwards has trained as a Doctor and just applied to become the new Doctor at the local prison , not only by working her she will have no debts with her loans but she has a more personal reason - her younger half-brother Sam is currently serving time in the particular prison for shooting her step-dad and his father Larry. Emma knows it was in self-defense and doesn't view her brother as a criminal as he stopped writing and wouldn't take her visits, she needs to be close to him and make sure he is alright. Starting at the prison, Emma gets off on the wrong foor with Maxim Chambers - the prison warden . Everyone else seems to bow down to him, but he brings out the worst in Emma. As the book goes along, we see that there is some chemistry brewing between the pair and Emma is finally starting to build as good as relationship as she can with her brother as she discovers he is her assigned porter. What will happen though when Emma's brother is hurt and Maxim believes that Emma is sleeping with a prisoner after he declared his feelings for her ? The later part of this book was very intense and you may if you tend to cry in books - find yourself in parts tearing up as I did as it is quite full-on. Song of the Blackbird is quite a powerful read and if you are wanting something a bit heavier than your usual romance novels or chicklits. Then try Song of the Blackbird by DB Michaels as you will not be disappointed.
June 22, 2016
I was intrigued by this debut novel's unusual setting, and the fact that the author has worked as a prison doctor, which is the job of heroine Emma Edwards.
Just out of medical school, Emma accepts a position at Albatross Prison in California with hopes of reconnecting with her younger brother Sam, an inmate. As Emma strives to protect Sam, she endures violent prisoners, a corrupt system, danger, as well as the contempt of several of her co-workers, including warden Maxim Chambers.
The author drew upon her experiences to bring the prison setting to life, and the details--including several depictions of medical treatments, offered a lot of authenticity. I really enjoyed the relationship between Emma and Sam, and the sweet story line about their mutual love of birds. It was a nice way to counter the harsh, cruel setting in which they found themselves and I admired Emma's courage and compassionate treatment of the prisoners in her care.
Where the story didn't work as well for me was in Emma's romance with warden Maxim Chambers. We first meet Maxim as he's mercilessly beating an elderly prisoner and that old adage about not getting a second chance to make a good first impression definitely held true here. While we later learn the reason for his harshness toward the prisoners, beating up a frail old man is still tough to excuse. Michaels attempts to redeem Maxim, and I tried to set aside my initial dislike, but when he jumps to a horribly wrong conclusion about Emma late in the book, it all came back. It didn't help that Emma's former fiance actually seemed like a decent guy, and it would be nice to see him as the hero of a future book in the series.
Just out of medical school, Emma accepts a position at Albatross Prison in California with hopes of reconnecting with her younger brother Sam, an inmate. As Emma strives to protect Sam, she endures violent prisoners, a corrupt system, danger, as well as the contempt of several of her co-workers, including warden Maxim Chambers.
The author drew upon her experiences to bring the prison setting to life, and the details--including several depictions of medical treatments, offered a lot of authenticity. I really enjoyed the relationship between Emma and Sam, and the sweet story line about their mutual love of birds. It was a nice way to counter the harsh, cruel setting in which they found themselves and I admired Emma's courage and compassionate treatment of the prisoners in her care.
Where the story didn't work as well for me was in Emma's romance with warden Maxim Chambers. We first meet Maxim as he's mercilessly beating an elderly prisoner and that old adage about not getting a second chance to make a good first impression definitely held true here. While we later learn the reason for his harshness toward the prisoners, beating up a frail old man is still tough to excuse. Michaels attempts to redeem Maxim, and I tried to set aside my initial dislike, but when he jumps to a horribly wrong conclusion about Emma late in the book, it all came back. It didn't help that Emma's former fiance actually seemed like a decent guy, and it would be nice to see him as the hero of a future book in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2016
This story really threw me. I do tend to get emotional with
some stories. This one needs a warning. I give it 2 tissue
boxes needed. There was so much sorrow, I felt so bad for
Emma. I constantly wanted to just hold her and make it
better. But you know some of the most wonderful loves,
come from some of the deepest sorrows. This book had me
laughing, angry, sad, and downright pissed off at a few
characters. Mrs. Michaels really grabbed me and held me
hostage till the bitter end of this book. She may be new but
dam what a book. I just wished there would have been a
happily ever after for all of her and Maxim’s family. I normally
write my review right after I finish the book. But for me that
was 5am as the sun was rising and I was a blubbering mess.
So I finally went to bed and slept on it. I have to say the
Blackbird sighting through the book was truly inspired.
I loved it, and it turned out to be like an omen. Even when
Sam comes to see his sister after it all falls apart. That had
to be the most touching part of the story. And then getting
the stubborn Maxim to open his heart and let her in.
they both needed each other. Only if they will open their
eyes and just see it. It may take one special occurrence
to set them both straight.
Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here. I hope you
enjoy this book as much as I did. If you do like this book,
please consider leaving a review. The Authors really like it
when you do; they value your opinions too.
some stories. This one needs a warning. I give it 2 tissue
boxes needed. There was so much sorrow, I felt so bad for
Emma. I constantly wanted to just hold her and make it
better. But you know some of the most wonderful loves,
come from some of the deepest sorrows. This book had me
laughing, angry, sad, and downright pissed off at a few
characters. Mrs. Michaels really grabbed me and held me
hostage till the bitter end of this book. She may be new but
dam what a book. I just wished there would have been a
happily ever after for all of her and Maxim’s family. I normally
write my review right after I finish the book. But for me that
was 5am as the sun was rising and I was a blubbering mess.
So I finally went to bed and slept on it. I have to say the
Blackbird sighting through the book was truly inspired.
I loved it, and it turned out to be like an omen. Even when
Sam comes to see his sister after it all falls apart. That had
to be the most touching part of the story. And then getting
the stubborn Maxim to open his heart and let her in.
they both needed each other. Only if they will open their
eyes and just see it. It may take one special occurrence
to set them both straight.
Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here. I hope you
enjoy this book as much as I did. If you do like this book,
please consider leaving a review. The Authors really like it
when you do; they value your opinions too.
June 24, 2016
I was attracted to this book by the subject matter, prison stories have always held a fascination. This one didn’t disappoint.
The blurb covers the major points, Emma enters the prison as the new doctor, she doesn’t meet the warden Maxim in the best of circumstances so their working relationship doesn’t get off to the best start.
Desperate to protect her brother Sam, she has to keep it secret how she knows him because he is an inmate.
This is a gritty, bleak story interspersed with hope and romance but remains consistent with a dark, violent world. I appreciated the medical references which contribute a lot to this book. The inclusion of the ‘blackbirds’ theme was rather poignant.
The characters are all well developed, I really couldn’t take to Maxim, he is harsh, abrupt and no matter how much he tries to redeem himself it doesn’t quite work for me. Emma seemed a bit naive to be a doctor in such a tough environment but this could be due to her desire to keep Sam safe at any cost.
There are beatings, drug references, corruption and emotional conflicts but it’s all in keeping with life inside and the turmoil faced by inmates and staff alike.
This is just the first in a series so I imagine there are plenty more scenarios to come from Albatross Jail. I look forward to seeing where this author goes next. I enjoyed this and even though it is a work of fiction felt that I had actually been educated in the workings of the prison system.
Thanks to Killion, Danica Sorber and the author for the opportunity to read this in exchange for my honest opinion.
The blurb covers the major points, Emma enters the prison as the new doctor, she doesn’t meet the warden Maxim in the best of circumstances so their working relationship doesn’t get off to the best start.
Desperate to protect her brother Sam, she has to keep it secret how she knows him because he is an inmate.
This is a gritty, bleak story interspersed with hope and romance but remains consistent with a dark, violent world. I appreciated the medical references which contribute a lot to this book. The inclusion of the ‘blackbirds’ theme was rather poignant.
The characters are all well developed, I really couldn’t take to Maxim, he is harsh, abrupt and no matter how much he tries to redeem himself it doesn’t quite work for me. Emma seemed a bit naive to be a doctor in such a tough environment but this could be due to her desire to keep Sam safe at any cost.
There are beatings, drug references, corruption and emotional conflicts but it’s all in keeping with life inside and the turmoil faced by inmates and staff alike.
This is just the first in a series so I imagine there are plenty more scenarios to come from Albatross Jail. I look forward to seeing where this author goes next. I enjoyed this and even though it is a work of fiction felt that I had actually been educated in the workings of the prison system.
Thanks to Killion, Danica Sorber and the author for the opportunity to read this in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 17, 2016
This is such a unique, beautiful love story about a doctor, Emma Edwards, who tries her best to help her brother who is an inmate in a state prison. Emma initially dislikes the prison's warden, Maxim Chambers, believing he is arrogant and rude. Gradually, Emma learns Maxim has a softer side yet before they can explore the attraction simmering between them, secrets are revealed which not only threaten to pull them apart but also threaten Emma's very life. Michaels does an excellent job developing her characters who have great depth and emotion.
