Review: Ravencry (Raven’s Mark #2) by Ed McDonald

RATING: 9/10

SYNOPSIS

Four years have passed since Nall’s Engine drove the Deep Kings back across the Misery, but as they hurl fire from the sky, darker forces plots against the republic.

A new power is rising: a ghost in the light known only as the Bright Lady manifests in visions across the city, and the cult that worship her grasp for power even as the city burns around them.

When Crowfoot’s arcane vault is breached, an object of terrible power is stolen, and Galharrow and his Blackwings must once find out which of Valengrad’s enemies is responsible before they have a chance to use it.

To save Valengrad, Galharrow, Nenn and Tnota must venture to a darker, more twisted and more dangerous place than any they’ve walked before: the very heart of the Misery.

RAVENCRY is the second book in the Raven’s Mark series, continuing the story that began with the award winning epic fantasy BLACKWING.

REVIEW

“Fanaticism causes a man to excuse anything in the name of belief. His ends justified his means”.

Such a strong sequel to a strong debut! Ed Mcdonald shows us how grimdark fantasy can be written beautifully.

I love the fact that Ed expanded the world and provide us with a detailed examination on Misery (a wasteland created during the war between the Nameless and the Deep Kings). I noticed that this is lacking in the first book. I also love the fact that Ed explored cultism and fanaticism in this installment.

“People will believe what they want to believe. That doesn’t make it real”.

This statement is so relatable especially in this current world where religion is now merely a tool to achieve some personal agendas.

Character wise, Ed explored the vulnerability of Ryhalt Galharrow who is now not only haunted by his past, but by the death of a woman he loved. He faced so many losses and sacrificed so much in order to save Valengard. Further, I normally do not appreciate any romance elements in a fantasy series. But in Ravencry, this is an exception. The relationship between Ryhalt and Valiya is so well done and heartbreaking! I also enjoy reading the friendship between Ryhalt and Nenn. It feels so authentic and believable.

All in all, for those who enjoy reading grimdark fantasy, you wouldn’t want to miss Ed McDonald’s Raven’s Mark series! Another strong 9/10 star read and now moving on to Book 3: Crowfall!