Including all three of their points of view gives an in-depth view of the thoughts and feelings of each young woman, which I loved.Ī unique blend of history, mythology, and fantasy, Sistersong includes themes of family, love, loyalty, religion, and gender identity. I enjoyed reading each of their perspectives and seeing how each dealt with the changing and dangerous times, as well as the personal obstacles that stood in their way. Keyne has a connection to nature, like their father, and Sinne can influence people’s thoughts. Riva has the ability to heal, though she can’t heal herself. And it’s no one’s place to stop you from telling it.Įach sister also has a unique magical power, which could prove dangerous in their world. This is your story, no matter what history will claim or what songs people sing. However, each sister has a strong voice and an interesting story arc.

Of the three sisters, I found Keyne’s story the most compelling.

Sinne is the youngest sister, and she longs for adventure, romance, and love. Keyne is the middle sister, who was born female but identifies as male and struggles to find their place in the world. Though she questions her marriageability, she falls in love with a mysterious stranger. Riva is the eldest sister, a young woman who has been horribly burned and scarred from a fire. The story is told from each of the sisters’ perspectives as they try to traverse these complicated times, hold onto their beliefs and ideals, and embrace their identities. I found this part of the book really interesting, as I don’t know much about the time period, and the author’s knowledge is vast. Holland’s writing is beautiful and immersive and easily pulls you into 6th-century Britain, a time when Christianity and paganism are at conflict and the ever-present threat of invading Saxons looms. Sistersong is a feminist reimagining of the ballad “The Twa Sisters,” and it follows three sisters, Riva, Sinne, and Keyne, who are daughters of the king. It’s a story that will shape the destiny of Britain.ĭisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, including Amazon, and I may earn a small commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through my links. Riva, Keyne and Sinne must take fate into their own hands, or risk being tangled in a story they could never have imagined one of treachery, love and ultimately, murder. But change comes on the day ash falls from the sky, bringing Myrddhin, meddler and magician, and Tristan, a warrior whose secrets will tear the siblings apart. Keyne battles to be seen as the king’s son, when born a daughter.Īnd Sinne, the spoiled youngest girl, yearns for romance.Īll three fear a life of confinement within the walls of the hold – a last bastion of strength against the invading Saxons. Riva, scarred in a terrible fire, fears she will never heal. In the ancient kingdom of Dumnonia, King Cador’s children inherit a fragmented land abandoned by the Romans.

Sistersong book