I found the plot to be well-developed and suspenseful. I feel the pain and struggle Emma goes through to help not only her brother but all inmates. She is good through and through and must balance her idealism with pragmatism. The novel is not only a romance but has women's fiction components in that Emma evolves in the book, both in her professional and personal lives.
I love the fact that Song of the Blackbird is set in a prison. How novel and unique it serves as a setting. I learned a lot about what prison life is like and kudos to Michaels for being accurate and realistic in her depiction of prison life. What I love the most is the love story between Emma and Maxim. I keep thinking about them when the story ended and I'm hoping Michaels will write a sequel soon about what the characters are up to. Well done! A beautiful, emotional, well-crafted novel! I can't wait to read more of Michaels's books in the future.
I found the plot to be well-developed and suspenseful. I feel the pain and struggle Emma goes through to help not only her brother but all inmates. She is good through and through and must balance her idealism with pragmatism. The novel is not only a romance but has women's fiction components in that Emma evolves in the book, both in her professional and personal lives.
I love the fact that Song of the Blackbird is set in a prison. How novel and unique it serves as a setting. I learned a lot about what prison life is like and kudos to Michaels for being accurate and realistic in her depiction of prison life. What I love the most is the love story between Emma and Maxim. I keep thinking about them when the story ended and I'm hoping Michaels will write a sequel soon about what the characters are up to. Well done! A beautiful, emotional, well-crafted novel! I can't wait to read more of Michaels's books in the future.
July 22, 2016
This was such an entirely different book from anything I've read, possibly ever. For one thing, when I read any type of romance novel I don't expect to learn a new word, so I was more than pleasantly surprised to do so while reading Song of the Blackbird.
For the curious, it was complaisant, which is similar but not the same as complacent though in English they are pronounced the same. Complaisant essentially describes a people pleaser or someone who cares too much and easily acquieces to another, whereas complacent means not caring at all or not trying to do even a simple thing to please.
This didn't read as merely well-researched- it read as though the author lived it. Which makes sense given her history as doctor. But it was more than that. The characters and the setting came alive and surrounded me in this eerie sense of foreboding and gathered within me a deep need to find out what would happen to the end.
I highly recommend this book for mature readers, it's hard to describe without giving much away, but I feel quite sure that you will not have a bad experience.
For the curious, it was complaisant, which is similar but not the same as complacent though in English they are pronounced the same. Complaisant essentially describes a people pleaser or someone who cares too much and easily acquieces to another, whereas complacent means not caring at all or not trying to do even a simple thing to please.
This didn't read as merely well-researched- it read as though the author lived it. Which makes sense given her history as doctor. But it was more than that. The characters and the setting came alive and surrounded me in this eerie sense of foreboding and gathered within me a deep need to find out what would happen to the end.
I highly recommend this book for mature readers, it's hard to describe without giving much away, but I feel quite sure that you will not have a bad experience.
July 3, 2016
I really enjoyed reading this unique, emotional, suspenseful romance set in prison. Emma Edwards is a doctor who takes a job in prison to help her inmate brother. Along the way, she must hide her identity from the prison staff, including from the prison’s warden, Maxim Chambers, a man she initially finds arrogant, rude, and cruel. She gradually learns that underneath Maxim’s tough exterior is a man tortured by the past who lives for justice and vengeance and yet is also kind and protective. When secrets are exposed, Emma’s life is threatened and she and Maxim must learn to trust one another.
I very much enjoyed how the love story is combined with elements of suspense. I could hardly put the book down and can’t wait to read more of what Ms. Michaels has to offer next. She is a gifted writer who tackled a difficult subject and opened my eyes to what it is like in prison. Kudos to Ms. Michaels for a great debut
I very much enjoyed how the love story is combined with elements of suspense. I could hardly put the book down and can’t wait to read more of what Ms. Michaels has to offer next. She is a gifted writer who tackled a difficult subject and opened my eyes to what it is like in prison. Kudos to Ms. Michaels for a great debut
June 6, 2016
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This is the first I have read by D.B. Michaels and have to say this was definitely intriguing for me. Having a brother in prison I loved that D.B. Michaels went in depth in the workings of a prison. Knowing that there is corruption, drugs and betrayal is just heartbreaking. In some ways I hated Maxim for not believing in his inmates always turning about without a benefit of a doubt. Dr. Emma is like a modern day Florence Nightingale trying to help her brother and others in the prison but feels like a failure in so many ways. D.B. Michaels did a beautiful job showing us two different people fighting for the same thing yet are afraid to show their real identities towards each other. Loved it cannot wait to see what else D.B. Michaels has in store for us.
This is the first I have read by D.B. Michaels and have to say this was definitely intriguing for me. Having a brother in prison I loved that D.B. Michaels went in depth in the workings of a prison. Knowing that there is corruption, drugs and betrayal is just heartbreaking. In some ways I hated Maxim for not believing in his inmates always turning about without a benefit of a doubt. Dr. Emma is like a modern day Florence Nightingale trying to help her brother and others in the prison but feels like a failure in so many ways. D.B. Michaels did a beautiful job showing us two different people fighting for the same thing yet are afraid to show their real identities towards each other. Loved it cannot wait to see what else D.B. Michaels has in store for us.
July 9, 2016
To be near her half-brother Sam, newly graduated medical doctor Emma Edwards took her first job at the prison where Sam is currently serving his sentence. In trying to protect him, Emma got involved in violent situations and had to deal with deceptive and criminal prison officials. But she also found friendship and love and hope where she least expected.
In Song of the Black Bird, D.B. Michaels weaves a gripping tale of suspense and romance. Her main characters are well constructed and realistic offering differing points of view allowing the author's compassion to shine through. Some of the developments may be predictable but the book has an unexpected ending with a moving epilogue painting a most beautiful vision of hope.
Needless to say, I love the book. It is an amazingly impressive debut for the author and I so look forward to her next book in the Albatross Prison series.
In Song of the Black Bird, D.B. Michaels weaves a gripping tale of suspense and romance. Her main characters are well constructed and realistic offering differing points of view allowing the author's compassion to shine through. Some of the developments may be predictable but the book has an unexpected ending with a moving epilogue painting a most beautiful vision of hope.
Needless to say, I love the book. It is an amazingly impressive debut for the author and I so look forward to her next book in the Albatross Prison series.
June 20, 2016
This is a very informative novel about the inner working of a prison. The author is a doctor who works in a prison, and the description of prison's brutality is vivid, chilling. People outside such system, especially ordinary readers, can find such scenes difficult to comprehend, but this is what I found most compelling about this novel. The brutality of the prison system is contrasted against the naivete of the main character, Dr. Emma, and at same time serves to underscore her motivation for her actions. The bittersweet ending reminds us of the multilayered society that we live in, and what awaits those less fortunate, who happened to fall into the system.
July 1, 2016
Intriguing
The story was emotions and the characters were complex. I was so mad at Emma's inability to account for her own actions. She does things that she doesn't think about the consequences. Maxim is the opposite, he understand the complexity of it and makes sure of the outcome. He is aware of it she has no concept of it. Overall the bad guys were captured and the couple lived happily ever after . Btw the ending is not very informative
The story was emotions and the characters were complex. I was so mad at Emma's inability to account for her own actions. She does things that she doesn't think about the consequences. Maxim is the opposite, he understand the complexity of it and makes sure of the outcome. He is aware of it she has no concept of it. Overall the bad guys were captured and the couple lived happily ever after . Btw the ending is not very informative
July 8, 2016
I loved how the author gave such depth and complexities to her characters. This was a very emotional book for me and there were moments where I just wanted to scream and cry for Emma. DB Michaels did a great job in drawing in and captivating her readers with a mix of suspense and romance. I can't wait for the next book in this series!
October 30, 2016
***ARC kindly provided by author via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review***
Spoilerish
3 stars
D.B. Michaels can feel really proud about her debut novel!
Excellent writing and consistency in plot and characters.
A wonderful and heartbreaking story, in the really crude and hopeless penitentiary world.
The blackbird metaphor is really perfect.
Great work!
Spoilerish
3 stars
D.B. Michaels can feel really proud about her debut novel!
Excellent writing and consistency in plot and characters.
A wonderful and heartbreaking story, in the really crude and hopeless penitentiary world.
The blackbird metaphor is really perfect.
Great work!
July 2, 2016
4.5
Full English Review
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Full English Review
http://thesomewherelibrary.blogspot.c...
Reseña completa en Español
http://thesomewherelibrary.blogspot.c...
July 13, 2016
Song of the Blackbird was slow to start for me, I had difficulty engaging with the main character. However once I was about 20% in I couldn't stop. It reminded me a little of the tv show Prison Break.
June 24, 2016
excellent book. plot kept me entertained throughout!
August 16, 2016
Goodreads win
I wasn't sure if I was going to like this book or not. It ended up being quite enjoyable. Thge writing was good and story was just as good. An interesting read.
I wasn't sure if I was going to like this book or not. It ended up being quite enjoyable. Thge writing was good and story was just as good. An interesting read.
September 27, 2016
well written story that sucks you in from the start a good book and worth reading cant wait to read more
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews