The Raven Throne

The Raven Crown #2

by Stephanie Burgis

The unmissable sequel to The Raven Heir and conclusion to the epic middle-grade fantasy series perfect for fans of Abi Elphinstone and Piers Torday.

Cordelia has been crowned The Raven Queen. But with new power comes new danger.

Once their triplet Cordelia became The Raven Queen, Giles and Rosalind knew they would have to learn to behave at court. No more fighting for Rosalind and no more singing for Giles. What they didn't foresee was having to foil a plot against their sister.

When Cordelia falls into an enchanted sleep and cannot be woken, Rosalind and Giles must quest across the kingdom to seek help from the ancient spirits of the land. But their family’s greatest enemies lurk at every turn, and it will take all of the triplets’ deepest strengths to fight against them.

A thrilling finale to the magical and mystical series.

Genres: Fantasy, Middle Grade, Childrens, Adventure, Magic

320 pages, Paperback

First published August 8, 2023

About the author

I grew up in America, but now I live in Wales with my husband, fellow writer Patrick Samphire, our two sons, and our sweet (and extremely vocal) tabby cat, Pebbles. I write fantasy rom-coms for adults (most recently Claws and Contrivances and Good Neighbors) and fun MG fantasy adventure novels, too (most recently The Raven Crown duology). My next series will be the adult romantasy trilogy The Queens of Villainy, published by Tor Bramble, starting in 2025 with Wooing the Witch Queen.

To get early sneak peeks at new stories and novels, sign up for my newsletter here: stephanieburgis.com/newsletter.

To join my Dragons' Book Club and get early copies of every ebook that I put out myself (so, all of my novellas, short story ebooks, etc!), check out my Patreon page, where I also published a series of fantasy rom-coms (Good Neighbors) across 2020-2021.

I only rate and review the books that I like, which is why all of my ratings are 4 or 5 stars.

Reviews

[Stephanie]

And it's out in the US, Canada, and the UK now! Eeeee! My goal with this book was to include the strongest sense of magic possible, and I love these characters so much that I cried (in a good way) every time I wrote/rewrote the climax of the story. I'm so excited to share it with all of you!

In this book, you'll find a companionable hedgehog, a fierce red squirrel, and a loving, squabbling family who will risk everything to save each other. I hope you'll love it!

(And you can absolutely read this as a standalone if you haven't read Book 1 yet. I promise! :) )

[Lata · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a satisfying continuation of the story author Stephanie Burgis started in "The Raven Heir". This book picks up several weeks after Cordelia was crowed as Raven Queen, and her siblings Rosalind and Giles are trying to adjust to living as princess and prince. The demands of Court and their new stations means that both are constantly under scrutiny by courtiers and servants, and neither can indulge in the kinds of activities they used to: combat practice in Rosalind's case, and singing in Giles' case.

Cordelia is doing her best to honour the promises she made to the ancient spirits of the natural world and to the farmers' who helped the triplets by changing kingdom practices and giving land to the dispossessed farmers. Needless to say, the nobility is NOT happy. So, this book deals with the weighty aspect of power, in that it's one thing to win power, it's another thing to rule.

Rosalind and Giles are finding that though their previous life was isolated, it was idyllic compared to the intrigue, expectations, plotting, and subtly snide words they must now deal with constantly. Giles does not feel safe singing, and tries to use his considerable personal charm to make allies, and Rosalind is constantly belittled and bullied by her lady-in-waiting, who tells her Rosalind is not princess material, from her looks to her behaviour. This grinds down Rosalind's confidence, which has serious implications when Cordelia is attacked and falls into an enchanted sleep. Giles and Rosalind, with supportive nobles, head off to find help and a solution, and the two siblings must find a way to work through their personal problems while saving their sister and the kingdom.

I've already said this is a satisfying sequel to the first book. Burgis deepens our understanding of the other two siblings (book one was pretty much Cordelia's) and how the stresses of their new lives are affecting their relationships with each other and their family. Giles' charm offensive is extremely successful, and he's seen as fun. On the other hand, it's genuinely painful to feel how Rosalind is shamed daily; the words directed at her are insidious, and leave Rosalind isolated, which only helps the plotters in their attempts to return the kingdom to the way it had been prior to Cordelia's assumption of power. I really appreciated how Burgis showed how it's not enough to put a crown on one's head, one has to work hard to rule equitably, and there are often those, previously privileged, who feel hard done by even though their actions caused great damage. It's a deep topic, but Burgis does a great job at illustrating how privilege doesn't automatically mean being right or doing the right thing.

We also get to meet an adorable hedgehog, experience lots of magic, and watch Rosalind and Giles save the day, all in a fast-paced plot.

Thank you to Netgalley and to Bloomsbury USA Children's Books for this ARC in exchange for my review.

[E · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's about magic and it's just lovely to read
It's all about family siblings and how strong a family bond can be

[Isaac · Rating 1 out of 5]

Boring

[Ms. Yingling · Rating 3 out of 5]

E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus

Cordelia and her family have moved from the wilderness to the castle after Cordelia magically mended the broken Raven Crown and she became queen in The Raven Heir. While Cordelia hopes to unify the kingdom and restore peace, not everyone in the land of Corvenne thinks this is a good idea. Life in a castle is an adjustment for the wild triplets; Giles still wants to be a bard and sings when no one can hear him, and he tries to dress and act the part of a royal. Rosalind, however, is tired of dealing with Lady Fauvre who is supposed to help her but is constantly sniping at her and making her feel bad. All she wants to do is train, wear clothes that she can move in, and keep Cordelia safe. When Cordelia twice falls under a magic spell that threatens her life, everyone is concerned. When two of the squabbling factions spill blood in the archive, a centuries old pact is dissolved, and Cordelia and her siblings, along with former nemesis Edmund, must travel to the Raven's Nest to make things right. Will they be able to appease the ancient spirit that has been slepping below the archives, identify the traitor who has caused problems, and continue to rule Corvenne?
Strengths: Young readers who want to defy authority and save the world will love Rosalind's spark and Cordelia's fearless determination to keep her kingdom peaceful. Giles was probably my favorite character, although Cordelia's mother made me happy as well. There are plenty of villains who get their comeuppance, and enough medieval adventure that fans of John Flanagan's The Ranger's Apprentice might want to pick this up.
Weaknesses: Cordelia didn't shape shift as much in this; if she did, I blanked it out. That was one of the best parts of the first book, but maybe I missed a reason that she didn't shift anymore. I was not in the mood for a fantasy book, and struggle with them at the best of times, so I strongly suspect that this is a me problem and not a book problem.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who want a medieval action adventure fantasy but don't want a huge long book. I imagine that this will be a three book set, and I am curious to see what future volumes bring. Hand to fans of Sarah Beth Durst's work, Pierce's Alanna, The First Adventure, Oh's The Dragon Egg Princess, or Benko's Unicorn Quest series.

[Sifa Poulton · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE RAVEN THRONE is a fun sequel that looks at what happens after the victory is won - and what those unhappy might do. It also delves deeper into the magic at the core of the book.

Where THE RAVEN HEIR followed Cordelia, and only had her narrative voice, this book focuses on her siblings. She has a few scenes, but the focus is on Giles and Rosalind. It is a nice way to balance the series, giving the overlooked siblings of the first book a chance to shine - and the story plays into this well.

Giles and Rosalind struggle to be the perfect royals everyone is telling them to be, even if that means going against everything they are. Everyone is subtly (or not) telling them how to act, wearing away at their confidence and isolating them so they don't confide in anyone else. It's a really nice way to examine the calls to conform, to act a certain way, and the reasons why society might be telling you that (to keep you "in your place.")

The Duke of Lune is such a horrible, slippery character. I very much enjoy having obvious, icky villains to root against in children's book. They're great ways of reflecting the way that the people in power can well be out purely for themselves, and don't care who they hurt. This book uses him (and the less obvious villain) to illustrate this so well.

In all, this is a nice second book that wraps up the duology with magic, action, and family fighting for one another.

[Jessica Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s been two years since Stephanie Burgis introduced us to Cordelia, Rosalind and Giles in The Raven Heir. Their tale was captivating. Now, Burgis is back with the next chapter in their story with The Raven Throne. And make no mistake, The Raven Throne is a definite sequel and should be read as such.

It’s also a lot different.

This time around, it’s Cordelia who plays a supporting role and Rosalind and Giles take center stage. It’s a smart way for Burgis to mix things up. It gives readers fresh perspectives and new material to digest.

The Raven Throne takes place just six weeks after Cordelia is crowned, and all three of the triplets are struggling in different ways to adjust to life as royals. Cordelia is always surrounded by people and struggles to hear the land she’s tied herself to. Rosalind is being forced into acting like a lady and being shamed at every turn for not living up to expectations. Giles no longer turns to music, trying to charm everyone with his personality instead.

I was excited to see Burgis exploring these two characters, and she really gets to the heart of what makes them who they are. And moving them out of the castle for a while came as a breath of fresh air.

The Raven Throne is a fast-moving read that fans of the first book won’t want to put down.

[Therearenobadbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

The sequel to The Raven Heir doesn't disappoint. We're back to following the adventures of a family that will do whatever they can to protect each other, even if it means trying to be someone they aren't for the sake of their sister queen.
With multiple povs, we get insight into each one of the triplet's minds and their struggles.
They are all different and with different skills. From persuasive music, and amazing fighting skills to connecting to land and magic, they will all be fighting in their way against a court of intrigue and the greed of other royals. Since there was an attempt on the Queen's life her siblings are working hard to understand the dangers and keep her safe.
Even if you have "t read book one (and you will be very motivated to collect all from this series) you'll still get pulled right into this story and the author helps by giving the highlights of what happened before so we are never lost. Also, this story of mystery and intrigue wraps us immediately and we focus on this journey against infuriating villains. This author's descriptions are very cinematographic and if you love fantasy, shapeshifters, animals, and magic you're in for a treat.

Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the ARC. My opinions are my own and honest.

[Victoria Vivente · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Raven Throne is a thrilling and emotionally resonant finale that perfectly concludes the Raven Crown duology. With Cordelia now the enchanted Raven Queen, her siblings Rosalind and Giles face a new challenge: navigating the strictures of court life. But when Cordelia falls into a magical, unbreakable sleep, Rosalind and Giles must break every rule and journey across the kingdom, calling on ancient spirits and their own deepest strengths to save their sister and the throne.

Stephanie Burgis masterfully raises the stakes, delivering a quest filled with tension, clever magic, and the ever-present threat of their family’s old enemies. The heart of the story remains the powerful, unique bond between the triplets, with each sibling’s distinct talents, Rosalind’s fierceness, Giles’s song, Cordelia’s connection to the land, becoming vital to their survival. It’s a tale of loyalty, courage, and the unconventional ways we protect those we love.

A brilliant, fast-paced, and utterly satisfying conclusion that cements this duology as a modern middle-grade fantasy classic. Perfect for fans of magical quests and unforgettable sibling bonds.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

2023 Cybils Elementary/Middle Grade Speculative Fantasy nominee

A lot of this was good stuff, with kids figuring who they were but in the cool context of being magical kids suddenly elevated to royalty and trying to make it as a prince, princess and queen. Their loyalty is tested and both make some mistakes as they figure things out (the queen is in a coma for most of the book). But jumping in at book two meant that I didn't have a good sense of their personalities; at the start both kids are denying their talents to fit in (one has stopped singing, another has to be ladylike instead of a warrior). But I have no idea why they weren't talking to each other, or why they were taking advice from the obviously ill-spirited adults.

Or why I should respect the mom who was clearly underestimating them and worrying about all the wrong things. So it was a good book, but I think it doesn't quite stand on its own.

[Dana · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF@ 20%

Look, it's mostly a me problem. Its been too long since I read book 1 and the charm of the series was lost on me. Add into that the absolute horrid treatment of children and it was difficult to stomach the scenes with Rosalind and her ladies in waiting.

I skimmed the rest of the book and while I understand that the treatment is needed to progress the plot, the vile words were hurtful and cruel and, in case I need to remind you, Rosalind is a CHILD!

I still very much enjoy Stephanie Burgis's writing, but this series just wasn't for me.

[Brandy Painter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This little family has my whole heart, as does Stephanie’s writing. Reading this was in many ways heartbreaking as Rosalind and Giles have been torn down by others’ words to the point they are only shells of themselves. Their journey to get their whole selves back is well worth going along for. And you know me, always and forever a fan of sibling stories. This duology is a top 5 in that category for me now.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Would be 4.5

The courtly section at the beginning was tedious (but, a testament to Stephanie Burgis' excellent ability to write a Roald Dahl-style villain... I HATED Lady Fauvre! 😂)

Once they broke free of the confinement of the castle it was every bit as good as the first book. Would definitely read again 😁

[Miss Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Worthy sequel that had a narrative purpose and solid development of the characters and their relationships.

I really liked that this book was Giles and Rosalind's story, with Cordelia unconscious for most of the story. This really allowed us to get to see them and their growth and love for their sister.

[Imogene · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful and moving book about the power of love and what it means to be yourself.

Queen Cordelia now sits on the Raven Throne, but it is not all well yet. Her triplets must come into their own and learn their own lessons.

[Charlotte]

not to my personal taste, because the main characters were miserable for most of the book, and I felt miserable for them. But this was necessary for the story, which was a good one and I enjoyed the resolution of it all part in which the characters were no longer miserable!

[Sianne Wardle · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a finale! The writing was fantastic, the twists where gripping and I will definatly miss the charecters. I will be reccomending this book a lot!

[Marsha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good book ith these characters. It was a good one for students.

[PottWab Regional Library]

O

[Eliana Burke-Cosgrave · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked it because it was adventurous and the characters were determined and never gave up.

[Sabrina · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked getting a bit more of the perspective of the other 2 triplets. But it was just so frustrating to read how the kids were treated. After all they did and went through, now they just have to pretend to be normal children, albeit royalty. It was particularly irritating that Ros, who is supposed to be so fierce, would just take all that crap!

[Patrick Samphire · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic middle grade fantasy adventure with great characters and amazing magic. I enjoyed it even more than the first one.