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A Song for the Stars
Inspired by a true story
Hawaiian Islands, 1779
As the second daughter of a royal chief, Maile will be permitted to marry for love. Her fiancé is the best navigator in Hawaii, and he taught her everything he knows how to feel the ocean, observe the winds, read the stars, and how to love.
But when sailors from a strange place called England arrive on her island, a misunderstanding ends in battle, and Maile is suddenly widowed before she is wed.
Finding herself in the middle of the battle and fearing for her life, Maile takes John Harbottle, the wounded man who killed her fiancé, prisoner, and though originally intending to let him die, she reluctantly heals him. And in the process, she discovers the man she thought was her enemy might be her ally instead.
John has been Captain James Cook's translator for three voyages across the Pacific. He is kind and clearly fascinated with her homeland and her people and Maile herself. But guilt continues to drive a wedge between John's guilt over the death he caused, and Maile's guilt over the truth about what triggered the deadly battle a secret she's kept hidden from everyone on the island.
When Maile is tasked with teaching John how to navigate using the stars so he can sail back to England, they must also navigate the challenges of being from very different cultures. In doing so, they might also find the peace that comes when two hearts become one.
Hawaiian Islands, 1779
As the second daughter of a royal chief, Maile will be permitted to marry for love. Her fiancé is the best navigator in Hawaii, and he taught her everything he knows how to feel the ocean, observe the winds, read the stars, and how to love.
But when sailors from a strange place called England arrive on her island, a misunderstanding ends in battle, and Maile is suddenly widowed before she is wed.
Finding herself in the middle of the battle and fearing for her life, Maile takes John Harbottle, the wounded man who killed her fiancé, prisoner, and though originally intending to let him die, she reluctantly heals him. And in the process, she discovers the man she thought was her enemy might be her ally instead.
John has been Captain James Cook's translator for three voyages across the Pacific. He is kind and clearly fascinated with her homeland and her people and Maile herself. But guilt continues to drive a wedge between John's guilt over the death he caused, and Maile's guilt over the truth about what triggered the deadly battle a secret she's kept hidden from everyone on the island.
When Maile is tasked with teaching John how to navigate using the stars so he can sail back to England, they must also navigate the challenges of being from very different cultures. In doing so, they might also find the peace that comes when two hearts become one.
297 pages, Paperback
First published April 2, 2019
64 people are currently reading
2715 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 409 reviews
January 28, 2021
A DNF at page 156.
Given that this is quite a short book, this is quite a late DNF decision for me.
I persevered as long as I did because this book was part of a reading challenge in the BLK group & because the book featured Captain Cook, a historical figure I find interesting. (He is credited as the first European to discover New Zealand) & because the author is Hawaiian and the story is based on some of her own ancestors.
Unfortunately Captain Cook's appearance was very brief, the choice to write in first person, present tense (with dual POV!) gave the narrative a very wooden feel. The characters never came alive for me & I didn't care what their outcome was going to be.
The only things I liked were the lovely cover and I was interested how close some common Hawaiian words were to some Maori ones.
Unfortunately these are not sufficient reasons to carry on with this book.
Given that this is quite a short book, this is quite a late DNF decision for me.
I persevered as long as I did because this book was part of a reading challenge in the BLK group & because the book featured Captain Cook, a historical figure I find interesting. (He is credited as the first European to discover New Zealand) & because the author is Hawaiian and the story is based on some of her own ancestors.
Unfortunately Captain Cook's appearance was very brief, the choice to write in first person, present tense (with dual POV!) gave the narrative a very wooden feel. The characters never came alive for me & I didn't care what their outcome was going to be.
The only things I liked were the lovely cover and I was interested how close some common Hawaiian words were to some Maori ones.
Unfortunately these are not sufficient reasons to carry on with this book.
April 2, 2019
Thanks to Netgalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for a digital galley in exchange for an honest review.
When I review 2019 and my adventures in reading, I am going to have to make a special award for all these stories based on the author's lives. Also I just really need to get myself to Hawaii.
The scene-Hawaii 1799. James Cook's crew has returned to the "Sandwich Islands" and instantly the tension between Europeans and people that inhabit the islands heats up. It is within all this turmoil that the author's fourth great grandparents emerge and their story unfolds. A story of cultural clashes and ultimately the love that blossoms between a member of Cook's crew and the second daughter of the local chief.
I felt that A Song for the Stars made for a very compelling read. Maile was the type of female protagonist that I enjoy reading about-strong, stubborn, and opinionated. This historical fiction romance definitely worked for me and I read it in one sitting.
When I review 2019 and my adventures in reading, I am going to have to make a special award for all these stories based on the author's lives. Also I just really need to get myself to Hawaii.
The scene-Hawaii 1799. James Cook's crew has returned to the "Sandwich Islands" and instantly the tension between Europeans and people that inhabit the islands heats up. It is within all this turmoil that the author's fourth great grandparents emerge and their story unfolds. A story of cultural clashes and ultimately the love that blossoms between a member of Cook's crew and the second daughter of the local chief.
I felt that A Song for the Stars made for a very compelling read. Maile was the type of female protagonist that I enjoy reading about-strong, stubborn, and opinionated. This historical fiction romance definitely worked for me and I read it in one sitting.
May 23, 2019
I don't think I can write a review that would do justice for this book. It was so beautiful. I felt as if I was there with these characters experiencing their heartaches as well as feeling as if I was very first experiencing some of their discoveries. I really loved the way the author wrote the story from the two different characters' perspectives. John's point of view was written in journal form while Maile's was written as it was happening.
I loved the history that was woven throughout the story. It added such an incredible depth and for me as a reader, I felt a greater connection to Maile's people, the sailors and Maile and John. I'm not going to forget the joy I felt, as well as the captivation that I experienced while reading this beautiful story.
This is not a light, fluff read. There is depth and pain and sorrow, healing and joy and love. And the author wrote the whole gambit of emotions in such a way that it makes the story feel real and you can't help but feel like you are there with these characters.
All the many aspects of the Hawaiian peoples’ lives were so well written and portrayed. I loved how she showed through John's journal entries, his discovery of their culture and beliefs and way of life. How he came to understand who they were and admire them. I loved the portrayal of family throughout the book.
For you romance lovers, there is a sweet and lovely romance in this book. I hope that if you pick it up, you can be transported like I was to the beautiful beaches, flowing ocean, canoe rides, lying under the stars, running over the cliff tops, climbing the mountains, hiding in the underbrush, dancing in the firelight, mourning for the dead, celebrating the life all around you and many more captivating moments throughout this book. I highly recommend this one!
Content: Clean. Moments of peril. Battles. No sexual content. Nothing more than a few kisses.
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I loved the history that was woven throughout the story. It added such an incredible depth and for me as a reader, I felt a greater connection to Maile's people, the sailors and Maile and John. I'm not going to forget the joy I felt, as well as the captivation that I experienced while reading this beautiful story.
This is not a light, fluff read. There is depth and pain and sorrow, healing and joy and love. And the author wrote the whole gambit of emotions in such a way that it makes the story feel real and you can't help but feel like you are there with these characters.
