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Consider the Ravens: A Gripping Medieval Mystery of Murder and Secrets on Lindisfarne
'A superb trip back in time to 15th century Lindisfarne, which is evoked with a tremendous sense of place and engaging characters' S G MacLean
Lindisfarne in 1494 is a holy island of secrets.
The scribe Linnet is running from her criminal past and seeking sanctuary in the island of her childhood. She's friendless in the monastery, the monks resentful of a woman scribe, and her only company is Tom the fisherman and a child, Isabelle – watchful, clever and unlikeable – with her partly tamed raven Pol.
The monastery bursar Oswyn threatens to expose Linnet's past but she isn't the only one with secrets to hide. Intent upon uncovering the monks' misdeeds is the fanatic inspector, sent by the new Bishop of Durham to write a report on the monastery.
When Oswyn is found drowned, Linnet suspects the death is not accidental.
After another death, Linnet realises there's a killer amongst the brethren, and her own precarious position makes her vulnerable – unless she can first identify who it could be…
Lindisfarne in 1494 is a holy island of secrets.
The scribe Linnet is running from her criminal past and seeking sanctuary in the island of her childhood. She's friendless in the monastery, the monks resentful of a woman scribe, and her only company is Tom the fisherman and a child, Isabelle – watchful, clever and unlikeable – with her partly tamed raven Pol.
The monastery bursar Oswyn threatens to expose Linnet's past but she isn't the only one with secrets to hide. Intent upon uncovering the monks' misdeeds is the fanatic inspector, sent by the new Bishop of Durham to write a report on the monastery.
When Oswyn is found drowned, Linnet suspects the death is not accidental.
After another death, Linnet realises there's a killer amongst the brethren, and her own precarious position makes her vulnerable – unless she can first identify who it could be…
349 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 16, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 28, 2026
I bought the book in a small bookshop in Cambridge from a lovely older Gentleman. He showed me the author’s signature in my copy and told of how she’d been in the shop to give those signed books to him just the other day …
… so I was quite exited to start it right that evening. It’s a pleasing and capturing read and I encourage you to meet Linnet and the cast. The characters carry the story well and while it’s a bit edgy at times, it leaves the reader with a warm feeling of familiarity with the island and it’s inhabitants, wanting to learn more and to keep reading.
The old shop keeper in Cambridge claims to have read it in two sittings. It took me a bit longer, but then I’ve had to travel back home since buying it.
… so I was quite exited to start it right that evening. It’s a pleasing and capturing read and I encourage you to meet Linnet and the cast. The characters carry the story well and while it’s a bit edgy at times, it leaves the reader with a warm feeling of familiarity with the island and it’s inhabitants, wanting to learn more and to keep reading.
The old shop keeper in Cambridge claims to have read it in two sittings. It took me a bit longer, but then I’ve had to travel back home since buying it.
October 27, 2026
This book was the very engaging.
July 30, 2026
Not my usual genre but had a good female protagonist who goes against the grain and the whole plot was interesting.
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator grew on me too and by the end I was really enjoying her voice.
The historical notes at the end were fascinating too.
A recommended read.
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator grew on me too and by the end I was really enjoying her voice.
The historical notes at the end were fascinating too.
A recommended read.
November 6, 2026
As a history buff, I know that life was quite different in the past but this story, set in 1494 England truly takes you back to that time period. Set in Lindisfarne or Holy Island, Linnet is a scribe, excellent at copying books and other papers for a living but also running away from her previous life with an abusive man. When she arrives at the priory, she is lucky to find out that the Prior is looking for a scribe as his previous one (a monk with a drinking problem) had just been sent away. We find out that Linnet has had a life of never settling down. Her father was a roll-bearer, a man sent from religious house to house passing a letter which each house added information to, usually condolences and prayers for holy men who had died. Linnet's mother is unknown and her father took her with him but was not at all loving. Six years previously Linnet had fallen in love with Giles, a younger son of gentry who had been disowned due to his profligate ways. It did not take that long before she learns she is a means to an end; she is an excellent scribe, and Giles is an excellent villain.
Linnet settles in and enjoys her work but there is always fear in her life. Her life has been one of looking out for herself which has included theft and other lawbreaking. One of the monks, Oswyn the Bursar, seems to enjoy searching out people's secrets and he soon tells Linnet that he knows hers. When he goes for his usual swim and ends up drowned, Linnet is surprised. When another death occurs, she starts to think that there is someone behind these deaths. Although women are usually only at priories as servants, an orphan child Isabelle with her pet raven Pol are also living at the priory and are important to the story.
