The Nightingale; J.M. Williams

This is the first reimagining of “The Nightingale” I’ve read, so I wasn’t too familiar with the original Hans Christian Anderson version going in. But the author did provide the original short story at the end of the novella, which was a lovely touch as it let me better see how this version and the original connected without spoiling anything. In the original, you have the Emperor of China who covets beautiful things; his gardens are impeccable, as are his palace and clothes. So, when he hears tale of a nightingale whose songs far surpass the beauty of the royal palace, he has to have such a prize for himself… I won’t say what happens next because I don’t want to give spoilers, but Williams does a wonderful job expanding on the short story by weaving in some courtly intrigue, and the plight of Kari, who needs to find a new purpose in life when she learns she will not be taking over the family business. There’s magic, too, but honestly, I don’t consider anything but the Nightingale itself to be a source of magic in this novella.

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Williams is able to take a short story and add warmth and character depth to it with Kari and her desire to make something of her life when the thing she is most skilled at is denied her. When she finds the King’s injured Nightingale, she is given that chance. I enjoyed getting a closer look at this story in a way you don’t get with the original, where it is less about helping a foolish king, and more about saving the kingdom from an evil heir. I loved Kari’s spunk and determination, and her interactions with her brother were both fun and touching at times. I think the only downside is that this story felt short, even for a novella. Concepts are introduced with the evil heir and even the magic that are really interesting, but never quite get the pay off or conclusion such themes needed, in my opinion which is why I’m giving it 4 stars. Still, this was a fun, fast-paced novella that really does the source material justice. And thanks to the author for sending me a copy for an honest review!