All the many aspects of the Hawaiian peoples’ lives were so well written and portrayed. I loved how she showed through John's journal entries, his discovery of their culture and beliefs and way of life. How he came to understand who they were and admire them. I loved the portrayal of family throughout the book.
For you romance lovers, there is a sweet and lovely romance in this book. I hope that if you pick it up, you can be transported like I was to the beautiful beaches, flowing ocean, canoe rides, lying under the stars, running over the cliff tops, climbing the mountains, hiding in the underbrush, dancing in the firelight, mourning for the dead, celebrating the life all around you and many more captivating moments throughout this book. I highly recommend this one!
Content: Clean. Moments of peril. Battles. No sexual content. Nothing more than a few kisses.
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
May 6, 2019
If you are looking for a historical romance with a strong cultural setting, this is a great option. This is a story featuring a romance between an English explorer and the daughter of a chief of an Hawaiian tribe. It was inspired by real historical figures, and the author is a descendant of the inspirational couple. There was at least one other character based on a real Captain.
Overall, this was simply lovely. It took me a while to read, but that was due to real life obstacles, not due to the story. I enjoyed reading and not hurrying through it. It gave me an appreciation for native Hawaiian culture, with many authentic details. The story was told in first person POV. It was primarily told from the POV of the heroine, Maile, but each chapter was tail-ended with a journal entry of the hero, John Harbottle. This was nice because it gave both POV.
It was a sweet read, with only a couple kisses shared towards the end of the novel. The romance was a slow burn, where the love shared between the protagonists was built on a foundation of mutual trust. This was well done on the part of the author. I also appreciated how the cultural aspects were interwoven into the story. They were not interesting tidbits thrown in, rather they were tidbits important to the story arc.
I really liked the hero and heroine. The heroine was strong, smart, and very capable. The hero was open-minded, clever and caring. They made a great pair. Todd did justice to her ancestors. This was a satisfying read, with strong prose and great pacing. I will be on the look out for more by Ilima Todd.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Overall, this was simply lovely. It took me a while to read, but that was due to real life obstacles, not due to the story. I enjoyed reading and not hurrying through it. It gave me an appreciation for native Hawaiian culture, with many authentic details. The story was told in first person POV. It was primarily told from the POV of the heroine, Maile, but each chapter was tail-ended with a journal entry of the hero, John Harbottle. This was nice because it gave both POV.
It was a sweet read, with only a couple kisses shared towards the end of the novel. The romance was a slow burn, where the love shared between the protagonists was built on a foundation of mutual trust. This was well done on the part of the author. I also appreciated how the cultural aspects were interwoven into the story. They were not interesting tidbits thrown in, rather they were tidbits important to the story arc.
I really liked the hero and heroine. The heroine was strong, smart, and very capable. The hero was open-minded, clever and caring. They made a great pair. Todd did justice to her ancestors. This was a satisfying read, with strong prose and great pacing. I will be on the look out for more by Ilima Todd.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2020
$2.99 on Kindle 5/6/20
https://amzn.to/2YIIO8a
I loved the way the two perspectives of Maile and John were shared in this book- both in first person perspective, with Maile telling the story and John's through journal entries. Sometimes letters or journals in storytelling makes me hesitant, but the author used it very successfully here, with John's emotions coming out clearly, his sense of wonder over the fascinating culture, his struggles vulnerabilities. Maile has tones of Disney's Moana with her independence, love of the ocean, and loyalty to her people. The historical story has darker themes however, with culture clash, misunderstanding, war, death, and grief. I thought the author did such a good job balancing the strong elements of the book and weaving them together- character development, interesting history and culture of the Hawaiian people, action with the battle scenes, and significant moments between Maile and John. They are both working through the devastation of loss, but Maile especially is confused and overwhelmed as she grieves her fiancé, heals and protects John, defends her father, worries over her people and the future, and experiences kindness from John. I liked seeing the lighter moments between them when they make each other laugh and some playfulness come out. John coming to know the ocean in the special way that Maile does is profound to him and deepens their connection. Their romance is so sweet and genuine and heartfelt. I appreciated the lovely storytelling that made this book stand out and it's one I highly recommend!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
https://amzn.to/2YIIO8a
I loved the way the two perspectives of Maile and John were shared in this book- both in first person perspective, with Maile telling the story and John's through journal entries. Sometimes letters or journals in storytelling makes me hesitant, but the author used it very successfully here, with John's emotions coming out clearly, his sense of wonder over the fascinating culture, his struggles vulnerabilities. Maile has tones of Disney's Moana with her independence, love of the ocean, and loyalty to her people. The historical story has darker themes however, with culture clash, misunderstanding, war, death, and grief. I thought the author did such a good job balancing the strong elements of the book and weaving them together- character development, interesting history and culture of the Hawaiian people, action with the battle scenes, and significant moments between Maile and John. They are both working through the devastation of loss, but Maile especially is confused and overwhelmed as she grieves her fiancé, heals and protects John, defends her father, worries over her people and the future, and experiences kindness from John. I liked seeing the lighter moments between them when they make each other laugh and some playfulness come out. John coming to know the ocean in the special way that Maile does is profound to him and deepens their connection. Their romance is so sweet and genuine and heartfelt. I appreciated the lovely storytelling that made this book stand out and it's one I highly recommend!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
April 15, 2019
Just over a year ago, my husband and I were lucky enough to visit the Captain Cook monument on the Big Island of Hawaii. We hiked down in and spent several hours enjoying the beauty of the area and the clear, tropical waters and that's all I could picture as I read this beautifully written book.
Maile and John come from such different worlds. I loved how the story was told from Maile's first-person point-of-view, but also alternated with John's journal entries. The writing probably isn't true to the late 1700s in terms of style, but it evoked such vivid images in my mind and was an intricate song of language that spoke to my soul. I loved learning more of the history and traditions in such a heartfelt, entertaining, and alluring way.
While the story is built around tragedy, hope rises up through the ruins and engages the heart. I loved this story--it's left a deep and lasting impression on me.
Content: mild+ violence (war, battles, death); mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Maile and John come from such different worlds. I loved how the story was told from Maile's first-person point-of-view, but also alternated with John's journal entries. The writing probably isn't true to the late 1700s in terms of style, but it evoked such vivid images in my mind and was an intricate song of language that spoke to my soul. I loved learning more of the history and traditions in such a heartfelt, entertaining, and alluring way.
While the story is built around tragedy, hope rises up through the ruins and engages the heart. I loved this story--it's left a deep and lasting impression on me.
Content: mild+ violence (war, battles, death); mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
April 9, 2019
This story was so lovely. I felt transported to another place and time and my heart expanded with every turn of the page. Knowing that this story was based on the true story of the author's ancestors made it even more intriguing. The whole story felt fresh and new- so unlike all the other books I've been reading lately.
The Hawaiian people have such a rich history. Their culture and customs have always fascinated me. Imagine being from another continent and country and coming across these people for the first time in history. This book sparked all kinds of thoughts in my mind.
I love the feeling of being caught up in a story and not wanting to put it down. This book reads so beautifully and I just loved it. The emotional feelings were all there along with the flutters in my tummy at the slightest touch of a pinky finger. I feel fortunate to have been able to read this book. It's one of my favorites this year so far.
Content: some violence, death, peril.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
The Hawaiian people have such a rich history. Their culture and customs have always fascinated me. Imagine being from another continent and country and coming across these people for the first time in history. This book sparked all kinds of thoughts in my mind.
I love the feeling of being caught up in a story and not wanting to put it down. This book reads so beautifully and I just loved it. The emotional feelings were all there along with the flutters in my tummy at the slightest touch of a pinky finger. I feel fortunate to have been able to read this book. It's one of my favorites this year so far.
Content: some violence, death, peril.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 19, 2019
"A Song for the Stars" is the story of Maile, daughter of a Hawaiian chief, and John, the translator for the famous Captain James Cook. Both of them are from very different worlds with very different cultures. At first, neither one really understands each other. Through a series of events and misunderstandings, they are thrown together in ways that they can't begin to understand.
The relationship between Maile and John was so interesting to watch unfold. Both of them start out knowing nothing about each other's culture at all so they teach each other. Neither one of them can believe that they're forming a tenuous friendship (but a friendship nonetheless) with each other. It will astonish their family and friends and it may even push them away but they can't help it. I really liked the addition of John's journal entries, which give us a lot of insight into what he's feeling and going through at different parts in the book.
The book takes place in the late 1700s when European explorers roamed the earth finding "new" lands. I loved all of the detail that the author infused into the story. I love reading about Hawaii - it truly has amazing history but I think this might be one of the first books that I have ever read that was set during this time period. I love how the author captured the friction between the Hawaiians and the Europeans.
Overall, this was an interesting read with a lot of good detail!
The relationship between Maile and John was so interesting to watch unfold. Both of them start out knowing nothing about each other's culture at all so they teach each other. Neither one of them can believe that they're forming a tenuous friendship (but a friendship nonetheless) with each other. It will astonish their family and friends and it may even push them away but they can't help it. I really liked the addition of John's journal entries, which give us a lot of insight into what he's feeling and going through at different parts in the book.
The book takes place in the late 1700s when European explorers roamed the earth finding "new" lands. I loved all of the detail that the author infused into the story. I love reading about Hawaii - it truly has amazing history but I think this might be one of the first books that I have ever read that was set during this time period. I love how the author captured the friction between the Hawaiians and the Europeans.
Overall, this was an interesting read with a lot of good detail!
February 25, 2019
This was a beautiful story!
First I have to say, how amazing it is for the author to have a record of her ancestors and how they met. My ancestors were so poor they never learned how to read and write. I only have their names because of the excellent way the Catholic church keeps records.
Back to the story. It took me a couple of chapters to warm up to the format (journal entries alternating with 1st person present tense), but I was soon intrigued and couldn't put it down.
The setting is amazing, the customs and language too, as well as the history between the English sailors and the Hawaiian people. The way the two main characters met and formed a relationship kept me reading and wanting more. John and Maile complemented each other so well, and even their faults worked for their good.
This is a story I won't soon forget.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
First I have to say, how amazing it is for the author to have a record of her ancestors and how they met. My ancestors were so poor they never learned how to read and write. I only have their names because of the excellent way the Catholic church keeps records.
Back to the story. It took me a couple of chapters to warm up to the format (journal entries alternating with 1st person present tense), but I was soon intrigued and couldn't put it down.
The setting is amazing, the customs and language too, as well as the history between the English sailors and the Hawaiian people. The way the two main characters met and formed a relationship kept me reading and wanting more. John and Maile complemented each other so well, and even their faults worked for their good.
This is a story I won't soon forget.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
June 15, 2019
This is a very touching book that is based on facts. I found myself crying several times and I read the book in one sitting. I just couldn't put it down! I wanted to know how this would end! If you don't want to know some of the things that happen skip the next paragraph and see how it makes you feel!
John and Maile( daughter of chief of the island) meet under not so good circumstances! John killed Maile's fiance. When John gets hurt, Maile takes him to a secluded area of the island. She has such a kind, good and stubborn heart. She wants to kill him or let him die of his wounds (that she accidentally gave him). But it is not in her nature and she is facinated to see that John wants to understand her culture. They form a sort of friendship/frenemy relationship. When he is healed enough, he finds her home area and again he is captured. But Maile won't let him be killed and when Maile's father hears John out and offers to help their island from an oncoming war with another island, Maile is furious. She doesn't want for her people to use guns. But to her father the chief, she is just a girl. But she is so very wise and compassionate, she just wants to be heard.
I love the way they dance around their feelings for each other. She is tasked to teach him how to navigate without the navigation tools that were taken. After all, he is the only one who can communicate with Maile's people. So they spend a lot of time together and John becomes totally and willingly engrossed in their culture. He listens and trusts Maile! Maile trusts John too.
I can't begin to describe this book and the way you feel the culture and how important family is to these islanders from Hawaii! You start to feel as if you are there and watching it all and feeling what the author is describing. I feel the humidity, the ocean waves and the movement of the water. I feel the bang of the guns and want to drop to the ground myself. I feel the love that the people feel for each other and the influence even Maile has over them. I feel the tide coming in and out, the rocking of the canoes, the sadness of a person lost, and how Maile's sister plays with her hair and relaxes her. I feel the love the sisters have for each other. I feel the love and joy of the first kiss from Maile and John and I feel the heart beating when they first touch fingers by mistake and then not by mistake. Ugh, it is a beautifully written book that just makes you feel all kinds of good and happy! Read it, you won't regret it!
If you like Hawaii, cliffs, war and strategy, working together in a culture, the ocean, the constellations, whales, dolphins, brothers who are doing what brothers do and that is to annoy you, learning how to use a gun, journalling, flowers, protecting your way of life and finding love with someone who is so different from you and yet so full of life like you, then this book is for you!
I got this book from the net galley for review but I need to buy a paperback of my own for the pictures and to reread it and then share it with others!
John and Maile( daughter of chief of the island) meet under not so good circumstances! John killed Maile's fiance. When John gets hurt, Maile takes him to a secluded area of the island. She has such a kind, good and stubborn heart. She wants to kill him or let him die of his wounds (that she accidentally gave him). But it is not in her nature and she is facinated to see that John wants to understand her culture. They form a sort of friendship/frenemy relationship. When he is healed enough, he finds her home area and again he is captured. But Maile won't let him be killed and when Maile's father hears John out and offers to help their island from an oncoming war with another island, Maile is furious. She doesn't want for her people to use guns. But to her father the chief, she is just a girl. But she is so very wise and compassionate, she just wants to be heard.
I love the way they dance around their feelings for each other. She is tasked to teach him how to navigate without the navigation tools that were taken. After all, he is the only one who can communicate with Maile's people. So they spend a lot of time together and John becomes totally and willingly engrossed in their culture. He listens and trusts Maile! Maile trusts John too.
