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Messengers of the Realm #1
White Raven
From the USA Today bestselling author of Savage Lands comes a sweeping new fantasy
perfect for fans of Jennifer L. Armentrout, Sarah J. Maas, and Rebecca Yarros.
“Harbingers of enlightened, bringers of darkness. Givers of life, tellers of death…significance
flies on the backs of raven wings for those who dare to listen to its meaning. For we are the
Messengers of the Realm.”
The White Raven was born to bring magic to the dying realm.
One hundred and ninety-nine years ago the Blood War between the Ravens and the Leatherwings divided the land into Day, Night, and Dusk, cursing the land with the blood of the dead. Abandoned by Odin and his favored pets, Huginn and Muninn, the ravens were stripped of their wings, and their positions as Messengers of the Realm.
Her blood holds the power to heal the land and unite the kingdoms.
Wrennlyn Stallard, the King’s only daughter had lived a life of privilege, kept sheltered in the walls of Silvervale. But on the night of her betrothal, her world shattered when their enemy from the Night Realm kidnapped her, taking her across the snowy terrain into the treacherous land, called the Shadow Rift, the land between the Day and Night.
His mission is to take her to the Night King.
Onyx had waited months to seize her, purposely getting captured to work as a thrall for the Day King. Cold, ruthless, and burning with vengeance, he wasn’t prepared for the pampered, prophesized girl to be defiant, clever, and maddeningly impossible to break. Killing her would be easy, but her life is vital to a much bigger plan.
Because everyone knows…who has the White Raven holds the power.
perfect for fans of Jennifer L. Armentrout, Sarah J. Maas, and Rebecca Yarros.
“Harbingers of enlightened, bringers of darkness. Givers of life, tellers of death…significance
flies on the backs of raven wings for those who dare to listen to its meaning. For we are the
Messengers of the Realm.”
The White Raven was born to bring magic to the dying realm.
One hundred and ninety-nine years ago the Blood War between the Ravens and the Leatherwings divided the land into Day, Night, and Dusk, cursing the land with the blood of the dead. Abandoned by Odin and his favored pets, Huginn and Muninn, the ravens were stripped of their wings, and their positions as Messengers of the Realm.
Her blood holds the power to heal the land and unite the kingdoms.
Wrennlyn Stallard, the King’s only daughter had lived a life of privilege, kept sheltered in the walls of Silvervale. But on the night of her betrothal, her world shattered when their enemy from the Night Realm kidnapped her, taking her across the snowy terrain into the treacherous land, called the Shadow Rift, the land between the Day and Night.
His mission is to take her to the Night King.
Onyx had waited months to seize her, purposely getting captured to work as a thrall for the Day King. Cold, ruthless, and burning with vengeance, he wasn’t prepared for the pampered, prophesized girl to be defiant, clever, and maddeningly impossible to break. Killing her would be easy, but her life is vital to a much bigger plan.
Because everyone knows…who has the White Raven holds the power.
Audible Audio
First published September 1, 2026
About the author
Stacey Marie Brown
58 books6,668 followersStacey Marie Brown is a lover of hot fictional bad boys and sarcastic heroines who kick butt. She also enjoys books, travel, TV shows, hiking, writing, design, and archery. Stacey swears she is part gypsy, being lucky enough to live and travel all over the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 311 reviews
September 3, 2026
Bro genuinely this is one of the worst things I've ever read. I could have dnf-ed this. But someone had to sacrifice themselves for the greater good 😔 Send your thoughts and prayers to me, recovery will take a while.
Brace yourself for the rant.
This is one those books that looks good on surface level, especially if you read the blurb. Then you open it and it's like a can of worms...
Everything about it went wrong.
The world building? Poorly done. About 73% of the plot is a repetitive cycle of traveling, finding a spot to rest (which really wasn't rest at all). Then doing it all over again fifty times. We learn the most minimal amount of information about this world and there are so many things that don't tie up. Logically half of it didn't make sense. The timeline of certain events was narratively too easy.
The writing? Absolutely mediocre. There are clusters of information and pauses that seem abrupt. The transition of action sequences are rough and read like the author didn't know which phrases to use. The repetitive situations of the fmc getting captured a million times and getting sexually assaulted and objectified by every man who walks into the scene was icky, unrealistic and disgusting. Overuse of the catchphrase: 'Huginn Muninn,' and I'm talking like every other page. Like holy fuck STOPPP 😩 Use normal curses/swears. I know it's fantasy but you can still talk normal.
But worst of all? The characters. I'm not even going to dive into how irrelevant the side characters were. Starting with the MMC who's name we don't even find out until 40%. He's a douche. Arrogant. Cocky. Over the top. The author tried too hard with him to make a tropey book boyfriend. He just reads like a cardboard cutout of a fictional man who cannot do shit.
Then the FMC: Wren, oh how I loathed this girl. Yes I get it, she's 19. Young, pretty and every older man wants her. We're told of this a thousand times. But what's really interesting (it's not interesting) is how she's been trained all her life in combat, strategy and yet she doesn't know how to do either. All she did was run, get in trouble and play the damsel in plain sight. Oh, and it gets better (it doesn't), she has a sense of superiority so high even the gods would feel shy 🚩 I kid you not, she kicks thralls, calls them disgusting names and gets off on the power trip 🚩🚩 Then she pees on the MMC and spits on him 🚩🚩🚩 I cannot like a woman who treats people beneath her. That's not a feisty arc for me, that's just being a horrible person.
The romance was a textbook, tropey development. There is not much to build on except lust. The chemistry felt forced when she kept acting like a child and he kept acting like an emotionally constipated idiot. I felt no love between them and it read more like a trauma bond with how many times she comes close to getting assualted and him having to come to her rescue.
The ending was the literal worst. If I could rate it in negative, I would. The big reveal did not make sense cause if we're in Wren's head the whole time. Why would she mislead us readers? I get the author wanted an impactful, huge jaw dropping cliffhanger. It only read as lazy and illogical to me. There were bare minimum hints dropped and leading the reader wrong while narrating the story in first pov is just confusing as fuck.
Lastly, let's not forget the lack of a trigger warnings. There are multiple scenes of sexual assault; slavery; degradation and humiliation; abuse; and cannibalism to name a few. And yet the book nor the website holds this information to warn people.
So is the one star well deserved? You tell me. I'm not coming back to book 2.
~•~•~
Norse inspired fantasy and enemies to lovers? I'm in 🤭 I really enjoyed Savage Lands by the author and it's been a longgg time since I read anything by her 👀
Brace yourself for the rant.
This is one those books that looks good on surface level, especially if you read the blurb. Then you open it and it's like a can of worms...
Everything about it went wrong.
The world building? Poorly done. About 73% of the plot is a repetitive cycle of traveling, finding a spot to rest (which really wasn't rest at all). Then doing it all over again fifty times. We learn the most minimal amount of information about this world and there are so many things that don't tie up. Logically half of it didn't make sense. The timeline of certain events was narratively too easy.
The writing? Absolutely mediocre. There are clusters of information and pauses that seem abrupt. The transition of action sequences are rough and read like the author didn't know which phrases to use. The repetitive situations of the fmc getting captured a million times and getting sexually assaulted and objectified by every man who walks into the scene was icky, unrealistic and disgusting. Overuse of the catchphrase: 'Huginn Muninn,' and I'm talking like every other page. Like holy fuck STOPPP 😩 Use normal curses/swears. I know it's fantasy but you can still talk normal.
But worst of all? The characters. I'm not even going to dive into how irrelevant the side characters were. Starting with the MMC who's name we don't even find out until 40%. He's a douche. Arrogant. Cocky. Over the top. The author tried too hard with him to make a tropey book boyfriend. He just reads like a cardboard cutout of a fictional man who cannot do shit.
Then the FMC: Wren, oh how I loathed this girl. Yes I get it, she's 19. Young, pretty and every older man wants her. We're told of this a thousand times. But what's really interesting (it's not interesting) is how she's been trained all her life in combat, strategy and yet she doesn't know how to do either. All she did was run, get in trouble and play the damsel in plain sight. Oh, and it gets better (it doesn't), she has a sense of superiority so high even the gods would feel shy 🚩 I kid you not, she kicks thralls, calls them disgusting names and gets off on the power trip 🚩🚩 Then she pees on the MMC and spits on him 🚩🚩🚩 I cannot like a woman who treats people beneath her. That's not a feisty arc for me, that's just being a horrible person.
The romance was a textbook, tropey development. There is not much to build on except lust. The chemistry felt forced when she kept acting like a child and he kept acting like an emotionally constipated idiot. I felt no love between them and it read more like a trauma bond with how many times she comes close to getting assualted and him having to come to her rescue.
The ending was the literal worst. If I could rate it in negative, I would. The big reveal did not make sense cause if we're in Wren's head the whole time. Why would she mislead us readers? I get the author wanted an impactful, huge jaw dropping cliffhanger. It only read as lazy and illogical to me. There were bare minimum hints dropped and leading the reader wrong while narrating the story in first pov is just confusing as fuck.
Lastly, let's not forget the lack of a trigger warnings. There are multiple scenes of sexual assault; slavery; degradation and humiliation; abuse; and cannibalism to name a few. And yet the book nor the website holds this information to warn people.
So is the one star well deserved? You tell me. I'm not coming back to book 2.
