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Hawksong
(Delacorte Press)
by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

Reading Level: Young Adult

Generations of Avian and Serpiente have been locked in mortal combat. Danica Shardae, of the Avian species, changes between the form of a beautiful maiden and a golden hawk. Heir to the throne of the Avian people, Danica can't stand to lose one more loved one to the battle. She pledges to do whatever is necessary to end the constant killings.

Snake shape-shifters, the Serpiente are the Avian's greatest enemy. Zane Cobriana is heir to the ruling family of the Serpiente. Changing between deadly cobra and darkly handsome warrior when most advantageous, Zane manages to rattle Danica's resolve when she discovers that he has been entering her bed chamber unchallenged, and unnoticed by her guards.

Seeking mutual resolution, the Serpiente and the Avian agree to meet under the guidance of the Mistari Disa, known for their abilities to resolve disputes. The Mistari Disa are shape-shifter tigers who insist on peace within their territory, ensuring safety for both the Avian and Serpiente during the negotiations.

The Mistari Disa suggest the one solution that could create peace. But can Danica pull it off? She must form bonds of trust with Zane, and his people, for the plan to work. She must ask her people to trust her implicitly, before they revolt. If she can't do both, the chance for peace will be lost, and the killings will begin again.

Danica must battle treachery and betrayal to overcome traditional attitudes to rescue her people and bring peace to the land. 

Ultimately, HAWKSONG is a simple tale of opposite attraction, written in traditional romance form, cloaked in fantasy trappings, resolved by a fairytale ending. What more could a dyed-in-the-wool romantic wish for?

Dawn Dixon, Member SCBWI