I can't begin to describe this book and the way you feel the culture and how important family is to these islanders from Hawaii! You start to feel as if you are there and watching it all and feeling what the author is describing. I feel the humidity, the ocean waves and the movement of the water. I feel the bang of the guns and want to drop to the ground myself. I feel the love that the people feel for each other and the influence even Maile has over them. I feel the tide coming in and out, the rocking of the canoes, the sadness of a person lost, and how Maile's sister plays with her hair and relaxes her. I feel the love the sisters have for each other. I feel the love and joy of the first kiss from Maile and John and I feel the heart beating when they first touch fingers by mistake and then not by mistake. Ugh, it is a beautifully written book that just makes you feel all kinds of good and happy! Read it, you won't regret it!
If you like Hawaii, cliffs, war and strategy, working together in a culture, the ocean, the constellations, whales, dolphins, brothers who are doing what brothers do and that is to annoy you, learning how to use a gun, journalling, flowers, protecting your way of life and finding love with someone who is so different from you and yet so full of life like you, then this book is for you!
I got this book from the net galley for review but I need to buy a paperback of my own for the pictures and to reread it and then share it with others!
May 23, 2023
I'm not really sure how to start off this review. But I'll make an attempt.
The author states that this story is based of her own family story and she also was born and raised in Hawai'i, so this is an #ownvoices novel. I'm not going to discredit that, I'm just going to present this review as someone who is also a kānaka maoli - a person of Native Hawaiian ancestry and blood - #ownvoices perspective of it.
The romance of this story between Maile and John Harbottle gives me a bit of concern as to the way it is written. John's portrayal suffers a bit too much from the Mighty Whitey trope. In fact, it's almost spot on. John is a translator for Captain Cook's crew and through an incident ends up having to live among them. Maile, who is the chief's daughter, takes care of him and ends up falling in love with him. And through John's connection and the only person that understands our people, somehow becomes the spokesperson for them and helps lead them to victory against an opposing ali'i that wants to invade their island. Not to mention in his journal entries it is always set up as a comparison between his people and the Natives, which further lends substance to the Mighty Whitey trope.
Also Captain James Cook was a terrible person in Hawaiian history. Look it up. I don't have time to elaborate or educate because this review would be a novel in and of itself.
I did not particularly care for the scenes where Maile is teaching John how to navigate the ocean via the stars. It goes into some overly we are mystical, spiritual type of deal. I'll show you this through an excerpt where he's describing how it feels to be in the ocean:
"She's cold from the absence of the sun. Of hours spent in the dark. Alone. Without his warmth. But he greets her on the horizon, a sunrise kiss." He pauses. "She's reluctant at first, still cold, still lonely. But he persists, and she can't help but greet him with an embrace, letting his warmth seep into her. Slowly, but steadily."
Omg, what? Just why? This is too much.
The actual aspect of Ancient Hawaiian life is done well, including for the parts she changed for the purpose of the story. However, I wonder why she did not use the story of Hāloa instead, when Maile talks about a stillborn baby being placed into ground and a tree blooming from the spot. In Hāloa's story it is kalo, the staple food in Hawaiian diet. From there when the mother becomes pregnant again, she names the baby that is born Hāloa after the first one that died.
It really bugged me when Hawaiian is constantly written as "Hawai'ian". Hawaiian is purely anglicized creation, so the correct way to write it is Hawaiian. If you really wanted to emphasize the Hawai'i with the correct diacriticals, then wouldn't you write it as ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi?
Also, if John was the translator because he was able to understand the gist of Hawaiian through contact with other Polynesian cultures, wouldn't he have an accent or a difficult time expressing himself at certain points? Although there are some areas of similarities, the languages are entirely different. Just because you understood one Polynesian languages, doesn't mean he'll be perfectly adept at another.
Furthermore, Hawaiian was still an oral language by the time this story takes place. The written language wasn't put into print until 1822, so John would not have known how to write down Hawaiian words or even the word Hawaiian. I mean, I don't want to be a stickler but since this is framed as an actual historical romance and not a fantasy, there is no leeway for these kind of things.
Why do they only really reference the ocean as a she? Sure, Nāmaka is a sea goddess but the ruler of the oceans is Kanaloa, a god (male) who is one of the four principal figures seen in Hawaiian religion. I wonder why there was no invocation of him? He's also associated with long voyages which was what Maile was trying to teach him? But I digress.
The death of Ikaika was not done well. I did not feel that Maile's reaction to the death of her intended who she's known practically all her life was genuine, especially when John was the one to kill him. Like this is a HUGE thing but not much weight is lent to it. If she can get over him and fall in love with someone else in the span of a few weeks, then why am I supposed to believe her ensuing romance? She doesn't struggle that much with her grief and makes her relationship with John that much more shallow and hollow.
I'm so happy that there was a story written about the Hawaiian people, from someone who's descended from us, instead of culture vultures exploiting our history and people for a quick profit. I just could not mesh with the story.
The author states that this story is based of her own family story and she also was born and raised in Hawai'i, so this is an #ownvoices novel. I'm not going to discredit that, I'm just going to present this review as someone who is also a kānaka maoli - a person of Native Hawaiian ancestry and blood - #ownvoices perspective of it.
The romance of this story between Maile and John Harbottle gives me a bit of concern as to the way it is written. John's portrayal suffers a bit too much from the Mighty Whitey trope. In fact, it's almost spot on. John is a translator for Captain Cook's crew and through an incident ends up having to live among them. Maile, who is the chief's daughter, takes care of him and ends up falling in love with him. And through John's connection and the only person that understands our people, somehow becomes the spokesperson for them and helps lead them to victory against an opposing ali'i that wants to invade their island. Not to mention in his journal entries it is always set up as a comparison between his people and the Natives, which further lends substance to the Mighty Whitey trope.
Also Captain James Cook was a terrible person in Hawaiian history. Look it up. I don't have time to elaborate or educate because this review would be a novel in and of itself.
I did not particularly care for the scenes where Maile is teaching John how to navigate the ocean via the stars. It goes into some overly we are mystical, spiritual type of deal. I'll show you this through an excerpt where he's describing how it feels to be in the ocean:
"She's cold from the absence of the sun. Of hours spent in the dark. Alone. Without his warmth. But he greets her on the horizon, a sunrise kiss." He pauses. "She's reluctant at first, still cold, still lonely. But he persists, and she can't help but greet him with an embrace, letting his warmth seep into her. Slowly, but steadily."
Omg, what? Just why? This is too much.
The actual aspect of Ancient Hawaiian life is done well, including for the parts she changed for the purpose of the story. However, I wonder why she did not use the story of Hāloa instead, when Maile talks about a stillborn baby being placed into ground and a tree blooming from the spot. In Hāloa's story it is kalo, the staple food in Hawaiian diet. From there when the mother becomes pregnant again, she names the baby that is born Hāloa after the first one that died.
It really bugged me when Hawaiian is constantly written as "Hawai'ian". Hawaiian is purely anglicized creation, so the correct way to write it is Hawaiian. If you really wanted to emphasize the Hawai'i with the correct diacriticals, then wouldn't you write it as ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi?
Also, if John was the translator because he was able to understand the gist of Hawaiian through contact with other Polynesian cultures, wouldn't he have an accent or a difficult time expressing himself at certain points? Although there are some areas of similarities, the languages are entirely different. Just because you understood one Polynesian languages, doesn't mean he'll be perfectly adept at another.
Furthermore, Hawaiian was still an oral language by the time this story takes place. The written language wasn't put into print until 1822, so John would not have known how to write down Hawaiian words or even the word Hawaiian. I mean, I don't want to be a stickler but since this is framed as an actual historical romance and not a fantasy, there is no leeway for these kind of things.
Why do they only really reference the ocean as a she? Sure, Nāmaka is a sea goddess but the ruler of the oceans is Kanaloa, a god (male) who is one of the four principal figures seen in Hawaiian religion. I wonder why there was no invocation of him? He's also associated with long voyages which was what Maile was trying to teach him? But I digress.
The death of Ikaika was not done well. I did not feel that Maile's reaction to the death of her intended who she's known practically all her life was genuine, especially when John was the one to kill him. Like this is a HUGE thing but not much weight is lent to it. If she can get over him and fall in love with someone else in the span of a few weeks, then why am I supposed to believe her ensuing romance? She doesn't struggle that much with her grief and makes her relationship with John that much more shallow and hollow.
I'm so happy that there was a story written about the Hawaiian people, from someone who's descended from us, instead of culture vultures exploiting our history and people for a quick profit. I just could not mesh with the story.
April 19, 2019
This is a beautiful book. The cover is stunning and a nice compliment to the book. The descriptions are beautifully done and give and artistry to the story.
John and Maile are two characters that you love from the start. Their cultures are different and that divide caused misunderstandings and heartache. Maile showed her character when she decided to help instead of killing the man who shot her betrothed. I loved how her struggle was described in the book. The book is mainly told from her point of view with short journal entries describing John's thoughts and feelings.
I loved reading the rich culture of the Hawaiian people before the inundation of the white man. Learning of their Gods, tribal politics, and how the family of the Chief was treated with respect and honor.
Another aspect that I loved is that this is loosely based on the author's ancestors. It adds to a story when the author feels a connection to the people and places. As I stated above, this is a beautiful book that I am grateful I had the opportunity to read.
The book contains non-graphic war violence.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
John and Maile are two characters that you love from the start. Their cultures are different and that divide caused misunderstandings and heartache. Maile showed her character when she decided to help instead of killing the man who shot her betrothed. I loved how her struggle was described in the book. The book is mainly told from her point of view with short journal entries describing John's thoughts and feelings.
I loved reading the rich culture of the Hawaiian people before the inundation of the white man. Learning of their Gods, tribal politics, and how the family of the Chief was treated with respect and honor.
Another aspect that I loved is that this is loosely based on the author's ancestors. It adds to a story when the author feels a connection to the people and places. As I stated above, this is a beautiful book that I am grateful I had the opportunity to read.
The book contains non-graphic war violence.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
December 9, 2019
This is Historical Fiction set in Hawaii in the late 1700's. I liked reading about the cultural part of this as well as the history. After Captain James Cook was killed in a battle, this story essentially starts. What I had a hard time with was the romance. I couldn't believe it. I couldn't see it. It made little sense to me. The MC, Maile, went from mourning the death of her soon-to-be husband and falls in love with the guy who killed him. I needed to see some epiphany where that would be plausible and that it wasn't just because of good looks, but I never got that info to seal the deal. So 2 or 3 stars...that is he question.
August 19, 2019
I loved everything about this book. The diversity. The setting. The characters and connection to the author's history.
October 20, 2022
My infinite appreciation for this tale may be disproportionate because of my love and fascination for Hawai'i, its culture, and its people.
I would have liked to be able to give more stars than those available here, and possibly still more than there are in the sky. Aloha!
I would have liked to be able to give more stars than those available here, and possibly still more than there are in the sky. Aloha!
May 27, 2019
This book was such an unexpected treasure. I admit I didn’t put it at the top of my reading list at first, but now I wish I’d read it sooner. It’s Disney’s Moana meets Pocahontas in this gripping tale of two worlds colliding on the shores of Hawaii.
Maile is a strong and determined protagonist. She is an exceptional navigator, smart leader, fierce protector, and has a good heart. I loved watching her change and grow in her interactions with John Harbottle. His journal entries gave a special insight into his thoughts and feelings while reading the book from Maile’s perspective. Their love story was sweet and so tender!
I never thought I’d learn so much about the culture and time period of Hawaii in this book. The details and history I learned were incredibly woven into the story, and helped me to really picture the beautiful setting.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait to read more by this author!!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Maile is a strong and determined protagonist. She is an exceptional navigator, smart leader, fierce protector, and has a good heart. I loved watching her change and grow in her interactions with John Harbottle. His journal entries gave a special insight into his thoughts and feelings while reading the book from Maile’s perspective. Their love story was sweet and so tender!
I never thought I’d learn so much about the culture and time period of Hawaii in this book. The details and history I learned were incredibly woven into the story, and helped me to really picture the beautiful setting.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait to read more by this author!!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
October 5, 2020
Fun, historical fiction with a love story also based on a true story. Not much more to say other than I’d like to go to Hawaii now.
Read
October 17, 2022Books shelved as historical romances don’t often make it to my to-read list, but I read so many good reviews of this book that I thought I’d give it a try. (It helps that some of the reviews mentioned battles.) The love story was sweet and I really enjoyed the historical details about Hawaiian culture, especially their navigation techniques. The book is set shortly after James Cook lands in the Hawaiian Islands in his search for the Northwest Passage, giving Hawaiians their first brush with foreigners. Per the author’s notes, much of the timeline is condensed, but the story is based on real events, and on real people—the hero and heroine are the author’s ancestors. 4+ stars.
May 7, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. The way it is told, is very enjoyable. I loved the two perspectives of Maile and John. John's was told in journal form, the pages in the book even reflected that. A very nice touch. Maile is wonderful. Such a strong, ambitious leader in so many ways. The story is lovely and the setting itself is a character. I loved the author's descriptions of the ways of the Hawaiians, their cultures and beliefs. I didn't want the book to end.
April 26, 2019
I loved this book. I read Todd's Remake books and enjoyed them, but this one was so much better than them. I loved the imagery that flows through her writing. I was there. I loved learning about Hawai'ian traditions and culture. It was beautiful.
March 25, 2019
Loved this novel! Beautiful writing and images that linger characterize this unique historical love story. The characters reveal themselves as big-hearted, upright, confused, and yet kind as they seek to bridge two worlds. Though they stumble and cause pain, they ultimately find understanding and love. Hawaiian culture and thinking suffused the story and did not feel like a tacked on history lesson. The author simply pulled me into this lovely world, and I did not want to leave!
Thanks to Ilima Todd, NetGalley, and Shadow Mountain Publishers for the opportunity to read this book.
Quotes I liked . . .
“But it doesn’t feel like home anymore . . . The wind hasn’t just shifted. It’s a new wind altogether. I don’t know how to decipher this wind. I don’t know the pictures in this sky, or the pattern of this water. Nothing I’ve been taught will help me navigate this new world. One with strange weapons, new languages, foreign clothing.”
