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Crow Investigations #10
The Crow Moon
The tenth instalment in the bestselling Urban Fantasy mystery series, Crow Investigations.
376 pages, ebook
Published February 5, 2026
About the author
Sarah Painter
61 books943 followersSarah Painter is the author of the bestselling magical novel, The Language of Spells, and its follow-up, The Secrets of Ghosts.
She has written 'book club' fiction with atmospheric settings and historical elements (In The Light of What We See and Beneath The Water), and a 'wonderfully dark and twisty' supernatural thriller, The Lost Girls.
Sarah's latest venture is an exciting new urban fantasy series, Crow Investigations. Yes, she finds it hard to stick to one genre!
Before writing books, Sarah Painter worked as a freelance magazine journalist, blogger and editor, combining this 'career' with amateur child-wrangling (AKA motherhood).
Sarah lives in rural Scotland with her husband and children. She drinks too much tea, loves the work of Joss Whedon, and is the proud owner of a writing shed.
She has written 'book club' fiction with atmospheric settings and historical elements (In The Light of What We See and Beneath The Water), and a 'wonderfully dark and twisty' supernatural thriller, The Lost Girls.
Sarah's latest venture is an exciting new urban fantasy series, Crow Investigations. Yes, she finds it hard to stick to one genre!
Before writing books, Sarah Painter worked as a freelance magazine journalist, blogger and editor, combining this 'career' with amateur child-wrangling (AKA motherhood).
Sarah lives in rural Scotland with her husband and children. She drinks too much tea, loves the work of Joss Whedon, and is the proud owner of a writing shed.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm so sad that I'm losing my favorite drinking buddy!
I know that sometimes series can go on too long but these books are such a comfort read for me. I've gotten so close to the characters over the years and I'm really going to miss them!
Painter did a great job of wrapping up all of the loose ends from the last book and the series in general. I was excited to see some more connections to the Unholy Island series so if you haven't read those books yet, I would definitely recommend that you do so!
This one did get very exciting towards the end and I was nervous about whether or not Lydia was going to be able to save the day. I was also very concerned about the impending wedding but I think overall everything turned out the way it should. Painter defintely did leave an opening for the possiblity of another book so I'm just going to cross my fingers that we'll get another one day!
If you enjoy urban fantasy but haven't picked up this series yet what are you waiting for?
I know that sometimes series can go on too long but these books are such a comfort read for me. I've gotten so close to the characters over the years and I'm really going to miss them!
Painter did a great job of wrapping up all of the loose ends from the last book and the series in general. I was excited to see some more connections to the Unholy Island series so if you haven't read those books yet, I would definitely recommend that you do so!
This one did get very exciting towards the end and I was nervous about whether or not Lydia was going to be able to save the day. I was also very concerned about the impending wedding but I think overall everything turned out the way it should. Painter defintely did leave an opening for the possiblity of another book so I'm just going to cross my fingers that we'll get another one day!
If you enjoy urban fantasy but haven't picked up this series yet what are you waiting for?
March 6, 2026
How is it over!
I started reading this series a couple of years ago. To say I am incredibly sad this is finished is an understatement. But I am so excited to see what Sarah has next.
This was such a beautiful end to a fabulous series and if Sarah happens to want to write another one....... I will be first in line.
I started reading this series a couple of years ago. To say I am incredibly sad this is finished is an understatement. But I am so excited to see what Sarah has next.
This was such a beautiful end to a fabulous series and if Sarah happens to want to write another one....... I will be first in line.
Read
March 11, 2026This is one of my all time favorite urban fantasy series, and this final (?) novel ended things perfectly. I hope Ms. Painter finds sometime in the future that she has more to say about the Four Families. I also loved that she found another reason to visit the island and the wonderful characters who live there. Lydia's decision to return to her investigation company was perfect.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2026
Fun addition to a great series
Lydia Crow is a bad ass, which is my favorite type of heroine. I love that this book circles back to the beginning of the series. The early novels in the series were my favorites, not that any of them are bad. Hope this is the start of even more adventures of the Crow Investigation agency.
Lydia Crow is a bad ass, which is my favorite type of heroine. I love that this book circles back to the beginning of the series. The early novels in the series were my favorites, not that any of them are bad. Hope this is the start of even more adventures of the Crow Investigation agency.
July 6, 2026
I might just not be the right target audience for this. Because when I got into it I was thinking this was going to be like a gangster/private investigator version of Rivers of London. Which it was a little bit at the start, but Lydia just seems to be in a cycle of stagnation in my opinion.
Like where other characters seek to grow and deal with the stress, she strides in reluctant to grow and then unwilling to be the change. Like the whole gang leader angle, she literally should have the power to make changes and be a boss. Instead she just kinda goes I don't got time for this and shoves that off. Of the family heads she always feels like the odd one out because the others seem to actually be busy doing something. That's probably just me though.
