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Raven of the Woods #2
Demon and the Raven
Speak of the devil…and he may just appear.
Xander Corey has never been happier. He’s in love, engaged to the man of his dreams, his friends are thriving, his land, Corvus, is safe, his community is booming, and he’s even back to working as a part-time librarian in Osprey, the tiny little town he calls home in Upstate New York. And yes, he’s a witch, though only a few are bothered about that.
But Xander is worried: Why is everyone so cranky? What’s happened to the bees in town? And who attacked his friend the nymph?
Chief of Police Lorne MacBain has issues of his own. He has a murder to solve that may or may not have something to do with magic. Before moving to town and falling in love with a witch, the supernatural was not a concern. But these days, both Xander and magic are an integral part of his life. His main priority is protecting the man he loves, yet that may prove harder than ever.
The evil stalking Xander and Lorne is real, and to fight it, they’ll have to figure out precisely what it is. If only that could happen before it kills them…
Xander Corey has never been happier. He’s in love, engaged to the man of his dreams, his friends are thriving, his land, Corvus, is safe, his community is booming, and he’s even back to working as a part-time librarian in Osprey, the tiny little town he calls home in Upstate New York. And yes, he’s a witch, though only a few are bothered about that.
But Xander is worried: Why is everyone so cranky? What’s happened to the bees in town? And who attacked his friend the nymph?
Chief of Police Lorne MacBain has issues of his own. He has a murder to solve that may or may not have something to do with magic. Before moving to town and falling in love with a witch, the supernatural was not a concern. But these days, both Xander and magic are an integral part of his life. His main priority is protecting the man he loves, yet that may prove harder than ever.
The evil stalking Xander and Lorne is real, and to fight it, they’ll have to figure out precisely what it is. If only that could happen before it kills them…
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 29, 2025
327 people are currently reading
334 people want to read
About the author
Mary Calmes
130 books5,025 followersMary Calmes believes in romance, happily ever afters, and the faith it takes for her characters to get there. She bleeds coffee, thinks chocolate should be its own food group, and currently lives in Kentucky with a six-pound furry ninja that protects her from baby birds, spiders and the neighbor’s dogs. To stay up to date on her ponderings and pandemonium (as well as the adventures of the ninja) follow her on Twitter @MaryCalmes, connect with her on Facebook, and subscribe to her Mary’s Mob newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
May 3, 2025
I didn’t enjoy book 1 at all, so I should’ve steered clear of this one. But it’s Mary, and I read anything she publishes.
If you like book 1, you’ll be fine.
I don’t like these characters or this world.
If you like book 1, you’ll be fine.
I don’t like these characters or this world.
May 11, 2025
2.5
Quirky characters but just too nice, a magic system that is too esoteric and it feels like everything has to be explained one way or the other; it's no big info dump, mind you, but also short explanations why something has to be done a certain way, which herbs or crystals have which effect, what's the correct term for what aspect of which belief or whatever is just too much to allow me to get a feel for a story. Suppose Mary Calmes take on witchcraft is not for me and I better skip the next installments of this series.
Quirky characters but just too nice, a magic system that is too esoteric and it feels like everything has to be explained one way or the other; it's no big info dump, mind you, but also short explanations why something has to be done a certain way, which herbs or crystals have which effect, what's the correct term for what aspect of which belief or whatever is just too much to allow me to get a feel for a story. Suppose Mary Calmes take on witchcraft is not for me and I better skip the next installments of this series.
May 4, 2025
A fantasy slice-of-life action romance that I devoured in one sitting. The characters are captivating; there's an evil enemy and plenty of love. I hope to see more of Xander and Lorne.
July 28, 2025
This was a slog. I like the characters, I like the small town, whimsical setting but this book felt almost entirely like an information dump. Even the conversations between characters didn't drive the relationships or plot forward, they were just used as a way for Xander to explain magic and lore to everyone. All telling and no showing. As of now this is the last book released in this series but when more come out I will not be picking them up.
May 14, 2025
I enjoyed it. Not as much as I enjoyed the first book, but I was happy to get a chance to revisit characters. I think if you liked the first book, you'll be fine.
June 17, 2025
Devoured this book. I really hope there’s a book 3 in the works cause I need more of Xander, Lorne & all the side characters. The magic, supernatural & thriller aspects all gelled together to make a great reading experience. I ended this book wanting more, that’s how good it was.
June 22, 2025
2.5 stars rounded down
Quite disappointed.
I loved the first book, with great MCs and an interesting world building but this second book in the series was too much rehashing of the first with nothing new and very little action.
5 stars for the narration.
Quite disappointed.
I loved the first book, with great MCs and an interesting world building but this second book in the series was too much rehashing of the first with nothing new and very little action.
5 stars for the narration.
June 1, 2025
Demon and the Raven was absolutely amazing!! It had all the fantastic magic and cozy feels that I remember from the first book, Woods of the Raven. I’m obsessed with Xander and Lorne. Their love for each other, their town, their friends, and their land is so special and makes my heart so happy. The story was well-written and the characters are all lovable. The queer rep and witchy vibes are just perfect.
As a Catholic, I also loved that the priest was so open-minded, both about Xander being gay and a witch. A priest is actually the one who encouraged me to come out and embrace my own sexuality, so I thought that was really cool.
As a Catholic, I also loved that the priest was so open-minded, both about Xander being gay and a witch. A priest is actually the one who encouraged me to come out and embrace my own sexuality, so I thought that was really cool.
May 17, 2025
Love the continuation of this series. I hope MC will continue it. I love Xander and Lorne and their community.
May 14, 2025
A nope from me
May 2, 2025
Xan and Lorne are back. I am going to be honest I didn't really remember about what happened in the first book but to be honest I dont think you needed to.
Xan has a nice life now in upstate NY and is happy with his man Lorne. However their little town starts to have random things happen and the 2 decide there is a demon about.
I loved the group of secondary characters, especially Amanda's 2 and the priest who for a catholic seemed to be open to alot of supernatural things.
I am wondering if this book is it for these 2 or whether in a year or so we will have another instalment.
Xan has a nice life now in upstate NY and is happy with his man Lorne. However their little town starts to have random things happen and the 2 decide there is a demon about.
I loved the group of secondary characters, especially Amanda's 2 and the priest who for a catholic seemed to be open to alot of supernatural things.
I am wondering if this book is it for these 2 or whether in a year or so we will have another instalment.
May 2, 2025
Another winner
This is how it goes: OMG a Mary Calmes book is out! Yay! Cue anticipation. Do I stay up all night and read it? No! I can't! Yes. Of course I do. How could I possibly wait? And I'm not sorry. Such an awesome story. Lovely characters, great plot. I love Corvus! It is definitely a fantasy since I can't imagine such a cast of beautiful people all together in real life, but what a satisfying story.
This is how it goes: OMG a Mary Calmes book is out! Yay! Cue anticipation. Do I stay up all night and read it? No! I can't! Yes. Of course I do. How could I possibly wait? And I'm not sorry. Such an awesome story. Lovely characters, great plot. I love Corvus! It is definitely a fantasy since I can't imagine such a cast of beautiful people all together in real life, but what a satisfying story.
April 29, 2025
Demon and the Raven
MS Calmes has hit another one out of the balllpark!
I have absolutely loved everything I've ever read from this most talented lady. From the first time when I picked up ' A Matter of Time' ..part 1 .. Not realizing ..in sadness.. That it was a series.. That transformed in happiness that I was late in finding this author, to the point that ALL 4 stories were in print.. I have waited impatiently for the next book. ...any book..to be published.. So thank you Mary...also ..I absolutely Love Loren..
MS Calmes has hit another one out of the balllpark!
I have absolutely loved everything I've ever read from this most talented lady. From the first time when I picked up ' A Matter of Time' ..part 1 .. Not realizing ..in sadness.. That it was a series.. That transformed in happiness that I was late in finding this author, to the point that ALL 4 stories were in print.. I have waited impatiently for the next book. ...any book..to be published.. So thank you Mary...also ..I absolutely Love Loren..
June 6, 2025
Lovely follow-up
Book two I the series is a lovely follow up to the book that introduced us to Lorne and Xander. I love the way these two characters complement each other and how Lorne is so able to roll with things he didn’t believe in at the start of book one. I love how a Police Chief who is grounded and logical can just go with the flow and reason out all the magical things.
The secondary characters are great and add so much to the story. Amanda and her kids, as well as Father Dennis are great for moving the story arc forward. I’m looking forward to Fr. Dennis being part of the team going forward.
The demon fighting is creepy and the climactic moment is very frightening. But the resolution is great and further enhances Lorne and Xan’s relationship. Hoping there is going to be a book three as I really enjoy this universe.
Book two I the series is a lovely follow up to the book that introduced us to Lorne and Xander. I love the way these two characters complement each other and how Lorne is so able to roll with things he didn’t believe in at the start of book one. I love how a Police Chief who is grounded and logical can just go with the flow and reason out all the magical things.
The secondary characters are great and add so much to the story. Amanda and her kids, as well as Father Dennis are great for moving the story arc forward. I’m looking forward to Fr. Dennis being part of the team going forward.
The demon fighting is creepy and the climactic moment is very frightening. But the resolution is great and further enhances Lorne and Xan’s relationship. Hoping there is going to be a book three as I really enjoy this universe.
June 18, 2025
obsessed! couldn't put it down! I love this series and there had better be another on the way or I will be soooo sad!
October 18, 2025
2.75
I AM FREEEEEE
the ending was so lovely actually but I genuinely disliked most of this book sadly should have focused on their romance and relationship more
I AM FREEEEEE
the ending was so lovely actually but I genuinely disliked most of this book sadly should have focused on their romance and relationship more
June 3, 2025
We have my favorite characters back again—Xander and Lorne! With all the tourists in town, people are starting to get a little cranky from not getting enough rest. Things take a turn when they finally realize that not all is well—especially after they discover a mysterious burn rift. I’ll say this: the book definitely kept me on edge with the danger they face. It was tense, exciting, and had me turning pages late into the night!
June 12, 2025
Loved all of it. Hope there’s more to come.
July 1, 2025
Gentle, sweet continuation of this couple's story. A new evil and more from the characters we loved in the first book. Nice to see an accepting and funny priest making an appearance here
I found it a really cosy and lovely read. I remembered only a little from book 1 at if there was rehashing, I didn't really notice it
I found it a really cosy and lovely read. I remembered only a little from book 1 at if there was rehashing, I didn't really notice it
June 1, 2025
I just love Xander and Lorne! I would love to have a complete series of these two as they protect Corvus and Osprey.
It was not as tensely written as the first, yet it was good, so good. Loved the return of Amanda, Mal and Declan even though the latter only made a return appearance in the last part of the book but the whole town of Osprey is ever present.
It was not as tensely written as the first, yet it was good, so good. Loved the return of Amanda, Mal and Declan even though the latter only made a return appearance in the last part of the book but the whole town of Osprey is ever present.
May 11, 2025
Love Xander and Lorne
It was so good to dive into the world of Xander and Lorne again and Mary Calmes’ writing was, as usual, wonderfully descriptive.
This book gave us plenty of romance as Xander and Lorne’s relationship has moved on and Lorne has moved in. They are engaged and Lorne absolutely loves his life with Xander and in his enchanted cottage and the cottage loves Lorne, so much so that Xander gets a bit jealous. It reminds him to thank his home more and not take the magical cottage for granted.
Mary took us on another thrilling ride as Xander and Lorne try to track down a powerful demon who found his way through the rift on Corvus land of which Xander is the guardian. Xander is a powerful witch, a branded witch, but will he be a match for a demon.
There were lots of interesting characters, some we got to know in book one and some new ones. I particularly liked Father Dennis, the local Catholic priest, a non believer in magic and the supernatural but being taken on an incredible journey with Xander and Lorne to take down a demon and seeing Xander’s powerful magic first hand he was hooked and has now become a firm friend and one more in their small group of good friends who know Xander’s secret.
I was very impressed with the way Lorne coped with Xander’s magical life. Lorne has embraced it and learns everything he can about Xander’s brand of magic and what the cottage and land is capable of.
Once again Xander, the quiet hero, saves the town of Osprey from a supernatural threat they knew nothing about!
Great fun and I would love a book three.
It was so good to dive into the world of Xander and Lorne again and Mary Calmes’ writing was, as usual, wonderfully descriptive.
This book gave us plenty of romance as Xander and Lorne’s relationship has moved on and Lorne has moved in. They are engaged and Lorne absolutely loves his life with Xander and in his enchanted cottage and the cottage loves Lorne, so much so that Xander gets a bit jealous. It reminds him to thank his home more and not take the magical cottage for granted.
Mary took us on another thrilling ride as Xander and Lorne try to track down a powerful demon who found his way through the rift on Corvus land of which Xander is the guardian. Xander is a powerful witch, a branded witch, but will he be a match for a demon.
There were lots of interesting characters, some we got to know in book one and some new ones. I particularly liked Father Dennis, the local Catholic priest, a non believer in magic and the supernatural but being taken on an incredible journey with Xander and Lorne to take down a demon and seeing Xander’s powerful magic first hand he was hooked and has now become a firm friend and one more in their small group of good friends who know Xander’s secret.
I was very impressed with the way Lorne coped with Xander’s magical life. Lorne has embraced it and learns everything he can about Xander’s brand of magic and what the cottage and land is capable of.
Once again Xander, the quiet hero, saves the town of Osprey from a supernatural threat they knew nothing about!
Great fun and I would love a book three.
May 9, 2025
I enjoyed this, characters, plot, worldbuilding, and innate Calmes-ness. This could end here and I'd be pleased.
I know some readers are going to get to the part where Xan's talking with his godkids, and think it's blatant fiction. But it really isn't, if the kids are treated like people from the start, instead of burdens or dolls or future slave labor or however else some people who shouldn't be allowed any access to kids treat their children. (I may have some Opinions on this topic.)
I know some readers are going to get to the part where Xan's talking with his godkids, and think it's blatant fiction. But it really isn't, if the kids are treated like people from the start, instead of burdens or dolls or future slave labor or however else some people who shouldn't be allowed any access to kids treat their children. (I may have some Opinions on this topic.)
May 8, 2025
another great story!
When the plot thickened it definitely had me at the age of my seat! I couldn’t put it down. I love the feel of this book and characters and hope for another installment! And look forward to hopefully doing a relisten of the first book on audible.
When the plot thickened it definitely had me at the age of my seat! I couldn’t put it down. I love the feel of this book and characters and hope for another installment! And look forward to hopefully doing a relisten of the first book on audible.
May 4, 2025
Good as Always
Mary Called is one of my favorite authors. This was a good ending to Xander and Lorne's love story. It is definitely not a stand a lone, you need to read Woods of the Raven first. I would also recommend the Change of Heart series if you like paranormal.
Mary Called is one of my favorite authors. This was a good ending to Xander and Lorne's love story. It is definitely not a stand a lone, you need to read Woods of the Raven first. I would also recommend the Change of Heart series if you like paranormal.
May 5, 2025
Great Addition to Series
I enjoy the author's writing style and the adventure I was taken on. I enjoyed the connection between the MCs and hope that there are future stories told from this world.
I enjoy the author's writing style and the adventure I was taken on. I enjoyed the connection between the MCs and hope that there are future stories told from this world.
May 5, 2025
Demon and the Raven
This was an absolutely magical addition to the first book which was also awesome! Mary has such a way with the written word and I am always enchanted by her style
This was an absolutely magical addition to the first book which was also awesome! Mary has such a way with the written word and I am always enchanted by her style
May 2, 2025
What a heartfelt, gentle, tender, lovely romance the two MCs have. The supernatural world building is so well done, the town of Osprey so inviting, that I wish the book just went on and on. True escapist delightfulness herein!
May 2, 2025
Beautiful
I so loved getting more time with these characters. Reading this makes me appreciate the world around me in new ways and makes me want to study up on Wiccan and the gifts of nature.
I so loved getting more time with these characters. Reading this makes me appreciate the world around me in new ways and makes me want to study up on Wiccan and the gifts of nature.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews