Hooked. Too bad it's not people but instead, we learn by the beginning of paragraph two, hawks.
He watches from horseback, acres of England stretching behind him; they drop, gilt-winged, each with a blood-filled gaze.
I like how setting is introduced - as a brief aside - to place the scene in a open field. As this is a historical novel, some setting is vital, just that the author doesn't dump it into our brains right from the first word. Other writers could learn a thing or two from reading this. You know who you are.
First thing said:
"Your girls flew well today"
And then we learn that the birds are named after a dead wife and sister. This opening combines, setting, character and back story effortlessly. There's even a bit of conflict - if the "children" aren't supposed to be falling from the sky.
Verdict: Pass.
Sincerely,
Thoedore Moracht
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