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Breath #3
Savage Island
Some people fall in love. Others fall through time.
The island of Niue, 1944. On this remote island, deep in the South Pacific, about 1,500 miles from its closest neighbor, it hardly feels like a war is on. Angelie, a 17-year-old Australian girl, is waiting out the war on the island, where warm tropical winds blow through her hair almost as gently as native islander Will Tongahai's eyes graze her body.
But the arrival of an African archaeologist and his German consort unsettle the inhabitants of this tranquil isle, and Angelie begins to wonder if the war hasn't finally reached their shores.
As Angelie and Will are drawn to the suspicious pursuits of the new visitors - an ancient statue, a fantastic myth - a series of vivid dreams about deserts and long forgotten prophecies ensnares them. The lovers discover that their destiny, one forged thousands of years earlier, is not only bigger than their prospective future together, but makes a mere world war look like child's play.
Readers have called Victoria Dougherty's fiction "hauntingly beautiful" "powerful" and "mesmerizing." Start reading this teaser novel to her highly anticipated new fantasy romance series today!
The island of Niue, 1944. On this remote island, deep in the South Pacific, about 1,500 miles from its closest neighbor, it hardly feels like a war is on. Angelie, a 17-year-old Australian girl, is waiting out the war on the island, where warm tropical winds blow through her hair almost as gently as native islander Will Tongahai's eyes graze her body.
But the arrival of an African archaeologist and his German consort unsettle the inhabitants of this tranquil isle, and Angelie begins to wonder if the war hasn't finally reached their shores.
As Angelie and Will are drawn to the suspicious pursuits of the new visitors - an ancient statue, a fantastic myth - a series of vivid dreams about deserts and long forgotten prophecies ensnares them. The lovers discover that their destiny, one forged thousands of years earlier, is not only bigger than their prospective future together, but makes a mere world war look like child's play.
Readers have called Victoria Dougherty's fiction "hauntingly beautiful" "powerful" and "mesmerizing." Start reading this teaser novel to her highly anticipated new fantasy romance series today!
- GenresFantasy
141 pages, ebook
Published September 23, 2019
14 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Dougherty
16 books625 followersVictoria Dougherty crafts stories that blur the lines between what was, what is, and what might be. Her Cold War thrillers—THE BONE CHURCH, THE HUNGARIAN, and WELCOME TO THE HOTEL YALTA—captivated readers with their breathtaking plots and genre-defying magic. Her epic historical fantasy series, including BREATH, OF SAND AND BONE, and SAVAGE ISLAND, proves she’s equally at home with spies and sorcery. Now, with her latest novel NIGHT OF THE MOON WITCH, she weaves Appalachian folklore into a haunting tale of memory, magic, and reclaiming one’s true power.
Her work has graced the pages of the New York Times, USA Today, and The International Herald Tribune, while her blog COLD earned recognition from WordPress as one of the Top 50 Recommended Blogs by writers.
An immigrant kid from the Chicago suburbs who grew up believing stories could reshape the world, Victoria writes for those who understand that the most powerful magic happens when yesterday’s secrets meet tomorrow’s possibilities. Her tales are invitations to wander through worlds where history whispers its hidden truths and every character carries the weight of their own mysterious journey.
When she’s not conjuring worlds that keep readers awake until dawn, she’s exploring the cultural threads that connect us all—one story at a time.
Her work has graced the pages of the New York Times, USA Today, and The International Herald Tribune, while her blog COLD earned recognition from WordPress as one of the Top 50 Recommended Blogs by writers.
An immigrant kid from the Chicago suburbs who grew up believing stories could reshape the world, Victoria writes for those who understand that the most powerful magic happens when yesterday’s secrets meet tomorrow’s possibilities. Her tales are invitations to wander through worlds where history whispers its hidden truths and every character carries the weight of their own mysterious journey.
When she’s not conjuring worlds that keep readers awake until dawn, she’s exploring the cultural threads that connect us all—one story at a time.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
April 19, 2020
I have to date read every book that Victoria Dougherty has published: mainly behind-the-Iron-Curtain thrillers, but also the abridged extracts from her ‘Cold’ blog (which you should sign up to, btw). Ms. Dougherty is possessed – yes, I’m sure that’s the right term – of a dark humour which has an addictive quality to it.
‘Savage Island’ is a departure from her usual stuff. For one thing, it’s difficult to categorize. It has elements of romance, mysticism, WWII history, and coming-of-age. But it’s a triumphantly successful mash-up and, since it is not tied down to the formulaic storylines of any of the aforementioned genres, it keeps you guessing as to where the story is going.
A good read (with more to come of the same).
‘Savage Island’ is a departure from her usual stuff. For one thing, it’s difficult to categorize. It has elements of romance, mysticism, WWII history, and coming-of-age. But it’s a triumphantly successful mash-up and, since it is not tied down to the formulaic storylines of any of the aforementioned genres, it keeps you guessing as to where the story is going.
A good read (with more to come of the same).
October 24, 2019
Savage Island - a review by Rosemary Kenny
A coming of age tale about a young girl, Angelie, on the brink of a womanhood, that is cruelly interrupted by the loss of her father and brother in a cruel war that has left her family's surviving members and herself bereft by the loss of loved ones taken too soon, in Victoria Dougherty's poignant WWII drama with a twist, played out against a Paradise Island backdrop, Savage Island.Why Savage I wondered, as we're told on the cover that Nui, the eponymous island is completely isolated in the Pacific Ocean. Also, how did an Australian family's women come to be living there? How do things change with the arrival of two strangers on Nui?Are the newcomers really who and what they say they are? What secrets are revealed by their hunt for archeological relics? I the hunt a cover for something else?What happens when island resident Will returns as a local hero from spending the end of the War in England? Is there an attraction between Will and Angelie?Only reading Victoria Dougherty's excellent novel Savage Island will reveal the truth you've all been waiting for - get your copy soon!
A coming of age tale about a young girl, Angelie, on the brink of a womanhood, that is cruelly interrupted by the loss of her father and brother in a cruel war that has left her family's surviving members and herself bereft by the loss of loved ones taken too soon, in Victoria Dougherty's poignant WWII drama with a twist, played out against a Paradise Island backdrop, Savage Island.Why Savage I wondered, as we're told on the cover that Nui, the eponymous island is completely isolated in the Pacific Ocean. Also, how did an Australian family's women come to be living there? How do things change with the arrival of two strangers on Nui?Are the newcomers really who and what they say they are? What secrets are revealed by their hunt for archeological relics? I the hunt a cover for something else?What happens when island resident Will returns as a local hero from spending the end of the War in England? Is there an attraction between Will and Angelie?Only reading Victoria Dougherty's excellent novel Savage Island will reveal the truth you've all been waiting for - get your copy soon!
June 14, 2020
I thought this story was a historical romance set on a secluded Pacific Island late during WWII. But it turned into science fiction, no- spy thriller, no- epic myth spanning eras from before the Sumerians. Oh, but it had multiple heroes, especially Will, who saved seriously injured Angelie from a shark after taking her virginity in a cave that became flooded by the tide. African Dr. Neville, a recent newcomer to the isle, sewed her up and transfused her mother's blood to her with the help of the German, Vogel! The reader slowly comes to understand these old souls have loved each other through many lives and bodies and have dreamed of each other throughout their childhoods, searching for one another. Oh, paranormal, for sure. Archetypical! Lovely story! Angelie (Sherin) dies soon and Will (Nif) dies young, also. And so we wait for their next lives in the Author's next book, Breath.
October 7, 2019
"Savage Island"is a beautiful, breathtaking novel, unlike anything I've read before. From the moment I opened its pages, I fell into an otherworldly, enchanting time and place that felt dreamlike and mesmerizing. As the pages flew by, I realized that there is so much more to this story than what it appears to be. There are worlds within worlds, and time and space have no true meaning. Only the language of love. The ending was perfect and filled me with awe and wonder at what's in store next for this genre-defying tale. I love the author's way with words and her ability to wrap you into her story and entangle you in its threads. I'm going to be breathless with anticipation for the next installment of Breath.
October 13, 2019
I really don't know what to say. English not being my mother tongue, I find it hard to choose the right words, because this book, for me, it is more about what I felt while reading it than about words and letters. I'm not poetical at all, but this story is invoking many poetical images. For me, "Savage Island" has been the soft touch of a butterfly's wing, or the brush of an angel tiptoeing. Sorry for my lack of expertise.
At first I thought the story was too fast, too rushed, too short. My mistake. It is just as it has to be. Thank you, Ms Dougherty, you have reconciled me with the simple but excellent Literature.
At first I thought the story was too fast, too rushed, too short. My mistake. It is just as it has to be. Thank you, Ms Dougherty, you have reconciled me with the simple but excellent Literature.
November 7, 2019
Savage Island; The love story of a lifetime!
Niue, a magical, mystical island where two old souls, Will and Angelie, meet “again” for the first time! Love blooms even when it breaks the heart of one who’s waited a lifetime to be his mate! Events unfold that I never saw coming and leave me anxious to know more! Beautifully written, well thought out characters, a love story that spans lifetimes, and a destiny that promises to be beyond huge! Praise for Victoria Dougherty, her writing takes me on journeys to places I thought only existed in fiction! Highly recommend, this series is going to blow our socks off!
Niue, a magical, mystical island where two old souls, Will and Angelie, meet “again” for the first time! Love blooms even when it breaks the heart of one who’s waited a lifetime to be his mate! Events unfold that I never saw coming and leave me anxious to know more! Beautifully written, well thought out characters, a love story that spans lifetimes, and a destiny that promises to be beyond huge! Praise for Victoria Dougherty, her writing takes me on journeys to places I thought only existed in fiction! Highly recommend, this series is going to blow our socks off!
December 30, 2019
Having read Ms Dougherty’s blogs about this storyline I was intrigued to know how it would play out being part of the new series she is writing. While this is just a part of what will be a big new adventure series across a number of genres it was an excellent start - that hook that draws you into wanting to read the next instalment, waiting to see where to for the main characters. Both my husband and I read this book and enjoyed it immensely.
November 9, 2019
Very easy and enjoyable read. Not what I expected when I saw the Sci-Fi & Fantasy genre. At this point in my life I don’t read those genre, but read it because Victoria Dougherty is the author. I’m glad I did. It has fantasy element that is the focus of the book, but is low key. Also has suspense elements. I recommend this book to everyone from YA to old folks like me.
October 26, 2019
Solid start to a new adventure series.
Finely conceived and written, with ever-young lovers, star-crossed and crossing time to be together. Exotic settings and a engaging cast of supporting characters add to the interest. I look forward to what our author has to offer next.
Finely conceived and written, with ever-young lovers, star-crossed and crossing time to be together. Exotic settings and a engaging cast of supporting characters add to the interest. I look forward to what our author has to offer next.
October 30, 2019
Intriguing and adventurous
This book captured my imagination from the beginning. Then it surprised me by what happened next. Now I can't wait to continue the series. I'm captivated by the story line and by the characters themselves.
This book captured my imagination from the beginning. Then it surprised me by what happened next. Now I can't wait to continue the series. I'm captivated by the story line and by the characters themselves.
August 3, 2020
I liked this story, I liked it a lot.
March 26, 2024
Niue is a beautiful setting for this book. The reader is privy to some cultural events such as "hifi ulu" - "hair-cutting ceremonies are crucial for a boy's journey to manhood". But the male protagonist has a different view - he "Told his parents a boy becomes a man when he takes on a man’s responsibilities. Not when he cuts his hair." So the reader is introduced to the conflicts which occurs, even in this idyllic setting.
The story itself is one life in the existence of two Nin'ti. Briefly we discover two young people whose existence is a recurring collection of reincarnations. They learn of each other through dreams. Seem extremely detailed - "Images of funeral pyres and night skies, like this one. Oceans of sand and flowers I’ve never seen before."
Unfortunately they are being hunted through time by an evil Nin'ti. That brings sadness to the story which has it's own sad storyline based on how their existence through time impacts their life in this world. It certainly is an interesting take on their existence.
The story itself is one life in the existence of two Nin'ti. Briefly we discover two young people whose existence is a recurring collection of reincarnations. They learn of each other through dreams. Seem extremely detailed - "Images of funeral pyres and night skies, like this one. Oceans of sand and flowers I’ve never seen before."
Unfortunately they are being hunted through time by an evil Nin'ti. That brings sadness to the story which has it's own sad storyline based on how their existence through time impacts their life in this world. It certainly is an interesting take on their existence.
Read
February 14, 2021The Hook - I've been following Victoria Dougherty's newsletter/blog, Hello From The Cold for some time. It is beautifully written, sometimes almost exquisite, a bit quirky, and personal. I thought it was time to read one of her books.
The Line - Can't think of a better quote then this GoodReads opening to the description of the plot ”Some people fall in love. Others fall through time. ”
The Sinker - On this eve of Valentine's Day, it seemed appropriate to read Savage Island, a book described as romantic, mystical, and a mesmerizing. I enjoyed this quick read and will read but I think her thrillers would be more to my liking. Next to try,
The Bone Church.
The Line - Can't think of a better quote then this GoodReads opening to the description of the plot ”Some people fall in love. Others fall through time. ”
The Sinker - On this eve of Valentine's Day, it seemed appropriate to read Savage Island, a book described as romantic, mystical, and a mesmerizing. I enjoyed this quick read and will read but I think her thrillers would be more to my liking. Next to try,
The Bone Church.
April 11, 2021
This story takes place on the South Pacific island of Niue. Angelie is 17. She and her Mom and Aunt have come to the island to escape the dangers of war around Australia in 1944. Her father and brother have been killed by a Japanese sub that sank their ship. She meets Will and it is instant attraction. 2 archeologists, one black and one a German come to the island in search of an ancient civilization. Angelie is certain they are spies with the Axis. Beautiful descriptions of the island locations. Strange dreams and feelings of deja’ vu. Mystical romance and searches through centuries. Great characters.
August 24, 2022
This story has so many elements all woven together with such skill. I expect many would find it hard to categorise it into a genre as it includes mysticism/fantasy, historical, romance, coming of age, thriller and maybe more. What it is though is excellent. Victoria Dougherty never wastes a word as she weaves a beautiful tale of souls entwined through time, even if they don’t initially realise that. Some of the writing borders on poetic while somehow feeling very real with each character coming to life. I will certainly be adding Breath, another book set in this wonderful world, to my to-be-read list.
July 9, 2021
I really liked this book. I am also not sure of what I read. And I definitely needed more. Weird and magical and mysterious. It worked well but it didn’t answer the questions I had from reading Breath before.
Author, will you write more, please? I’ll read it all in search for scraps that tell me a little more of Sherin and Nif. And of their ongoing quest.
Author, will you write more, please? I’ll read it all in search for scraps that tell me a little more of Sherin and Nif. And of their ongoing quest.
May 15, 2021
A young Australian girl spends the last days of WWII on a south seas island and falls in love with a local boy in this strange tale about star-crossed lovers destined to be together.
I liked this one, although it's very strange and not at all what I was expecting.
I liked this one, although it's very strange and not at all what I was expecting.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews