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End of Crows
R.A. Lingenfelter invites you into a world beyond the imaginable in 'End of Crows.' Graced with the coveted 2022 Readers Favorite International Gold Medal in Young Adult Adventure, 2023 Cadmus Book Awards, 2024 American Legacy Book Award for Epic Adventure and finalist in Fantasy and Adventure, this gripping tale redefines the traditional battlegrounds of human survival.
Picture a dystopian future, devoid of freedom, where our every movement is dictated by an insatiable Dominion. High school joys as simple as proms, dances, and boyfriends are distant fairy tales for our protagonist, Willow. However, where humanity is oppressed, resistance is born. Nestled within the rugged Colorado Mountains lies a faction of rebels, known simply as the Crows.
In this thrilling, heart-stopping saga, Willow embarks on a dangerous journey of defiance and determination. She finds herself amidst the Crows, the last beacon of rebellion, striving to safeguard the last vestige of human dignity from the Dominion's iron fist. 'End of Crows' expounds on the indomitable human spirit that refuses to bow down, even in the grimmest of times, encapsulating the battle between freedom and oppression, hope and despair, survival, and surrender.
I invite you to join Willow in her fight for freedom, to live and to love. 'End of Crows' is a riveting, inspiring adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat, questioning who holds the real power—the oppressor or the oppressed?
Welcome to the future, welcome to the 'End of Crows.
Picture a dystopian future, devoid of freedom, where our every movement is dictated by an insatiable Dominion. High school joys as simple as proms, dances, and boyfriends are distant fairy tales for our protagonist, Willow. However, where humanity is oppressed, resistance is born. Nestled within the rugged Colorado Mountains lies a faction of rebels, known simply as the Crows.
In this thrilling, heart-stopping saga, Willow embarks on a dangerous journey of defiance and determination. She finds herself amidst the Crows, the last beacon of rebellion, striving to safeguard the last vestige of human dignity from the Dominion's iron fist. 'End of Crows' expounds on the indomitable human spirit that refuses to bow down, even in the grimmest of times, encapsulating the battle between freedom and oppression, hope and despair, survival, and surrender.
I invite you to join Willow in her fight for freedom, to live and to love. 'End of Crows' is a riveting, inspiring adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat, questioning who holds the real power—the oppressor or the oppressed?
Welcome to the future, welcome to the 'End of Crows.
- GenresDystopia
Audible Audio
Published February 18, 2023
13 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
R.A. Lingenfelter
5 books14 followersR.A. Lingenfelter is an acclaimed author recognized for her award-winning dystopian series, Order & Chaos. This gripping collection includes titles such as End of Crows, Flight of Sparrows, and Rise of Falcons, each delving into the themes of survival and human resilience amid dire circumstances. To distinguish her darker narratives from the lighter romantic stories she writes under her married name, RaeAnne Hadley, Lingenfelter opts to publish her intense works using her maiden name. Her writing has drawn parallels to celebrated authors like Suzanne Collins and the classic dystopian works of George Orwell, yet she remains committed to developing a unique voice that stands out in the literary world.
Despite her success, Lingenfelter’s award-winning series has faced significant challenges, having been banned on social media platforms for nearly six years. This unfortunate situation highlights the ongoing struggles that authors can encounter, even when their work resonates deeply with readers and critics alike. Lingenfelter’s dedication to her craft and her ability to tackle complex themes continue to engage her audience, ensuring her place in contemporary literature.
In her interactions with fans and fellow indie authors, Lingenfelter emphasizes positivity and community, consciously avoiding the drama and negativity that can sometimes permeate the literary world. She believes in fostering an environment of kindness and warmth, which not only enriches her own experience as a writer but also enhances the connections she builds with her audience. This commitment to a supportive atmosphere reflects her understanding of the importance of collaboration and encouragement among creatives, allowing her to inspire others while also receiving inspiration in return.
