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The Wonder Tales #5
Ravensby Od
From the author of Gloaming and Wyrde and Wayward comes a sparkling wonder tale about a gentle widow, an eccentric wizard, and a wardrobe of magical hats…
Meg Lavender has been alone since her husband died – well, mostly. There’s a trio of widows in Ravensby Od; you can find them every Wednesday at Foxley’s, absorbing syllabub, and tea.
It’s a quiet life in a quiet town; a sensible town, where tea is always at three o’clock sharp, and the trains arrive precisely when they’re supposed to.
But the past is an odd sort of place, and it won’t always stay where it’s meant to. Magic is coming back to Ravensby Od – and Meg Lavender’s in the thick of it. It begins with a strange bequest, sped on the wings of ravens…
“The world is full of strange things: it doesn’t do to object, when they get a little stranger.”
Bursting with Charlotte E. English’s unique charm, Ravensby Odis a wild, whimsical Wonder Tale to warm the heart and leave you smiling.
Contains: dauntless leading ladies; weird and wonderful wizards; magical dresses, and hats; an unkindness of ravens; labyrinths; unlikely friendships; and entirely too much syllabub.
“Large helpings of wit and whimsy...” Publishers Weekly on Faerie Fruit
“Her faultless prose… sparkles with eye-bedazzling wonder.” NYT Bestselling author Mercedes Lackey on Gloaming
Meg Lavender has been alone since her husband died – well, mostly. There’s a trio of widows in Ravensby Od; you can find them every Wednesday at Foxley’s, absorbing syllabub, and tea.
It’s a quiet life in a quiet town; a sensible town, where tea is always at three o’clock sharp, and the trains arrive precisely when they’re supposed to.
But the past is an odd sort of place, and it won’t always stay where it’s meant to. Magic is coming back to Ravensby Od – and Meg Lavender’s in the thick of it. It begins with a strange bequest, sped on the wings of ravens…
“The world is full of strange things: it doesn’t do to object, when they get a little stranger.”
Bursting with Charlotte E. English’s unique charm, Ravensby Odis a wild, whimsical Wonder Tale to warm the heart and leave you smiling.
Contains: dauntless leading ladies; weird and wonderful wizards; magical dresses, and hats; an unkindness of ravens; labyrinths; unlikely friendships; and entirely too much syllabub.
“Large helpings of wit and whimsy...” Publishers Weekly on Faerie Fruit
“Her faultless prose… sparkles with eye-bedazzling wonder.” NYT Bestselling author Mercedes Lackey on Gloaming
- GenresFantasy
219 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 4, 2023
About the author
Charlotte E. English
78 books360 followersEnglish both by name and nationality, Charlotte hasn’t permitted emigration to the Netherlands to change her essential Britishness. She writes colourful fantasy novels over copious quantities of tea, and rarely misses an opportunity to apologise for something. Spanning the spectrum from light to dark, her works include the Draykon Series, Modern Magick, The Malykant Mysteries and the Tales of Aylfenhame.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
March 8, 2026
1.5 stars
Let's start with the positive. I really enjoyed the writing style, and for two thirds this was a solid tale, if not particularly exciting. I especially loved the boost of self-esteem the garments gave our MCs (until they turned out to be actually enchanted and used for other plot purposes, which imo is too simple a plot device).
However, in the last third of the story, all the drawbacks usual for this series become not only obvious but amplified.
There is no conflict, no tension, no danger, anything remotely problematic is solved with enchanted clothing (and tea). Even the supposedly tumultuous final confrontation ends in the silliest way (and you realise that the only reason for Maud to send Meg so many garments and accessories is to make that stupid ending possible; for the purpose she states she needed them, she could easily have done with three).
Characters have no sense of self-preservation because the plot needs to happen. The narrator keeps telling us that, no, they are of course afraid, but adventure! You can still go adventuring and be cautious and sensible.
As usual, no magic is explained, it works as the plot demands, and in this story in particular, magic produces no immersive atmosphere, the chaotic effects are just there to be quirky. In addition, if you binge the whole series, you'll quickly notice that many element are repeated.
Then, at some point, the "we keep mentioning someone and are angry about them, but will not elaborate on who that is" approach is used, and instead of creating mystery or suspense, it creates annoyance.
SPOILERS HERE
Next, there's a bunch of inconsistencies which could be easily eliminated by rereading / better editing. When Guldrum and Gad are introduced, the post-master says that Gad was the one who delivered Meg's letter, but a couple of chapters before, when we see Meg sending the letter, it is given to Tanterby. Later, the author forgets who's the forest-wandering one of the widows (Meg or Arimathea) and mixes them. Then, there is no plot reason for Meg to connect Maud to Mrs Duhamel (honestly, there's no reason for her to know about Maud at that point, unless Edmund mentioned her when retelling what Blythe told him). Next, we are told, not as suspicion but as fact, that the railway tracks were destroyed by Launceleyn by merely passing by, but then Maud implies it was her. Maybe it wouldn't be a big deal, but for such a short novel they are easily caught, and mixed with the rest of the problems, don't reflect too well on the book.
And don't even start me on the wizards. All three of them are premium assholes, but everyone blames Maud because the other two said so? And when she's made the Big Bad and defeated in the most contrived way, the denouement wants us to believe she just settled down? Tamlin is now pathetic and afraid of the world and mostly tells tales of old - and people still come to kiss his ass; half of the town follows Launceleyn to be her students; everyone in town gets to keep Maud's enchanted clothes (that Meg gave them) and use them for generations - and not a single one of them even thanks her. And she's supposed to just be content with her new job? Really?
Maud's story could have been so much deeper and sadder. She wields great magic, but does it through lady's garments and thus is constantly overshadowed by Tamlin, not because he's more powerful or flashy, but because he's a dude. Then he fucks off for three hundred years (I'm still unsure why). The intricate story is right there. Instead, we get squabbles between three unlikeable characters and that silly ending.
SPOILERS OVER
Since I'm already pretty angry with this book, I can as well nitpick the language a bit. As I stated, I really liked the writing style, however, you can't help but notice that the author just loves particular words and uses them again and again and again and then some more. Everyone "sallies" (ladies, get grip!), "confectioneries" is used to denote clothing accessories instead of sweets, "fancies" - to mean cakes, and if I read "syllabub" one more time! In addition, you created this totally-not-England-wink-wink magical country and made sufficient changes to its nomenclature to reflect that, why then do you use Tamlin and Pendragon and make them the same person?!
All in all, this series as whole is not stellar, but entertaining enough, so I'm really sad that the closing story turned out to be so disappointing after showing so much promise.
~~~~~~~
Faerie Fruit 3
Gloaming 2.5
Sands and Starlight 3.5
Summertide 1.5
Ravensby Od 1.5
Let's start with the positive. I really enjoyed the writing style, and for two thirds this was a solid tale, if not particularly exciting. I especially loved the boost of self-esteem the garments gave our MCs (until they turned out to be actually enchanted and used for other plot purposes, which imo is too simple a plot device).
However, in the last third of the story, all the drawbacks usual for this series become not only obvious but amplified.
There is no conflict, no tension, no danger, anything remotely problematic is solved with enchanted clothing (and tea). Even the supposedly tumultuous final confrontation ends in the silliest way (and you realise that the only reason for Maud to send Meg so many garments and accessories is to make that stupid ending possible; for the purpose she states she needed them, she could easily have done with three).
Characters have no sense of self-preservation because the plot needs to happen. The narrator keeps telling us that, no, they are of course afraid, but adventure! You can still go adventuring and be cautious and sensible.
As usual, no magic is explained, it works as the plot demands, and in this story in particular, magic produces no immersive atmosphere, the chaotic effects are just there to be quirky. In addition, if you binge the whole series, you'll quickly notice that many element are repeated.
Then, at some point, the "we keep mentioning someone and are angry about them, but will not elaborate on who that is" approach is used, and instead of creating mystery or suspense, it creates annoyance.
SPOILERS HERE
Next, there's a bunch of inconsistencies which could be easily eliminated by rereading / better editing. When Guldrum and Gad are introduced, the post-master says that Gad was the one who delivered Meg's letter, but a couple of chapters before, when we see Meg sending the letter, it is given to Tanterby. Later, the author forgets who's the forest-wandering one of the widows (Meg or Arimathea) and mixes them. Then, there is no plot reason for Meg to connect Maud to Mrs Duhamel (honestly, there's no reason for her to know about Maud at that point, unless Edmund mentioned her when retelling what Blythe told him). Next, we are told, not as suspicion but as fact, that the railway tracks were destroyed by Launceleyn by merely passing by, but then Maud implies it was her. Maybe it wouldn't be a big deal, but for such a short novel they are easily caught, and mixed with the rest of the problems, don't reflect too well on the book.
And don't even start me on the wizards. All three of them are premium assholes, but everyone blames Maud because the other two said so? And when she's made the Big Bad and defeated in the most contrived way, the denouement wants us to believe she just settled down? Tamlin is now pathetic and afraid of the world and mostly tells tales of old - and people still come to kiss his ass; half of the town follows Launceleyn to be her students; everyone in town gets to keep Maud's enchanted clothes (that Meg gave them) and use them for generations - and not a single one of them even thanks her. And she's supposed to just be content with her new job? Really?
Maud's story could have been so much deeper and sadder. She wields great magic, but does it through lady's garments and thus is constantly overshadowed by Tamlin, not because he's more powerful or flashy, but because he's a dude. Then he fucks off for three hundred years (I'm still unsure why). The intricate story is right there. Instead, we get squabbles between three unlikeable characters and that silly ending.
SPOILERS OVER
Since I'm already pretty angry with this book, I can as well nitpick the language a bit. As I stated, I really liked the writing style, however, you can't help but notice that the author just loves particular words and uses them again and again and again and then some more. Everyone "sallies" (ladies, get grip!), "confectioneries" is used to denote clothing accessories instead of sweets, "fancies" - to mean cakes, and if I read "syllabub" one more time! In addition, you created this totally-not-England-wink-wink magical country and made sufficient changes to its nomenclature to reflect that, why then do you use Tamlin and Pendragon and make them the same person?!