“Time moves slowly, but I am patient and wait. I spot a pod of dolphins in the distance, gently gliding through the water with a speed I could only dream of. The clouds drift slowly in little puffs; the winds are calm. And the sun . . . He is happy today, spreading his warmth to everything he touches. I wonder what the sun feels like in England. If their clouds and skies and seas are similar to ours. I know nothing of the world beyond our shores, and for a moment, I feel silly teaching a man about observing nature when he’s observed more things in his life than our people could ever imagine.”
“That’s what Maile does. She tells me things I least expect and teaches me things I never even considered. She expands my limitations, allowing me to learn so much more than I thought possible. It makes me feel naïve, amazed, and blessed all at the same time.”
“Observation is an art—Maile has taught me this over the last weeks. You can’t simply look around at your surroundings and expect to know all there is to know about where you are. You must slow down, pause, let the signs of the world come to you. You can’t force it. And it takes practice, a lot of practice. But if you’re patient, the world will reveal all its secrets. You can use that information to chart your course, to plan your journey. But when I try to observe Maile herself, none of the rules of nature seem to apply.”
“But she is in the stars I try to read. She’s in the wind of our sails and in the water that surrounds us. I’ve discovered the problem with learning to observe everything in nature—it means I am aware of her, always, because she is in all of it.”
“What I mean to say is, sometimes we do terrible things, make terrible choices, but it doesn’t mean the circumstances of our lives are destined to become terrible as well. It reminds me of what Maile told me on our first day of navigational training, when she made me sit in a pool of water all day: having gone through the trial, we become stronger than we were before.”
“I see that same capacity in Maile. Not just to love, but to understand, to trust. I feel like a line is forming again, a barrier of protection in the sand that will help define our peoples’ relationship and widen our understanding of each other. It gives me hope that we can make our way back from the indignation born in our recent battle to find a semblance of peace we can all accept. My only desire is that neither I nor my men make a choice that will erase that line again.”
“We both want peace but don’t always know how to find it. I’m surprised how willing Maile is to find that peace, even after all my men have done—after all I did. She is truly royal, looking beyond herself for what is best for her people. We both appreciate beauty in the things around us. I’ve been so moved by the beauty of this island, this Eden reincarnated, that I know I will never be the same again. But the natives don’t take it for granted, either. Though this is all they’ve known, they understand that this place is special. In fact, they may have mastered the appreciation of beauty more than we ever will.”
Thanks to Ilima Todd, NetGalley, and Shadow Mountain Publishers for the opportunity to read this book.
Quotes I liked . . .
“But it doesn’t feel like home anymore . . . The wind hasn’t just shifted. It’s a new wind altogether. I don’t know how to decipher this wind. I don’t know the pictures in this sky, or the pattern of this water. Nothing I’ve been taught will help me navigate this new world. One with strange weapons, new languages, foreign clothing.”
“Time moves slowly, but I am patient and wait. I spot a pod of dolphins in the distance, gently gliding through the water with a speed I could only dream of. The clouds drift slowly in little puffs; the winds are calm. And the sun . . . He is happy today, spreading his warmth to everything he touches. I wonder what the sun feels like in England. If their clouds and skies and seas are similar to ours. I know nothing of the world beyond our shores, and for a moment, I feel silly teaching a man about observing nature when he’s observed more things in his life than our people could ever imagine.”
“That’s what Maile does. She tells me things I least expect and teaches me things I never even considered. She expands my limitations, allowing me to learn so much more than I thought possible. It makes me feel naïve, amazed, and blessed all at the same time.”
“Observation is an art—Maile has taught me this over the last weeks. You can’t simply look around at your surroundings and expect to know all there is to know about where you are. You must slow down, pause, let the signs of the world come to you. You can’t force it. And it takes practice, a lot of practice. But if you’re patient, the world will reveal all its secrets. You can use that information to chart your course, to plan your journey. But when I try to observe Maile herself, none of the rules of nature seem to apply.”
“But she is in the stars I try to read. She’s in the wind of our sails and in the water that surrounds us. I’ve discovered the problem with learning to observe everything in nature—it means I am aware of her, always, because she is in all of it.”
“What I mean to say is, sometimes we do terrible things, make terrible choices, but it doesn’t mean the circumstances of our lives are destined to become terrible as well. It reminds me of what Maile told me on our first day of navigational training, when she made me sit in a pool of water all day: having gone through the trial, we become stronger than we were before.”
“I see that same capacity in Maile. Not just to love, but to understand, to trust. I feel like a line is forming again, a barrier of protection in the sand that will help define our peoples’ relationship and widen our understanding of each other. It gives me hope that we can make our way back from the indignation born in our recent battle to find a semblance of peace we can all accept. My only desire is that neither I nor my men make a choice that will erase that line again.”
“We both want peace but don’t always know how to find it. I’m surprised how willing Maile is to find that peace, even after all my men have done—after all I did. She is truly royal, looking beyond herself for what is best for her people. We both appreciate beauty in the things around us. I’ve been so moved by the beauty of this island, this Eden reincarnated, that I know I will never be the same again. But the natives don’t take it for granted, either. Though this is all they’ve known, they understand that this place is special. In fact, they may have mastered the appreciation of beauty more than we ever will.”
July 30, 2019
Anyone who enjoyed the Disney movie Moana needs to read this book. I was so interested in the setting of ancient Hawaii and the traditions of the people who live there. It was especially fun to read about the author's ancestors and how they fell in love. I thought that Todd did an excellent job of weaving historical bits into the love story.
The character of Maile is fierce and has something to teach all of us as we read about lessons she learns while training a white man to navigate as the Hawaiians did. I loved the interaction of family members and reading about Hawaiian royalty and customs.
I love how the reader discovers the meaning behind the title of the book through character interactions and dialogue.
This proper romance was different than the rest because of the setting, but fits right in line with a clean and wholesome romance that is sure to please all ages
The character of Maile is fierce and has something to teach all of us as we read about lessons she learns while training a white man to navigate as the Hawaiians did. I loved the interaction of family members and reading about Hawaiian royalty and customs.
I love how the reader discovers the meaning behind the title of the book through character interactions and dialogue.
This proper romance was different than the rest because of the setting, but fits right in line with a clean and wholesome romance that is sure to please all ages
April 27, 2019
This was a beautifully told story, one that nicely blends historical fact and fiction, giving a fascinating peek into early Hawaiian life and culture. Excellent character development. Occasionally some of the dialogue felt a little too modern but really nothing that took away from this being a very enjoyable read. Love the cover!
December 28, 2018
Maile is relieved when James Cook and his sailors leave her beloved Hawaiian island; while most of her people believed Cook to be their god, Lono, Maile wasn't convinced and is glad the men are gone. However, the men soon return--and the islanders aren't so welcoming this time. A battle ensues, and Maile's fiancé Ikaika is killed by one of Cook's men; Maile takes that same man hostage when her life is threatened.
John Harbottle has quickly come to appreciate Hawai'i and its people, so he is sickened by the battle and the deaths, particularly the one he caused. Although he killed to protect his captain, he doesn't want any more conflict between the people. Although Maile is wary of him at first, she reluctantly cares for him throughout his healing process. His genuine kindness and interest in her people show Maile there is much more to him than simply being her enemy.
This book was lovely, made even better by the fact that it's inspired by a true story. It was so interesting to see how the native Hawaiians viewed the Europeans and to learn more about their life and culture. The backdrop for the story (both the setting and the plot elements) was really beautiful, and then seeing John and Maile's growing feelings was just fantastic. I loved how it moved slowly, from wariness to appreciation to friendship to love, and I really enjoyed the teasing between Maile and John. This was just a highly enjoyable story from start to finish.
5 stars. One of my picks for the best of 2019.
I read an ARC via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
John Harbottle has quickly come to appreciate Hawai'i and its people, so he is sickened by the battle and the deaths, particularly the one he caused. Although he killed to protect his captain, he doesn't want any more conflict between the people. Although Maile is wary of him at first, she reluctantly cares for him throughout his healing process. His genuine kindness and interest in her people show Maile there is much more to him than simply being her enemy.
This book was lovely, made even better by the fact that it's inspired by a true story. It was so interesting to see how the native Hawaiians viewed the Europeans and to learn more about their life and culture. The backdrop for the story (both the setting and the plot elements) was really beautiful, and then seeing John and Maile's growing feelings was just fantastic. I loved how it moved slowly, from wariness to appreciation to friendship to love, and I really enjoyed the teasing between Maile and John. This was just a highly enjoyable story from start to finish.
5 stars. One of my picks for the best of 2019.
I read an ARC via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
April 8, 2019
What an absolute delight from start to finish. A Song for the Stars is based on factual events that occurred in Hawai'i in the late 1700s. Why don't they teach these things in schools? I would have loved to have learned about the true history of Hawai'i in school, the exploration of it, etc. If only the settlers had brought peace with a desire to learn more about culture instead of war. But, that's another story.
A Song for the Stars follows the complicated story between Maile and John Harbottle (both fictional, to my very great disappointment). Maile is the chief's 2nd daughter, meaning she is allowed to marry for love(!) instead of political alliance. John is an explorer and translator sailing with James Cook (actual historical human), attempting to find the Northwest Passage. Initial landfall by the sailors occurs during a time of peace, but an incident with their ship causes them to turn back and the second landfall occurs during a time of war. BIG mistake y'all.
War ensues. (ACTUAL EVENT!)
John becomes responsible for killing Maile's fiance in the battle and she takes him as her prisoner. Does anyone else feel the tension building? Wounded prisoner with nowhere to go? Mortal enemies? Supposedly insurmountable odds?
They continue to form a tenuous bond while she heals him (repeatedly), teaches him to navigate the stars, and he offers his company's help in another conflict. I loved the back and forth throughout the book, the way they develop a trust and a mutual respect between them. How their cultures are weaved together and appreciated by the other. How they truly try to understand one another.
A Song for the Stars is out now, and I highly encourage you to pick it up. It will teach you a bit about Hawaiian history, their beautiful culture, and give you an amazing love story to boot.
Thank you to the publisher and marketing over at Shadow Mountain Publishing for sending me an ARC!
A Song for the Stars follows the complicated story between Maile and John Harbottle (
War ensues. (ACTUAL EVENT!)
John becomes responsible for killing Maile's fiance in the battle and she takes him as her prisoner. Does anyone else feel the tension building? Wounded prisoner with nowhere to go? Mortal enemies? Supposedly insurmountable odds?
They continue to form a tenuous bond while she heals him (
A Song for the Stars is out now, and I highly encourage you to pick it up. It will teach you a bit about Hawaiian history, their beautiful culture, and give you an amazing love story to boot.
Thank you to the publisher and marketing over at Shadow Mountain Publishing for sending me an ARC!
April 19, 2019
WHAT IT'S ABOUT
As the second daughter of a royal chief, Maile will be permitted to marry for love. Her fiancé is the best navigator in Hawaiʻi, and he taught her everything he knows—how to feel the ocean, observe the winds, read the stars, and how to love.
But when sailors from a strange place called England arrive on her island, a misunderstanding ends in battle, and Maile is suddenly widowed before she is wed.
Finding herself in the middle of the battle and fearing for her life, Maile takes John Harbottle, the wounded man who killed her fiancé, prisoner, and though originally intending to let him die, she reluctantly heals him. And in the process, she discovers the man she thought was her enemy might be her ally instead.
John has been Captain James Cook’s translator for three voyages across the Pacific. He is kind and clearly fascinated with her homeland and her people—and Maile herself. But guilt continues to drive a wedge between them: John’s guilt over the death he caused, and Maile’s guilt over the truth about what triggered the deadly battle—a secret she’s kept hidden from everyone on the island.
When Maile is tasked with teaching John how to navigate using the stars so he can sail back to England, they must also navigate the challenges of being from very different cultures. In doing so, they might also find the peace that comes when two hearts become one.
MY TAKE
*sigh*
I loved this story so much! My daughter and nearly half of my grandkids live in Hawaii, so I've come to love this beautiful place and its culture. In this story, as Maile teaches John how to navigate she also educates him about her culture and herself. It was a wonderful way to introduce readers who aren't familiar with it.
John himself is a treasure. On his own, he'd already been learning the Hawaiian language enough to serve as intrepreter for his captain. John was open in ways that arrogant people coming upon a culture they considered primitive and inferior normally weren't. He had a thirst for knowledge that made him teachable. I don't know many people today who would have been receptive to the idea of lying in a calm ocean pool all day just to learn to understand, to learn to feel--and listen to--the ocean.
Maile was feisty and independent. I don't know many women in her situation (faced with saving the man who'd killed her beloved fiance in a battle) who would have preserved his life. But Maile was receptive too and was able to see the man. And their romance was sweet and followed their growing friendship.
As the second daughter of a royal chief, Maile will be permitted to marry for love. Her fiancé is the best navigator in Hawaiʻi, and he taught her everything he knows—how to feel the ocean, observe the winds, read the stars, and how to love.
But when sailors from a strange place called England arrive on her island, a misunderstanding ends in battle, and Maile is suddenly widowed before she is wed.
Finding herself in the middle of the battle and fearing for her life, Maile takes John Harbottle, the wounded man who killed her fiancé, prisoner, and though originally intending to let him die, she reluctantly heals him. And in the process, she discovers the man she thought was her enemy might be her ally instead.
John has been Captain James Cook’s translator for three voyages across the Pacific. He is kind and clearly fascinated with her homeland and her people—and Maile herself. But guilt continues to drive a wedge between them: John’s guilt over the death he caused, and Maile’s guilt over the truth about what triggered the deadly battle—a secret she’s kept hidden from everyone on the island.
When Maile is tasked with teaching John how to navigate using the stars so he can sail back to England, they must also navigate the challenges of being from very different cultures. In doing so, they might also find the peace that comes when two hearts become one.
MY TAKE
*sigh*
I loved this story so much! My daughter and nearly half of my grandkids live in Hawaii, so I've come to love this beautiful place and its culture. In this story, as Maile teaches John how to navigate she also educates him about her culture and herself. It was a wonderful way to introduce readers who aren't familiar with it.
John himself is a treasure. On his own, he'd already been learning the Hawaiian language enough to serve as intrepreter for his captain. John was open in ways that arrogant people coming upon a culture they considered primitive and inferior normally weren't. He had a thirst for knowledge that made him teachable. I don't know many people today who would have been receptive to the idea of lying in a calm ocean pool all day just to learn to understand, to learn to feel--and listen to--the ocean.
Maile was feisty and independent. I don't know many women in her situation (faced with saving the man who'd killed her beloved fiance in a battle) who would have preserved his life. But Maile was receptive too and was able to see the man. And their romance was sweet and followed their growing friendship.
April 26, 2022
I wasn't sure what to expect going into this story but I quickly became engrossed in Maile's seemingly ideal island life...until things go terribly wrong. Suddenly her future is upended and the simple, predictable rhythms of village life are tragically distorted by fear, rage...and hate.
A stunning historical novel set in an era and a location that I know very little about save some vague memories from grade school history classes about explorers. It's brimming with vibrant descriptions of the culture and geography -- and what makes it extra special is that the author has taken inspiration from her very own ancestor's story to create this one!
I'm grappling over what to say in a review without giving anything away (and, personally, I think that book description is waaaay too detailed.) So what I will say is that I was riveted from the very first page. Emotionally engaged to the point that I felt like I lived each moment with these characters.
Action and romance and heartache aplenty. Along with the sheer wonderment of the world we get to see through Maile's eyes. There's such a reverence for family and tradition and living in harmony with nature. I came away from this read feeling awed and inspired.
A rich blend of historical facts and imaginative fiction.
Oh, and I listened to the audible edition narrated by Justine Eyre (one of my all time fave narrators!) Amazing performance and made the storytelling that much more enjoyable.
A stunning historical novel set in an era and a location that I know very little about save some vague memories from grade school history classes about explorers. It's brimming with vibrant descriptions of the culture and geography -- and what makes it extra special is that the author has taken inspiration from her very own ancestor's story to create this one!
I'm grappling over what to say in a review without giving anything away (and, personally, I think that book description is waaaay too detailed.) So what I will say is that I was riveted from the very first page. Emotionally engaged to the point that I felt like I lived each moment with these characters.
Action and romance and heartache aplenty. Along with the sheer wonderment of the world we get to see through Maile's eyes. There's such a reverence for family and tradition and living in harmony with nature. I came away from this read feeling awed and inspired.
A rich blend of historical facts and imaginative fiction.
Oh, and I listened to the audible edition narrated by Justine Eyre (one of my all time fave narrators!) Amazing performance and made the storytelling that much more enjoyable.
July 21, 2019
A Song for the Stars was such a wonderful mix of romance and historical fiction genres. They have always been some of my favorite genres to read. This "Proper Romance" is very different from the others in this series and it was as refreshing as a dip in the ocean waters. I'm blessed to have visited the Big Island of Hawaii. I was immediately transported back there through the beautiful words written by this author.
The novel is especially unique as it is based on a true story of Ilima Todd's Fourth Great-Grandparents John Harbottle and Papapaunauapu (or Maile for short). They formed one of the oldest hapa-haole (half-white, half-Hawaiian) families in the islands. You can tell the author put her whole heart and soul into the writing of this story based on her ancestors.
The story is told from the perspective of both Maile and journal entries from John. What a wonderful way to show the growth of their relationship from enemies to lovers! I truly loved both characters as they journeyed through the struggles of differences in cultures and their own obligations to their people and themselves.
This is such a lovely story that not only has a charming romance but also incredible details about the culture of the Hawaiian people. I loved this book and recommend it to teens and adults.
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The novel is especially unique as it is based on a true story of Ilima Todd's Fourth Great-Grandparents John Harbottle and Papapaunauapu (or Maile for short). They formed one of the oldest hapa-haole (half-white, half-Hawaiian) families in the islands. You can tell the author put her whole heart and soul into the writing of this story based on her ancestors.
The story is told from the perspective of both Maile and journal entries from John. What a wonderful way to show the growth of their relationship from enemies to lovers! I truly loved both characters as they journeyed through the struggles of differences in cultures and their own obligations to their people and themselves.
This is such a lovely story that not only has a charming romance but also incredible details about the culture of the Hawaiian people. I loved this book and recommend it to teens and adults.
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May 26, 2019
Romance, clean; period;
4.5 for me as a reader. This was a gorgeous, lush read, and so interesting as it was based on a family story. It is rich with the culture and history of the Hawaiian Islands, and so interesting! I loved learning more about that time period and traditional Hawaiian culture and traditions. The story is told from alternating points of view with Maile being the main point of view, and John's told though his journal entries.
Loved seeing Maile and John's friendship, and their care for each other. My favorite kind of romance is one with honest hearts. They are both honest, caring, and just trying to figure out their cultures and overcome the miscommunications and hurts they both have experienced.
Beautiful story, gorgeous lush setting and historical background, strong secondary characters, and bonus it is based on real people who lived and experienced this. I would love to peek into the real family history! Probably one of the best books I have read this spring/early summer. Highly recommend. I will definitely be looking to read more by this writer.
I received a review copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion.
4.5 for me as a reader. This was a gorgeous, lush read, and so interesting as it was based on a family story. It is rich with the culture and history of the Hawaiian Islands, and so interesting! I loved learning more about that time period and traditional Hawaiian culture and traditions. The story is told from alternating points of view with Maile being the main point of view, and John's told though his journal entries.
Loved seeing Maile and John's friendship, and their care for each other. My favorite kind of romance is one with honest hearts. They are both honest, caring, and just trying to figure out their cultures and overcome the miscommunications and hurts they both have experienced.
Beautiful story, gorgeous lush setting and historical background, strong secondary characters, and bonus it is based on real people who lived and experienced this. I would love to peek into the real family history! Probably one of the best books I have read this spring/early summer. Highly recommend. I will definitely be looking to read more by this writer.
I received a review copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion.
January 25, 2021
Hmm.
I thought this story was interesting mainly due to the setting and history. Hawaii's history is fascinating, and I really like the historical and cultural details in the story.
The author's note (and family connection to the story) was also very interesting and I'm glad that she included the historical bones of the fictionalized story.
However, as a romance and as a novel it left something to be desired. All of the characters felt two-dimensional (Maile's grief in particular) and the plot was very jerky.
Please give me better recommendations about Hawaiian history!!
I thought this story was interesting mainly due to the setting and history. Hawaii's history is fascinating, and I really like the historical and cultural details in the story.
The author's note (and family connection to the story) was also very interesting and I'm glad that she included the historical bones of the fictionalized story.
However, as a romance and as a novel it left something to be desired. All of the characters felt two-dimensional (Maile's grief in particular) and the plot was very jerky.
Please give me better recommendations about Hawaiian history!!
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