Lingenfelter is known for her enthusiastic engagement with her readers, frequently attending book signings and events like ComiCons, where she enjoys meeting fans face-to-face. Her passion for cosplay adds an exciting dimension to these interactions, as she often designs imaginative costumes that reflect the themes and characters of her stories. This creative expression not only showcases her dedication to her craft but also creates memorable experiences for her fans, allowing them to connect with her work on a deeper level. Through these vibrant engagements, R.A. Lingenfelter continues to build a loyal following, united by a shared love for storytelling and the worlds she brings to life.
Despite her success, Lingenfelter’s award-winning series has faced significant challenges, having been banned on social media platforms for nearly six years. This unfortunate situation highlights the ongoing struggles that authors can encounter, even when their work resonates deeply with readers and critics alike. Lingenfelter’s dedication to her craft and her ability to tackle complex themes continue to engage her audience, ensuring her place in contemporary literature.
In her interactions with fans and fellow indie authors, Lingenfelter emphasizes positivity and community, consciously avoiding the drama and negativity that can sometimes permeate the literary world. She believes in fostering an environment of kindness and warmth, which not only enriches her own experience as a writer but also enhances the connections she builds with her audience. This commitment to a supportive atmosphere reflects her understanding of the importance of collaboration and encouragement among creatives, allowing her to inspire others while also receiving inspiration in return.
Lingenfelter is known for her enthusiastic engagement with her readers, frequently attending book signings and events like ComiCons, where she enjoys meeting fans face-to-face. Her passion for cosplay adds an exciting dimension to these interactions, as she often designs imaginative costumes that reflect the themes and characters of her stories. This creative expression not only showcases her dedication to her craft but also creates memorable experiences for her fans, allowing them to connect with her work on a deeper level. Through these vibrant engagements, R.A. Lingenfelter continues to build a loyal following, united by a shared love for storytelling and the worlds she brings to life.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
August 4, 2024
A story that could very well be a reality is often a scary one. The Dominion determines what you do, when you do it and big brother is always listening. What would you do for a chance at real freedom? Trust no one and keep your head on a swivel.
I loved the fantasy FMC with some abilities element as well. Go check this out! It starts out on such a good note!!
I loved the fantasy FMC with some abilities element as well. Go check this out! It starts out on such a good note!!
October 23, 2020
End of Crows by R.A. Lingenfelter is the first book in the Small Sacrifices series. Willow and her family live and serve under the communist rule of the Dominion. For seventeen years they have been preparing to escape and live among the freedom group, Crows. The day of their long-awaited move comes with just a few scary glitches. The real test will come when they have to live a life so foreign from days of fear and enslavement. Can they let go of the familiar and safety as they know it?
From the start it is evident that R.A. Lingenfelter pours her heart into her characters. End of Crows is an excellent start to a young adult fantasy that grabs the reader with the suspense of living on the run, typical teen drama, and the fascination of a new ability and possible romance. Overall, I enjoyed this novel immensely. I connected with the characters and thoroughly loved how the novel ended. I am looking forward to reading Flight of Sparrows.
From the start it is evident that R.A. Lingenfelter pours her heart into her characters. End of Crows is an excellent start to a young adult fantasy that grabs the reader with the suspense of living on the run, typical teen drama, and the fascination of a new ability and possible romance. Overall, I enjoyed this novel immensely. I connected with the characters and thoroughly loved how the novel ended. I am looking forward to reading Flight of Sparrows.
August 6, 2020
I devoured this book in two sittings! Lots of suspense and action with a hint of romance, set in a very realistic, potentially near-future world. Author's writing style is smooth and fluid, allowing you to easily become immersed in the world she has created. Main characters are wonderful! You love them, empathize with them, fear for them, but above all you're hoping they succeed. Great read! I will definitely read the next in this series!
October 27, 2020
There are so many things to love about End of Crows, the first installment of the Small Sacrifices series by R.A. Lingenfelter. First of all, the moment I've read the synopsis of the book, I already know that it will take me to a different kind of adventure. As I started to read the first part of the book, I realized I was right because it started off really interesting.
I found the writing style of R.A. Lingenfelter really comfortable to read. A kind of book with this heavy concept needs to have a good writing style and Lingenfelter has this quality. Story-wise, I absolutely loved the characters, especially our main heroine Willow. I loved the family values incorporated in the story, and the life lessons, loyalty, and love. It was an exciting story with a clever plot. Very well-done!
I found the writing style of R.A. Lingenfelter really comfortable to read. A kind of book with this heavy concept needs to have a good writing style and Lingenfelter has this quality. Story-wise, I absolutely loved the characters, especially our main heroine Willow. I loved the family values incorporated in the story, and the life lessons, loyalty, and love. It was an exciting story with a clever plot. Very well-done!
December 15, 2020
End of Crows (Book 1) - R Lingenfelter
** 5 Stars **
Wow, I love this genre, a great start to this amazing YA dystopian series.
This series is easy to read, easy to follow and the writing flows seamlessly, drawing you in keeping you on your toes til the very end.
Willows cruel world as she knows it, is about the change drastically, I love her character, she resourceful, independent and has sheer determination. This is set in a very futuristic different world to what we know.
If you're looking for a book that's packed with action, suspense, loyalty and betrayal this book is definitely for you.
Can't wait for the next book in this series.
** 5 Stars **
Wow, I love this genre, a great start to this amazing YA dystopian series.
This series is easy to read, easy to follow and the writing flows seamlessly, drawing you in keeping you on your toes til the very end.
Willows cruel world as she knows it, is about the change drastically, I love her character, she resourceful, independent and has sheer determination. This is set in a very futuristic different world to what we know.
If you're looking for a book that's packed with action, suspense, loyalty and betrayal this book is definitely for you.
Can't wait for the next book in this series.
November 30, 2020
Captivating story!
Well, this is a book I could NOT put DOWN! What a page turner with excellent and accurate moods described of the main character, Willow. It is so very true to be very in tune with your gifts. Loved it and cannot wait to read the trilogy!
Well, this is a book I could NOT put DOWN! What a page turner with excellent and accurate moods described of the main character, Willow. It is so very true to be very in tune with your gifts. Loved it and cannot wait to read the trilogy!
March 25, 2021
Wow! Great story and so easy to relate to what could possibly happen in today's climate. A society caving to total government control and a group in hiding in order to live in freedom. If course, you have to have traitors in the group that wants to live free. Can't wait to read the next book! Highly recommend!
February 5, 2021
I have to admit, I am a sucker for a good apocalyptic/post-apocalyptic/ dystopian story, so when I was led to R.A. Lingenfelter's End of Crows, I was so excited after reading the blurb and the preview on Amazon.
While this is yet another book in the style of The Hunger Games, complete with teenage heroine on the precipice of life-changing events, there is so much skill in character development and world building that I was happily drawn into the story.
Willow, a teenage girl, lives under the oppressive Dominion, an ultra Communist government that keeps a tight rein on all it's citizens and is bound and determined to eradicate any and all who might oppose it's tyranny. For Willow and her family, escaping the oppression of the Dominion is dangerous, but is something they have been preparing for from the moment Willow was born. As they finally run from the only life Willow has ever known, and embark on a new life among a small rebel community, Willow realizes that not only does she possess some unexpected and unique talents, but she also discovers that the new life that held so much hope for her and her family is in grave danger from within.
I was engaged in this story from the very first page and kept seeing undeniable parallels even to the world we find ourselves in today. Some of this is very thought provoking and even mildly terrifying, to be honest, but the story is such a rich blend of real and make-believe that it builds suspense really well. For a YA novel, the book is easy to read, flows easily, and is well proofed and edited. The characters are easy to relate to, even if some of the talents among the young people are rather unrealistic.
My only critique is that the book is so short. Even for a YA novel, I could have used a lot more that could have easily been added to the story to further build on the relationships between Willow, her family, and her new friends, and enemies. Still, I am adding the rest of this series to my "To Read" list because minus my own preference, I so enjoyed this read!
While this is yet another book in the style of The Hunger Games, complete with teenage heroine on the precipice of life-changing events, there is so much skill in character development and world building that I was happily drawn into the story.
Willow, a teenage girl, lives under the oppressive Dominion, an ultra Communist government that keeps a tight rein on all it's citizens and is bound and determined to eradicate any and all who might oppose it's tyranny. For Willow and her family, escaping the oppression of the Dominion is dangerous, but is something they have been preparing for from the moment Willow was born. As they finally run from the only life Willow has ever known, and embark on a new life among a small rebel community, Willow realizes that not only does she possess some unexpected and unique talents, but she also discovers that the new life that held so much hope for her and her family is in grave danger from within.
I was engaged in this story from the very first page and kept seeing undeniable parallels even to the world we find ourselves in today. Some of this is very thought provoking and even mildly terrifying, to be honest, but the story is such a rich blend of real and make-believe that it builds suspense really well. For a YA novel, the book is easy to read, flows easily, and is well proofed and edited. The characters are easy to relate to, even if some of the talents among the young people are rather unrealistic.
My only critique is that the book is so short. Even for a YA novel, I could have used a lot more that could have easily been added to the story to further build on the relationships between Willow, her family, and her new friends, and enemies. Still, I am adding the rest of this series to my "To Read" list because minus my own preference, I so enjoyed this read!
February 5, 2021
Fantastic
I have to admit, I am a sucker for a good apocalyptic/post-apocalyptic/dystopian story, so when I was led to R.A. Lingenfelter's End of Crows, I was so excited after reading the blurb and the preview on Amazon.
While this is yet another book in the style of The Hunger Games, complete with teenage heroine on the precipice of life-changing events, there is so much skill in character development and world building that I was happily drawn into the story.
Willow, a teenage girl, lives under the oppressive Dominion, an ultra Communist government that keeps a tight rein on all it's citizens and is bound and determined to eradicate any and all who might oppose it's tyranny. For Willow and her family, escaping the oppression of the Dominion is dangerous, but is something they have been preparing for from the moment Willow was born. As they finally run from the only life Willow has ever known, and embark on a new life among a small rebel community, Willow realizes that not only does she possess some unexpected and unique talents, but she also discovers that the new life that held so much hope for her and her family is in grave danger from within.
I was engaged in this story from the very first page and kept seeing undeniable parallels even to the world we find ourselves in today. Some of this is very thought provoking and even mildly terrifying, to be honest, but the story is such a rich blend of real and make-believe that it builds suspense really well. For a YA novel, the book is easy to read, flows easily, and is well proofed and edited. The characters are easy to relate to, even if some of the talents among the young people are rather unrealistic.
My only critique is that the book is so short. Even for a YA novel, I could have used a lot more that could have easily been added to the story to further build on the relationships between Willow, her family, and her new friends, and enemies. Still, I am adding the rest of this series to my "To Read" list because minus my own preference, I so enjoyed this read!
I have to admit, I am a sucker for a good apocalyptic/post-apocalyptic/dystopian story, so when I was led to R.A. Lingenfelter's End of Crows, I was so excited after reading the blurb and the preview on Amazon.
While this is yet another book in the style of The Hunger Games, complete with teenage heroine on the precipice of life-changing events, there is so much skill in character development and world building that I was happily drawn into the story.
Willow, a teenage girl, lives under the oppressive Dominion, an ultra Communist government that keeps a tight rein on all it's citizens and is bound and determined to eradicate any and all who might oppose it's tyranny. For Willow and her family, escaping the oppression of the Dominion is dangerous, but is something they have been preparing for from the moment Willow was born. As they finally run from the only life Willow has ever known, and embark on a new life among a small rebel community, Willow realizes that not only does she possess some unexpected and unique talents, but she also discovers that the new life that held so much hope for her and her family is in grave danger from within.
I was engaged in this story from the very first page and kept seeing undeniable parallels even to the world we find ourselves in today. Some of this is very thought provoking and even mildly terrifying, to be honest, but the story is such a rich blend of real and make-believe that it builds suspense really well. For a YA novel, the book is easy to read, flows easily, and is well proofed and edited. The characters are easy to relate to, even if some of the talents among the young people are rather unrealistic.
My only critique is that the book is so short. Even for a YA novel, I could have used a lot more that could have easily been added to the story to further build on the relationships between Willow, her family, and her new friends, and enemies. Still, I am adding the rest of this series to my "To Read" list because minus my own preference, I so enjoyed this read!
Read
September 7, 2022Readers who enjoyed Divergent and Hunger Games will love R.A. Lingenfelter's End of Crows. Book one out now!
The world was in chaos. Willow was raised as a member of the Crows; rebels who fought against the Dominion. But will the jealousy of those in her own faction threaten the very life she’s been groomed to live?
Revolution has torn apart not only the country, but has destroyed politics and families.
With the Dominion taking over, 17-year old Willow and her family flee to safety in the west.
She has been raised as a member of the Crows - rebels who fought against the Dominion. A group now in disarray. Scattered across the country. Healing. Planning. Regrouping.
Willow, along with her brother Brice, continue their training as warriors in a remote mountain hideout. Hidden from those who would cause harm.
As time passes, Willow's strengths and talents promise to launch her quickly into leadership of the rebel faction.
The world was in chaos. Willow was raised as a member of the Crows; rebels who fought against the Dominion. But will the jealousy of those in her own faction threaten the very life she’s been groomed to live?
Revolution has torn apart not only the country, but has destroyed politics and families.
With the Dominion taking over, 17-year old Willow and her family flee to safety in the west.
She has been raised as a member of the Crows - rebels who fought against the Dominion. A group now in disarray. Scattered across the country. Healing. Planning. Regrouping.
Willow, along with her brother Brice, continue their training as warriors in a remote mountain hideout. Hidden from those who would cause harm.
As time passes, Willow's strengths and talents promise to launch her quickly into leadership of the rebel faction.
September 20, 2020
Must read adventure
If you enjoy a good adventure story that includes a story of personal growth, you’ll want to read this!! It’s a hard book to put down. A story about a young woman coming into her own and discovering her special talents living in a world of governmental oppression. She finds her inner strength to fight for freedom against the oppressive regime and a surprising betrayal. She overcomes her fears and self doubt as she becomes a heroine. The characters are well thought out and you quickly become attached to them. The author has done an amazing job at helping you identify with each of them. She has quite a talent for providing astounding visual imagery. I can see this becoming a movie series or at least I hope it does but either way I will be reading all the books. Anxiously awaiting the release of book 2- Flight of Sparrows
If you enjoy a good adventure story that includes a story of personal growth, you’ll want to read this!! It’s a hard book to put down. A story about a young woman coming into her own and discovering her special talents living in a world of governmental oppression. She finds her inner strength to fight for freedom against the oppressive regime and a surprising betrayal. She overcomes her fears and self doubt as she becomes a heroine. The characters are well thought out and you quickly become attached to them. The author has done an amazing job at helping you identify with each of them. She has quite a talent for providing astounding visual imagery. I can see this becoming a movie series or at least I hope it does but either way I will be reading all the books. Anxiously awaiting the release of book 2- Flight of Sparrows
May 29, 2022
END OF CROWS
R.A. LINGENFELTER
Seventeen-year-old Willow holds tight to her imagination, the one thing Dominion can’t control, and she holds dear the stories her Mom and Dad have told her about freedom in America before Dominion took over. Her parent's faction, the Crows, have strongholds across the country and one of these is very close to the Dominion stronghold that has kept her incarcerated her entire life. An escape plan is in progress and Willow hopes that once her family escapes, her free life will begin.
The comparisons of Willow to Katniss Everdeen of Hunger Games fame are clearly evident as Willow's talent as a fighter and her determination to win comes to the surface. Without training of any kind, she displays great talent in the use of a variety of weapons as well as her bare hands. But, Willow possesses more than these physical abilities and as the story unfolds, her supernatural talents become more evident and specific to the plotlines. Also like Collins, Lingenfelter writes tight, straight to the point sentences and paragraphs that propel the reader through each event and scene without undue and unnecessary detail. In particular, Lingenfelter's ability to build characters simultaneously to the ever increasing tension of the primary plotline is evidenced by her multiple appearances at the top of Amazon's best seller lists. End of Crows, while standing on its own is also the perfect lead novel in the four book series. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy fast-paced action/adventure stories with hints of the supernatural and powerful lead character like Willow!
R.A. LINGENFELTER
Seventeen-year-old Willow holds tight to her imagination, the one thing Dominion can’t control, and she holds dear the stories her Mom and Dad have told her about freedom in America before Dominion took over. Her parent's faction, the Crows, have strongholds across the country and one of these is very close to the Dominion stronghold that has kept her incarcerated her entire life. An escape plan is in progress and Willow hopes that once her family escapes, her free life will begin.
The comparisons of Willow to Katniss Everdeen of Hunger Games fame are clearly evident as Willow's talent as a fighter and her determination to win comes to the surface. Without training of any kind, she displays great talent in the use of a variety of weapons as well as her bare hands. But, Willow possesses more than these physical abilities and as the story unfolds, her supernatural talents become more evident and specific to the plotlines. Also like Collins, Lingenfelter writes tight, straight to the point sentences and paragraphs that propel the reader through each event and scene without undue and unnecessary detail. In particular, Lingenfelter's ability to build characters simultaneously to the ever increasing tension of the primary plotline is evidenced by her multiple appearances at the top of Amazon's best seller lists. End of Crows, while standing on its own is also the perfect lead novel in the four book series. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy fast-paced action/adventure stories with hints of the supernatural and powerful lead character like Willow!
December 14, 2023
This is easily the best YA/Dystopian book I've ever read. With scenes reminiscent of Red Dawn and a story relevant to today's crazy world, this story will have you devouring it all the way through. With the exception of a few moments of life interrupting, I couldn't put the book down. I had been in a book slump until I found this series. This book is exciting and gets your blood pumping again. 17-year-old Willow has only known the government ruled society. Her parents get the family away from there and out to Crow country. She has some taste of freedom, even though there are still judgy people. Come on, we all know that there are always judgy people around. After an attack by the Dominion (government), Willow has hard choices to make. I loved how R.A. sets up the story for the rest of the series. Even though things are quite perfect, there is a possibility of romance for Willow with Finn. Willow gets to learn more about who she is, who she wants to be. I can't wait to get started on book 2. This is an amazing series. You should definitely read it. I've read all the others and it's better than Hunger games or Divergent. Yes, I said it.
November 22, 2023
This book was so good that I finished it in less than 2 hr I love how this book is about gaining you’re freedom back and how willow and Finn become closer together as the story gets further in the grrr her dad and Bradlee being traitors to the crows wis down right wrong I can’t wait to read the next book in this series 10/10 recommend
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2023
Set in a very realistic dystopian future, the writing style is very immersive. I finished the book in two sittings, and my only complaint is that I need to hurry and get the second book. I had the pleasure of meeting the author, and she's a sweetheart as well. I very strongly recommend this book.
July 26, 2024
Wow. Can’t believe I paid £3 for this 🥹 I really wanted to love this as the synopsis sounded promising, but the writing was so rushed and simple, almost diary-entry like? I didn’t get any character backstory and the whole situation the book leads up to ended within one chapter 😅
October 21, 2023
Loved the speed of the book and the main characters! Dystopian feel but honestly feels very current and real.
December 11, 2023
Great read!!
Very easy reading, suspenseful wanting to not set the book down. Highly recommend!!!! I’m going to continue the series for sure.
Very easy reading, suspenseful wanting to not set the book down. Highly recommend!!!! I’m going to continue the series for sure.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews