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The Ravens of London
For fans of Peaky Blinders, and dark gothic fantasy, The Ravens of London is a gripping tale of power, vengeance, and the price of defying fate—an action-packed story of gods, nightmares, and a city on the brink of ruin.
London, 1918. The Great War has ended, but the bloodshed is far from over.
Fifteen centuries ago, Calum Ravenscroft, god of nightmares, was betrayed and cast into the void. Now, freed from his prison, he returns to a world that has forgotten to fear him—and he intends to change that.
With ancient power stirring, London’s supernatural underworld rises—vampires, witches, and creatures long thought to be myth. As war looms between gods and mortals, alliances are forged in blood, and the city trembles under the weight of destruction.
Because Calum will not stop.
Because London is running out of time.
Because no god stays buried forever.
London, 1918. The Great War has ended, but the bloodshed is far from over.
Fifteen centuries ago, Calum Ravenscroft, god of nightmares, was betrayed and cast into the void. Now, freed from his prison, he returns to a world that has forgotten to fear him—and he intends to change that.
With ancient power stirring, London’s supernatural underworld rises—vampires, witches, and creatures long thought to be myth. As war looms between gods and mortals, alliances are forged in blood, and the city trembles under the weight of destruction.
Because Calum will not stop.
Because London is running out of time.
Because no god stays buried forever.
Paperback
Published April 8, 2025
129 people are currently reading
884 people want to read
About the author
Ryen Santana
8 books44 followersRyen Santana is an author who has spent her life weaving stories—first in the world of fanfiction and now in dark, emotionally charged novels. A mother of two, she balances the chaos of parenthood with the equally chaotic process of crafting narratives filled with morally grey characters, deep betrayals, and enough trauma to keep her readers up at night.
Her love for storytelling began in her early teens, where she honed her skills writing sprawling, 500k+ word fanfics inspired by Twilight, The Hunger Games, Divergent, and, of course, One Direction. If a fandom existed, she either wrote for it or devoured every story it had to offer.
When she’s not writing, she can be found indulging in her other passions—reading (obviously), rock climbing, spending all of the money she earns from books on commissioning art of her characters, and consuming unhealthy amounts of caffeine. She also enjoys rotting in bed whenever life allows, though with two small children, those moments are rare and precious.
Now, with her original works, she continues to explore the themes that first captivated her: love, power, revenge, and the darker sides of human nature. But this time, the stakes are higher, the characters more twisted, and the endings never quite what you expect.
Her love for storytelling began in her early teens, where she honed her skills writing sprawling, 500k+ word fanfics inspired by Twilight, The Hunger Games, Divergent, and, of course, One Direction. If a fandom existed, she either wrote for it or devoured every story it had to offer.
When she’s not writing, she can be found indulging in her other passions—reading (obviously), rock climbing, spending all of the money she earns from books on commissioning art of her characters, and consuming unhealthy amounts of caffeine. She also enjoys rotting in bed whenever life allows, though with two small children, those moments are rare and precious.
Now, with her original works, she continues to explore the themes that first captivated her: love, power, revenge, and the darker sides of human nature. But this time, the stakes are higher, the characters more twisted, and the endings never quite what you expect.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
April 10, 2025
I had the opportunity to ARC read Ravens of London by Ryen Santana.
I'm gonna be so honest I don't intend on tagging the author in this or hashtagging the book.
This book was sure something. The theory was really cool, Peaky Blinders meets God's and monsters, the execution however... left a lot to be desired. I had to fight my brain tooth and nail to finish this book. The story felt exceedingly disconnected, the scene jumps made it even more so, and the inconsistencies in the story pulled me out of the story every single time I tried to read it.
I'm giving ⭐️⭐️ to be generous as it the idea was interesting.
All in all, don't recommend.
I'm gonna be so honest I don't intend on tagging the author in this or hashtagging the book.
This book was sure something. The theory was really cool, Peaky Blinders meets God's and monsters, the execution however... left a lot to be desired. I had to fight my brain tooth and nail to finish this book. The story felt exceedingly disconnected, the scene jumps made it even more so, and the inconsistencies in the story pulled me out of the story every single time I tried to read it.
I'm giving ⭐️⭐️ to be generous as it the idea was interesting.
All in all, don't recommend.
May 9, 2025
100% DO NOT RECOMMEND
If I could rate this less than one star I would.
I went into this book with an open mind. Knowing it was self published, I expected some editing errors here and there. I was fully willing to overlook them because the story sounded very intriguing.
However the longer I read the more I realized. Santana is not a good writer.
Let’s break this thing down.
Starting with the glaring editing issues. It honestly seems as though the author did not have a single person, including herself, read over this book before publishing. There are continuity problems from beginning to end. Some small; like not saying a character turned around and then mentioning the look in their eyes. Others very big; like going into detail about an abdominal wound only to say it’s a neck wound in the next paragraph. Then there’s the repetitive language:
Barely contained (rage, fury, emotion) - 14 times
Otherworldly (light, glow, energy) - 20 times
Writhe, writhed, or writhing - at least 70 times just to describe shadows
Now let’s get into the story telling. Like I said, I could have looked past the editing problems. But the actual story left A LOT to be desired. There is too much random POV switching. The flashbacks are increasingly hard to track. And don’t even get me started on how she reveals a major plot twist by literally just telling the reader the truth through the villain’s POV. Also, Calum was meant to have been in the Void for 1500. Tell me how his home from 400 AD was still basically standing right in the heart of London. Or how that home was a gothic style manor with sprawling gardens and a shower. MAKE IT MAKE SENSE! Don’t even get me started one the way she writes his dialogue like he never spent any time away.
Lastly, the author markets this book as a dark fantasy “for fans of Peaky Blinders.” However the only similarity I could find is that both stories take place in post WWI England. I’m sorry but Calum Ravenscroft is no Tommy Shelby. TS is a true morally grey antihero. One of the reasons he works so well as a main character is that you always believe a part of him is redeemable. The same cannot be said for Calum. He is blindly vengeful, obsessive, loyal to no one, and morally reprehensible.
