Braidee Otto’s Songbird of the Sorrows Read Along Week One
Welcome to week one of our Songbird of the Sorrows read along by Braidee Otto. We’ve got a new world rich with lore and a whole new cast of characters to unravel. Ready?
Let’s dig in.
🌍 A World Built on War and Magic
For the first quarter, we’re given an interesting world—one built from the God War, aka a war amongst the gods. That alone creates a deep well of intrigue. What does that mean for these people and the natural order of things?
We’re shown early on that magic exists—and that a severe cost is paid for power that matches the strength of the result. This is some great groundwork, and I’m excited to see how this system impacts the poor and working class.
👑 Starling: A Princess, A Prisoner, A Weapon
Straight away, we’re introduced to the tenacity of our main character—Starling, El, Aella—the princess of the Sorrows.
The layers of her identity are so intriguing. She’s pretending not to be herself while also playing herself as a role. It’s a fascinating exploration of identity and survival.
I’m also a fan of her anger—her ire, her need to prove herself while being absolutely pissed off that she has to.
She’s strong and capable, but also her own worst enemy. And honestly? That’s my favorite kind of character. Give me the tension. Give me the drama.
🔥 Trauma, Control, and the Promise of Revenge
We’re already seeing the ramifications of her attitude and how it’s been shaped in captivity.
Her past moves her from the clutches of a cruel father to an even crueler master—one who’s punished her in ways we haven’t fully seen yet. And I’m not going to lie…it’s giving me goosebumps.
I cannot wait to see what atrocities she avenges—and how she does it.
Because yes…I love a good revenge plot.
🦅 The Eagle’s Plan & A Dangerous Game
I’m also intrigued by the plans the Eagle has set up for her. What can one do with a hidden princess trained as an assassin?
It makes her story feel almost foolproof—which means I’m just waiting for everything to go horribly wrong.
I’m especially curious to see how he eventually traps and punishes her before she turns the tables. That moment? Usually my favorite part.
🐍 A New Prince…or a New Problem?
Then we have the prince.
Yes, he’s a predator—but he’s clearly intrigued by Starling.
So now I’m wondering…are we heading into a love triangle? Are we supposed to root for him?
Either way, I’m here for the push and pull. Whatever dynamic builds between them, I’m already invested.
⚔️ Looking Ahead: The Trials
And finally—the trials.
I’m really hoping they’re as brutal as promised. I want to see these characters pushed to their limits, broken down, and forced to rebuild.
Give me stakes. Give me consequences.
📚 Final Thoughts (Week One)
Overall, the setup for this Songbird of the Sorrows read along is strong.
I do wish the pacing was a little faster—but honestly? We’re laying the foundation for something big, and I’m willing to wait for the payoff.
👉 If you’re loving fantasy read alongs like this, don’t forget to check out our current book box featuring Weavinshaw by Heba Al-Wasity.
Leave a Reply