"The Bird King" is a cross between historical fiction and fantasy. We follow Fatima, a concubine/slave who desires her freedom, and Hassan, a gay mapmaker who has some magical abilities. They are close friends, and as their world is changing, they must rely on each other to survive. They are part of Muslim Spain, which is about to be conquered through a war. The Inquisition is also rising and Hassan is in danger as a result.
With a lyrical tone and magic interwoven into historical events, this was an interesting read. I will say that it lost me a few times, getting bogged down into various characters who became hard to follow at times. I enjoyed the overall plot and the deep friendship between Fatima and Hassan, which was truly beautiful. The magical elements really made it into something different and unexpected, as these weave throughout the events of the past. They are relatively minor for most of the book, and this definitely had more of a historical fiction feel versus fantasy for most of the book.
Overall, it was an interesting story of a great friendship and a magical journey through the past. I do wish it was faster-paced, but it is full of lush descriptions and has a poetic tone that will appeal to certain audiences.
Please note that I received an ARC from the publisher through bookish first. All opinions are my own.
With a lyrical tone and magic interwoven into historical events, this was an interesting read. I will say that it lost me a few times, getting bogged down into various characters who became hard to follow at times. I enjoyed the overall plot and the deep friendship between Fatima and Hassan, which was truly beautiful. The magical elements really made it into something different and unexpected, as these weave throughout the events of the past. They are relatively minor for most of the book, and this definitely had more of a historical fiction feel versus fantasy for most of the book.
Overall, it was an interesting story of a great friendship and a magical journey through the past. I do wish it was faster-paced, but it is full of lush descriptions and has a poetic tone that will appeal to certain audiences.
Please note that I received an ARC from the publisher through bookish first. All opinions are my own.