As you read this story you get drawn into the time period wondering about customs that have fallen away: first and second sleep, roll-bearers and, not a custom but that life back then meant you were always cold and quite often hungry, and in Linnet's case, always afraid. The author is apparently going to write a series about Linnet, and I look forward to the next book.
Linnet settles in and enjoys her work but there is always fear in her life. Her life has been one of looking out for herself which has included theft and other lawbreaking. One of the monks, Oswyn the Bursar, seems to enjoy searching out people's secrets and he soon tells Linnet that he knows hers. When he goes for his usual swim and ends up drowned, Linnet is surprised. When another death occurs, she starts to think that there is someone behind these deaths. Although women are usually only at priories as servants, an orphan child Isabelle with her pet raven Pol are also living at the priory and are important to the story.
As you read this story you get drawn into the time period wondering about customs that have fallen away: first and second sleep, roll-bearers and, not a custom but that life back then meant you were always cold and quite often hungry, and in Linnet's case, always afraid. The author is apparently going to write a series about Linnet, and I look forward to the next book.
July 20, 2026
Lindisfarne, also known as Holy Island, was one of the first places the Vikings invaded in England. Today, it is a popular tourist spot. But what was it like during the Middle Ages, when the monastery was active? Cressida Downing’s well-researched debut gives readers an up-close look at life for the monks and the villagers who supported them.
Linnet, the main character, is a young woman with a past. She’s a rarity because she can read and write fluently and is especially skilled in calligraphy. She’s no saint, but it seems not many of the monks are either. The monastery should be a perfect fit for her, right? Except, she keeps her background hidden, and many of the monks dislike having a woman in a traditionally male role. I found it difficult to connect with her. My favorite character was the young orphan, Isabelle. I wanted to know more about her background and cared more about her than Linnet.
I found the book slow to get going at first, even though it starts with a man’s body hanging. I didn’t know who he was, and by the time I learned, it was too late to care. But I stuck with it, and the payoff was well worth it; by the final chapters, I realized I was holding my breath. I wanted to know what would happen next. It took me approximately four days to read it in electronic format.
Consider the Ravens is the first in a planned series of six historical mysteries centered around Linnet’s life on the island. Will her past continue to haunt her? Will Isabelle’s background be fully revealed? How many years will the series cover? (This first novel is set less than 40 years before the Dissolution of the Monasteries.) I’ll be interested to read on and see if my questions are answered.
Disclaimer: With thanks to Anne Cater and Random Things Tours for my complimentary electronic copy. These thoughts are my own.
Linnet, the main character, is a young woman with a past. She’s a rarity because she can read and write fluently and is especially skilled in calligraphy. She’s no saint, but it seems not many of the monks are either. The monastery should be a perfect fit for her, right? Except, she keeps her background hidden, and many of the monks dislike having a woman in a traditionally male role. I found it difficult to connect with her. My favorite character was the young orphan, Isabelle. I wanted to know more about her background and cared more about her than Linnet.
I found the book slow to get going at first, even though it starts with a man’s body hanging. I didn’t know who he was, and by the time I learned, it was too late to care. But I stuck with it, and the payoff was well worth it; by the final chapters, I realized I was holding my breath. I wanted to know what would happen next. It took me approximately four days to read it in electronic format.
Consider the Ravens is the first in a planned series of six historical mysteries centered around Linnet’s life on the island. Will her past continue to haunt her? Will Isabelle’s background be fully revealed? How many years will the series cover? (This first novel is set less than 40 years before the Dissolution of the Monasteries.) I’ll be interested to read on and see if my questions are answered.
Disclaimer: With thanks to Anne Cater and Random Things Tours for my complimentary electronic copy. These thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A slow, detailed slice-of-life medieval murder mystery, wherein female scribe Linnet seeks refuge at Lindisfarne in 1494, but life and all its complexities aren't so easily avoided.
The scriptorium that produced one of the most famous illuminated manuscripts of the Middle Ages is an impoverished place when Linnet arrives, and the Prior sees advantage in having her doing some copying work -- even if the other monks are most unhappy to have a woman involved. Shortly after, an Inspector from the Bishop of Durham arrives to review the accounts and general running of the place, causing major upheaval. And then the monastery bursar, a usually strong swimmer, drowns ...
I did enjoy Linnet's narrative, and the frank way she talks about her personal history. She's largely unapologetic about crime being a part of her life -- petty thieving in particular. She doesn't set out to Solve A Murder, and her investigation is mostly just being nosy / curious / self-protective, which I also like. However, this meant the pacing felt very slow at the start, and neutral in places where I'd expect more emotion. All in all I'm not sure I got a good sense of the kind of person Linnet really is. Also, there's a subplot that appears purely to be setting up book 2. Which yes, that's how life and also book series work, but it was heavy-handed given the pace of the main plot. (Usually I'd want the story to be romping along while book 2's premise is set up almost without noticing.)
Still, the setting and detail are unusual enough that I would be keen to read on in the series.
Content warning for period-typical homophobia, including from Linnet herself.
Rating: 14/20
This review is based upon a complimentary advance review copy provided by the publisher.
The scriptorium that produced one of the most famous illuminated manuscripts of the Middle Ages is an impoverished place when Linnet arrives, and the Prior sees advantage in having her doing some copying work -- even if the other monks are most unhappy to have a woman involved. Shortly after, an Inspector from the Bishop of Durham arrives to review the accounts and general running of the place, causing major upheaval. And then the monastery bursar, a usually strong swimmer, drowns ...
I did enjoy Linnet's narrative, and the frank way she talks about her personal history. She's largely unapologetic about crime being a part of her life -- petty thieving in particular. She doesn't set out to Solve A Murder, and her investigation is mostly just being nosy / curious / self-protective, which I also like. However, this meant the pacing felt very slow at the start, and neutral in places where I'd expect more emotion. All in all I'm not sure I got a good sense of the kind of person Linnet really is. Also, there's a subplot that appears purely to be setting up book 2. Which yes, that's how life and also book series work, but it was heavy-handed given the pace of the main plot. (Usually I'd want the story to be romping along while book 2's premise is set up almost without noticing.)
Still, the setting and detail are unusual enough that I would be keen to read on in the series.
Content warning for period-typical homophobia, including from Linnet herself.
Rating: 14/20
This review is based upon a complimentary advance review copy provided by the publisher.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Consider the Ravens is a beautifully atmospheric debut that drew me in from the very first page. Consider the Ravens brings late‑15th‑century Lindisfarne vividly to life—windswept, secretive, and steeped in quiet menace. Cressida Downing has crafted a setting so evocative you can almost taste the salt on the air and hear the rustle of wings overhead.
Linnet is a wonderfully compelling protagonist: a woman with a past she’s desperate to outrun, trying to carve out a place for herself in a monastery that barely tolerates her presence. Her isolation is palpable, and the small cast around her—Tom the fisherman, the unsettlingly perceptive Isabelle, and of course the half‑tamed raven Pol—adds texture and tension to every scene.
The mystery unfolds with a steady, satisfying pace. When the bursar Oswyn is found drowned, the unease that has been simmering beneath the surface finally breaks through. The arrival of the bishop’s fanatical inspector only heightens the claustrophobia, and as more deaths follow, the sense of danger tightens around Linnet like a noose. Downing balances historical detail with suspense beautifully, never letting one overwhelm the other.
This is an atmospheric, richly drawn crime novel with a heroine I’m eager to follow into the next instalment. A strong, confident debut—and a series I’ll be keeping a close eye on.
With thanks to Cressida Downing, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Linnet is a wonderfully compelling protagonist: a woman with a past she’s desperate to outrun, trying to carve out a place for herself in a monastery that barely tolerates her presence. Her isolation is palpable, and the small cast around her—Tom the fisherman, the unsettlingly perceptive Isabelle, and of course the half‑tamed raven Pol—adds texture and tension to every scene.
The mystery unfolds with a steady, satisfying pace. When the bursar Oswyn is found drowned, the unease that has been simmering beneath the surface finally breaks through. The arrival of the bishop’s fanatical inspector only heightens the claustrophobia, and as more deaths follow, the sense of danger tightens around Linnet like a noose. Downing balances historical detail with suspense beautifully, never letting one overwhelm the other.
This is an atmospheric, richly drawn crime novel with a heroine I’m eager to follow into the next instalment. A strong, confident debut—and a series I’ll be keeping a close eye on.
With thanks to Cressida Downing, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
September 4, 2026
Lindisfarne Priory, 1494. A scribe arrives on the island, escaping from her unpleasant past and trying to lie low and support herself.
Linnet is at the centre of this story with a cast of monks, masons, a haughty lady, serving women and a young girl with her pet raven. Not everyone is who they say they are, including Linnet. Will her past catch up with her?
There are several deaths. Are they all accidental or self-inflicted? Linnet tries to get to the truth, facing opposition for the monks and the hugely misogynistic inspector.
Cressida Downing captures an atmosphere of priory life with all its routines and living experiences which drew me in and seemed completely believable. I could almost feel the cold in my hands as Linnet got on with her scribing in the Scriptorium. It was not until she was joined by two trainee monks that a fire was lit - because obviously they couldn't write with cold hands!!
I liked the trips to other places. I have been to Lindisfarne - a very special place, and have taken a boat trip to the Farne Islands. Fantastic setting for murder mysteries!!
Linnet is an excellent central character and very sympathetic from the start. We learn about her past life as the story unfolds. She pieces together what has happened as she actually pieces together discarded paper from a suspicious monk's room.
I really enjoyed this and thoroughly recommend it.
I hope that there will be more stories with the same main characters!
Linnet is at the centre of this story with a cast of monks, masons, a haughty lady, serving women and a young girl with her pet raven. Not everyone is who they say they are, including Linnet. Will her past catch up with her?
There are several deaths. Are they all accidental or self-inflicted? Linnet tries to get to the truth, facing opposition for the monks and the hugely misogynistic inspector.
Cressida Downing captures an atmosphere of priory life with all its routines and living experiences which drew me in and seemed completely believable. I could almost feel the cold in my hands as Linnet got on with her scribing in the Scriptorium. It was not until she was joined by two trainee monks that a fire was lit - because obviously they couldn't write with cold hands!!
I liked the trips to other places. I have been to Lindisfarne - a very special place, and have taken a boat trip to the Farne Islands. Fantastic setting for murder mysteries!!
Linnet is an excellent central character and very sympathetic from the start. We learn about her past life as the story unfolds. She pieces together what has happened as she actually pieces together discarded paper from a suspicious monk's room.
I really enjoyed this and thoroughly recommend it.
I hope that there will be more stories with the same main characters!
July 16, 2026
I really enjoyed Consider the Ravens. It blends historical fiction with a murder mystery in a way that kept me turning the pages from start to finish. Set on the holy island of Lindisfarne, the story has a wonderfully atmospheric setting that feels rich in history and adds so much to the mystery.
One of my favourite things about the book was how authentic the characters felt. The protagonist is thoughtful, observant, and easy to root for, while the supporting cast all have their own secrets and motivations, making it difficult to work out who could be trusted.
The mystery unfolds at a steady pace, with enough twists to keep me guessing without ever feeling overcomplicated.
Cressida Downing does a lovely job of bringing the medieval world to life. The descriptions are vivid without slowing the story down, and the historical details feel natural rather than overwhelming. I found myself completely immersed in the setting.
If you enjoy historical mysteries with strong characters, an intriguing plot, and a beautifully realised setting, Consider the Ravens is definitely worth picking up. It's an engaging, immersive read that left me looking forward to spending more time in this fascinating series.
One of my favourite things about the book was how authentic the characters felt. The protagonist is thoughtful, observant, and easy to root for, while the supporting cast all have their own secrets and motivations, making it difficult to work out who could be trusted.
The mystery unfolds at a steady pace, with enough twists to keep me guessing without ever feeling overcomplicated.
Cressida Downing does a lovely job of bringing the medieval world to life. The descriptions are vivid without slowing the story down, and the historical details feel natural rather than overwhelming. I found myself completely immersed in the setting.
If you enjoy historical mysteries with strong characters, an intriguing plot, and a beautifully realised setting, Consider the Ravens is definitely worth picking up. It's an engaging, immersive read that left me looking forward to spending more time in this fascinating series.
July 23, 2026
Historical Crime Fiction 4.5 ⭐️
I love a historical fiction book featuring nuns and monks and this one was very good indeed. It was a very atmospheric read and I could picture the waves and landscape in dramatic detail. I came to really like the lead character and the story that unfolds on the island.
The date is 1494 and we meet Linnet desperately trying to reach the holy island of Lindisfarne before the tide cuts her off. She’s a young woman with a secret and on the run but she spent some time at the monastery with her father, a scribe when she was younger and feels it is the only space place for her.