~•~•~
Norse inspired fantasy and enemies to lovers? I'm in 🤭 I really enjoyed Savage Lands by the author and it's been a longgg time since I read anything by her 👀
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️ 5 ⭐️ White Raven brought me out from my fantasy slump. It's a Norse-Viking inspired fantasy with dark elements, prophecy, morally gray characters with delicious slow-burn romance and sizzling tension that will keep you turning pages late into the night. Kind of has the same feels as The Wolf King series but overall very different. It is a TRUE enemies to lovers story...a slow burn and it stays this way until 85%-ish. Even by that point, we still remain enemies! As someone who absolutely hates lust driven stories, I can assure you that this book is more tension than actual spice or romance. The vibes overall are immaculate but the book didn't start off on a good note for me, due to the nature and actions of FMC.. but she grew on me (that rarely happens) and I was surprised with how much I ended up loving the story. Lets break it down!
What's it about?
We have a 19-year old protagonist, Wren Stallard, who is the daughter of the King of Day Ravens. She has been prophesied to be the White Raven, the savior and healer of the dying land and the person whose blood would reunite the divided three kingdoms. About 200 years prior, there was a blood war between the Ravens and the Leatherwings and as a result three kingdoms were created: Day, Night and Dusk, the lands were poisoned and the Ravens were stripped off of their wings. Wrens father arranges a marriage to keep her protected from other kingdoms who want her blood but on the night of her wedding ceremony, she ends up being kidnapped by Onyx, our morally gray warrior from the Night kingdom. He has a duty to complete and their journey is full of action, tense confrontations and so much amazing banter! While Wrens existence represents a solution, Onyx is holding out on something that will change their trajectory of their relationship dynamic! My lips are sealed, therefore you must read to find out more! xoxo
Initially, I wasn't that impressed. I think the book started off on the wrong foot. Wren is your typical 19 year old, immature, sheltered girl who comes off as entitled and very condescending. In plain words, she's been pampered since birth and has no clue how to be a grown up. Her privileged life gave her securities and since birth she's been spoon fed ideas and ideologies that weren't exactly truthful. When she is kidnapped, she starts to question truth from lies and Onyx shows how far fetched the manipulations were fed to her. Plainly, she grows a brain and her growth was steady and much appreciated. She goes from bratty to a more resilient, mature individual and I can't wait to see her evolve further.
Onyx was much harder to read. He is deliberately written this way so that the readers will be obsessed with him. I sure was! He is 'silent', shrewd, loyal to his court...he holds his own secrets and its hard to read his true motivations. He's as MORALLY GRAY as you can get yet there is such a strong pull towards him, I can honestly understand why Wren couldn't stay away. I honestly wanted more of his backstory and hope we will get some in the next book. Their banter was GREAT! Wren kept goading him and testing his limits all the time... his restraint was TENSE. I was awaiting for it to SNAP at any moment..and when it did, it was just so, so good.
If you're looking for a fantasy with very intricate world building, this is not it. It's very straight forward, simplistic even and easy to follow. And I really appreciated that because I wanted something that is less webbed. The writing was also pretty simplistic; it's good and well written. It is one of those fantasy books that is very catchy and sucks you right in. We have plenty to adore here: ravens, curses and blood magic, ancient gods. We have darker elements that give it a sharper edge like cannibalism, slavery, violence. Nothing that is too gory or bloody. I also loved the Norse-inspired aesthetic--think Vikings show: the earthy tones, woodlands and gorgeous hairstyles (those braids!).
Honestly, I might be a bit obsessed? I even went on to add the authors popular series, Savage Lands.
THIS is featured on Allurial, grab your limited edition here for $10: https://www.allurial.com/refer/g7sai1...
It's still in stock! Very easy to sign up, pause or cancel at no additional cost to you!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Blackstone Publishing and the author, Stacey Marie Brown for an early ARC.
Publication: September 1, 2026
What's it about?
We have a 19-year old protagonist, Wren Stallard, who is the daughter of the King of Day Ravens. She has been prophesied to be the White Raven, the savior and healer of the dying land and the person whose blood would reunite the divided three kingdoms. About 200 years prior, there was a blood war between the Ravens and the Leatherwings and as a result three kingdoms were created: Day, Night and Dusk, the lands were poisoned and the Ravens were stripped off of their wings. Wrens father arranges a marriage to keep her protected from other kingdoms who want her blood but on the night of her wedding ceremony, she ends up being kidnapped by Onyx, our morally gray warrior from the Night kingdom. He has a duty to complete and their journey is full of action, tense confrontations and so much amazing banter! While Wrens existence represents a solution, Onyx is holding out on something that will change their trajectory of their relationship dynamic! My lips are sealed, therefore you must read to find out more! xoxo
Initially, I wasn't that impressed. I think the book started off on the wrong foot. Wren is your typical 19 year old, immature, sheltered girl who comes off as entitled and very condescending. In plain words, she's been pampered since birth and has no clue how to be a grown up. Her privileged life gave her securities and since birth she's been spoon fed ideas and ideologies that weren't exactly truthful. When she is kidnapped, she starts to question truth from lies and Onyx shows how far fetched the manipulations were fed to her. Plainly, she grows a brain and her growth was steady and much appreciated. She goes from bratty to a more resilient, mature individual and I can't wait to see her evolve further.
Onyx was much harder to read. He is deliberately written this way so that the readers will be obsessed with him. I sure was! He is 'silent', shrewd, loyal to his court...he holds his own secrets and its hard to read his true motivations. He's as MORALLY GRAY as you can get yet there is such a strong pull towards him, I can honestly understand why Wren couldn't stay away. I honestly wanted more of his backstory and hope we will get some in the next book. Their banter was GREAT! Wren kept goading him and testing his limits all the time... his restraint was TENSE. I was awaiting for it to SNAP at any moment..and when it did, it was just so, so good.
If you're looking for a fantasy with very intricate world building, this is not it. It's very straight forward, simplistic even and easy to follow. And I really appreciated that because I wanted something that is less webbed. The writing was also pretty simplistic; it's good and well written. It is one of those fantasy books that is very catchy and sucks you right in. We have plenty to adore here: ravens, curses and blood magic, ancient gods. We have darker elements that give it a sharper edge like cannibalism, slavery, violence. Nothing that is too gory or bloody. I also loved the Norse-inspired aesthetic--think Vikings show: the earthy tones, woodlands and gorgeous hairstyles (those braids!).
Honestly, I might be a bit obsessed? I even went on to add the authors popular series, Savage Lands.
THIS is featured on Allurial, grab your limited edition here for $10: https://www.allurial.com/refer/g7sai1...
It's still in stock! Very easy to sign up, pause or cancel at no additional cost to you!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Blackstone Publishing and the author, Stacey Marie Brown for an early ARC.
Publication: September 1, 2026
Did Not Finish
June 28, 2026DNF 19%
Thank you to NetGalley & Blackstone Publishing for this arc opportunity.
I can definitely see romantasy readers going feral for this planned trilogy. It’s all there in theory: a Norse inspired magic system/fantasy setting; imaginative while easy to understand world building; a spunky FMC; a barbaric MMC; a kidnapping trope based vicious AF romance; a fast pace w pretty good action. But this is most certainly not for me because the execution leaves so much to be desired.
My first ick is that the FMC is a few months shy of being 19. In tandem, there’s a specific plot device that takes place on the 19th birthday. So my question is: why couldn’t this specific age requirement be 23-25 or even 21 at least?? Oh that’s right because this girl is literally 18 & acts like it. She is the definition of a stupid, childish teenager so I guess an actual adult wouldn’t work🤷♀️ When said princess btw finds out about her betrothal, the author attempts at anxiety representation but what we’re given is her running into a servant on the floor cleaning & proceeds to berate them by kicking buckets & screaming in their face. Basically having a full blown hissy fit all in the first chapter. But I kept reading because who knows, by the end, her character arc could be so badass.
I think this author is just not for me. I tried to get into her Savage Lands series but the writing wasn’t it. Here, her writing has only slightly improved. It’s overly simple, painfully juvenile, all while trying so incredibly hard to be adult. Every other beat, there was something crude thrown in. Like how we really needed to know that 3 years ago she lost her virginity in the stables. Yep the 15 year old, according to my math at least. The cussing is almost like it’s being forced out of their mouths. By 10%, she’s already involved in some type of-unnecessary to the plot IMO-spicy activity.
The dialogue is cringy at best. The pacing stutters every time action is involved. I completely understand that the MC’s idiotic choices have to happen in order to make the plot happen but come on; she makes such stupid choices. & it’s been stated that she’s been training since like 12 years old so why is she getting herself into the most ridiculous scenarios.
Such a disappointment for me but I know this will HIT the spot for so many feral readers!
(Also, for those who like to know: the chapters are on the longer side.)
Thank you to NetGalley & Blackstone Publishing for this arc opportunity.
I can definitely see romantasy readers going feral for this planned trilogy. It’s all there in theory: a Norse inspired magic system/fantasy setting; imaginative while easy to understand world building; a spunky FMC; a barbaric MMC; a kidnapping trope based vicious AF romance; a fast pace w pretty good action. But this is most certainly not for me because the execution leaves so much to be desired.
My first ick is that the FMC is a few months shy of being 19. In tandem, there’s a specific plot device that takes place on the 19th birthday. So my question is: why couldn’t this specific age requirement be 23-25 or even 21 at least?? Oh that’s right because this girl is literally 18 & acts like it. She is the definition of a stupid, childish teenager so I guess an actual adult wouldn’t work🤷♀️ When said princess btw finds out about her betrothal, the author attempts at anxiety representation but what we’re given is her running into a servant on the floor cleaning & proceeds to berate them by kicking buckets & screaming in their face. Basically having a full blown hissy fit all in the first chapter. But I kept reading because who knows, by the end, her character arc could be so badass.
