A Song for the Stars

Todd’s first historical romance is a dear story of love’s ability to cross the figurative and literal ocean that all too easily separates people. Maile is the 18-year-old daughter of Oahu’s royal family, and when British naval captain James Cook lands on the island in the late 1700s, her life is greatly changed. Her first-person narrative—though forgivably modern in tone and disposition—reflects her tribe’s anger when a misunderstanding triggers a bloody battle and her scorn for traditional gender roles. After John Harbottle, Cook’s translator, kills Maile’s fiancé in battle, she lashes out, stabbing and wounding him. She is immediately conflicted as to whether to let Harbottle die or try to save him. The ensuing tension between them as she nurses him back to health is sweet if predictable. Passages from Harbottle’s diary supposedly represent the British point of view, but his voice lacks sufficient contrast. This soft-pedaled romance is suitable for readers of all ages. (Apr.)