Okay, we have two scientists and a lab assistant, in a lukewarm love triangle. Think of a Jules and Jim, with birds.
First disclosure- This book is no where near as good as that classic French film.
The scientists are working on bird vocalization, by manipulating and experimenting with the vocal chords of these test birds, which leads into sticky moral issues that the lab assistant begins to struggle with, putting her at odds with both men. There is also lots of layers here, as the narrative shifts to the different pasts, of each character. Some of it interesting, some of it not.
Second disclosure- The reason I decided to read this novel, is that I love birds and reading about birds. This author has done her homework in this regard and my favorite parts of the book are the details of the serious “birder”. Sadly, the human part of the story falls pretty flat. I say skip the book, see the French film and then go to a park and spend some time with real birds. ( )