I think this author is just not for me. I tried to get into her Savage Lands series but the writing wasn’t it. Here, her writing has only slightly improved. It’s overly simple, painfully juvenile, all while trying so incredibly hard to be adult. Every other beat, there was something crude thrown in. Like how we really needed to know that 3 years ago she lost her virginity in the stables. Yep the 15 year old, according to my math at least. The cussing is almost like it’s being forced out of their mouths. By 10%, she’s already involved in some type of-unnecessary to the plot IMO-spicy activity.
The dialogue is cringy at best. The pacing stutters every time action is involved. I completely understand that the MC’s idiotic choices have to happen in order to make the plot happen but come on; she makes such stupid choices. & it’s been stated that she’s been training since like 12 years old so why is she getting herself into the most ridiculous scenarios.
Such a disappointment for me but I know this will HIT the spot for so many feral readers!
(Also, for those who like to know: the chapters are on the longer side.)
September 8, 2026
White Raven (Messengers of the Realm #1) Stacey Marie Brown
Book Blurb: “Harbingers of enlightened, bringers of darkness. Givers of life, tellers of death…significance flies on the backs of raven wings for those who dare to listen to its meaning. For we are the Messengers of the Realm.”
The White Raven was born to bring magic to the dying realm.
Rating: *****
Feels: Adventure, Grit, Entranced, Shocked
Style: Fantasy, Romantasy, Enemies To Lovers, Dark Romance, Fantasy Romance, Audiobook
First published September 1, 2026 : 360 pages
Themes & Setting: We are immediately pulled into a dark and gritty viking inspired world where Wrennlyn Stallard, the King’s only daughter had lived a life of privilege and is about to find out about the larger world !!
FMC: Wrennlyn is just turning 19, so she is your typical naive, thinks everything will work in your favor kind of girl. Her kidnapping on the night of her bethronal is just a complete and total dark wake up call to the world. Getting to watch as she experienced the outside world was fun and terrifying.
MMC: Its been awhile since they have made such a tasty flavor as Onyx. Cruel, Morally Grey and at times I was not sure what he was going to do. Totally the type of ride you want to sign up for.
Conclusion: I think the reason I loved this read so much was the way the fantasy world was built and brought to life. I always love that romance element, but the story had me totally seated. I loved the mystical elements and that because we were getting the narration from Wrennlyn who does not have all the facts we are learning as she does. I kinda love that unreliable narrator style.
Audiobook Review:
Narration Style: Solo
Listener Rating: *****
Audiobook Notes: The narration on this read was impactful and full of all the emotion I could wish for. Listening to this via audiobook kept me riveted to my seat and fully invested. I tend to listen to my audiobooks at 1.5 to 2.5 and I listened to this at 1.7 because that was the sweet spot for the accent for me and I was utterly in love with the style of narration on this. Very smooth transitions and I was always able to tell who was speaking and follow along with what was going on. Tone and pitch were smooth and pleasing to listen to. Really enjoyed this as an audiobook and would highly recommend this as an audiobook.
Favorite Quote: "You touch what’s mine, you even look or breathe in her direction or are anywhere in her vicinity. I will flay your lungs around your neck like a scarf."
Book Vibes:
Enemies to Lovers
World Building
High Stakes
Chosen One
Touch her and Die
Forced Proximity
One Horse
Slow Burn
Viking inspired
Dark and Gritty
Ends on a Cliffhanger (and wouldn't have it any other way)
*Leaving my original review up for funsies* Damn …. It’s gonna take me a bit to process that … like I don’t even know how to do a proper spoiler free review currently. I just know I feel like I got dragged through a dark gritty amazing world and punched a bunch and I’m gonna be recovering for a bit. This is the kind of book I will forever wish I could re read for the first time again. I just gonna … sit here … but yah. Definitely five stars.
Book Blurb: “Harbingers of enlightened, bringers of darkness. Givers of life, tellers of death…significance flies on the backs of raven wings for those who dare to listen to its meaning. For we are the Messengers of the Realm.”
The White Raven was born to bring magic to the dying realm.
Rating: *****
Feels: Adventure, Grit, Entranced, Shocked
Style: Fantasy, Romantasy, Enemies To Lovers, Dark Romance, Fantasy Romance, Audiobook
First published September 1, 2026 : 360 pages
Themes & Setting: We are immediately pulled into a dark and gritty viking inspired world where Wrennlyn Stallard, the King’s only daughter had lived a life of privilege and is about to find out about the larger world !!
FMC: Wrennlyn is just turning 19, so she is your typical naive, thinks everything will work in your favor kind of girl. Her kidnapping on the night of her bethronal is just a complete and total dark wake up call to the world. Getting to watch as she experienced the outside world was fun and terrifying.
MMC: Its been awhile since they have made such a tasty flavor as Onyx. Cruel, Morally Grey and at times I was not sure what he was going to do. Totally the type of ride you want to sign up for.
Conclusion: I think the reason I loved this read so much was the way the fantasy world was built and brought to life. I always love that romance element, but the story had me totally seated. I loved the mystical elements and that because we were getting the narration from Wrennlyn who does not have all the facts we are learning as she does. I kinda love that unreliable narrator style.
Audiobook Review:
Narration Style: Solo
Listener Rating: *****
Audiobook Notes: The narration on this read was impactful and full of all the emotion I could wish for. Listening to this via audiobook kept me riveted to my seat and fully invested. I tend to listen to my audiobooks at 1.5 to 2.5 and I listened to this at 1.7 because that was the sweet spot for the accent for me and I was utterly in love with the style of narration on this. Very smooth transitions and I was always able to tell who was speaking and follow along with what was going on. Tone and pitch were smooth and pleasing to listen to. Really enjoyed this as an audiobook and would highly recommend this as an audiobook.
Favorite Quote: "You touch what’s mine, you even look or breathe in her direction or are anywhere in her vicinity. I will flay your lungs around your neck like a scarf."
Book Vibes:
Enemies to Lovers
World Building
High Stakes
Chosen One
Touch her and Die
Forced Proximity
One Horse
Slow Burn
Viking inspired
Dark and Gritty
Ends on a Cliffhanger (and wouldn't have it any other way)
*Leaving my original review up for funsies* Damn …. It’s gonna take me a bit to process that … like I don’t even know how to do a proper spoiler free review currently. I just know I feel like I got dragged through a dark gritty amazing world and punched a bunch and I’m gonna be recovering for a bit. This is the kind of book I will forever wish I could re read for the first time again. I just gonna … sit here … but yah. Definitely five stars.
September 1, 2026
Oh my god - I feel so dumb. How did I not see that coming?! What do you I was lied to for 388 pages?! Excuse me?! I need the next book asap. I seriously need to know how this story is going to play out. Also, the yearning? AHHHH
August 29, 2026
🏹 “You are not in my league, little rabbit… I would eat you alive. You have no idea what I am capable of, how dark I can get. I’d tear you apart, use your blood as a lubricant while I devour your heart without a thought.”
I NEED BOOK 2 LIKE YESTERDAY. 💀
4.5⭐ 1🌶️
This book CONSUMED MY SOUL!!!!!
I literally felt like I was doing drugs the way I kept needing another hit every time I picked this book up 🤣🤣🤣
This is a LEGIT enemies to lovers story where you will genuinely question whether these two are ever even going to make it to the “lovers” part by the end 💀 these two are BRUTAL to eachother but the tension is sooooooo good like JUST KISS ALREADY
So basically, the White Raven is believed to be the key to healing a land that has been ravaged by a toxic war.
And then she gets kidnapped.
But what I LOVED about this is that we don’t know much more than she does.
We are thrown into this completely unfamiliar world alongside her, learning about the people, the magic, the war, and the motives behind her kidnapping as she does.
And THAT made me feel so immersed in the story because I was constantly trying to figure out what the hell was happening right alongside her. 👀
This is such a fastpaced, tension filled first book in the series and again… it genuinely felt like crack reading
I could NOT put it down.
The tension between these characters??? 🔥😮💨🤌🏼
And the ending had my JAW. ON. THE. FLOOR.
I was NOT expecting that at all, and now I’m sitting here desperately needing to know what the hell happens next!!!
💕You will enjoy this if you are into:
🏹 enemies to lovers
🏹 “I f***ing hate you… so why can’t I stop thinking about you!?”
🏹 dark romantasy
🏹 kidnapped FMC
🏹 powerful FMC with a mysterious destiny
🏹 "I bow to no one...." "Don't you?... Whose mark is this?... Who owns you, kanin?" 🥵
🏹 morally gray MMCs
🏹 ALLLLLL the tension
🏹 forbidden attraction
🏹 immersive worldbuilding
🏹 secrets & mysteries
🏹 fastpaced fantasy that you absolutely CANNOT put down
🏹 cliffhangers that leave you screaming I NEED BOOK 2 NOW STACEY MARIE BROWN 💀
I NEED BOOK 2 LIKE YESTERDAY. 💀
4.5⭐ 1🌶️
This book CONSUMED MY SOUL!!!!!
I literally felt like I was doing drugs the way I kept needing another hit every time I picked this book up 🤣🤣🤣
This is a LEGIT enemies to lovers story where you will genuinely question whether these two are ever even going to make it to the “lovers” part by the end 💀 these two are BRUTAL to eachother but the tension is sooooooo good like JUST KISS ALREADY
So basically, the White Raven is believed to be the key to healing a land that has been ravaged by a toxic war.
And then she gets kidnapped.
But what I LOVED about this is that we don’t know much more than she does.
We are thrown into this completely unfamiliar world alongside her, learning about the people, the magic, the war, and the motives behind her kidnapping as she does.
And THAT made me feel so immersed in the story because I was constantly trying to figure out what the hell was happening right alongside her. 👀
This is such a fastpaced, tension filled first book in the series and again… it genuinely felt like crack reading
I could NOT put it down.
The tension between these characters??? 🔥😮💨🤌🏼
And the ending had my JAW. ON. THE. FLOOR.
I was NOT expecting that at all, and now I’m sitting here desperately needing to know what the hell happens next!!!
💕You will enjoy this if you are into:
🏹 enemies to lovers
🏹 “I f***ing hate you… so why can’t I stop thinking about you!?”
🏹 dark romantasy
🏹 kidnapped FMC
🏹 powerful FMC with a mysterious destiny
🏹 "I bow to no one...." "Don't you?... Whose mark is this?... Who owns you, kanin?" 🥵
🏹 morally gray MMCs
🏹 ALLLLLL the tension
🏹 forbidden attraction
🏹 immersive worldbuilding
🏹 secrets & mysteries
🏹 fastpaced fantasy that you absolutely CANNOT put down
🏹 cliffhangers that leave you screaming I NEED BOOK 2 NOW STACEY MARIE BROWN 💀
Read
June 1, 2026A sizzling new romantasy series filled with pulse-pounding action, unforgettable side characters, and chemistry so hot it burns right off the page! When Wren is kidnapped by a broody, mysterious fae from the Night Realm, her world is turned upside down. White Raven is fast-paced, sexy, and so addictive!
August 6, 2026
Thank you Stacey and Blackwell Publishing for this eARC!
I’m torn between a 3 and a 3.5. The plot has a lot of potential. I mean it’s a kidnapping trope and that’s always a good time. Until it isn’t.
There is a lot of dark content in this book and the dialogue at times didn’t fit and took me out of the story. Almost making those dark themes seems like a joke - which isn’t ideal.
Our FMC is 18, which is already a bummer. She’s also quite annoying and stuck up. Granted she was raised as a Royal so what else would you expect? She’s been taught how to fight yet in every situation she finds herself in she can’t figure out how to fight.
I thought I’ve met morally black characters, then we meet our MMC. I honestly cannot tell you if I like him or not. And not in like a Theon St. Orcas kind of way. This pushed past (my) boundary of comfort of messed up. Girl. He kidnapped you and has literally not done a single attractive thing to you and you don’t know his name and know he’s your enemy and you’re… turned on? Like right away? Girl.
Every other chapter she gets almost murdered/eaten/SA’d. It’s a lot. If another crusty man has to mention “filling her with his seed” I’m gonna scream.
I think the only thing that kept me going was the need to know what the tattoo meant. And well. lol.
Then the ending happened and I was shocked but also it made me even more mad.
I might read book 2 when it exists just out morbid curiosity. Who’s to say.
I’m torn between a 3 and a 3.5. The plot has a lot of potential. I mean it’s a kidnapping trope and that’s always a good time. Until it isn’t.
There is a lot of dark content in this book and the dialogue at times didn’t fit and took me out of the story. Almost making those dark themes seems like a joke - which isn’t ideal.
Our FMC is 18, which is already a bummer. She’s also quite annoying and stuck up. Granted she was raised as a Royal so what else would you expect? She’s been taught how to fight yet in every situation she finds herself in she can’t figure out how to fight.
I thought I’ve met morally black characters, then we meet our MMC. I honestly cannot tell you if I like him or not. And not in like a Theon St. Orcas kind of way. This pushed past (my) boundary of comfort of messed up. Girl. He kidnapped you and has literally not done a single attractive thing to you and you don’t know his name and know he’s your enemy and you’re… turned on? Like right away? Girl.
Every other chapter she gets almost murdered/eaten/SA’d. It’s a lot. If another crusty man has to mention “filling her with his seed” I’m gonna scream.
I think the only thing that kept me going was the need to know what the tattoo meant. And well. lol.
Then the ending happened and I was shocked but also it made me even more mad.
I might read book 2 when it exists just out morbid curiosity. Who’s to say.
September 3, 2026
last page feels like rage bait
August 15, 2026
As a big fan of the Savage Lands series, I have to say I’m super disappointed. The story had potential - the sheltered princess is kidnapped by the hot, morally grey enemy and taken to the scary Night Raven kingdom. There’s some political intrigue and mysterious powers that the FMC is supposed to come into.
Unfortunately I found both MCs to be unlikable. They had no chemistry and the dialogue was very cringey at times. I never DNF, but I was honestly close to doing so. I didn’t because there were things that I wanted answers to, but ultimately the ending was chaotic and didn’t tell me much of anything. I won’t be continuing the series.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Unfortunately I found both MCs to be unlikable. They had no chemistry and the dialogue was very cringey at times. I never DNF, but I was honestly close to doing so. I didn’t because there were things that I wanted answers to, but ultimately the ending was chaotic and didn’t tell me much of anything. I won’t be continuing the series.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
July 21, 2026
Thank you Blackstone Publishing for sending me an ARC. 🖤
If you’ve been around for a while, you know how much I love Stacey Marie Brown’s books, so it should come as no surprise that I devoured White Raven. 🖤
She knows how to write a TRUE enemies-to-lovers romance. I’m talking actual enemies, sharp banter, insane tension, and the kind of chemistry that had me kicking my feet the entire book. And somehow, she always gives me exactly the kind of FMC I love: a baddie who is strong and capable without being unrealistically invincible.
Wrennlyn has trained her entire life to be the White Raven, knowing whoever holds her holds the power. She can fight, but she also knows she isn’t overpowering a man twice her size, so she watches, waits, and learns when to seize an opportunity. She starts incredibly sheltered and naive, but never stupid. Watching her slowly uncover the truth, question everything she was raised to believe, and begin making her own choices was one of my favorite parts of the book.
And ONYX. 🫠 A tortured, filthy-mouthed Nightland Raven who hates everything Wrennlyn represents, yet has an overwhelming need to protect her? He never coddles her or hides the ugliness of the world from her. He challenges her, shows her the truths no one else bothered to, and sees her in a way no one else ever has. I loved him.
The Viking-inspired world, raven lore, Day/Night/Dusk realms, Blood War, curse, and magic system felt so unique. Add in found family, side characters I immediately became attached to, and a little Groundling that gave me all the feelings my beloved Brownie from Savage Lands did, and I was sold.
But that ending?! I NEVER GUESSED IT. Not once. Not even close. I genuinely think this is going to be one of those books that takes the book world by storm once readers get their hands on it.
If you’ve been around for a while, you know how much I love Stacey Marie Brown’s books, so it should come as no surprise that I devoured White Raven. 🖤
She knows how to write a TRUE enemies-to-lovers romance. I’m talking actual enemies, sharp banter, insane tension, and the kind of chemistry that had me kicking my feet the entire book. And somehow, she always gives me exactly the kind of FMC I love: a baddie who is strong and capable without being unrealistically invincible.
Wrennlyn has trained her entire life to be the White Raven, knowing whoever holds her holds the power. She can fight, but she also knows she isn’t overpowering a man twice her size, so she watches, waits, and learns when to seize an opportunity. She starts incredibly sheltered and naive, but never stupid. Watching her slowly uncover the truth, question everything she was raised to believe, and begin making her own choices was one of my favorite parts of the book.
And ONYX. 🫠 A tortured, filthy-mouthed Nightland Raven who hates everything Wrennlyn represents, yet has an overwhelming need to protect her? He never coddles her or hides the ugliness of the world from her. He challenges her, shows her the truths no one else bothered to, and sees her in a way no one else ever has. I loved him.
The Viking-inspired world, raven lore, Day/Night/Dusk realms, Blood War, curse, and magic system felt so unique. Add in found family, side characters I immediately became attached to, and a little Groundling that gave me all the feelings my beloved Brownie from Savage Lands did, and I was sold.
But that ending?! I NEVER GUESSED IT. Not once. Not even close. I genuinely think this is going to be one of those books that takes the book world by storm once readers get their hands on it.
September 15, 2026
The White Raven is a standout Norse-inspired novel that pulls you in and doesn't let go, even after you've read the shocking twist ending.
In White Raven, our heroine Wren is the titular White Raven of prophecy. On the night of her betrothal to another, she is kidnapped by a fearsome thrall and taken away from her palace to the land of the Night Ravens. During her forced journey, she fights for her life and freedom every step of the way.
The romance is interesting. I found myself drawn to the fearsome Onyx when everything he did should have repelled me. Wren is in the same predicament; he should repulse her, but she can't stop thinking about him. I loved Munch and Fluffy, they were good comic relief that was welcome in a story as dark as this. Other characters are intriguing; I always wanted to know more about them.
This novel was thrilling and exciting. I can't believe I finished it in two weeks. I could not stop reading this. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a good Norse-inspired romantasy; it's up there with the Road of Bones.
In White Raven, our heroine Wren is the titular White Raven of prophecy. On the night of her betrothal to another, she is kidnapped by a fearsome thrall and taken away from her palace to the land of the Night Ravens. During her forced journey, she fights for her life and freedom every step of the way.
The romance is interesting. I found myself drawn to the fearsome Onyx when everything he did should have repelled me. Wren is in the same predicament; he should repulse her, but she can't stop thinking about him. I loved Munch and Fluffy, they were good comic relief that was welcome in a story as dark as this. Other characters are intriguing; I always wanted to know more about them.