There are a number of lay workers at the monastery and Linnet is useful as she can scribe as well as any man. Spending her days in the scriptorium and her evenings amongst the workers and monks Linnet starts to feel safe. However, a particularly nasty monk called Brother Oswyn claims to know her secret. He is soon found dead but was it murder? What do the monks know and what does Isabelle and her pet raven know about this death.
If you like historical crime fiction then I highly recommend this novel.
Ad-pr gifted from @randomtours, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I love a historical fiction book featuring nuns and monks and this one was very good indeed. It was a very atmospheric read and I could picture the waves and landscape in dramatic detail. I came to really like the lead character and the story that unfolds on the island.
The date is 1494 and we meet Linnet desperately trying to reach the holy island of Lindisfarne before the tide cuts her off. She’s a young woman with a secret and on the run but she spent some time at the monastery with her father, a scribe when she was younger and feels it is the only space place for her.
There are a number of lay workers at the monastery and Linnet is useful as she can scribe as well as any man. Spending her days in the scriptorium and her evenings amongst the workers and monks Linnet starts to feel safe. However, a particularly nasty monk called Brother Oswyn claims to know her secret. He is soon found dead but was it murder? What do the monks know and what does Isabelle and her pet raven know about this death.
If you like historical crime fiction then I highly recommend this novel.
Ad-pr gifted from @randomtours, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 stars (rounded for debut)
This book reminded me in many ways of a book I haven't thought about in a long time: Mistress of the Art of Death. Another similar timeframe relatively murder mystery. While this one have so much interesting detail and a very unique setting, I did find it rather slow from the start and it took me a while to get into the characters. I was also very much jolted out of the headspace from the really unexpected (TW) possible outing suicide. That and another later scene took me by surprise so much it left me not as invested in the story, though it was interesting. I do think others who come in prepared will likely have a better time of it than I did and I don't think this will prevent me from reading the author's future work.
This book reminded me in many ways of a book I haven't thought about in a long time: Mistress of the Art of Death. Another similar timeframe relatively murder mystery. While this one have so much interesting detail and a very unique setting, I did find it rather slow from the start and it took me a while to get into the characters. I was also very much jolted out of the headspace from the really unexpected (TW) possible outing suicide. That and another later scene took me by surprise so much it left me not as invested in the story, though it was interesting. I do think others who come in prepared will likely have a better time of it than I did and I don't think this will prevent me from reading the author's future work.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a fascinating and enjoyable read. Set in 15th century Lindisfarne, it's central character is a female scribe with a dubious history. It was interesting to learn more about women’s roles in society particularly in regards to religion and literacy.
It is a murder mystery, but there was so much fascinating insight into the life of the priory and the attitudes towards women. Linnet and Isabelle, with her pet raven, Pol, were engaging characters and I hope there are more books to come!
On NetGalley this was tagged as fantasy/sci fi as well as historical and mystery. This made me a little hesitant to try because I usually prefer historical mystery to be historical and not fantastical. I did not pick up on any fantasy or sci fi elements. Not sure if that will change in future books or it was a mistake.
It is a murder mystery, but there was so much fascinating insight into the life of the priory and the attitudes towards women. Linnet and Isabelle, with her pet raven, Pol, were engaging characters and I hope there are more books to come!
On NetGalley this was tagged as fantasy/sci fi as well as historical and mystery. This made me a little hesitant to try because I usually prefer historical mystery to be historical and not fantastical. I did not pick up on any fantasy or sci fi elements. Not sure if that will change in future books or it was a mistake.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I remember reading and watching on TV Cadfael. So this book set in Monastic life in Lindisfarne intrigued me.
This is a very readable suspense murder mystery story. Based on researched facts, but pure fiction.
The characters are not all nice, many completely self centred. But some have hearts in the right place. The story centres on the murders in and around the monetary, and the history and place of women in monastic life in the late 1400s.
The story is a little slow at times, especially the first part of the book. Much is made of Linnet’s background - some relevant to the story, some not. The author seems to be setting the scene for future books. Which I look forward to reading.
Thank you to Bedford Square Publishers and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
This is a very readable suspense murder mystery story. Based on researched facts, but pure fiction.
The characters are not all nice, many completely self centred. But some have hearts in the right place. The story centres on the murders in and around the monetary, and the history and place of women in monastic life in the late 1400s.
The story is a little slow at times, especially the first part of the book. Much is made of Linnet’s background - some relevant to the story, some not. The author seems to be setting the scene for future books. Which I look forward to reading.
Thank you to Bedford Square Publishers and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
July 20, 2026
Set on holy island Lindisfarne in 1494 this is an atmospheric murder mystery.
Linnet is on the run and seeks refuge at the monastery of her childhood, working as a scribe whilst she hides.
When the bursar is found dead, Linnet suspects there’s a killer amongst the brethren and tries to identify the murderer to protect herself.
Really enjoyed the slow-burn layered mystery, the evocative descriptions of medieval Lindisfarne and the richly drawn characters. A superb sense of time and place and the isolated monastery served as chilling gothic setting for the murders. Linnet was an excellent protagonist and l loved that this was a medieval story about an ordinary woman.
Fab set up of a new historical crime series of which I’m excited to read the next!
Thank you to random things tours for the copy to review-really enjoyed!
Linnet is on the run and seeks refuge at the monastery of her childhood, working as a scribe whilst she hides.
When the bursar is found dead, Linnet suspects there’s a killer amongst the brethren and tries to identify the murderer to protect herself.
Really enjoyed the slow-burn layered mystery, the evocative descriptions of medieval Lindisfarne and the richly drawn characters. A superb sense of time and place and the isolated monastery served as chilling gothic setting for the murders. Linnet was an excellent protagonist and l loved that this was a medieval story about an ordinary woman.
Fab set up of a new historical crime series of which I’m excited to read the next!
Thank you to random things tours for the copy to review-really enjoyed!
July 22, 2026
Northumberland is one of my favourite places to visit, after spending several summer holiday there over the years, so I have lots of good memories of the area, and was able to picture the locations clearly in my head. Particularly Lindisfarne, an island that holds some special memories for me.
So I couldn't wait to get into this read, and it certainly lived up to my high expectations.
It's a real step back in time to a period in history that's so far removed from the modern day. But the author here brings the 1400's to life in an wonderfully descriptive, believable way. You really do feel as though you are right there on Holy Island. You can see the sights, smell the smells and hear the sounds.
Historical murder mysteries are one of my favourite genres and here, the author had produced a top quality addition to that category.
5 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
So I couldn't wait to get into this read, and it certainly lived up to my high expectations.
It's a real step back in time to a period in history that's so far removed from the modern day. But the author here brings the 1400's to life in an wonderfully descriptive, believable way. You really do feel as though you are right there on Holy Island. You can see the sights, smell the smells and hear the sounds.
Historical murder mysteries are one of my favourite genres and here, the author had produced a top quality addition to that category.
5 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Linnet comes to Lindisfarne to hide from her past but manages to gain work as a scribe at the Priory. However, the monastery is not an easy place to live and hide away as you would think as the monks have their own hidden agendas, and as a woman Linnet is seen by some as unworthy to carry out the work of a scribe. Danger also lurks in the form of the bursar Oswyn and when an inspector arrives from Durham Cathedral to write a report on the Priory Linnet finds herself in further peril when death starts to stalk Holy Island.
Consider the Ravens is a great read for anyone interested in the history surrounding Holy Island and who also love mystery novels. This is the first in what I can see will be a popular series, one to pick up and enjoy the tale.
Consider the Ravens is a great read for anyone interested in the history surrounding Holy Island and who also love mystery novels. This is the first in what I can see will be a popular series, one to pick up and enjoy the tale.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This story is captivating. It felt like living someone's life through their eyes, remembering things with them, worrying about the future, wondering what was next.
The description of the scribing process was really interesting. It's an extremely in depth book, giving an excellent feel of the land and life in those times. The characters are complex, flawed and crafted so well, they could be real people.
I cannot think of a bad thing to say about this book. I will definitely be looking for the next in the series. I want to know more about Linnet’s life and what she does next. This has been my favourite book of the year, so far.
I am thankful to the author, Bedford Square Publishers | No Exit Press and Netgalley for allowing me to read this book for free.
The description of the scribing process was really interesting. It's an extremely in depth book, giving an excellent feel of the land and life in those times. The characters are complex, flawed and crafted so well, they could be real people.
I cannot think of a bad thing to say about this book. I will definitely be looking for the next in the series. I want to know more about Linnet’s life and what she does next. This has been my favourite book of the year, so far.
I am thankful to the author, Bedford Square Publishers | No Exit Press and Netgalley for allowing me to read this book for free.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The setting of Lindisfarne was what attracted me to this book as it is set at the end of the 15th century when the priory was still functioning and there was no castle as yet. ( the castle was built from the priory stones !) There are a few deaths/murders which need to be proven and it is all set around Linnet who is a scribe and so it is interesting to read about how women did have a part in monastic life. There are several not very likable characters but that only adds to the plot. At the end of the story, the author writes that it took her 6 years to write the book and you can tell that a lot of research has gone into it. A good debut novel.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC to review.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC to review.
