About This Book:
Rival ornithologists hunt through England for a rare magical bird in this historical-fantasy rom-com reminiscent of Indiana Jones but with manners, tea, and helicopter parasols.
Beth Pickering is on the verge of finally capturing the rare deathwhistler bird when Professor Devon Lockley swoops in, stealing both her bird and her imagination like a villain. Albeit a handsome and charming villain, but that’s beside the point. As someone highly educated in the ruthless discipline of ornithology, Beth knows trouble when she sees it, and she is determined to keep her distance from Devon.
For his part, Devon has never been more smitten than when he first set eyes on Professor Beth Pickering. She’s so pretty, so polite, so capable of bringing down a fiery, deadly bird using only her wits. In other words, an angel. Devon understands he must not get close to her, however, since they’re professional rivals.
When a competition to become Birder of the Year by capturing an endangered caladrius bird is announced, Beth and Devon are forced to team up to have any chance of winning. Now keeping their distance becomes a question of one bed or two. But they must take the risk, because fowl play is afoot, and they can’t trust anyone else—for all may be fair in love and war, but this is ornithology.
My Thoughts After Reading:
By Jove! This was a 5-star read for me. But, it’s worth noting that this book might not be for everyone. The Ornithologist’s Field Guild to Love is a historical fantasy and a romantic comedy. Holton brilliantly crosses genres but if you are a diehard fan of one or the other, you may be frustrated with her approach.
Holton’s writing is unique and exaggerated with charming prose and tongue-in-cheek humor on every page. It took me a few pages to reorient my brain to her style. Once I did, I was immersed and loving every minute. This book made me smile ear-to-ear; it is a ROMP.
The romance between our two rivals is a chef’s kiss and the distinct characteristics of the colorful supporting cast had me rolling.
As a birder, the magical birds were definitely a favorite. Holton perfectly poked fun at and appreciated the actual field of Ornithology.
While it is a standalone novel, The Ornithologist’s Field Guild to Love is part of the “Love’s Academic” series by Holton. The next book, “The Geographer’s Map to Romance”, is being released this April – I can’t wait to continue in this world of magical, romantic academia!
– Michelle