I'd personally like to see some growth in the next book but it does feel like the structure is rinse and repeat. Lydia has a problem that she struggles to solve, Lydia use her connection to the families to force meetings with Paul Fox or Marie Silver, in the mix Jason is having his own ghost problems that might be relevant, Fleet and her are dealing with issues due to his position as law enforcement but they'll make up, Lydia is forced to work with the secret government agencies by the end of the book who are trying to force her into compliance, these same groups also withhold information and cause her more trouble, and finally she solves the problem. Then we tune in next book for it to happen again with a slightly advanced plot.
Even this book with the kid, I was pumped. Finally Lydia is going to have to be a responsible person maybe see some growth in character in having to raise someone............oh he's missing for a majority after he moves in. Then he goes away but her door is always open.
I will say in defense of Lydia, I can definitely relate to her in the fact that she spends all the time stressing. But I'd hope if I had magic powers with as much enemies coming at me as she does that I'd work to at the very least protect my friends. And to figure out the what the source of my magic truly wants from me.
Seriously the bird kept going man you're disappointing, and Lydia just went I'm going to ignore this only for her to realize last minute that maybe the crows could help find the kid. I mean fat load it did her, but if I had crows willing to be my allies, I'd make sure everyone had a crow. I'd even start to distinguish them, oh Fleets crow thats Pepper she likes walnuts she's pretty cheap. Emma's crow, thats Walter he's a distinguished bird that looks at you like you're beneath him but he does let the kids occasionally stroke his feathers when he thinks the adults arent watching.
Okay enoughnofnmy rant, we all know I'll be here for book 11.
Like where other characters seek to grow and deal with the stress, she strides in reluctant to grow and then unwilling to be the change. Like the whole gang leader angle, she literally should have the power to make changes and be a boss. Instead she just kinda goes I don't got time for this and shoves that off. Of the family heads she always feels like the odd one out because the others seem to actually be busy doing something. That's probably just me though.
I'd personally like to see some growth in the next book but it does feel like the structure is rinse and repeat. Lydia has a problem that she struggles to solve, Lydia use her connection to the families to force meetings with Paul Fox or Marie Silver, in the mix Jason is having his own ghost problems that might be relevant, Fleet and her are dealing with issues due to his position as law enforcement but they'll make up, Lydia is forced to work with the secret government agencies by the end of the book who are trying to force her into compliance, these same groups also withhold information and cause her more trouble, and finally she solves the problem. Then we tune in next book for it to happen again with a slightly advanced plot.
Even this book with the kid, I was pumped. Finally Lydia is going to have to be a responsible person maybe see some growth in character in having to raise someone............oh he's missing for a majority after he moves in. Then he goes away but her door is always open.
I will say in defense of Lydia, I can definitely relate to her in the fact that she spends all the time stressing. But I'd hope if I had magic powers with as much enemies coming at me as she does that I'd work to at the very least protect my friends. And to figure out the what the source of my magic truly wants from me.
Seriously the bird kept going man you're disappointing, and Lydia just went I'm going to ignore this only for her to realize last minute that maybe the crows could help find the kid. I mean fat load it did her, but if I had crows willing to be my allies, I'd make sure everyone had a crow. I'd even start to distinguish them, oh Fleets crow thats Pepper she likes walnuts she's pretty cheap. Emma's crow, thats Walter he's a distinguished bird that looks at you like you're beneath him but he does let the kids occasionally stroke his feathers when he thinks the adults arent watching.
Okay enoughnofnmy rant, we all know I'll be here for book 11.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2026
The Crow Moon is a powerful and compelling instalment in the Crow Investigations series, bringing together many of the threads that have been developing across the previous novels while pushing both the characters and the world into darker territory. As an audiobook, it is absorbing from the opening chapter and delivers some of the most emotionally intense moments in the series so far. While the books have never shied away from danger or difficult choices, this felt to me like the darkest story in the series yet.
From the beginning there is a heavier atmosphere hanging over the narrative. The stakes feel higher, the threats more personal and the consequences more significant. Painter does an excellent job of maintaining a sense of unease throughout the novel, creating the impression that events are moving towards a reckoning that cannot easily be avoided. The darkness is not simply a matter of larger dangers or more dramatic confrontations. Instead, it comes from the emotional weight carried by the characters and the difficult decisions they are forced to make.
Lydia Crow continues to be one of the most engaging protagonists in contemporary urban fantasy. Over the course of the series she has grown considerably, and The Crow Moon showcases that development beautifully. Painter allows Lydia to remain vulnerable and human even as she faces increasingly extraordinary challenges. Her determination, intelligence and resilience are all present, but so too are her doubts and fears. This balance helps make her feel authentic and ensures that the emotional moments have real impact.
The supporting cast are equally strong. One of the pleasures of following a long running series is seeing relationships deepen and evolve over time, and Painter handles this aspect particularly well. Friendships, alliances and rivalries all carry the weight of shared history, which gives the story an emotional richness that many fantasy series struggle to achieve. The characters feel like real people whose lives continue beyond the immediate demands of the plot.
The world building remains excellent. The hidden magical society that Painter has created feels layered, complex and believable, with each novel adding new dimensions without becoming unnecessarily complicated. London continues to serve as a vivid backdrop, full of history, secrets and unseen dangers lurking beneath the surface of ordinary life. The setting remains one of the series' greatest strengths, contributing atmosphere and texture to every chapter.
Kate Rawson’s narration is once again outstanding. By this point, it is difficult to imagine anyone else voicing Lydia Crow. Rawson has a complete understanding of the character and delivers a performance that feels effortless and natural. She captures Lydia’s emotional range with remarkable subtlety, moving from determination and humour to fear and heartbreak without ever sounding forced.
Her handling of dialogue remains particularly impressive. Every character feels distinct, yet none of the voices become exaggerated or distracting. Rawson’s pacing is also excellent, especially during the more emotionally charged scenes where restraint often proves more effective than overt drama. Her narration enhances the atmosphere of the story and draws the listener deeper into Painter’s world.
Perhaps the most impressive achievement of The Crow Moon is its ending. Without revealing any spoilers, it delivers a genuinely satisfying conclusion that feels earned by everything that has come before. Long running storylines reach meaningful resolutions while still leaving room for future possibilities. The balance between closure and anticipation is handled extremely well.
Overall, The Crow Moon is an outstanding audiobook and one of the strongest entries in the series. Sarah Painter combines emotional depth, dark atmosphere and compelling storytelling, while Kate Rawson’s superb narration elevates the experience even further. The ending leaves listeners satisfied, but also wondering where Lydia Crow’s journey might lead next. With the world Painter has created continuing to expand and evolve, it is difficult not to ask: where might the series go from here?
From the beginning there is a heavier atmosphere hanging over the narrative. The stakes feel higher, the threats more personal and the consequences more significant. Painter does an excellent job of maintaining a sense of unease throughout the novel, creating the impression that events are moving towards a reckoning that cannot easily be avoided. The darkness is not simply a matter of larger dangers or more dramatic confrontations. Instead, it comes from the emotional weight carried by the characters and the difficult decisions they are forced to make.
Lydia Crow continues to be one of the most engaging protagonists in contemporary urban fantasy. Over the course of the series she has grown considerably, and The Crow Moon showcases that development beautifully. Painter allows Lydia to remain vulnerable and human even as she faces increasingly extraordinary challenges. Her determination, intelligence and resilience are all present, but so too are her doubts and fears. This balance helps make her feel authentic and ensures that the emotional moments have real impact.
The supporting cast are equally strong. One of the pleasures of following a long running series is seeing relationships deepen and evolve over time, and Painter handles this aspect particularly well. Friendships, alliances and rivalries all carry the weight of shared history, which gives the story an emotional richness that many fantasy series struggle to achieve. The characters feel like real people whose lives continue beyond the immediate demands of the plot.
The world building remains excellent. The hidden magical society that Painter has created feels layered, complex and believable, with each novel adding new dimensions without becoming unnecessarily complicated. London continues to serve as a vivid backdrop, full of history, secrets and unseen dangers lurking beneath the surface of ordinary life. The setting remains one of the series' greatest strengths, contributing atmosphere and texture to every chapter.
Kate Rawson’s narration is once again outstanding. By this point, it is difficult to imagine anyone else voicing Lydia Crow. Rawson has a complete understanding of the character and delivers a performance that feels effortless and natural. She captures Lydia’s emotional range with remarkable subtlety, moving from determination and humour to fear and heartbreak without ever sounding forced.
Her handling of dialogue remains particularly impressive. Every character feels distinct, yet none of the voices become exaggerated or distracting. Rawson’s pacing is also excellent, especially during the more emotionally charged scenes where restraint often proves more effective than overt drama. Her narration enhances the atmosphere of the story and draws the listener deeper into Painter’s world.
Perhaps the most impressive achievement of The Crow Moon is its ending. Without revealing any spoilers, it delivers a genuinely satisfying conclusion that feels earned by everything that has come before. Long running storylines reach meaningful resolutions while still leaving room for future possibilities. The balance between closure and anticipation is handled extremely well.
Overall, The Crow Moon is an outstanding audiobook and one of the strongest entries in the series. Sarah Painter combines emotional depth, dark atmosphere and compelling storytelling, while Kate Rawson’s superb narration elevates the experience even further. The ending leaves listeners satisfied, but also wondering where Lydia Crow’s journey might lead next. With the world Painter has created continuing to expand and evolve, it is difficult not to ask: where might the series go from here?
August 11, 2026
After the events of book 9, The Gilded Nest, I fully expected a plot focusing on Paul Fox.
I was confused and disappointed as the plot didn't go at all where I thought it was going to go but I hoped it was building on to the next book.
Imagine my further confusion when I started reading the reviews and people were talking about how it's the end of the series. I didn't get that sense of finality at all. In fact, The Crow Moon ended with the usual recap of what happened in the book and general musings of what trouble is lurking around the corner.
I checked to see if I missed an epilogue but when I turned the page to the acknowledgements, the author does indeed announce this is most likely the final book in the series! If you have to read the acknowledgements to understand the series has finished something has gone wrong with the writing.
With that in mind, I strongly disagree with the four and five star reviews for a number of reasons. Some will hidden behind spoilers:
1. The antagonist had a weak and questionable motive, and was easily identifiable. Let's not kid ourselves - as soon as the character was introduced, they had a sign above their head labelled, "EVIL!" Lydia was, strangely, very naive about the character and took their initial motivation at face value.
2. References to previous plots about ghosts, character's abilities and the afterlife were made but left unresolved.
3. The romance (Lydia & Fleet vs Lydia & Paul) From a romance reader perspective, I was really disappointed.
4. Lydia's lack of character progression
5. Sarah Painter's admission, "I don't plan my books at all."
I suspected Sarah Painter was a pantser instead of a planner because my ratings for the Crow Investigation series has varied. I've read fantasy book series that were planned and books series that were written in the moment and, in my opnion, there is no comparison: planning is vital and makes for a stronger, better reading experience.
The proof is the list of criticisms of this book (and previous entries in the series) could've easily been resolved by planning.
I was confused and disappointed as the plot didn't go at all where I thought it was going to go but I hoped it was building on to the next book.
Imagine my further confusion when I started reading the reviews and people were talking about how it's the end of the series. I didn't get that sense of finality at all. In fact, The Crow Moon ended with the usual recap of what happened in the book and general musings of what trouble is lurking around the corner.
I checked to see if I missed an epilogue but when I turned the page to the acknowledgements, the author does indeed announce this is most likely the final book in the series! If you have to read the acknowledgements to understand the series has finished something has gone wrong with the writing.
With that in mind, I strongly disagree with the four and five star reviews for a number of reasons. Some will hidden behind spoilers:
1. The antagonist had a weak and questionable motive, and was easily identifiable. Let's not kid ourselves - as soon as the character was introduced, they had a sign above their head labelled, "EVIL!" Lydia was, strangely, very naive about the character and took their initial motivation at face value.
2. References to previous plots about ghosts, character's abilities and the afterlife were made but left unresolved.
3. The romance (Lydia & Fleet vs Lydia & Paul) From a romance reader perspective, I was really disappointed.
4. Lydia's lack of character progression
5. Sarah Painter's admission, "I don't plan my books at all."
I suspected Sarah Painter was a pantser instead of a planner because my ratings for the Crow Investigation series has varied. I've read fantasy book series that were planned and books series that were written in the moment and, in my opnion, there is no comparison: planning is vital and makes for a stronger, better reading experience.
The proof is the list of criticisms of this book (and previous entries in the series) could've easily been resolved by planning.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is book 10 in the Crow Investigations series (and possibly the last? I hope not, but potentially!), and reading the opening pages feels like settling into a familiar urban fantasy nook. The world is set up so clearly now - and The Crow Moon also follows on pretty much directly from the previous book, which adds some nice momentum and will make it a real treat for readers who are working their way through the series for the first time.
So... the NewRipper hasn't finished with Lydia, Paul Fox is marrying a Pearl who's popped up from nowhere, and the secret service are headhunting Lydia... or is that Fleet? Meanwhile, Lydia is doing her best to bond with Ember, the ten-year-old who's staying with them, and someone is messing with ghosts - including Jason. And Lydia still hates living in Charlie's house, swish as it is. Complications abound and the plot hits the ground running.
Lydia is such a great main character - grumpy and a bit gothy, but she takes herself seriously and has a sense of ethics that finally brings her solidly into conflict with what it means to be in charge of the Crow family. I love that the book doesn't dodge this, instead using it to fuel the story as a whole. It's also great to see plenty of Fleet, Jason and Paul, along with developing Ember, whom we met in the previous book, and introducing Megan, an intriguing new character whom I'd love to see more of. In fact, I'd love to see more of most of these characters and the world Sarah Painter has created here - but if that doesn't happen, things are brought to a satisfying conclusion. And whatever Sarah Painter writes next, I'll look forward to it!
So... the NewRipper hasn't finished with Lydia, Paul Fox is marrying a Pearl who's popped up from nowhere, and the secret service are headhunting Lydia... or is that Fleet? Meanwhile, Lydia is doing her best to bond with Ember, the ten-year-old who's staying with them, and someone is messing with ghosts - including Jason. And Lydia still hates living in Charlie's house, swish as it is. Complications abound and the plot hits the ground running.
Lydia is such a great main character - grumpy and a bit gothy, but she takes herself seriously and has a sense of ethics that finally brings her solidly into conflict with what it means to be in charge of the Crow family. I love that the book doesn't dodge this, instead using it to fuel the story as a whole. It's also great to see plenty of Fleet, Jason and Paul, along with developing Ember, whom we met in the previous book, and introducing Megan, an intriguing new character whom I'd love to see more of. In fact, I'd love to see more of most of these characters and the world Sarah Painter has created here - but if that doesn't happen, things are brought to a satisfying conclusion. And whatever Sarah Painter writes next, I'll look forward to it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all huge thanks to Sarah Painter for an ARC of Crow Moon in exchange for an honest review of the book.
Pinning my colours to the mast from the outset I am a massive fan of Sarah’s books having read everything she has ever published and this book dragged me out of my third post-read Onyx Storm book slump.
Crow Moon is the tenth in the Crow Investigations series and is threatened to be the last (I hope not). It has all the characters that we have come to love over the course of the series, Lydia, Fleet, Paul and not forgetting the delightful brew and cake making ghost that is Jason.
There are multiple threads in the story referencing previous books and things that have occurred within them for example with the Pearl Court and the character development in each character continues without losing the essence of what made us care about them in the first place.
There is murder, intrigue, sexual chemistry and tension, ghosts, magic, spinning coins and whisky.
So many questions that other books have left in my mind have been answered in this one - does Hot Paul finally get the heroine? Does Jason finally pass over? Does Fleet choose his beloved career over his beloved girl? Does Lydia ever wear anything but Docs? Are Charlie and Maddie really dead? Well I know the answer to these questions now and I am not telling.
What I really need to know but don’t is where Sarah is going now having completed this ten book series and the Unholy Island trilogy.
Pinning my colours to the mast from the outset I am a massive fan of Sarah’s books having read everything she has ever published and this book dragged me out of my third post-read Onyx Storm book slump.
Crow Moon is the tenth in the Crow Investigations series and is threatened to be the last (I hope not). It has all the characters that we have come to love over the course of the series, Lydia, Fleet, Paul and not forgetting the delightful brew and cake making ghost that is Jason.
There are multiple threads in the story referencing previous books and things that have occurred within them for example with the Pearl Court and the character development in each character continues without losing the essence of what made us care about them in the first place.
There is murder, intrigue, sexual chemistry and tension, ghosts, magic, spinning coins and whisky.
So many questions that other books have left in my mind have been answered in this one - does Hot Paul finally get the heroine? Does Jason finally pass over? Does Fleet choose his beloved career over his beloved girl? Does Lydia ever wear anything but Docs? Are Charlie and Maddie really dead? Well I know the answer to these questions now and I am not telling.
What I really need to know but don’t is where Sarah is going now having completed this ten book series and the Unholy Island trilogy.
July 2, 2026
I love this series, and I honestly think this was the best book of the set. I think the supernatural aspects of these Families ... the Crows, the Foxes, the Pearls, the Silver are so fascinating and such a unique type of urban fantasy. It's not overdone... the ties to their 'aspect/name' is subtle, but perfect... the language, the urges, the things they feel, even where they live and what they value. I just love the whole idea. I have bought every book as soon as it was released, and if this is the last of the set, it felt satisfying and tied up a lot of loose ends...but... still left some avenues open to explore more if Ms. Painter decides to continue.
I thought it was a very interesting that the history of the Families was raised, and that might be a cool thing to explore... prequels of a time when there were more Families of various kinds, including the ones that could change their appearance, and the interactions that led to the modern clans.
And of course there's always Fleet and his visions, the Riverman and Ember, although the latter looks like maybe it will come up more in her other series, which I didn't realize is set in the same universe, and focuses on the hidden island that comes up near the end of this series. I definitely plan to try those next.
If you haven't tried this series yet, and are looking for urban fantasy that is a little different than the usual, give this a try. You will not be disappointed. Highly recommended.
I thought it was a very interesting that the history of the Families was raised, and that might be a cool thing to explore... prequels of a time when there were more Families of various kinds, including the ones that could change their appearance, and the interactions that led to the modern clans.
And of course there's always Fleet and his visions, the Riverman and Ember, although the latter looks like maybe it will come up more in her other series, which I didn't realize is set in the same universe, and focuses on the hidden island that comes up near the end of this series. I definitely plan to try those next.
If you haven't tried this series yet, and are looking for urban fantasy that is a little different than the usual, give this a try. You will not be disappointed. Highly recommended.
May 29, 2026
Loved, loved, loved this (final??) installment of Crow Investigations. By far the best story in the series. It’s bittersweet though cause as much as I enjoyed it, I can’t believe it’s (the series) done!
Lydia has really grown up and you can feel that in her approach, how she’s found her footing with being the head of the family, navigating her relationship with the other heads of family and settling into her life with Fleet.
Adore Ember and I am super hopeful for the next installment of Unholy Island 🙏🏽
So…the story itself - hadn’t expected it to take the turn that it did with the ghosts, the cult, the complex puppeteering. Truly felt I was right there with Lydia through it all the way Sarah wrote it, building the feeling and worry and dread. Esp about our Jason - I could not have coped if anything happened to our fave ghost.
I feel that everyone got their happily ever after and are right where they’re supposed to be, and I’m so pleased for them all.
PS I’ll happily take Paul Fox if he’s back on the market 😂🤷🏼♀️
Lydia has really grown up and you can feel that in her approach, how she’s found her footing with being the head of the family, navigating her relationship with the other heads of family and settling into her life with Fleet.
Adore Ember and I am super hopeful for the next installment of Unholy Island 🙏🏽
So…the story itself - hadn’t expected it to take the turn that it did with the ghosts, the cult, the complex puppeteering. Truly felt I was right there with Lydia through it all the way Sarah wrote it, building the feeling and worry and dread. Esp about our Jason - I could not have coped if anything happened to our fave ghost.
I feel that everyone got their happily ever after and are right where they’re supposed to be, and I’m so pleased for them all.
PS I’ll happily take Paul Fox if he’s back on the market 😂🤷🏼♀️
February 5, 2026
Bittersweet because I have become attached to Lydia and the Families of London,and this, we are told, is the last of the series. I still want to know more, especially about Fleet and Ember, but the Muse does as it will, and this was a very solid part of the series.
Lydia is constantly harassed by a job she never volunteered for, by questions of ethicsand responsibility and by fears for the future. London's ghosts are behaving unpredictably, even her own, dear, domesticated Jason,and an old flame announces an engagement which could well alter the balance of power, fragile at best, affecting the Family interaction which, unseen and unguessed by most Londoners, holds the city together.
A new start seems desirable, but is it even possible? Lydia has to deal with terrible threats to people and places she holds dear, while trying to work out what she wants and needs for herself.
Lydia is constantly harassed by a job she never volunteered for, by questions of ethicsand responsibility and by fears for the future. London's ghosts are behaving unpredictably, even her own, dear, domesticated Jason,and an old flame announces an engagement which could well alter the balance of power, fragile at best, affecting the Family interaction which, unseen and unguessed by most Londoners, holds the city together.
A new start seems desirable, but is it even possible? Lydia has to deal with terrible threats to people and places she holds dear, while trying to work out what she wants and needs for herself.
May 4, 2026
Great conclusion (if it IS a conclusion--per author's note, she doesn't plan out her series, so while this feels like an ending, there's a chance we may meet Lydia Crow and DCS Fleet in the future. I loved that we also had an Unholy Island cameo at the end. I have to say, though, that the main plot felt a little manufactured--specific arcane information comes to light that just happens to fall into the right hands--and yes, there's some Dark Web-iness to explain it all, but still seems very convenient. However, it's used to good effect and the climax is compelling.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Just lately I haven’t been able to read. Nothing I picked up held my attention, then the ARC of Crow Moon landed in my inbox. Had been looking forward to today for what felt like forever. But that was before my current reading slump.
I opened the book with some trepidation. Worried that I would feel about it the same way I felt about all the other books I had tried to read.
I needn’t have worried. A few pages in I realised I was in the grip of a familiar world that I loved. Delighted to meet up with Lydia and her ghost lodger, Jason, as well as other familiar characters, once more. I was soon absorbed in the story and it was very late before I finally forced myself to put Crow Moon aside for the next day.
Sarah Painter has a way of making you really care about the characters. They are so real. And can believe that the families exist and that magic, this kind of magic, is real. Crow Moon ties up lots of loose ends and at the same time takes the reader on an exciting new adventure.
This is the last in the series, although the door has been left open if the author decides that Lydia might well have another adventure. All i can do is hope that Lydia whispers in Sarah Painter’s ear and these wonderful characters will be brought to life once more.
Meanwhile I intend to reread the whole series once more. Knowing I have Crow Moon to look forward to once more.
Thank you Sarah Painter for my copy of The Crow Moon, given in exchange for an unbiased review.
I opened the book with some trepidation. Worried that I would feel about it the same way I felt about all the other books I had tried to read.
I needn’t have worried. A few pages in I realised I was in the grip of a familiar world that I loved. Delighted to meet up with Lydia and her ghost lodger, Jason, as well as other familiar characters, once more. I was soon absorbed in the story and it was very late before I finally forced myself to put Crow Moon aside for the next day.
Sarah Painter has a way of making you really care about the characters. They are so real. And can believe that the families exist and that magic, this kind of magic, is real. Crow Moon ties up lots of loose ends and at the same time takes the reader on an exciting new adventure.
This is the last in the series, although the door has been left open if the author decides that Lydia might well have another adventure. All i can do is hope that Lydia whispers in Sarah Painter’s ear and these wonderful characters will be brought to life once more.
Meanwhile I intend to reread the whole series once more. Knowing I have Crow Moon to look forward to once more.
Thank you Sarah Painter for my copy of The Crow Moon, given in exchange for an unbiased review.
February 21, 2026
Motored along a lot better than the last book.
But all this to-ing and fro-ing just so Lyds can get back to Crow Investigations!
But all this to-ing and fro-ing just so Lyds can get back to Crow Investigations!
February 28, 2026
what does a crow do if she wants to retire from the family business. can she even retire? no it’s more complex than that but then being a crow was never simple for Lydia
This book is a fast paced romp through the politics of London families. Lots of adventure and excitement. Lydia chooses to abdicate her position of family leader. The loss of her power after being drained by the river man is making her stressed and feeling trapped. She comes up with a novel solution chooses to sink her energy into crow investigations 24/7 to be her own boss on her own terms but first she must solve a serial killers identity and help capture and send him to justice largely using her own investigations with allies new and old and a villain bent on destroying both her and most of London.
This book is a fast paced romp through the politics of London families. Lots of adventure and excitement. Lydia chooses to abdicate her position of family leader. The loss of her power after being drained by the river man is making her stressed and feeling trapped. She comes up with a novel solution chooses to sink her energy into crow investigations 24/7 to be her own boss on her own terms but first she must solve a serial killers identity and help capture and send him to justice largely using her own investigations with allies new and old and a villain bent on destroying both her and most of London.
April 10, 2026
A nice read to zone out to
Another easy, addictive entry in the Crow Investigations series. The main plot leans a bit on the silly side this time, but honestly, that’s part of the charm. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, and it’s the kind of book you can fly through without overthinking anything.
What really worked for me was how bingeable it became. By the second half, I was fully hooked and just wanted to keep reading, which is always a good sign. These books are great when you want something light that helps you switch off for a while.
Not the strongest in the series plot-wise, but still an enjoyable, low-effort read that delivers exactly what you expect from Crow Investigations.
Another easy, addictive entry in the Crow Investigations series. The main plot leans a bit on the silly side this time, but honestly, that’s part of the charm. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, and it’s the kind of book you can fly through without overthinking anything.
What really worked for me was how bingeable it became. By the second half, I was fully hooked and just wanted to keep reading, which is always a good sign. These books are great when you want something light that helps you switch off for a while.
Not the strongest in the series plot-wise, but still an enjoyable, low-effort read that delivers exactly what you expect from Crow Investigations.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thoroughly Enjoyable ! What an interesting story for this 10th book of Crow Investigations. I was hugely excited to receive an arc copy to read and review , thank you Sarah Painter. The book reads very well and there is lots of character development for the leading players . The story moves along at a good pace and the twists and turns are absorbing . I really like the character of Lydia Crow and was delighted she has grown in confidence and can make interesting decisions ! I so hope this is not the last book in this series as I want to know so much more and would love to know Lydia Crow has more adventures ahead!
March 12, 2026
I've enjoyed this series, but this one (number 10) was beginning to feel a bit tired. I wonder whether the author felt the same way as there were a couple of bits that seemed a bit clunky – someone acting seemingly out of character or some unwieldy exposition.
The book, and possibly series, come to a reasonably satisfying conclusion, but there seemed a lot of setting up for following books in this or other series.
Overall, it's been fun, and I've enjoyed Lydia's adventures around London (my neck of the woods), but I think it's run its course now. I look forward to Sarah Painter's next project!
The book, and possibly series, come to a reasonably satisfying conclusion, but there seemed a lot of setting up for following books in this or other series.
Overall, it's been fun, and I've enjoyed Lydia's adventures around London (my neck of the woods), but I think it's run its course now. I look forward to Sarah Painter's next project!
February 9, 2026
This is book ten. If you have read and liked books 1-9 read this. Don't skip any of them, the story runs through, these are not standalone. It's a good idea to have also read the (somewhat related) Holy Island series, both because the series is great and because I'm not sure the end of this will quite make sense without it.
I'm sad to say goodbye to Lydia and the other characters that Sarah Painter has brought to life for us over the course of these books. The series has been a pleasure to read.
I'm sad to say goodbye to Lydia and the other characters that Sarah Painter has brought to life for us over the course of these books. The series has been a pleasure to read.
February 23, 2026
Another outstanding novel in the Crow Investigations series
I read a lot of books for escapism but recently I was getting in a rut and thought I'd lost interest in reading. Picked up this new book and Sarah reminded me once again what an outstanding author she is, drawing me back into the story and adding little references to the previous book so I quickly remembered where we're at in the story without needing to reread book 9... and maybe book 8.. etc. Great storytelling, great characters, 10/10 will read again
I read a lot of books for escapism but recently I was getting in a rut and thought I'd lost interest in reading. Picked up this new book and Sarah reminded me once again what an outstanding author she is, drawing me back into the story and adding little references to the previous book so I quickly remembered where we're at in the story without needing to reread book 9... and maybe book 8.. etc. Great storytelling, great characters, 10/10 will read again
February 14, 2026
Annoyed. Do much pondering. Gack!!. She started off as a strong character in the series but as head of the crow family she’s weak. Forever avoiding her responsibilities. When the cards are clearly all in her own hands she thinks they are in the other persons. She’s got no backbone. I got so peeved I threw the book down. I finished the book but not reading this series anymore. Damn shame. Such a great premise too.
February 15, 2026
Magical storytelling
I love this series, and if it's the last then it was a satisfying end, but never say never!
I'm hoping this may tempt Sarah Painter to write another unholy Isle book and see what happens with Ember!
I have loved this series SO much, despite the horror and violence, like the Unholy Isle series I find this series a cosy read; I know it's going to be good. Always rooting for Lydia!
Thank you Sarah for sharing your fantastic story telling mastery!
I love this series, and if it's the last then it was a satisfying end, but never say never!
I'm hoping this may tempt Sarah Painter to write another unholy Isle book and see what happens with Ember!
I have loved this series SO much, despite the horror and violence, like the Unholy Isle series I find this series a cosy read; I know it's going to be good. Always rooting for Lydia!
Thank you Sarah for sharing your fantastic story telling mastery!
February 15, 2026
love this series
I’ve read each book at least twice. These books have everything: magic, mystery, a bit of romance, and the violence that comes with the territory of a magical mafia family isn’t enough to be traumatizing. I found myself dropping everything to read each book as it came out and reread the previous books so I don’t miss out on important details. Definitely recommend!
I’ve read each book at least twice. These books have everything: magic, mystery, a bit of romance, and the violence that comes with the territory of a magical mafia family isn’t enough to be traumatizing. I found myself dropping everything to read each book as it came out and reread the previous books so I don’t miss out on important details. Definitely recommend!
February 9, 2026
The last in the Crow series I hope not but happy Sarah has tidied things up nicely with this final instalment very much a resetting.
I’ve spent years with these characters and the world that they live in and will miss them.
Look forward to reading the latest in Sarah's other Island series which I believe is coming out soon.
I’ve spent years with these characters and the world that they live in and will miss them.
Look forward to reading the latest in Sarah's other Island series which I believe is coming out soon.
February 14, 2026
Sad to see this series end
This has been a very interesting series. We’ve seen characters grow from their experiences. The love story developed over time. And, the other characters in the story became favorites too. I would like to return to this world and find out more about some of the other families.
This has been a very interesting series. We’ve seen characters grow from their experiences. The love story developed over time. And, the other characters in the story became favorites too. I would like to return to this world and find out more about some of the other families.
March 8, 2026
And so we reach Book 10....
Book 10 is the last book in the Crow Investigations series. It is a brilliant book, with a great storyline about the Families and London's ghost population.
All the main characters are there, the story continues at a cracking pace and I was totally absorbed.
Read the books in order, then enjoy this one. It's definitely worth it!
Book 10 is the last book in the Crow Investigations series. It is a brilliant book, with a great storyline about the Families and London's ghost population.
All the main characters are there, the story continues at a cracking pace and I was totally absorbed.
Read the books in order, then enjoy this one. It's definitely worth it!
March 16, 2026
Enjoyable Mystery Series.
It was gratifying to see a more mature and thoughtful Lydia Crow. I enjoyed the twists and turns in this mystery. The Who was apparent but the how and why was suspenseful. Enjoyed the twists and the confidence Lydia has in her abilities and in her skills. I loved the surprise at the end with the trip to Unholy Island.
It was gratifying to see a more mature and thoughtful Lydia Crow. I enjoyed the twists and turns in this mystery. The Who was apparent but the how and why was suspenseful. Enjoyed the twists and the confidence Lydia has in her abilities and in her skills. I loved the surprise at the end with the trip to Unholy Island.
March 20, 2026
As good as ever
I really enjoyed reading the latest Lydia Crow book, it is as good as ever.
This book has Lydia searching for Ember and having to deal with a new leader of the Pearl family, Scarlett, who is threatening to cause complete catastrophe in the worst possible way.
I can’t wait for the next adventure.
I really enjoyed reading the latest Lydia Crow book, it is as good as ever.
This book has Lydia searching for Ember and having to deal with a new leader of the Pearl family, Scarlett, who is threatening to cause complete catastrophe in the worst possible way.
I can’t wait for the next adventure.
March 24, 2026
Yet another good read.
I loved this series and hope it continues as it’s placed to do.
The characters are old friends by now anc the new additions only expand the options in the storyline. The families have an actual beneficial arrangement not to close though.
It’s a great read I recommend it.
I loved this series and hope it continues as it’s placed to do.
The characters are old friends by now anc the new additions only expand the options in the storyline. The families have an actual beneficial arrangement not to close though.
It’s a great read I recommend it.
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