September 10, 2026
Audiobook
I liked the idea of a female scribe in medieval times, fighting for her right to exist and being excellent at her work despite the spite of men
However, because of the title I was expecting more a detective novel rather than historical and daily life descriptions
So some passages felt quite slow
(And boring, sorry)
In addition, even though I know it is reflecting the thoughts of medieval times when women were brutalised and considered as sinners, I was annoyed that Linnet never got a proper revenge on all the men that treated her awfully. I was hoping for more fighting back from her and that left me quite frustrated
I liked the idea of a female scribe in medieval times, fighting for her right to exist and being excellent at her work despite the spite of men
However, because of the title I was expecting more a detective novel rather than historical and daily life descriptions
So some passages felt quite slow
(And boring, sorry)
In addition, even though I know it is reflecting the thoughts of medieval times when women were brutalised and considered as sinners, I was annoyed that Linnet never got a proper revenge on all the men that treated her awfully. I was hoping for more fighting back from her and that left me quite frustrated
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read this pre-publication copy.
I thoroughly enjoyed Consider the Ravens, particularly the discovery of Linnet's personal history alongside the development of the murder mystery. The writing brings the island and priory to life and creates characters that you can't help but become invested in. The twists and turns of the story kept me guessing to the end whilst leaving plenty of mysteries to be revealed in future books. I can't wait for the next instalment of this series.
I thoroughly enjoyed Consider the Ravens, particularly the discovery of Linnet's personal history alongside the development of the murder mystery. The writing brings the island and priory to life and creates characters that you can't help but become invested in. The twists and turns of the story kept me guessing to the end whilst leaving plenty of mysteries to be revealed in future books. I can't wait for the next instalment of this series.
July 24, 2026
Linnet is such a spunky heroine that I couldn't help loving her ♥️ She's smart, resourceful and so bold. I also loved Isabel, but my favourite character has to be her pet raven Pol.
The setting of Lindisfarne priory was unique and atmospheric. I enjoyed reading about life in the priory, especially about the scriptorium - making inks, writing copies, and illustrating them.
The mystery was really good, and I can't wait to see what Linnet and Isabel get upto in the next book.
The setting of Lindisfarne priory was unique and atmospheric. I enjoyed reading about life in the priory, especially about the scriptorium - making inks, writing copies, and illustrating them.
The mystery was really good, and I can't wait to see what Linnet and Isabel get upto in the next book.
September 3, 2026
(Audiobook) Charlie Sanderson, the narrator of this well researched historical novel is so good that I will be looking for more books narrated by her. A truly remarkable tale about a young female scribe, an adorable imp and a raven named Po. The author takes you back to 1492 and she creates such a believable backdrop for the setting that you feel like you are there. I would recommend this to others who enjoy good historical fiction.
September 21, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical book.
I chose to read it primarily for Ravens being in the title [a serious Corvid lover here]
Linnett has a past and decides to return to a priory to start again.
She is a talented scribe and is asked to help with an unfinished prayer book [the previous scribe was too fond of drink and was banished].
Linnett starts to see a link in the dealths that have occurred on the island.
She and the prior deal with this.
I chose to read it primarily for Ravens being in the title [a serious Corvid lover here]
Linnett has a past and decides to return to a priory to start again.
She is a talented scribe and is asked to help with an unfinished prayer book [the previous scribe was too fond of drink and was banished].
Linnett starts to see a link in the dealths that have occurred on the island.
She and the prior deal with this.
October 26, 2026
Everything I could ever ask for in a book - missing manuscripts, murder, mystery - all wrapped up in a tale that has been thoroughly researched to make the Lindisfarne medieval setting feel entirely believable. Compelling characters and a twist I didn't see coming.
June 27, 2026
loved the characters, had to give it a 5. had no choice
September 14, 2026
It was a pretty entertaining read, but still the similarities to Name of the Rose didn't do it any favors.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
6.5 / 10 ✪
https://arefugefromlife.wordpress.com...
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To be honest, I’m a bit torn on this debut.
The Isle of Lindisfarne makes for an excellent backdrop, with its crumbling ruins and historic abbey. Located in the far north of England, cut off from the mainland except at low tide, it is isolated and remote. It lends itself well to a horror or mystery, particularly if done well. And yet… while the setting is described in some detail, it’s not exactly done in a way that I would call “vivid”. It’s more just rote information.
Likewise, the tone itself is rather dispassionate. Linnet’s tale is hard, often dark, and yet cold in an altogether different manner. As if the scribe herself is nothing more than a cardboard cutout moving through a very real world. Where the setting around it is at least done up in some detail, Linnet’s narration is instead lacking. All the characters (not just our lead) were little more than shadow-puppets on a stage. Yes, they can still be used to play out an entertaining story—something that Consider the Ravens yet manages—but it’s not one that’s easy to fall into. And even when I did manage it, the immersion only lasted so long.
The mystery itself is quite good. I don’t have many notes on this; it’s not the greatest tale I’ve ever seen, but is still far from the worst. There are a few twists and turns within that keep you guessing right up to the end. But again, it’s not a unilateral success. See, while the setting and mystery manage to deliver here, the weight of the plot falls a bit short. Throughout the story, we see Linnet take such abuse for being born a woman. And this is pretty much history. Misogyny for women who… basically did anything more than birthed and reared children. Women who read and wrote were at best seen as an oddity, at worst a witch. Everyone—even the other women of the priory—look down on the scribe. Thus it’s kinda hard to take Linnet’s investigation into the accidents all that seriously. Yeah, everything manages to wrap up in a more-or-less satisfactory manner, but it still feels improbable up through the conclusion that anything she does will make any real difference. Which is disappointing—but also kinda history’s fault.
TL;DR
The aforementioned aside, I still mostly enjoyed Consider the Ravens. It wasn’t perfect; in fact there were a lot of issues. But I’d still class this one as more of a success than it was a failure. The dark, often dispassionate tone lingers throughout. The setting is rich, if not vivid. The mystery is interesting and occasionally harrowing. The plot is entertaining, if not exactly impactful. It’s a debut, though, one that sets up quite nicely for a sequel—hopefully one that will learn from its predecessor’s mistakes, while capitalizing on its successes.
https://arefugefromlife.wordpress.com...
—
To be honest, I’m a bit torn on this debut.
The Isle of Lindisfarne makes for an excellent backdrop, with its crumbling ruins and historic abbey. Located in the far north of England, cut off from the mainland except at low tide, it is isolated and remote. It lends itself well to a horror or mystery, particularly if done well. And yet… while the setting is described in some detail, it’s not exactly done in a way that I would call “vivid”. It’s more just rote information.
Likewise, the tone itself is rather dispassionate. Linnet’s tale is hard, often dark, and yet cold in an altogether different manner. As if the scribe herself is nothing more than a cardboard cutout moving through a very real world. Where the setting around it is at least done up in some detail, Linnet’s narration is instead lacking. All the characters (not just our lead) were little more than shadow-puppets on a stage. Yes, they can still be used to play out an entertaining story—something that Consider the Ravens yet manages—but it’s not one that’s easy to fall into. And even when I did manage it, the immersion only lasted so long.
The mystery itself is quite good. I don’t have many notes on this; it’s not the greatest tale I’ve ever seen, but is still far from the worst. There are a few twists and turns within that keep you guessing right up to the end. But again, it’s not a unilateral success. See, while the setting and mystery manage to deliver here, the weight of the plot falls a bit short. Throughout the story, we see Linnet take such abuse for being born a woman. And this is pretty much history. Misogyny for women who… basically did anything more than birthed and reared children. Women who read and wrote were at best seen as an oddity, at worst a witch. Everyone—even the other women of the priory—look down on the scribe. Thus it’s kinda hard to take Linnet’s investigation into the accidents all that seriously. Yeah, everything manages to wrap up in a more-or-less satisfactory manner, but it still feels improbable up through the conclusion that anything she does will make any real difference. Which is disappointing—but also kinda history’s fault.
TL;DR
The aforementioned aside, I still mostly enjoyed Consider the Ravens. It wasn’t perfect; in fact there were a lot of issues. But I’d still class this one as more of a success than it was a failure. The dark, often dispassionate tone lingers throughout. The setting is rich, if not vivid. The mystery is interesting and occasionally harrowing. The plot is entertaining, if not exactly impactful. It’s a debut, though, one that sets up quite nicely for a sequel—hopefully one that will learn from its predecessor’s mistakes, while capitalizing on its successes.
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