Getting to the end of this book made me glad I didn’t spend money on the kindle download.
If I could rate this less than one star I would.
I went into this book with an open mind. Knowing it was self published, I expected some editing errors here and there. I was fully willing to overlook them because the story sounded very intriguing.
However the longer I read the more I realized. Santana is not a good writer.
Let’s break this thing down.
Starting with the glaring editing issues. It honestly seems as though the author did not have a single person, including herself, read over this book before publishing. There are continuity problems from beginning to end. Some small; like not saying a character turned around and then mentioning the look in their eyes. Others very big; like going into detail about an abdominal wound only to say it’s a neck wound in the next paragraph. Then there’s the repetitive language:
Barely contained (rage, fury, emotion) - 14 times
Otherworldly (light, glow, energy) - 20 times
Writhe, writhed, or writhing - at least 70 times just to describe shadows
Now let’s get into the story telling. Like I said, I could have looked past the editing problems. But the actual story left A LOT to be desired. There is too much random POV switching. The flashbacks are increasingly hard to track. And don’t even get me started on how she reveals a major plot twist by literally just telling the reader the truth through the villain’s POV. Also, Calum was meant to have been in the Void for 1500. Tell me how his home from 400 AD was still basically standing right in the heart of London. Or how that home was a gothic style manor with sprawling gardens and a shower. MAKE IT MAKE SENSE! Don’t even get me started one the way she writes his dialogue like he never spent any time away.
Lastly, the author markets this book as a dark fantasy “for fans of Peaky Blinders.” However the only similarity I could find is that both stories take place in post WWI England. I’m sorry but Calum Ravenscroft is no Tommy Shelby. TS is a true morally grey antihero. One of the reasons he works so well as a main character is that you always believe a part of him is redeemable. The same cannot be said for Calum. He is blindly vengeful, obsessive, loyal to no one, and morally reprehensible.
Getting to the end of this book made me glad I didn’t spend money on the kindle download.
March 25, 2025
From the Author's Note: "This is a story of reckoning and the worst is yet to come."
Wow. As a lover of historical fiction and fantasy, I was excited for this book based on the description and it delivered big time. Before reading this I recommend you read the content warnings and also know this is part 1 of a planned duology.
Book 2 cannot come soon enough.
The imagery was so vivid you'll be immersed in this reimagined London of the 1920s. The characters were well built out and the multiple POV had me questioning my allegiances throughout.
This book will transport you to a world of darkness and chaos while confronting some of our most raw emotions and experiences. Embrace it and enjoy.
Wow. As a lover of historical fiction and fantasy, I was excited for this book based on the description and it delivered big time. Before reading this I recommend you read the content warnings and also know this is part 1 of a planned duology.
Book 2 cannot come soon enough.
The imagery was so vivid you'll be immersed in this reimagined London of the 1920s. The characters were well built out and the multiple POV had me questioning my allegiances throughout.
This book will transport you to a world of darkness and chaos while confronting some of our most raw emotions and experiences. Embrace it and enjoy.
April 6, 2025
I’m still processing full review will be coming soon but OH MY GOD!! 5 fkn stars
April 10, 2025
I enjoyed this but I didn’t love it & I can’t explain why & still processing it a day later???? I did enjoy the whole Peaky Blinders vibe tho
April 1, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive this as an ARC in exchange for a review. This was my first ARC by Ryen Santana and I read through her entire backlist immediately.
The Ravens of London is the kind of book that leaves claw marks on your heart. It’s beautifully written, devastatingly dark, and soaked in emotion. This isn’t just fantasy, it’s poetry. Ryen Santana’s writing is sharp and lyrical, the kind of prose that makes you stop and reread a sentence just to feel it again. The lore is rich, the stakes are brutal, and the characters? They stay with you.
This book broke me. Calum destroyed me. And I loved every second of it.
If you’re into morally gray gods, gothic vibes, messy emotions, and heartbreak you'll crave, The Ravens of London belongs on your shelf and in your soul.
The Ravens of London is the kind of book that leaves claw marks on your heart. It’s beautifully written, devastatingly dark, and soaked in emotion. This isn’t just fantasy, it’s poetry. Ryen Santana’s writing is sharp and lyrical, the kind of prose that makes you stop and reread a sentence just to feel it again. The lore is rich, the stakes are brutal, and the characters? They stay with you.
This book broke me. Calum destroyed me. And I loved every second of it.
If you’re into morally gray gods, gothic vibes, messy emotions, and heartbreak you'll crave, The Ravens of London belongs on your shelf and in your soul.
March 30, 2025
Gothic, chaotic, dark…yes, but (for me) also disjointed and hard to get into. I struggled to get past the first 200 pages, finding characters and settings to be flat and cliche. And then the next 300 feel the same, despite the sweeping gothic arc the story takes. The idea and the premise is there in spades but the execution wasn’t it for me.
Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 7, 2025
Thank you to Ryen for an ARC of this book! It has in no way impacted my review or how I felt while reading.
Review time!!
When the book is so good it literally takes you back, but then it turns into something much more cynical and you’re on the edge of your seat the entire time. Welcome to The Ravens of London. I mean this in the literal best way possible, but what did I just read? The scheming, every single unhinged character, the betrayals, the unexpected deaths, THE PLOT TWISTS... I’m so shook and I can’t properly write a review because I refuse to spoil anything. However I can tell you that this book has:
- multiple POVs
- morally black MMC
- so much rage
- alternate timelines
- inspired by Peaky Blinders
I feel like most fantasy books can become predictable, but when I tell you I seriously had no idea what was about to happen (in the best way) I mean it. This was a decently long book but it went by so fast because I simply couldn’t put it down. Chefs kiss 🤌🏼
Review time!!
When the book is so good it literally takes you back, but then it turns into something much more cynical and you’re on the edge of your seat the entire time. Welcome to The Ravens of London. I mean this in the literal best way possible, but what did I just read? The scheming, every single unhinged character, the betrayals, the unexpected deaths, THE PLOT TWISTS... I’m so shook and I can’t properly write a review because I refuse to spoil anything. However I can tell you that this book has:
- multiple POVs
- morally black MMC
- so much rage
- alternate timelines
- inspired by Peaky Blinders
I feel like most fantasy books can become predictable, but when I tell you I seriously had no idea what was about to happen (in the best way) I mean it. This was a decently long book but it went by so fast because I simply couldn’t put it down. Chefs kiss 🤌🏼
March 14, 2025
Thank you for the ARC of this book!
The description fits the story perfectly: Historical Dark Fantasy with Peaky Blinders vibes
Everything about this fit exactly as it should and I find that so rare that I have to scream about it (in a good way).
The descriptions are perfection, the dialogue is believable and true to each character.
The switching POVs and timelines can get tricky, though they were executed seamlessly.
I am impressed and excited to read more by Ryen!
The description fits the story perfectly: Historical Dark Fantasy with Peaky Blinders vibes
Everything about this fit exactly as it should and I find that so rare that I have to scream about it (in a good way).
The descriptions are perfection, the dialogue is believable and true to each character.
The switching POVs and timelines can get tricky, though they were executed seamlessly.
I am impressed and excited to read more by Ryen!
March 5, 2025
I’m one of those people who can picture everything happening vividly and this book made me feel like I was watching a movie! Love is a powerful thing, but so is hatred and you’ll find an abundance of both of these things in this book! Absolutely loved it!
March 26, 2025
Loved.this.book. It was a little confusing at the start but as you slowly learn more and more about the world it just sucks you in. The end was omg. Can’t wait for more in this series.
March 10, 2025
The Ravens of London wrecked me, as Ryen’s books always tend to do. Just pure emotional devastation. The writing? Gorgeous. The characters? Incredible. The ending? SICK AND TWISTED. I don’t know what to do with myself other than DEMAND answers and wait not so patiently for book two.
Im obsessed, but WHAT THE FUCK!!!!!!
Im obsessed, but WHAT THE FUCK!!!!!!
Read
May 13, 2025DNF @ 20%
Only comparison to Peaky Blinders was the constant use of the work “fuck”.
Had so much potential but there was a lot of telling, not showing. Relationships felt very bland and unrealistic and times.
Only comparison to Peaky Blinders was the constant use of the work “fuck”.
Had so much potential but there was a lot of telling, not showing. Relationships felt very bland and unrealistic and times.
March 21, 2025
A FEAST OF BLOODY DARKNESS, BUT DISJOINTED AND CONFUSING AT TIMES.
Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book in return for an honest review. Please keep this in mind in regard to my commentary!
(My rating for this book is really 3.5 Stars, but as Goodreads does not allow half-star ratings I chose the whole star rating that I believe it leans closest to.)
The Ravens of London does a lot right, but also has some glaring issues that may not ruin the glorious impact and shadowy rage of the plot, yet do still detract from the overall experience.
I’m going to do what I like to do when I review something I loved but has problems: make a review sandwich.
This novel was FANTASTIC with its mood, its bloody chaos, and a central plot that ties everything together into a vicious package that can’t help but charm you. I know that the author herself draws comparisons to Peaky Blinders and Sandman, but I feel another comparison fits extremely well. This book reminded me of The Originals, the spin-off of The Vampire Diaries (and also, in my opinion, significantly better than its origin show). Especially in the messy family drama, faction politics, and what can only be described as slaughter parties.
And I will also add that the ‘spice,’ as there certainly is some and it leans into the explicit, was well written. I’m pretty much neutral on explicit sexual scenes in books, not really looking for it but not avoiding it either, but these were well written for those who DO enjoy spice.
So, onto the negative… this book was badly disjointed. It felt like there were times where things just kind of happened, jumping between events unfolding at different points in time without actually explaining this to the reader properly. It also unfortunately felt as though some things were in conflict with previously explained pieces of world-building or character development. Unless they weren’t explained clearly enough in the first place? Either way, I was left confused multiple times as I read which is very unfortunate, as if it was not for this my rating would be significantly boosted.
Though at the same time, I suppose the fact that my rating remains as high as it is goes to show just how strong the positive aspects of this story were. Further proof of which is that I am DESPERATE to get my hands on the eventual Book 2. This read scratched an itch I haven’t been able to ‘reach’ in years.
All-in-all, The Ravens of London is a fantastic book that, despite structural problems, is very much worth the read. I’m excited to see what else Ryen Santana delivers in the future!
Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book in return for an honest review. Please keep this in mind in regard to my commentary!
(My rating for this book is really 3.5 Stars, but as Goodreads does not allow half-star ratings I chose the whole star rating that I believe it leans closest to.)
The Ravens of London does a lot right, but also has some glaring issues that may not ruin the glorious impact and shadowy rage of the plot, yet do still detract from the overall experience.
I’m going to do what I like to do when I review something I loved but has problems: make a review sandwich.
This novel was FANTASTIC with its mood, its bloody chaos, and a central plot that ties everything together into a vicious package that can’t help but charm you. I know that the author herself draws comparisons to Peaky Blinders and Sandman, but I feel another comparison fits extremely well. This book reminded me of The Originals, the spin-off of The Vampire Diaries (and also, in my opinion, significantly better than its origin show). Especially in the messy family drama, faction politics, and what can only be described as slaughter parties.
And I will also add that the ‘spice,’ as there certainly is some and it leans into the explicit, was well written. I’m pretty much neutral on explicit sexual scenes in books, not really looking for it but not avoiding it either, but these were well written for those who DO enjoy spice.
So, onto the negative… this book was badly disjointed. It felt like there were times where things just kind of happened, jumping between events unfolding at different points in time without actually explaining this to the reader properly. It also unfortunately felt as though some things were in conflict with previously explained pieces of world-building or character development. Unless they weren’t explained clearly enough in the first place? Either way, I was left confused multiple times as I read which is very unfortunate, as if it was not for this my rating would be significantly boosted.
Though at the same time, I suppose the fact that my rating remains as high as it is goes to show just how strong the positive aspects of this story were. Further proof of which is that I am DESPERATE to get my hands on the eventual Book 2. This read scratched an itch I haven’t been able to ‘reach’ in years.
All-in-all, The Ravens of London is a fantastic book that, despite structural problems, is very much worth the read. I’m excited to see what else Ryen Santana delivers in the future!
April 7, 2025
Wow, Peaky Blinders meets Interview with the Vampire!
Callum, the god of nightmares, has returned from the void. 1500 years previous, his marriage to a Fae princess had caused ripples big enough to potentially destroy an already fragile peace pact. When she is taken from him, his brother and sister fear the destruction that Callum will bring to the world in his quest to get her back, and so they vanish him from the void.
Against all odds Callum has now returned from the void and is back in London. Alerted to this brother's presence, Alistair tracks him down, terrified of what this means. There should have been no way he was able to come back, and even more troublesome, he has to deliver some news that he knows will break him. Ottilie has disappeared. Both he and their sister Nora have searched for her far and wide, to no avail. Callum has returned to the world only to find out she is no longer in it.
While returning to his former home, Callum meets Mary. A young woman down on her luck but offers him kindness and agrees to be soul bonded with him. In return for information, she can have money and power and ensure she is never down trodden again. She talks to him about the goddess Kakia, the goddess of deals and how she tried to summon her in a bid to turn her life around. Unlike Mary, it seems like Ottilie may have had more success in summoning Kakia, but what was the deal she made and just exactly how far is Callum willing to go to get her back?!
This was an incredible read. Fast paced, laced with so many factions of mythical creatures and supernatural beings and utterly heartless breaking. I absolutely devoured this one. If you like dark fantasy, scheming and treachery then this is for you! Oh, and yes, there is a little bit of spice!!!
Callum, the god of nightmares, has returned from the void. 1500 years previous, his marriage to a Fae princess had caused ripples big enough to potentially destroy an already fragile peace pact. When she is taken from him, his brother and sister fear the destruction that Callum will bring to the world in his quest to get her back, and so they vanish him from the void.
Against all odds Callum has now returned from the void and is back in London. Alerted to this brother's presence, Alistair tracks him down, terrified of what this means. There should have been no way he was able to come back, and even more troublesome, he has to deliver some news that he knows will break him. Ottilie has disappeared. Both he and their sister Nora have searched for her far and wide, to no avail. Callum has returned to the world only to find out she is no longer in it.
While returning to his former home, Callum meets Mary. A young woman down on her luck but offers him kindness and agrees to be soul bonded with him. In return for information, she can have money and power and ensure she is never down trodden again. She talks to him about the goddess Kakia, the goddess of deals and how she tried to summon her in a bid to turn her life around. Unlike Mary, it seems like Ottilie may have had more success in summoning Kakia, but what was the deal she made and just exactly how far is Callum willing to go to get her back?!
This was an incredible read. Fast paced, laced with so many factions of mythical creatures and supernatural beings and utterly heartless breaking. I absolutely devoured this one. If you like dark fantasy, scheming and treachery then this is for you! Oh, and yes, there is a little bit of spice!!!
July 25, 2025
The Ravens of London is the historical fantasy fiction novel by Ryen Santana.
The Ravens of London sees Calum Ravenscroft, the almighty God of Nightmares, return to the mortal world after being banished to the Void for over fifteen centuries. Calum knows he has to seek revenge on his siblings who betrayed him and forced him into a dark and torturous prison. He enlists the help of a human woman to help gain regain the power and notoriety he was once feared for, even if it means having to make sacrifices.
I decided to give this book a go because I was intrigued on how historical fiction and fantasy mixed with influences from Peaky Blinders... and I still have no idea what part of this book was supposed to emulate Peaky Blinders besides where and when the book was set. However, what the book does well is drawing you in and making you want to know who Calum is and what his motives are. This, paired with good writing and action is arguably the strongest point of this book.
I liked Calum initially, albeit he comes across as very boring and it takes a while before we are privy to his backstory. As the book progresses, I found him incredibly confusing and ended up hating him in the end. I think he was well written and his intentions were clear, but he was awful to Mary and I don't think stringing her along was fair.
I struggled with the constant switching of POV, especially when it felt so disjointed with the lack of explanation of events and relationships between characters. I think better world building and character development would have possibly bumped up my rating for The Ravens of London ever so slightly. I also had high hopes for the relationship between Calum and Mary, especially considering he stakes a claim on her through the bond, but once it was clear Calum was determined to resurrect Tilly, my faith in that happening died a quick death.
Mary deserved better.
The Ravens of London sees Calum Ravenscroft, the almighty God of Nightmares, return to the mortal world after being banished to the Void for over fifteen centuries. Calum knows he has to seek revenge on his siblings who betrayed him and forced him into a dark and torturous prison. He enlists the help of a human woman to help gain regain the power and notoriety he was once feared for, even if it means having to make sacrifices.
I decided to give this book a go because I was intrigued on how historical fiction and fantasy mixed with influences from Peaky Blinders... and I still have no idea what part of this book was supposed to emulate Peaky Blinders besides where and when the book was set. However, what the book does well is drawing you in and making you want to know who Calum is and what his motives are. This, paired with good writing and action is arguably the strongest point of this book.
I liked Calum initially, albeit he comes across as very boring and it takes a while before we are privy to his backstory. As the book progresses, I found him incredibly confusing and ended up hating him in the end. I think he was well written and his intentions were clear, but he was awful to Mary and I don't think stringing her along was fair.
I struggled with the constant switching of POV, especially when it felt so disjointed with the lack of explanation of events and relationships between characters. I think better world building and character development would have possibly bumped up my rating for The Ravens of London ever so slightly. I also had high hopes for the relationship between Calum and Mary, especially considering he stakes a claim on her through the bond, but once it was clear Calum was determined to resurrect Tilly, my faith in that happening died a quick death.
Mary deserved better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2025
It was enjoyable and while I did finish this book quickly there were some issues I had with it.
The positives:
- The vibes were fun! Definitely gothic feeling.
- I like that it doesn’t follow *some* traditional tropes found in the genre. That was a wild ride of “oh, that actually happened…”
- I think if some of the issues below are fixed for book 2 it could be a really fun duology.
(I thought I had more positives to list but overall it was a fun ride and I didn’t DNF. Some of them started as positives then turned to negatives after some thought)
The negatives:
- This story could have been placed in any time frame before cellular devices and still have essentially the same plot. It felt like the mortal war added to some characters backgrounds/motivations but not everyone’s. That might be the supernatural bit being added because those factions/areas weren’t really involved?
- They are Gods but I really had a hard time figuring out what their powers were exactly. I mean yes all powerful cause Gods (duh) but they also had specific powers but also overlapping powers to each other? Are these the only Gods in this world? I might have missed that. I feel like I remember something about Greek gods but I’ll have to go back and look.
- Similar to what others have mentioned, at times does feel disjointed because of the time jumps from other characters POVs that felt like inconsistencies to what we’ve already been told or later learn.
- I tended to skip some of the dialogue between two separate pairs of characters because it felt repetitive and almost childish or splintered?
The positives:
- The vibes were fun! Definitely gothic feeling.
- I like that it doesn’t follow *some* traditional tropes found in the genre. That was a wild ride of “oh, that actually happened…”
- I think if some of the issues below are fixed for book 2 it could be a really fun duology.
(I thought I had more positives to list but overall it was a fun ride and I didn’t DNF. Some of them started as positives then turned to negatives after some thought)
The negatives:
- This story could have been placed in any time frame before cellular devices and still have essentially the same plot. It felt like the mortal war added to some characters backgrounds/motivations but not everyone’s. That might be the supernatural bit being added because those factions/areas weren’t really involved?
- They are Gods but I really had a hard time figuring out what their powers were exactly. I mean yes all powerful cause Gods (duh) but they also had specific powers but also overlapping powers to each other? Are these the only Gods in this world? I might have missed that. I feel like I remember something about Greek gods but I’ll have to go back and look.
- Similar to what others have mentioned, at times does feel disjointed because of the time jumps from other characters POVs that felt like inconsistencies to what we’ve already been told or later learn.
- I tended to skip some of the dialogue between two separate pairs of characters because it felt repetitive and almost childish or splintered?
Read
April 2, 2025Peaky Blinders meets gods and dark fantasy? Say less. The Ravens of London gives that and so much more!
Set in post WWI London - boasting complicated family drama and dynamics; nightmare, chaos and other power wielding gods; demons and vampires; romance subplots, and more - Ravens delivers a dark, action packed mashup of fantasy, Peaky Blinders, and The Vampire Diaries/The Originals. The concept was new and fun; the magic system, world building, and plot were easy to follow, even with the shuffling of multiple points of view and timelines. The main plot focuses on Calum and his desire for vengeance and destruction as he attempts to save and avenge his lost lover after being released from his prison, the Void. In a race against time and foe, he schemes against his family and closest allies all for his undying love. The subplots, like Allistair’s romance and Mary’s history, intrigued me just as much as the main storyline. The twists at the end? Whew, didn’t see some of those coming! All in all, my intrigue and interest in book two has only increased since finishing book one in the Ravens duology.
If you’re looking for a dark historical fantasy with original and unique qualities, morally complex and deeply flawed protagonists, anti-heroes, found family, mythology and gods, and love/hate dynamics, then The Ravens of London is for you!
*𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶, Sinfully Bookish PR and Ryen Santana, 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝘦𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸!
Set in post WWI London - boasting complicated family drama and dynamics; nightmare, chaos and other power wielding gods; demons and vampires; romance subplots, and more - Ravens delivers a dark, action packed mashup of fantasy, Peaky Blinders, and The Vampire Diaries/The Originals. The concept was new and fun; the magic system, world building, and plot were easy to follow, even with the shuffling of multiple points of view and timelines. The main plot focuses on Calum and his desire for vengeance and destruction as he attempts to save and avenge his lost lover after being released from his prison, the Void. In a race against time and foe, he schemes against his family and closest allies all for his undying love. The subplots, like Allistair’s romance and Mary’s history, intrigued me just as much as the main storyline. The twists at the end? Whew, didn’t see some of those coming! All in all, my intrigue and interest in book two has only increased since finishing book one in the Ravens duology.
If you’re looking for a dark historical fantasy with original and unique qualities, morally complex and deeply flawed protagonists, anti-heroes, found family, mythology and gods, and love/hate dynamics, then The Ravens of London is for you!
*𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶, Sinfully Bookish PR and Ryen Santana, 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝘦𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸!
April 8, 2025
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I also wanna start off by saying that although I received this book 3 weeks ago. The fact that it has taken me so long to read this has absolutely nothing to do with the book itself and was 100% down to being in the WORST reading slump I have ever been in.
This book did a lot of things right. The mood was amazing, and the plot was plotting. Just the vibe overall was exactly as described, which made me happy. There were a few plot twists that I really did enjoy.
However, I found this book to be confusing and disjointed. Some scenes did not feel necessary, like things just happened for the sake of happening, without much explanation. Also, a lot of things that happened actually conflicted with other parts of the book, which is also added to the confusion. I feel I spent more time trying to figure things out than I did actually reading the book.
Another thing that added to my confusion was all the P.O.V's and time jumpes. I'm all for multiple points of view as it can help add to the story. However, there is such thing as too many. It was really difficult to keep count of who was who and what was what.
I kept having to go back in my head to remember people and things, and it was all just too much.
Also, justice for Mary. My girl deserved the world.
I also wanna start off by saying that although I received this book 3 weeks ago. The fact that it has taken me so long to read this has absolutely nothing to do with the book itself and was 100% down to being in the WORST reading slump I have ever been in.
This book did a lot of things right. The mood was amazing, and the plot was plotting. Just the vibe overall was exactly as described, which made me happy. There were a few plot twists that I really did enjoy.
However, I found this book to be confusing and disjointed. Some scenes did not feel necessary, like things just happened for the sake of happening, without much explanation. Also, a lot of things that happened actually conflicted with other parts of the book, which is also added to the confusion. I feel I spent more time trying to figure things out than I did actually reading the book.
Another thing that added to my confusion was all the P.O.V's and time jumpes. I'm all for multiple points of view as it can help add to the story. However, there is such thing as too many. It was really difficult to keep count of who was who and what was what.
I kept having to go back in my head to remember people and things, and it was all just too much.
Also, justice for Mary. My girl deserved the world.
March 30, 2025
Please note, I was grateful to receive an e-arc of this book in return for an honest review.
The premise of the peaky blinders meets gods had me so keen to read this book. I enjoyed the setting of London having moved here half a year ago, so the location references were fun. I loved the gothic setting of the story.
With that said, I will say I felt let down by the main character Calum. I felt like he fell flat after the beginning. In all honesty Mary (who becomes Calum’s bonded, essentially his right hand) and Alistair (his brother) had much stronger personalities. I almost wished Alistair was the mc instead.
One thing I didn’t want was Mary to become a placeholder, she definitely could’ve used more on page time. I wish we could’ve seen her grow a lot more.
The whole book really is about Calum’s quest to save his lost love Ottilie Valentine, princess of the Seelie fae. In saying that, the romance is definitely a side plot so don’t expect too much of that in this story.
Overall I still enjoyed bits of the world building and the interactions with the MCs siblings and delving into their relationship.
The world has definitely been set up in book 1 and I look forward to what Ryen comes up with next!
The premise of the peaky blinders meets gods had me so keen to read this book. I enjoyed the setting of London having moved here half a year ago, so the location references were fun. I loved the gothic setting of the story.
With that said, I will say I felt let down by the main character Calum. I felt like he fell flat after the beginning. In all honesty Mary (who becomes Calum’s bonded, essentially his right hand) and Alistair (his brother) had much stronger personalities. I almost wished Alistair was the mc instead.
One thing I didn’t want was Mary to become a placeholder, she definitely could’ve used more on page time. I wish we could’ve seen her grow a lot more.
The whole book really is about Calum’s quest to save his lost love Ottilie Valentine, princess of the Seelie fae. In saying that, the romance is definitely a side plot so don’t expect too much of that in this story.
Overall I still enjoyed bits of the world building and the interactions with the MCs siblings and delving into their relationship.
The world has definitely been set up in book 1 and I look forward to what Ryen comes up with next!
April 1, 2025
The Ravens of London by Ryen Santana is a dark, gothic, post-WW1 fantasy where gods are corrupt, love is a weapon, and revenge is everything.
Betrayed by his own siblings—the goddess of light, Nora, and the god of chaos, Alister—the God of Darkness, Calum, was cast into the void and left to rot for a millennia. His love, Princess Ottilie, stolen from him through deceit. But now, after centuries of suffering, escape is finally within reach—and he’s willing to burn the world to reclaim what was taken.
To rise again, he needs power. He needs an army. So, he does what gods do best—he makes a deal. A human woman, hardened by hardship, now wields the power of a god—and with it, she is the key to Calum’s goals.
Because in a world where monsters and gods make the rules. there’s only one question that matters:
What would you destroy for love?
While I loved the dark atmosphere and morally complex characters, I personally found parts of the story a bit disjointed and at times mildly confusing. Some scenes didn’t feel entirely necessary to the overall plot, though that’s just my opinion. Readers who enjoy morally grey anti-heroes, and mythologies where gods are as flawed as the mortals they rule may find this story completely immersive. Thank you sinfullybookishpr and author Ryen Santana.
Betrayed by his own siblings—the goddess of light, Nora, and the god of chaos, Alister—the God of Darkness, Calum, was cast into the void and left to rot for a millennia. His love, Princess Ottilie, stolen from him through deceit. But now, after centuries of suffering, escape is finally within reach—and he’s willing to burn the world to reclaim what was taken.
To rise again, he needs power. He needs an army. So, he does what gods do best—he makes a deal. A human woman, hardened by hardship, now wields the power of a god—and with it, she is the key to Calum’s goals.
Because in a world where monsters and gods make the rules. there’s only one question that matters:
What would you destroy for love?
While I loved the dark atmosphere and morally complex characters, I personally found parts of the story a bit disjointed and at times mildly confusing. Some scenes didn’t feel entirely necessary to the overall plot, though that’s just my opinion. Readers who enjoy morally grey anti-heroes, and mythologies where gods are as flawed as the mortals they rule may find this story completely immersive. Thank you sinfullybookishpr and author Ryen Santana.
April 18, 2025
For me the book sort of lost me in the middle but the last half in the best way possible, was definitely worth waiting for. I did like how there were different point of views, although I think some were maybe not really needed but nonetheless, I liked reading it from all angles. It felt a bit slow in the first half, not boring but didn’t quite grasp me but again the second half was definitely what sold it for me.
The ending was what I expected but wasn’t what I expected if that makes sense. I was still shocked and wide eyed when I read the last chapter but then again I knew that was where it was heading because the warnings were all over the page in several chapters.
This world was really nice! I liked the concept of it, I liked the powers and the different takes on gods and monsters. Some characters I completely did not like because I think they weren’t developed enough or simply I just didn’t like them but some I loved completely, (the MMC brother, he grew on me in the end). But I do have to say, I support whatever Calum does in the next book.
Thank you for allowing me to be apart of this world.
The ending was what I expected but wasn’t what I expected if that makes sense. I was still shocked and wide eyed when I read the last chapter but then again I knew that was where it was heading because the warnings were all over the page in several chapters.
This world was really nice! I liked the concept of it, I liked the powers and the different takes on gods and monsters. Some characters I completely did not like because I think they weren’t developed enough or simply I just didn’t like them but some I loved completely, (the MMC brother, he grew on me in the end). But I do have to say, I support whatever Calum does in the next book.
Thank you for allowing me to be apart of this world.
April 3, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Absolutely Spellbinding!
Wow—The Ravens of London completely blew me away! This gives a Peaky Blinders vibe for sure! It weaves together mystery, magic, and historical fantasy so seamlessly that I was hooked from page one. The eerie streets of London, the cryptic symbolic tale of ravens, and the sense that fate (or nightmares) is always lurking in the shadows make this such an immersive read.
The characters are complex, flawed, and tangled in a story where you would do anything for love and will just about destroy the world into chaos just trying to unravel the truth. And just when I thought I had things figured out… BAM! A plot twist and ending I never saw coming! It was the kind of moment that made me put the book down just to process what had happened and immediately DM the author and be like WHAA!
If you love books with rich atmosphere, unexpected twists, and a story that stays with you long after you turn the last page, The Ravens of London is a must-read.
Absolutely Spellbinding!
Wow—The Ravens of London completely blew me away! This gives a Peaky Blinders vibe for sure! It weaves together mystery, magic, and historical fantasy so seamlessly that I was hooked from page one. The eerie streets of London, the cryptic symbolic tale of ravens, and the sense that fate (or nightmares) is always lurking in the shadows make this such an immersive read.
The characters are complex, flawed, and tangled in a story where you would do anything for love and will just about destroy the world into chaos just trying to unravel the truth. And just when I thought I had things figured out… BAM! A plot twist and ending I never saw coming! It was the kind of moment that made me put the book down just to process what had happened and immediately DM the author and be like WHAA!
If you love books with rich atmosphere, unexpected twists, and a story that stays with you long after you turn the last page, The Ravens of London is a must-read.
May 7, 2025
Devoured in one sitting.
I love irredeemable characters. I love characters that know they're irredeemable and don't care, instead they revel in it. So naturally Calum and I were a match made in the Void as I got a front row seat to his unraveling. And how spectacular it was. Oh, and the heaping helping of revenge is always a must-have for me.
My one gripe, and honestly it's minimal with just how character driven the plot was, is the slight lack of world-building. It's minimal, the bare necessities to save the reader from white room syndrome but that's about it but honestly once we get "post-war London 1918" established it's not a huge deal especially with the multiple POVs and time skips.
I can't wait for book 2, to see the next level of hell set to be unleashed. I'm honestly Calum's biggest fan at this point. I said "can he go any lower" and the last few pages he really took that to heart. We're limboing in the seventh circle of hell at this point.
I love irredeemable characters. I love characters that know they're irredeemable and don't care, instead they revel in it. So naturally Calum and I were a match made in the Void as I got a front row seat to his unraveling. And how spectacular it was. Oh, and the heaping helping of revenge is always a must-have for me.
My one gripe, and honestly it's minimal with just how character driven the plot was, is the slight lack of world-building. It's minimal, the bare necessities to save the reader from white room syndrome but that's about it but honestly once we get "post-war London 1918" established it's not a huge deal especially with the multiple POVs and time skips.
I can't wait for book 2, to see the next level of hell set to be unleashed. I'm honestly Calum's biggest fan at this point. I said "can he go any lower" and the last few pages he really took that to heart. We're limboing in the seventh circle of hell at this point.
July 28, 2025
I loved the idea, but I admit I did start skipping a lot of pages from 65% onward, because damn . some chapters just dragged on and on and didn't really add much to the reading experience.
I wasn't a fan of the ending as there were too many loose ends. What happened with the werewolves, vampires and seelies? His sister? The Fae king and even his realm and all the drama that Ruby started? Everything just stopped and I was just left there wondering if there was an epilogue - but nope. It just stopped which was sadly anticlimactic AF. I loved the whole chaos war shit in the end, but I really, really missed something more definite in the end there.
Is there a 2'nd book coming? Because I can't find any info on that.
All the time jumping and perspectives were too much. I get that some background was needed to fill out missing parts in the story, but those extra chapters could easily have been turned into a prologue.
I wasn't a fan of the ending as there were too many loose ends. What happened with the werewolves, vampires and seelies? His sister? The Fae king and even his realm and all the drama that Ruby started? Everything just stopped and I was just left there wondering if there was an epilogue - but nope. It just stopped which was sadly anticlimactic AF. I loved the whole chaos war shit in the end, but I really, really missed something more definite in the end there.
Is there a 2'nd book coming? Because I can't find any info on that.
All the time jumping and perspectives were too much. I get that some background was needed to fill out missing parts in the story, but those extra chapters could easily have been turned into a prologue.
March 31, 2025
3.5 stars rounded upto to 4.
Gods and Goddesses, Fae, vampires, werewolves and a secret society. Calum Ravenscroft returns to London, a God desperate to save his one true love, seeking revenge on those who banished him. Follow Calum as he builds an army, deals with the unexpected, all the while, the realms are threatening to rip at the seems promising destruction.
This book has great potential. The plot, world building and characters are excellent. I loved the magic system too.
The start of the book is gripping and well crafted, the end much the same - a few surprising moments that weren’t truly expected and again, well done.
The reason this book has dropped stars is the repetitive writing in the middle. The same points being made several times across multiple paragraphs within the same chapter and I found the middle difficult to get through because of this.
Gods and Goddesses, Fae, vampires, werewolves and a secret society. Calum Ravenscroft returns to London, a God desperate to save his one true love, seeking revenge on those who banished him. Follow Calum as he builds an army, deals with the unexpected, all the while, the realms are threatening to rip at the seems promising destruction.
This book has great potential. The plot, world building and characters are excellent. I loved the magic system too.
The start of the book is gripping and well crafted, the end much the same - a few surprising moments that weren’t truly expected and again, well done.
The reason this book has dropped stars is the repetitive writing in the middle. The same points being made several times across multiple paragraphs within the same chapter and I found the middle difficult to get through because of this.
April 6, 2025
*ARC*
Ohmygod, I could not put this book down!!! Like I was immersed in this story from page one. This book has it all; blood, destruction, sacrifice, never ending love, sibling hate.
I absolutely loved the setting of post WW1 London and I loved how this story brought all kinds of magical characters; vampires, werewolves, fae, gods. The Ravens of London has it all, but it never felt like too much or too dense.
Ryen Santana has woven an intricate story of betrayal and choices. I think this book makes you think about what kinds of choices you would make if it could bring the love of your life back. You feel for the villains, you can see how certain choices have led them to their final decisions. This book absolutely ripped my heart out and I was crying by the end because, why??????
Book 2 cannot come fast enough. I need to know how this will all play out.
Ohmygod, I could not put this book down!!! Like I was immersed in this story from page one. This book has it all; blood, destruction, sacrifice, never ending love, sibling hate.
I absolutely loved the setting of post WW1 London and I loved how this story brought all kinds of magical characters; vampires, werewolves, fae, gods. The Ravens of London has it all, but it never felt like too much or too dense.
Ryen Santana has woven an intricate story of betrayal and choices. I think this book makes you think about what kinds of choices you would make if it could bring the love of your life back. You feel for the villains, you can see how certain choices have led them to their final decisions. This book absolutely ripped my heart out and I was crying by the end because, why??????
Book 2 cannot come fast enough. I need to know how this will all play out.
April 6, 2025
🖤🐦⬛The Ravens of London ARC Review🐦⬛🖤
Ryen truly drops us into a dark historical fantasy and really pulls the darkness over us with the Ravens of London and I could not get enough. Calum Ravenscroft is a literal god hell bent on vengeance, and is vicious enough to do absolutely whatever he needs to accomplish that. We take a deep dive into the supernatural underworld of post WW1 London, where there are lots of players on the board taking part in or ready to take down Calum and his scheming. This books is great in that it’s not like most dark fantasy’s out right now. Very plot driven with complicated characters & tension filled family dynamics. Truly a dark fantasy that explores the darkest and most sinister of human and not so human places. And that wicked ending that came out of nowhere really had me mouth wide open saying WTF ready for book 2! Thank you again for this ARC! 🫶🏼
Ryen truly drops us into a dark historical fantasy and really pulls the darkness over us with the Ravens of London and I could not get enough. Calum Ravenscroft is a literal god hell bent on vengeance, and is vicious enough to do absolutely whatever he needs to accomplish that. We take a deep dive into the supernatural underworld of post WW1 London, where there are lots of players on the board taking part in or ready to take down Calum and his scheming. This books is great in that it’s not like most dark fantasy’s out right now. Very plot driven with complicated characters & tension filled family dynamics. Truly a dark fantasy that explores the darkest and most sinister of human and not so human places. And that wicked ending that came out of nowhere really had me mouth wide open saying WTF ready for book 2! Thank you again for this ARC! 🫶🏼
April 8, 2025
London, 1918.
After the Great War has ended, a new kind of battle has taken over London. Calum Ravenscroft, mysterious god of nightmares, has been freed after fifteen hundred years beyond the Void of captivity. Searching for his long lost love, Ottilie, he begins to scour the streets of his home.
However, as time has passed without him, Calum is no longer feared in the circles he used to roam in. Vampires, demons, and other supernatural beings can sense his return and begin to rise again. These supernatural entities seek to haunt the city, with bloodshed in their wake.
This book was marketed as Peaky Blinders meets dark gothic fantasy and that is a great description! I really enjoyed it and think it is a great take on dark fantasy.
Thanks to the author and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for a review!
After the Great War has ended, a new kind of battle has taken over London. Calum Ravenscroft, mysterious god of nightmares, has been freed after fifteen hundred years beyond the Void of captivity. Searching for his long lost love, Ottilie, he begins to scour the streets of his home.
However, as time has passed without him, Calum is no longer feared in the circles he used to roam in. Vampires, demons, and other supernatural beings can sense his return and begin to rise again. These supernatural entities seek to haunt the city, with bloodshed in their wake.
This book was marketed as Peaky Blinders meets dark gothic fantasy and that is a great description! I really enjoyed it and think it is a great take on dark fantasy.
Thanks to the author and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for a review!
December 14, 2025
Well.. this was an adventure and a very stark reminder that fantasy books don’t have to end in a HEA 🫠🫠🫠 @ryenwrites will in fact be getting my therapy bill for this, I went into this a little intimidated (cause hello it’s 500 pages and book ONE???) but this book was dark and gritty and full of despair and rage and was honestly so good?? Like who do you root for when everyone is the villian? The trauma that the last 15% of this book causes is unreal honestly
The pacing of this book felt a little slower than what I’m used to reading but felt wholly appropriate for this story
This is only my second of Ryen’s books and wow the vibes between this and Aeigr-7 were so vastly different we love a queen who can do both 💅🏻💅🏻💅🏻
It’s on KU if you’re interested 🥰
(And you absolutely should be 🖤🐦⬛)
I can’t wait for the new trauma that Mourning Star will cause 🥲
The pacing of this book felt a little slower than what I’m used to reading but felt wholly appropriate for this story
This is only my second of Ryen’s books and wow the vibes between this and Aeigr-7 were so vastly different we love a queen who can do both 💅🏻💅🏻💅🏻
It’s on KU if you’re interested 🥰
(And you absolutely should be 🖤🐦⬛)
I can’t wait for the new trauma that Mourning Star will cause 🥲
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