Title: The Bird King
Author: G. Willow Wilson
Release Date: 3-22-19
Stars: 3.5
Series?: Stand along book
Genre: Fantasy, Magic, YA, Historical fantasy
People of Color?: Yes
LGBTQ?: Yes
Bechdel: Yes
I received an advanced review copy in exchange for an honest review.
G. Willow Wilson writes an epic and fantastical story set during the last reign of the Muslim sultan in the Iberian peninsula in 1491. Not only is the kingdom besieged, but the Spanish Inquisition has no tolerance for any differences. The story is told through the eyes of Fatima, a concubine and slave to the Sultan. Her best friend is Hassan, the palace map-maker who also has the ability to manipulate reality based on his map alterations. Not only is his gift considered magic, but the Inquisition is also after him for his same-sex attraction. Fatima and Hassan flee the palace to save Hassan's life and make some odd friends along the way. The story has so many great threads and is so unique. However, for me, it unraveled a little in the end. The premise is os interesting and the point of view is unique, so I would still recommend it to others.
Ages: Suitable for teenagers and up
Recommended for: Fans of historical fiction, magic, fantasy and historical fantasy