All in all, this series as whole is not stellar, but entertaining enough, so I'm really sad that the closing story turned out to be so disappointing after showing so much promise.
~~~~~~~
Faerie Fruit 3
Gloaming 2.5
Sands and Starlight 3.5
Summertide 1.5
Ravensby Od 1.5
May 17, 2024
A magical, whimsical and inviting story full of wizards, magical clothes, female friendships and the quintessential tea and cake. My favourite Wonder Tales book was Fairy Fruit, until I read Ravensby Od.
Here is a taste of this book:
Consider. Were you to be offered a crisp butter biscuit by a kind hostess – the sort designed for elegant tea tables, and therefore, the approximate size of a six-penny coin – you might feel that to consume one merely wets your hunger.
A second improves upon the impression – but it is the third, the magical third, that has the power to satisfy you.
Having devoured three such delicacies, then you may return to the contents of your teacup and the patter of your hostess’s conversation, and put thoughts of butter biscuits and sugar behind you.
Here is a taste of this book:
Consider. Were you to be offered a crisp butter biscuit by a kind hostess – the sort designed for elegant tea tables, and therefore, the approximate size of a six-penny coin – you might feel that to consume one merely wets your hunger.
A second improves upon the impression – but it is the third, the magical third, that has the power to satisfy you.
Having devoured three such delicacies, then you may return to the contents of your teacup and the patter of your hostess’s conversation, and put thoughts of butter biscuits and sugar behind you.
August 27, 2024
Just read this during the first autumn storm of the season and it was a perfect match. Brimming with an absolutely magical joy of storytelling, crammed full of charming characters and odd side quests – not to mention delightful confectionary. Just curl up with your favourite blanket and let yourself be swept away. 🐦⬛
May 26, 2024
Enchantingly magically lovely
This is a clever, magical tale - the language is perfect in tone and style and the 3 central characters (plus Edmund) are delightful. I truly hadn’t expected to enjoy it as much as I did and I shall certainly want to read others…
This is a clever, magical tale - the language is perfect in tone and style and the 3 central characters (plus Edmund) are delightful. I truly hadn’t expected to enjoy it as much as I did and I shall certainly want to read others…
January 25, 2024
Wonderfully Enchanting Tale
The books in this series never disappoint. When I’m in need of escaping the epic or grim dark fantasy worlds, these books provide a much needed whimsical jaunt.
The books in this series never disappoint. When I’m in need of escaping the epic or grim dark fantasy worlds, these books provide a much needed whimsical jaunt.
October 20, 2023
As always, Charlotte e English has written an enchanting, low stakes, cozy, relaxing tale that just had me smiling the whole time. If you already enjoy the Wonder Tales (or Aelfenhyme), you'll love this one too. Perfect.
June 6, 2024
Lovely story of magic
Charlotte English writes a lovely little tale in her Wonder Tales series. 3 widows meet every Wednesday in the town's tea House for tea and cakes. This is the tale of what happens when one of the 3 is left some clothes from an old friend of her parents. These clothes (and there are quite a lot of them) are imbued with magic, in a place where magic hasn't been seen for 300 years. What happens is flying, finding hidden witches and general mayhem.
Charlotte English writes descriptively, so that you can 'see' Ravensby Od, and know the type of village it is.
There are other books in this series (I've read one other), I'm off to get the rest.
Charlotte English writes a lovely little tale in her Wonder Tales series. 3 widows meet every Wednesday in the town's tea House for tea and cakes. This is the tale of what happens when one of the 3 is left some clothes from an old friend of her parents. These clothes (and there are quite a lot of them) are imbued with magic, in a place where magic hasn't been seen for 300 years. What happens is flying, finding hidden witches and general mayhem.
Charlotte English writes descriptively, so that you can 'see' Ravensby Od, and know the type of village it is.
There are other books in this series (I've read one other), I'm off to get the rest.
May 22, 2024
A fine tale!
Like a fairy tale with good, strong characters. Their maturity enables them to survive and even flourish as ancient magic breaks out into the world to cause mischief. They and the town set out to corral three grumpy wizards, bitter at each other after a three-hundred year-old feud. The outcome is satisfying and intriguing.
Like a fairy tale with good, strong characters. Their maturity enables them to survive and even flourish as ancient magic breaks out into the world to cause mischief. They and the town set out to corral three grumpy wizards, bitter at each other after a three-hundred year-old feud. The outcome is satisfying and intriguing.
June 27, 2024
While this tale is fairly gentle and thoughtful, each bit unravels with something quite interesting, whether it is the friendships, the magic, the characters, the unkindness of ravens. It's a very short book, and well worth the time to read.
May 30, 2024
Utterly charming story. Magical, quirky and brimful of delightful characters and places.
June 10, 2024
A little over the top in the fantasy dept. Had to force myself to finish it.
July 28, 2024
Fun characters, well written
It ended a little simply, but the story was new and clever. An enjoyable read. I would read another in this series.
It ended a little simply, but the story was new and clever. An enjoyable read. I would read another in this series.
September 25, 2024
A delight to read!
May 8, 2025
A charming fantasy with memorable characters and a satisfying plot!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews