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The Raven's Children
An ailing king. Three successors to the throne. A kingdom on the brink of turmoil.
Ambjorg, Asbjorn, and Audolf watch as their father, King Hrafn, wastes away before their eyes. Figures lurk in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to strike and steal the crown. And all the while the three siblings and their father share a an affinity with animals they use to keep their homeland safe.
As tragedy strikes the royal family, reports of attacks by aberrant beasts start to trickle in. The siblings are split in many directions, thrust into new responsibilities that test their resolve and their bonds. It will take every skill and ally they have to best whomever--or whatever--is behind all the unrest. But will it be enough?
Or will they lose both their kingdom and the lives of the ones they love?
Ambjorg, Asbjorn, and Audolf watch as their father, King Hrafn, wastes away before their eyes. Figures lurk in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to strike and steal the crown. And all the while the three siblings and their father share a an affinity with animals they use to keep their homeland safe.
As tragedy strikes the royal family, reports of attacks by aberrant beasts start to trickle in. The siblings are split in many directions, thrust into new responsibilities that test their resolve and their bonds. It will take every skill and ally they have to best whomever--or whatever--is behind all the unrest. But will it be enough?
Or will they lose both their kingdom and the lives of the ones they love?
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 29, 2024
4 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
February 14, 2025
If you're looking for a standalone fantasy tale steeped in Norse myth and legend, you've come to the right place! Treachery ends the reign of a dying king, and his three children assume the burden of holding his kingdom together against foes both human and magical. They are not without allies and magic of their own, and they will need both simply to survive.
I particularly enjoyed the use (and abuse) of animal totems. That source of magic, often manifested in shifter stories these days, resonated with ancient tradition and felt completely natural. Romance and violence, honor and horror, are meted out in equal measure. I would happily listen to this tale sitting near a huge fire with a horn of mead in my hand!
I particularly enjoyed the use (and abuse) of animal totems. That source of magic, often manifested in shifter stories these days, resonated with ancient tradition and felt completely natural. Romance and violence, honor and horror, are meted out in equal measure. I would happily listen to this tale sitting near a huge fire with a horn of mead in my hand!
June 6, 2023
The bear. The wolf. The eagle. All children of the raven.
Three royal siblings born with the supernatural ability to commune with beasts, destined to rule a kingdom on the verge of turmoil. Tension in the north breeds rumors of a usurper, but it's the unnatural creatures appearing on the fringes of civilization that gives men cause to keep their weapons close. When the king passes away suddenly, and the roaming beasts begin pushing into the heart of their kingdom, the siblings bring their talents to bear in order to prevent the destruction of their entire way of life. A tale of love, of responsibility, of the old ways forgotten but not lost.
Stylistically speaking, I felt like the writer maintained a great tone from start to finish. None of the words felt out of place, and grammar and spelling were on point. The characters were interesting and had their own personalities. However, due to their unusual and similar names, I found it difficult at times to remember who we were talking about.
The story was also quite good, though the beginning took a bit to get going. Luckily, the author did a great job of painting a picture of the setting and that kept me invested until the story reared its head. The payout was great and emotionally charged in a way that tied everything up nicely.
I have some qualms with the chapter lengths, as the author did not include many natural break points in the story's flow. In fact, in a number of places, the book immediately and without warning switches viewpoint characters. I struggled in a few places to understand what was happening in these instances. These jumps need a hard break in order to keep the story flowing smoothly.
Overall, the book was a very entertaining read, and I recommend it for anyone who enjoys Norse mythology. I'm excited to see what else this author puts forth in future projects. Honestly, 4.5 stars.
Three royal siblings born with the supernatural ability to commune with beasts, destined to rule a kingdom on the verge of turmoil. Tension in the north breeds rumors of a usurper, but it's the unnatural creatures appearing on the fringes of civilization that gives men cause to keep their weapons close. When the king passes away suddenly, and the roaming beasts begin pushing into the heart of their kingdom, the siblings bring their talents to bear in order to prevent the destruction of their entire way of life. A tale of love, of responsibility, of the old ways forgotten but not lost.
Stylistically speaking, I felt like the writer maintained a great tone from start to finish. None of the words felt out of place, and grammar and spelling were on point. The characters were interesting and had their own personalities. However, due to their unusual and similar names, I found it difficult at times to remember who we were talking about.
The story was also quite good, though the beginning took a bit to get going. Luckily, the author did a great job of painting a picture of the setting and that kept me invested until the story reared its head. The payout was great and emotionally charged in a way that tied everything up nicely.
I have some qualms with the chapter lengths, as the author did not include many natural break points in the story's flow. In fact, in a number of places, the book immediately and without warning switches viewpoint characters. I struggled in a few places to understand what was happening in these instances. These jumps need a hard break in order to keep the story flowing smoothly.
Overall, the book was a very entertaining read, and I recommend it for anyone who enjoys Norse mythology. I'm excited to see what else this author puts forth in future projects. Honestly, 4.5 stars.
November 3, 2024
This is the second book I have read by Emily Barlow, Author. The first was Sunchaser which I highly recommend.
The Raven's Children is a standalone adventure, easily read in a few sittings. It is a tale of three siblings who are on the brink on inheriting a kingdom from an ailing father. Trouble brews and adventure ensues, culminating in a battle.
The writing is really economical, great initial scene setting, and without any info dumps. The world immediately beds in and feels whole and realistic. This is helped by drawing on existing Scandinavian type tales and lore. As such it comes across somewhat like a tale a bard might tell in an inn, or as is the case here in a great hall.
It has a feel of an ancient tale told by a Skald, Beowulf is reminiscent but this is different. I almost was reminded of a Dungeons and Dragons game in places. Fantasy adventure in the world of Scandinavian myth is probably the best description.
It is I suppose a relatively simple tale, but which zooms along and draws you in. I would have liked perhaps more in terms of the bad guys' motivations, but there is enough there that you can fill that in yourself.
This is a solid, albeit quite short fantasy adventure, which I really enjoyed. A solid four stars from me, which I rate as very good. I would just have liked more depth in places, and more chapters, to let it feel fully fleshed out.
A cracking read for a couple of nights curled up by the fire with a horn of mead to hand!
The Raven's Children is a standalone adventure, easily read in a few sittings. It is a tale of three siblings who are on the brink on inheriting a kingdom from an ailing father. Trouble brews and adventure ensues, culminating in a battle.
The writing is really economical, great initial scene setting, and without any info dumps. The world immediately beds in and feels whole and realistic. This is helped by drawing on existing Scandinavian type tales and lore. As such it comes across somewhat like a tale a bard might tell in an inn, or as is the case here in a great hall.
It has a feel of an ancient tale told by a Skald, Beowulf is reminiscent but this is different. I almost was reminded of a Dungeons and Dragons game in places. Fantasy adventure in the world of Scandinavian myth is probably the best description.
It is I suppose a relatively simple tale, but which zooms along and draws you in. I would have liked perhaps more in terms of the bad guys' motivations, but there is enough there that you can fill that in yourself.
This is a solid, albeit quite short fantasy adventure, which I really enjoyed. A solid four stars from me, which I rate as very good. I would just have liked more depth in places, and more chapters, to let it feel fully fleshed out.
A cracking read for a couple of nights curled up by the fire with a horn of mead to hand!
October 27, 2024
Captivating Nordic fantasy that weaves together elements of royal intrigue, magical abilities, and family bonds. The story follows three royal siblings who possess a unique power to communicate with animals - a gift they use to protect their kingdom. As their father, King Hrafn, grows increasingly ill, the kingdom faces threats from both political rivals and mysterious creatures that lurk at its borders. The author has created a rich, atmospheric world inspired by Norse mythology, populated with characters whose unusual names and complex relationships may take some time to untangle. The plot's initial slow pace is deliberate, focusing on world-building and character development, and it builds to an engaging and emotionally satisfying conclusion. The book excels at portraying the intricate relationships between the royal siblings and the challenges they face in fulfilling their leadership roles. Each sibling brings their own personality and approach to the challenges they face, making them relatable despite their extraordinary circumstances. The supernatural elements are well-integrated into the plot, never overshadowing the human drama at the story's core. Overall, it offers a complete and satisfying story that should appeal to fans of historical fantasy and Norse mythology, especially those who enjoy tales of royal succession mixed with magical elements.
October 21, 2024
"The Raven's Children" is another fantastic entry in Emily Barlow's ever-growing fantasy universe. As with her previous works, "Sunchaser" and "Involuntarily Immortal," this novel presents a unique and captivating storyline that stands independently. I particularly enjoyed the fresh perspective this book offers, exploring a new facet of the magic and mythology woven throughout Barlow's world.
The plot keeps you constantly guessing, with its intricate web of characters, plot twists and emotional complexity. Barlow manages to weave her enchanting world-building into the narrative seamlessly. The result is a captivating read that enthralls you from the first page to the last, leaving you eager for more. While I deeply hope "Involuntarily Immortal" receives a much-anticipated sequel soon, this book solidified my love for Emily Barlow's enchanting storytelling. She's undeniably become one of my favorite fantasy authors, and I eagerly anticipate what she has in store for us next.
The plot keeps you constantly guessing, with its intricate web of characters, plot twists and emotional complexity. Barlow manages to weave her enchanting world-building into the narrative seamlessly. The result is a captivating read that enthralls you from the first page to the last, leaving you eager for more. While I deeply hope "Involuntarily Immortal" receives a much-anticipated sequel soon, this book solidified my love for Emily Barlow's enchanting storytelling. She's undeniably become one of my favorite fantasy authors, and I eagerly anticipate what she has in store for us next.
January 7, 2026
I love the ‘story within a story’ concept. This was my first time reading a Nordic fantasy novel and I really enjoyed it. To me it felt fresh and unique. The Bear, The Wolf and The Eagle – The interaction between the three was what drew me in most at the start of the story. Intriguing political drama is laced throughout. The world Barlow created is low magic, but when the magical mechanics are used, it is done very well. It was very well written in the sense that it is easy to lose yourself in the story and the world. It’s not a fast paced, action-packed fantasy full of epic battle scenes. So those expecting a higher level of action may be disappointed. I wasn’t disappointed. There’s something about this book that very much reminds me of classic fantasy novels. Chronicles of the Cheysuli by Jennifer Robertson comes to mind, and that is absolutely the highest praise I can give The Raven’s Children.
January 24, 2026
Pretty standard fantasy book with hints of magic and Norse myth. I found it to be a slow burn because the world building and descriptions of every day life were prominent in the first half. Then it's like the gas pedal was floored and action got thrown at you.
I honestly wished it were longer so it could be more fleshed out. I spent half of the book trying to remember whose name was whose with all the Nordic names.
I couldn't get over the way everyone just threw their hands up and forgot about their dad being murdered.
Then in the second half, I felt it was a bit anticlimactic with the way the antagonists were handled.
I still enjoyed it as it was because there was enough story building to keep me reading. I was hoping more would be revealed with the magic though, but I understand why the focus was primarily the way the Children navigated the world thrust upon them.
I honestly wished it were longer so it could be more fleshed out. I spent half of the book trying to remember whose name was whose with all the Nordic names.
I couldn't get over the way everyone just threw their hands up and forgot about their dad being murdered.
Then in the second half, I felt it was a bit anticlimactic with the way the antagonists were handled.
I still enjoyed it as it was because there was enough story building to keep me reading. I was hoping more would be revealed with the magic though, but I understand why the focus was primarily the way the Children navigated the world thrust upon them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 22, 2023
This one definitely goes from zero to sixty real quick! I enjoyed the character building and unexpected (trying to not spoil anything) encounters. The three main characters are all fun in their own ways, and there are some good standout characters, like Brandulfr and Eyildr, that help to round out the story.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to see what Emily writes next!!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to see what Emily writes next!!
November 6, 2023
Wonderful
Emily Barlow created such a wonderful fantasy land with fantastic characters. I will admit at the beginning I was bogged down with the names and trying to remember who was who but as the story progressed that fell into place nicely. As the battle began, I couldn’t put the book down. Thank you for a great story.
Emily Barlow created such a wonderful fantasy land with fantastic characters. I will admit at the beginning I was bogged down with the names and trying to remember who was who but as the story progressed that fell into place nicely. As the battle began, I couldn’t put the book down. Thank you for a great story.
April 3, 2025
Loved!!!!
This was a wonderful tale set in the Norse traditions and mythology. The triplets are solid characters easy to bond with and relate to.
Great pacing and a few unexpected twists thrown in.
This was a wonderful tale set in the Norse traditions and mythology. The triplets are solid characters easy to bond with and relate to.
Great pacing and a few unexpected twists thrown in.
August 3, 2023
Finished at last! Hard to put down.
The characters in this book were developed so well. Events flowed in logical order. Enjoyable read. This author has a unique writing style which makes the book way to read. Very complex. Looking forward to more from her.
The characters in this book were developed so well. Events flowed in logical order. Enjoyable read. This author has a unique writing style which makes the book way to read. Very complex. Looking forward to more from her.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews