Review: Love is a War Song by Danica Nava

A Thoughtful Exploration of Identity, Family, and Redemption

Danica Nava’s sophomore novel, Love is a War Song, showcases her growing voice in contemporary fiction. Told from the perspective of rising pop star Avery Fox, this character-driven story delves into themes of identity, cultural heritage, and self-discovery. After a string of public relations scandals, Avery is sent to rural Oklahoma to stay with her estranged Muscogee grandmother—an arrangement meant to help her lay low while her mother/manager handles the media backlash.

Raised by a single mother and kept in the dark about her Native American roots, Avery begins to unravel the complex history of her family and culture. Her journey of personal growth is intertwined with her reluctant connection to Lucas, a gruff yet passionate ranch hand with dreams of revitalizing the family ranch. While Lucas isn’t impressed by Avery’s celebrity status, their initial tension evolves into something deeper—though the novel focuses more on Avery’s individual transformation than a traditional romance arc.

Love is a War Song offers a nuanced portrayal of Indigenous identity and what it means to reconnect with lost heritage. Nava thoughtfully explores Avery’s struggles with belonging, the absence of her father, and the buried truths behind her mother’s departure from the Muscogee community. As Avery takes on saving the ranch and supporting Lucas’ vision, her sense of purpose deepens beyond fame or family expectations.

While the book shines in its representation and emotional depth, some readers may find the pacing uneven. The first half moves slowly as Avery adjusts to her new environment, but the second half accelerates rapidly, resolving key plot points in quick succession. Additionally, the single POV limits the emotional impact of the romance; Lucas remains somewhat opaque, making their connection feel underdeveloped. Readers looking for a strong romance might categorize this more as women’s fiction with romantic elements. Still, Love is a War Song stands out for its rich cultural themes, powerful message about second chances, and exploration of what it means to be more than the sum of one’s mistakes.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Lower because the romance was not central)
Tropes: Cowboy, Small Town, Indigenous Representation, Grumpy/Sunshine, Celebrity, Fish out of Water, Redemption Arc, Slow Burn
POP: 85%
Release Date: July 22, 2025