This novel was thrilling and exciting. I can't believe I finished it in two weeks. I could not stop reading this. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a good Norse-inspired romantasy; it's up there with the Road of Bones.
August 30, 2026
White Raven(book one in the The Messengers of the Realm trilogy,)by Stacey Marie Brown
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4 stars
Now THAT’S what I like. Exhilarating action before chapter five. Thank you, Stacey Marie Brown, for respecting my limited patience and getting straight to business!
Wrenlynn is King Stallard’s daughter, the prophesied White Raven, and destined to save the realms on her nineteenth birthday. (No pressure or anything.) Her father decides marrying her off is the best way to protect her but before that can happen, she’s kidnapped by two thralls who have actually been undercover Night Ravens for MONTHS planning the whole thing. And now they have to get her all the way back to the Night Realm without dying. Easier said than done considering every other group they run into either wants to kill Wren or steal her and make her their own thrall. Meanwhile, war between the Day and Night Ravens is getting closer and you learn more about both realms and their history as Wren does. Which I much prefer over being handed seventeen pages of information and expected to remember any of it.
I wasn’t really sure what to expect going into this one, but chapter seven hit NASTY and reminded me exactly why I love Stacey Marie Brown. Then there’s one of Wren’s kidnappers, this mysterious Northerner who was STILL refusing to tell her his damn name at 40%. Sir. You KIDNAPPED her. You’ve dragged her halfway across the realms. People keep trying to murder you. I think we’re past being coy about your name. 😂 Thankfully, some random barmaid at a tavern casually calls him Onyx and ruins his whole mysterious act for him. I laughed. And if Wren and Onyx somehow end up lovers, it will be an act of their Norse gods because these two are absolutely, positively enemies right now. Then around halfway through… THAT PLOT TWIST. Did not see it coming. And the moment right before it?! Do you know how interesting that COULD have been? But apparently the author had other plans for us.
And Onyx. Fucking Onyx. He is a brute. Cruel. Dangerous. Murderous. Mostly an asshole. And every once in a while there’s this teeny tiny smidge of compassion hiding under all that violence. Blink and you missed it. Naturally, I LOVE HIM. 😂 The Night King was another surprise because that man was absolutely not what I expected. Ruthless, yes. But also kind of a weirdo? I don’t know what else to call him. Between the constant danger, betrayals, twists, raven lore, and whatever the hell is brewing between Wren and Onyx, I had a really good time with this And THEN Stacey waits until the literal last line to drop one final doozy of a twist on us. Excuse me?! You couldn’t have given me another paragraph to process that information? Nothing?? Just close the book and live with it, apparently. 4 stars. And yes, after THAT ending, I’ll absolutely be reading the next one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for the digital advance reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Expected publication date: September 1, 2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4 stars
Now THAT’S what I like. Exhilarating action before chapter five. Thank you, Stacey Marie Brown, for respecting my limited patience and getting straight to business!
Wrenlynn is King Stallard’s daughter, the prophesied White Raven, and destined to save the realms on her nineteenth birthday. (No pressure or anything.) Her father decides marrying her off is the best way to protect her but before that can happen, she’s kidnapped by two thralls who have actually been undercover Night Ravens for MONTHS planning the whole thing. And now they have to get her all the way back to the Night Realm without dying. Easier said than done considering every other group they run into either wants to kill Wren or steal her and make her their own thrall. Meanwhile, war between the Day and Night Ravens is getting closer and you learn more about both realms and their history as Wren does. Which I much prefer over being handed seventeen pages of information and expected to remember any of it.
I wasn’t really sure what to expect going into this one, but chapter seven hit NASTY and reminded me exactly why I love Stacey Marie Brown. Then there’s one of Wren’s kidnappers, this mysterious Northerner who was STILL refusing to tell her his damn name at 40%. Sir. You KIDNAPPED her. You’ve dragged her halfway across the realms. People keep trying to murder you. I think we’re past being coy about your name. 😂 Thankfully, some random barmaid at a tavern casually calls him Onyx and ruins his whole mysterious act for him. I laughed. And if Wren and Onyx somehow end up lovers, it will be an act of their Norse gods because these two are absolutely, positively enemies right now. Then around halfway through… THAT PLOT TWIST. Did not see it coming. And the moment right before it?! Do you know how interesting that COULD have been? But apparently the author had other plans for us.
And Onyx. Fucking Onyx. He is a brute. Cruel. Dangerous. Murderous. Mostly an asshole. And every once in a while there’s this teeny tiny smidge of compassion hiding under all that violence. Blink and you missed it. Naturally, I LOVE HIM. 😂 The Night King was another surprise because that man was absolutely not what I expected. Ruthless, yes. But also kind of a weirdo? I don’t know what else to call him. Between the constant danger, betrayals, twists, raven lore, and whatever the hell is brewing between Wren and Onyx, I had a really good time with this And THEN Stacey waits until the literal last line to drop one final doozy of a twist on us. Excuse me?! You couldn’t have given me another paragraph to process that information? Nothing?? Just close the book and live with it, apparently. 4 stars. And yes, after THAT ending, I’ll absolutely be reading the next one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for the digital advance reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Expected publication date: September 1, 2026
August 27, 2026
White Raven, book 1 in a new trilogy
I loved every second of this book, I could not put it down! The hardest part of finishing this one was knowing it is the first in a trilogy, and O M G THE ENDING!!!! That last page had my jaw dropped, and desperately needing answers! But, alas, I must wait for book 2!!
Stacey Marie Brown is such an amazing author, and once again has created an amazing fantasy world, with 2 kingdoms, one living in perpetual sunlight, and the other living in the night, with a shadowland between. FMC Wren is the daughter of the Day King, and has lived a very sheltered and privileged life, especially being the prophesized White Raven. Wren has been taught to fear the night kingdom and that they are the greatest enemy, a horrible people. MMC Onyx, a lowly thrall working in Wren's castle, ends up to purposely be there on his mission, to bring Wren to the Night King. On the journey to the night kingdom, passing through the Shadowlands, Wren slowly realizes that she knows very little truth of the greater world than she was taught. Literally fighting for their lives throughout the journey, Onyx and Wren (against her will), make their way to the night kingdom. What will happen to the White Raven once there?
I really felt for Wren, when she starts to learn that a lot of what she was taught was inaccurate. As Onyx tells her ""History is written by the winners to make themselves the heroes, not about the truth.”" Wren and Onyx start their journey hating each other, with Wren making failed escape attempts several times. But as the journey towards the night kingdom goes on, Wren "feels" towards Onyx in a way she should not. The sexual tension between Onyx and Wren is just chef's kiss perfection. And then what Onyx does to Wren with a tattoo...GAH it is like one of the most seductive scenes for the reader, and we don't even understand the gravity of it until the end.
Onyx is the morally grey character you are looking for, he is broody, grumpy, large, and while a kidnapper, he also Wren's protector, even if that protection is just to deliver her to his king.
And let's talk about the creatures! Munch!!! The absolute cutest sounding little creature called a groundling, becomes quite important in his own way in the story. As well as the draugrhest or Ghosthorse, I love the description of "Fluffy" and how he and Munch have a bit of a hate/hate relationship.
There is so much action in this story, at every turn it seems Onyx and Wren are fighting to not get eaten, kidnapped, or murdered.
The ending is everything, and also will make you scream, wanting more. I cannot wait for book 2!! Thank you so much to the author for a copy of this book!!
Some fav quotes:
Dedication - "Dedicated to those who have found the real world darker than our fantasies . . . You are welcome to enter."
"“Compared to what your kind did to me? Peeing on me is just foreplay, kanin.”"
"My brain and body were exhausted, and I found myself burrowing deeper into his chest. A shield against the dangers of the terrain. It was a trauma response. It had to be."
"The carnal depravity of his soul was soiling mine."
"You touch what’s mine, you even look or breathe in her direction or are anywhere in her vicinity. I will flay your lungs around your neck like a scarf.”"
"Onyx was rough and masculine, but there was dark beauty in his structure and deep scars. "
"The flames flickering over his tall build, his broad shoulders flexing as he moved, his sculpted ass and thick muscular thighs. His body was for worship, to fall to your knees in awe."
I loved every second of this book, I could not put it down! The hardest part of finishing this one was knowing it is the first in a trilogy, and O M G THE ENDING!!!! That last page had my jaw dropped, and desperately needing answers! But, alas, I must wait for book 2!!
Stacey Marie Brown is such an amazing author, and once again has created an amazing fantasy world, with 2 kingdoms, one living in perpetual sunlight, and the other living in the night, with a shadowland between. FMC Wren is the daughter of the Day King, and has lived a very sheltered and privileged life, especially being the prophesized White Raven. Wren has been taught to fear the night kingdom and that they are the greatest enemy, a horrible people. MMC Onyx, a lowly thrall working in Wren's castle, ends up to purposely be there on his mission, to bring Wren to the Night King. On the journey to the night kingdom, passing through the Shadowlands, Wren slowly realizes that she knows very little truth of the greater world than she was taught. Literally fighting for their lives throughout the journey, Onyx and Wren (against her will), make their way to the night kingdom. What will happen to the White Raven once there?
I really felt for Wren, when she starts to learn that a lot of what she was taught was inaccurate. As Onyx tells her ""History is written by the winners to make themselves the heroes, not about the truth.”" Wren and Onyx start their journey hating each other, with Wren making failed escape attempts several times. But as the journey towards the night kingdom goes on, Wren "feels" towards Onyx in a way she should not. The sexual tension between Onyx and Wren is just chef's kiss perfection. And then what Onyx does to Wren with a tattoo...GAH it is like one of the most seductive scenes for the reader, and we don't even understand the gravity of it until the end.
Onyx is the morally grey character you are looking for, he is broody, grumpy, large, and while a kidnapper, he also Wren's protector, even if that protection is just to deliver her to his king.
And let's talk about the creatures! Munch!!! The absolute cutest sounding little creature called a groundling, becomes quite important in his own way in the story. As well as the draugrhest or Ghosthorse, I love the description of "Fluffy" and how he and Munch have a bit of a hate/hate relationship.
There is so much action in this story, at every turn it seems Onyx and Wren are fighting to not get eaten, kidnapped, or murdered.
The ending is everything, and also will make you scream, wanting more. I cannot wait for book 2!! Thank you so much to the author for a copy of this book!!
Some fav quotes:
Dedication - "Dedicated to those who have found the real world darker than our fantasies . . . You are welcome to enter."
"“Compared to what your kind did to me? Peeing on me is just foreplay, kanin.”"
"My brain and body were exhausted, and I found myself burrowing deeper into his chest. A shield against the dangers of the terrain. It was a trauma response. It had to be."
"The carnal depravity of his soul was soiling mine."
"You touch what’s mine, you even look or breathe in her direction or are anywhere in her vicinity. I will flay your lungs around your neck like a scarf.”"
"Onyx was rough and masculine, but there was dark beauty in his structure and deep scars. "
"The flames flickering over his tall build, his broad shoulders flexing as he moved, his sculpted ass and thick muscular thighs. His body was for worship, to fall to your knees in awe."
August 31, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
White Raven by Stacey Marie Brown 🐦⬛⚔️
Thank you to NetGalley, Stacey Marie Brown, and Blackstone Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book! 🤍
I think I may have found one of my top romantasy reads of the year! This story takes place in a Viking-inspired world, and Stacey Marie Brown has crafted such an incredible setting filled with political intrigue, complex characters, and world-building that had me completely invested. 🖤
This is a true enemies-to-lovers with a seriously slow burn… and I mean slow. The romance doesn’t really start progressing until almost the end of the book, but when it does… 👀🔥
One of the things I often find myself missing in romantasy is the political intrigue and deeper world-building, but that absolutely was not the case here! The world felt truly rich and layered, and I loved how much was happening beyond the romance.
And that ending?! I was STRESSED. 😭 The final chapters had me sitting there like… PARDON ME?! What is happening?! Needless to say, I’m very ready for book two next year because I NEED answers. 🥹
This book is DARK, and while I tend to enjoy darker books, definitely check the trigger warnings before picking it up if this isn’t something you’re used to. It contains themes including sexual assault, cannibalism, slavery, and other disturbing content that may be difficult for some readers.
If you’re looking for a dark romantasy with Viking vibes, brutal enemies-to-lovers, political intrigue, and a painfully slow burn, add this one to your list. ⚔️🔥
White Raven by Stacey Marie Brown 🐦⬛⚔️
Thank you to NetGalley, Stacey Marie Brown, and Blackstone Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book! 🤍
I think I may have found one of my top romantasy reads of the year! This story takes place in a Viking-inspired world, and Stacey Marie Brown has crafted such an incredible setting filled with political intrigue, complex characters, and world-building that had me completely invested. 🖤
This is a true enemies-to-lovers with a seriously slow burn… and I mean slow. The romance doesn’t really start progressing until almost the end of the book, but when it does… 👀🔥
One of the things I often find myself missing in romantasy is the political intrigue and deeper world-building, but that absolutely was not the case here! The world felt truly rich and layered, and I loved how much was happening beyond the romance.
And that ending?! I was STRESSED. 😭 The final chapters had me sitting there like… PARDON ME?! What is happening?! Needless to say, I’m very ready for book two next year because I NEED answers. 🥹
This book is DARK, and while I tend to enjoy darker books, definitely check the trigger warnings before picking it up if this isn’t something you’re used to. It contains themes including sexual assault, cannibalism, slavery, and other disturbing content that may be difficult for some readers.
If you’re looking for a dark romantasy with Viking vibes, brutal enemies-to-lovers, political intrigue, and a painfully slow burn, add this one to your list. ⚔️🔥
September 13, 2026
I’m a pretty big SMB fan, but this was not it.
It definitely has that Stacey Marie Brown formula: harsh, gritty dialogue, true enemies-to-lovers vibes, and fun little side-character creatures. But this was a much slower burn than I prefer, and it felt repetitive, both in the plot and the prose. I cannot count the number of times Wren was either about to vomit or had bile rising up her esophagus. And there were points where I’d rather have had my eyelids sewn shut than read “Huginn-Muninn” one more time. Was it on every page? I don’t know, but it certainly felt like it.
That said, I read it pretty quickly, which means I was still actively engaged. Stacey Marie Brown has a weird ability to keep me reading even when I’m not completely enjoying the book, and apparently that remains undefeated.
The physical book is absolutely stunning, and I was genuinely excited to finally own one of her books now that she’s traditionally published and her work is making its way into Canadian bookstores.
And that cliffhanger. Insane, as per usual. It’ll probably be enough to drag me back for book two. Hopefully it has a little more bite than this one.
It definitely has that Stacey Marie Brown formula: harsh, gritty dialogue, true enemies-to-lovers vibes, and fun little side-character creatures. But this was a much slower burn than I prefer, and it felt repetitive, both in the plot and the prose. I cannot count the number of times Wren was either about to vomit or had bile rising up her esophagus. And there were points where I’d rather have had my eyelids sewn shut than read “Huginn-Muninn” one more time. Was it on every page? I don’t know, but it certainly felt like it.
That said, I read it pretty quickly, which means I was still actively engaged. Stacey Marie Brown has a weird ability to keep me reading even when I’m not completely enjoying the book, and apparently that remains undefeated.
The physical book is absolutely stunning, and I was genuinely excited to finally own one of her books now that she’s traditionally published and her work is making its way into Canadian bookstores.
And that cliffhanger. Insane, as per usual. It’ll probably be enough to drag me back for book two. Hopefully it has a little more bite than this one.
September 14, 2026
ARE YOU KIDDING ME
Stacey Marie Brown you get your butt over here because WHAT WAS THAT ENDING?!
I've never messaged an author before but I might send one to Stacey to tell her that I'm now obsessed with this book and that I love her, because that ending HAS ME STRESSED. I don't think a book has done this to me since Metal Slinger or Shield of Sparrows. And for my girls who love Uhtred of Bebbanburg? Or the guardian? Let me introduce you to the Black Wing AKA Hersir AKA Onyx. We all know I love Villains but jfc, this is definitely a TRUE enemies to lovers type of book.
So now that I'm staring at the wall while contemplating my life choices, I've decided that I need to go back and reread the beginning. Because now after finishing, things are really clicking into place.
Two thumbs WAY UP to Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for this gifted ARC!
White Raven is a dark fantasy (heavy on the DARK) focusing on Norse mythology
*So check trigger warnings*
(Excuse me while I harass my entire family until they read this book so we can talk about the ending)
Stacey Marie Brown you get your butt over here because WHAT WAS THAT ENDING?!
I've never messaged an author before but I might send one to Stacey to tell her that I'm now obsessed with this book and that I love her, because that ending HAS ME STRESSED. I don't think a book has done this to me since Metal Slinger or Shield of Sparrows. And for my girls who love Uhtred of Bebbanburg? Or the guardian? Let me introduce you to the Black Wing AKA Hersir AKA Onyx. We all know I love Villains but jfc, this is definitely a TRUE enemies to lovers type of book.
So now that I'm staring at the wall while contemplating my life choices, I've decided that I need to go back and reread the beginning. Because now after finishing, things are really clicking into place.
Two thumbs WAY UP to Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for this gifted ARC!
White Raven is a dark fantasy (heavy on the DARK) focusing on Norse mythology
*So check trigger warnings*
(Excuse me while I harass my entire family until they read this book so we can talk about the ending)
September 2, 2026
4.5 ⭐
As a fan of the Savage Lands series, I was excited to get into a new book by Stacey and I think White Raven is a great start to The Messengers of the Realm Trilogy. This was pretty slow burn for me and do we even know who the love interest is? All I can do is hope cos I love when two characters start off *HATING* each other and thru forced proximity, start to soften towards each other. It'll be interesting to see where things go with the next book considering the absolute BOMBSHELL that was dropped on us at the end of this one.
Super excited to continue on with this series and recommend checking it out.
Thank you so much Blackstone Publishing via NetGalley for a copy of the ebook. All opinions are my own.
As a fan of the Savage Lands series, I was excited to get into a new book by Stacey and I think White Raven is a great start to The Messengers of the Realm Trilogy. This was pretty slow burn for me and do we even know who the love interest is? All I can do is hope cos I love when two characters start off *HATING* each other and thru forced proximity, start to soften towards each other. It'll be interesting to see where things go with the next book considering the absolute BOMBSHELL that was dropped on us at the end of this one.
Super excited to continue on with this series and recommend checking it out.
Thank you so much Blackstone Publishing via NetGalley for a copy of the ebook. All opinions are my own.
September 14, 2026
Omg. That ending...
I really loved The White Raven! First of all, the physical book is STUNNING. But beyond that, I just really enjoyed the story. It had some pretty dark parts (the Jackals...), and the whole thing turned into a wild ride with lots of giggles from the side characters. FLUFFY AND MUNCH?! I love Munch. Give me a little bestie critter and I’m immediately emotionally attached. Also, kudos to the narrator. She did a fabulous job!!
I’m so curious to see where this story goes next, and I can’t even say why because I don't want to give anything away. Just go read it and then preorder book 2!
I really loved The White Raven! First of all, the physical book is STUNNING. But beyond that, I just really enjoyed the story. It had some pretty dark parts (the Jackals...), and the whole thing turned into a wild ride with lots of giggles from the side characters. FLUFFY AND MUNCH?! I love Munch. Give me a little bestie critter and I’m immediately emotionally attached. Also, kudos to the narrator. She did a fabulous job!!
I’m so curious to see where this story goes next, and I can’t even say why because I don't want to give anything away. Just go read it and then preorder book 2!
September 14, 2026
thought about rating this 3 stars, but on further reflection I’m rating it 2 stars. Basically, it was fine? Maybe a little less than fine? I read it all the way through, hence why it’s 2 stars.
The first thing I thought while reading this was, “oh this feels a lot like From Blood and Ash”.
The second thing was, “This FMC is extremely annoying and unlikable”.
I felt like the plot was just repeating the same scenario over and over and over…. try to escape captor, get yourself caught by even worse people, original captor rescues you, continue on original journey.
The wasn’t much world building, not much to the plot, nothing original, every trope imaginable included.
All that to say, I will probably read the next one.
The first thing I thought while reading this was, “oh this feels a lot like From Blood and Ash”.
The second thing was, “This FMC is extremely annoying and unlikable”.
I felt like the plot was just repeating the same scenario over and over and over…. try to escape captor, get yourself caught by even worse people, original captor rescues you, continue on original journey.
The wasn’t much world building, not much to the plot, nothing original, every trope imaginable included.
All that to say, I will probably read the next one.
August 29, 2026
⭐️: 4/5
🧠: 2/5
🌶️: 1/5
༺⋆☾⋆ 𓄿 ⋆☽⋆༻
🐦⬛ Dark
🐦⬛Arranged marriage
🐦⬛TRUE enemies to lover
🐦⬛Forced proximity
🐦⬛Slow burn/ tension
༺⋆☾⋆ 𓄿 ⋆☽⋆༻
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this arc.
Check your damn triggers. There be cannibals in this book our FMC also finds her self in trouble… A LOT. I did really like it, I just don’t have much to say.
༺⋆☾⋆ 𓄿 ⋆☽⋆༻
https://www.instagram.com/kylieinpryt...
🧠: 2/5
🌶️: 1/5
༺⋆☾⋆ 𓄿 ⋆☽⋆༻
🐦⬛ Dark
🐦⬛Arranged marriage
🐦⬛TRUE enemies to lover
🐦⬛Forced proximity
🐦⬛Slow burn/ tension
༺⋆☾⋆ 𓄿 ⋆☽⋆༻
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this arc.
Check your damn triggers. There be cannibals in this book our FMC also finds her self in trouble… A LOT. I did really like it, I just don’t have much to say.
༺⋆☾⋆ 𓄿 ⋆☽⋆༻
https://www.instagram.com/kylieinpryt...
June 24, 2026
6⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow!! what did I just read!? I know, one of the best books I read this year in the fantasy romance genre! That was a 6 star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read for me! This story delivers in every way imaginable. We encounter triggering elements alongside violence, secrets, betrayal, murder, shocking moments and a slow burn with tension that makes toes curl. I found myself kicking my feet and glancing around, wondering if anyone noticed! The tension grows so intense that you’ll yell at your book, then swoon moments later. Each chapter pulls you deeper. I’m fully invested and need book two immediately! That ending had me screaming! A MUST READ!!!!!!! The side character is adorable and i need merch!!! Update: I did a reread with the Audiobook compliments of netgalley, Although there is only one narrator She does a fabulous Job! I hope we get a dramatized audiobook in duel narration in the future but for now I still hold my 6 star rating.
I NEED ALL THE SPECIAL EDITION THAT MIGHT COME OUT FOR THIS BOOK
Synopsis
The White Raven was born to bring magic to the dying realm.
One hundred and ninety-nine years ago the Blood War between the Ravens and the Leatherwings divided the land into Day, Night, and Dusk, cursing the land with the blood of the dead. Abandoned by Odin and his favored pets, Huginn and Muninn, the Ravens were stripped of their wings and their positions as Messengers of the Realm.
Her blood holds the power to heal the land and unite the kingdoms.
Wrennlyn Stallard, the King’s only daughter, had lived a life of privilege, kept sheltered in the walls of Silvervale. But on the night of her betrothal, her world shattered when an enemy from the Night Realm kidnapped her, taking her across the snowy terrain into a treacherous land called the Shadow Rift, the land between the Day and Night.
His mission is to take her to the Night King.
Onyx had waited months to seize her, purposely getting himself captured to work as a thrall for the Day King. Cold, ruthless, and burning with vengeance, he wasn’t prepared for the pampered, prophesized girl to be defiant, clever, and maddeningly impossible to break. Killing her would be easy, but her life is vital to a much bigger plan.
Because everyone knows … he who holds the White Raven holds the power.
Wow!! what did I just read!? I know, one of the best books I read this year in the fantasy romance genre! That was a 6 star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read for me! This story delivers in every way imaginable. We encounter triggering elements alongside violence, secrets, betrayal, murder, shocking moments and a slow burn with tension that makes toes curl. I found myself kicking my feet and glancing around, wondering if anyone noticed! The tension grows so intense that you’ll yell at your book, then swoon moments later. Each chapter pulls you deeper. I’m fully invested and need book two immediately! That ending had me screaming! A MUST READ!!!!!!! The side character is adorable and i need merch!!! Update: I did a reread with the Audiobook compliments of netgalley, Although there is only one narrator She does a fabulous Job! I hope we get a dramatized audiobook in duel narration in the future but for now I still hold my 6 star rating.
I NEED ALL THE SPECIAL EDITION THAT MIGHT COME OUT FOR THIS BOOK
Synopsis
The White Raven was born to bring magic to the dying realm.
One hundred and ninety-nine years ago the Blood War between the Ravens and the Leatherwings divided the land into Day, Night, and Dusk, cursing the land with the blood of the dead. Abandoned by Odin and his favored pets, Huginn and Muninn, the Ravens were stripped of their wings and their positions as Messengers of the Realm.
Her blood holds the power to heal the land and unite the kingdoms.
Wrennlyn Stallard, the King’s only daughter, had lived a life of privilege, kept sheltered in the walls of Silvervale. But on the night of her betrothal, her world shattered when an enemy from the Night Realm kidnapped her, taking her across the snowy terrain into a treacherous land called the Shadow Rift, the land between the Day and Night.
His mission is to take her to the Night King.
Onyx had waited months to seize her, purposely getting himself captured to work as a thrall for the Day King. Cold, ruthless, and burning with vengeance, he wasn’t prepared for the pampered, prophesized girl to be defiant, clever, and maddeningly impossible to break. Killing her would be easy, but her life is vital to a much bigger plan.
Because everyone knows … he who holds the White Raven holds the power.
August 22, 2026
This was such a nice change of pace for me. I’m an avid reader of Greek and roman mythology inspired books. So reading this one inspired by Viking lore was different for me. I really loved it and it made me want to check out more books with similar inspirations.
I’m a sucker for characters going on a journey or quest, and this was what I got. As they are making their way across the kingdom, with Wrenn as Onyx’s captive it allowed the reader to learn about the world. There was not too much world building info dumping. Instead we experienced it. Plus, the journey allowed for so much banter with caused the tension and yearning to build. It was delicious!
The last page killed me. It was literally 3 am and I had to reread the last page several times because I was SHOOK. Stacey Marie Brown knows how to spring an unexpected twist on her readers, and to do it at the very end was diabolical.
Wrenn - Didn’t love the FMC. I understand she was 18 and sheltered and lied to growing up, she was still super annoying. She kept saying she would escape and people would help her, and I was just screaming at her like, babe, have you not learned from everyone trying to kill or hurt you? Clearly no one is going to help you. She was so adamant that she was this beloved figure, but it was not clicking when she literally saw with her own eyes that her people did not feel that way. This improved throughout the book and I appreciated the character growth. But I definitely cannot wait for more of her growing up.
Onyx - Tatted/scarred, deadly, and cunning he is a perfect MMC. I loved that he was actually MEAN. There’s nothing worse than reading an enemies to lovers and the MMC is too nice and they don’t actually have enemy vibes. Instead he is grumpy, cruel, and dangerous. This made his few tracts of kindness and tender moments with her even more beautiful to read. It amped the tension up so much. We get bits and pieces of his back story, but I am feral to get my hands on more in the next two books.
Spice: 🌶️
Tropes:
🐦⬛TRUE Enemies to Lovers
🐦⬛Forced Proxikitg
🐦⬛One horse
🐦⬛Captor x captive
🐦⬛Chosen One
🐦⬛Forced Proximity
🐦⬛Viking mythology vibes
🐦⬛Forbidden romance
🐦⬛Morally grey MMC
🐦⬛Grumpy x sunshine
🐦⬛Political intrigue/secrets
🐦⬛Tension and yearning
I’m a sucker for characters going on a journey or quest, and this was what I got. As they are making their way across the kingdom, with Wrenn as Onyx’s captive it allowed the reader to learn about the world. There was not too much world building info dumping. Instead we experienced it. Plus, the journey allowed for so much banter with caused the tension and yearning to build. It was delicious!
The last page killed me. It was literally 3 am and I had to reread the last page several times because I was SHOOK. Stacey Marie Brown knows how to spring an unexpected twist on her readers, and to do it at the very end was diabolical.
Wrenn - Didn’t love the FMC. I understand she was 18 and sheltered and lied to growing up, she was still super annoying. She kept saying she would escape and people would help her, and I was just screaming at her like, babe, have you not learned from everyone trying to kill or hurt you? Clearly no one is going to help you. She was so adamant that she was this beloved figure, but it was not clicking when she literally saw with her own eyes that her people did not feel that way. This improved throughout the book and I appreciated the character growth. But I definitely cannot wait for more of her growing up.
Onyx - Tatted/scarred, deadly, and cunning he is a perfect MMC. I loved that he was actually MEAN. There’s nothing worse than reading an enemies to lovers and the MMC is too nice and they don’t actually have enemy vibes. Instead he is grumpy, cruel, and dangerous. This made his few tracts of kindness and tender moments with her even more beautiful to read. It amped the tension up so much. We get bits and pieces of his back story, but I am feral to get my hands on more in the next two books.
Spice: 🌶️
Tropes:
🐦⬛TRUE Enemies to Lovers
🐦⬛Forced Proxikitg
🐦⬛One horse
🐦⬛Captor x captive
🐦⬛Chosen One
🐦⬛Forced Proximity
🐦⬛Viking mythology vibes
🐦⬛Forbidden romance
🐦⬛Morally grey MMC
🐦⬛Grumpy x sunshine
🐦⬛Political intrigue/secrets
🐦⬛Tension and yearning
September 5, 2026
Mais pardon mdrrrr ? Comment ça je me suis faite avoir comme ça ? Wrennlyn c’est pas la white Raven ? C’est Sarina ? Mais quoi. Je viens de relire des passages du début et ptn j’ai rien vu venir mdrrrr.
Sous le choc
Sinon. Quel livre ! J’ai adoré. J’ai pas pu m’arrêter de le lire. L’histoire est dingue, les persos aussi. Ça m’a tendu à des moments avec les jackals là… des frissons dans le dos je vous le dis. Et le roi des night ravens comment il me fout la trouille ce fils de pute. Je suis habituée à des « méchants normaux » mais là le mec est fou. Genre premier degré il a une maladie mentale genre de la démence ou autre c’est pas possible autrement. Purée le tome deux sort en mars 27 normalement mais il me fait la suite mnt.
50% du livre pour apprendre le prénom du MMC. 85% du livre pour qu’il y ait une scène de cul et ENCORE ils ne se sont pas embrassés ou quoi hein juste du sexe et encore c’était léger. Et surtout même à la fin ils sont encore entrain de se battre mdrrr. Bon on sait tous qu’il l’aime ou du moins qu’il est sur le chemin et elle, un peu pareil. Mais ils sont méchants l’un envers l’autre. Plusieurs fois je me suis dis « mais comment tu lui parles là ? ». Et j’ai plein de questions : déjà le tatouage là, comment ça fonctionne? Moi je crois qu’il peut entendre ses pensées ou un truc du genre. Ses émotions peut-être. Ensuite, comment elle va faire pour divorcer du roi ? Et comment ils vont faire pour s’aimer si le roi est toujours là ? Comment ça va se régler l’histoire si le white Raven est mort ? Le royaume va juste continuer à pourrir éternellement ?
Hâte d’être en mars là !!
Ah et le gars s’appelle Onyx. quand on l’a appris j’y croyais pas, et j’y crois toujours pas. C’est pas un prénom mdrrr. Pour moi c’est son surnom et on va apprendre son vrai nom dans le tome 2
Sous le choc
Sinon. Quel livre ! J’ai adoré. J’ai pas pu m’arrêter de le lire. L’histoire est dingue, les persos aussi. Ça m’a tendu à des moments avec les jackals là… des frissons dans le dos je vous le dis. Et le roi des night ravens comment il me fout la trouille ce fils de pute. Je suis habituée à des « méchants normaux » mais là le mec est fou. Genre premier degré il a une maladie mentale genre de la démence ou autre c’est pas possible autrement. Purée le tome deux sort en mars 27 normalement mais il me fait la suite mnt.
50% du livre pour apprendre le prénom du MMC. 85% du livre pour qu’il y ait une scène de cul et ENCORE ils ne se sont pas embrassés ou quoi hein juste du sexe et encore c’était léger. Et surtout même à la fin ils sont encore entrain de se battre mdrrr. Bon on sait tous qu’il l’aime ou du moins qu’il est sur le chemin et elle, un peu pareil. Mais ils sont méchants l’un envers l’autre. Plusieurs fois je me suis dis « mais comment tu lui parles là ? ». Et j’ai plein de questions : déjà le tatouage là, comment ça fonctionne? Moi je crois qu’il peut entendre ses pensées ou un truc du genre. Ses émotions peut-être. Ensuite, comment elle va faire pour divorcer du roi ? Et comment ils vont faire pour s’aimer si le roi est toujours là ? Comment ça va se régler l’histoire si le white Raven est mort ? Le royaume va juste continuer à pourrir éternellement ?
Hâte d’être en mars là !!
Ah et le gars s’appelle Onyx. quand on l’a appris j’y croyais pas, et j’y crois toujours pas. C’est pas un prénom mdrrr. Pour moi c’est son surnom et on va apprendre son vrai nom dans le tome 2
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2026
I enjoyed this book for the most part and it had such great tropes like captive FMC, forced proximity, true enemies, magical bonds, and a little bit of a slow burn. However, I would have enjoyed this more if the author could create a connection and sense of protectiveness from the MMC by using anything other than sexual harassment. It was alright the first time that he saved her from nearly getting SA’d given the world that the author has created, and the second time was making me kind of roll my eyes. But the third, fourth and fifth time was just getting to be irritating.
This world is extremely sexually driven, and even though the romance was a slow burn with true enemies, it was very lust forward. The FMC is forced into a bond of sorts by the MMC, so if you aren’t comfortable with that then I wouldn’t recommend this. I do highly recommend you check the content warnings because this book contains tons of sexual harassment and even cannibalism.
This would have been a great read but that just really bothered me and how both the MMC and FMC just kept immediately brushing off the fact that she was nearly ‘graped’ like seven different times. Also the fact that a part of her body was eaten by someone in front of her and they just tied a cloth around the wound and went on about their merry way.
The very last sentence of this book has me curious enough to continue to the second book, though it won’t be prioritized, but it’s not lost on me that the author chose to end the last scene of this with her getting dragged away to almost get SA’d again… immediately after just nearly getting SA’d… again.
This world is extremely sexually driven, and even though the romance was a slow burn with true enemies, it was very lust forward. The FMC is forced into a bond of sorts by the MMC, so if you aren’t comfortable with that then I wouldn’t recommend this. I do highly recommend you check the content warnings because this book contains tons of sexual harassment and even cannibalism.
This would have been a great read but that just really bothered me and how both the MMC and FMC just kept immediately brushing off the fact that she was nearly ‘graped’ like seven different times. Also the fact that a part of her body was eaten by someone in front of her and they just tied a cloth around the wound and went on about their merry way.
The very last sentence of this book has me curious enough to continue to the second book, though it won’t be prioritized, but it’s not lost on me that the author chose to end the last scene of this with her getting dragged away to almost get SA’d again… immediately after just nearly getting SA’d… again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
September 5, 2026This was such a sad DNF for me. 😭
I was SO excited for White Raven because I genuinely love Stacey Marie Brown’s books. I was gifted the ALC and went into this really wanting to love it, but unfortunately… it just wasn’t working for me. I do wonder if the audiobook played a part because the narrator was unfortunately not my favorite, especially when it came to the male characters.
But even putting the narration aside, I just could not connect with this story.
The premise sounded SO good to me. Wrennlyn is the White Raven, the only one whose blood supposedly has the power to heal this dying realm and unite the kingdoms after the Blood War. She’s been sheltered her entire life, then gets kidnapped by Onyx, a warrior from the Night Realm who has spent months planning to capture her and take her to the Night King.
And yet… I felt absolutely nothing between these two. 😭
He literally kidnaps her. She doesn’t even know his name. And somehow we’re supposed to get to a point where she’s falling for him? I just never felt the connection or chemistry between them.
I also REALLY struggled with Wrennlyn. She’s the freaking White Raven. Her entire existence has been built around this prophecy and she’s supposedly clever and defiant, but I spent so much of the book wondering how this girl was going to survive another five minutes. 😭 She couldn’t fight, couldn’t seem to make a good decision to save her life, and I just wasn’t buying her as this incredibly important prophesized character.
By about 70%, I finally had to call it. At that point it felt like we were just traveling, making questionable decisions, and having shit rain down on them over and over again.
I’m genuinely bummed because I REALLY wanted to love this one. Maybe I would have connected with it more as a physical read, but unfortunately the ALC just wasn’t it for me. 💔
I was SO excited for White Raven because I genuinely love Stacey Marie Brown’s books. I was gifted the ALC and went into this really wanting to love it, but unfortunately… it just wasn’t working for me. I do wonder if the audiobook played a part because the narrator was unfortunately not my favorite, especially when it came to the male characters.
But even putting the narration aside, I just could not connect with this story.
The premise sounded SO good to me. Wrennlyn is the White Raven, the only one whose blood supposedly has the power to heal this dying realm and unite the kingdoms after the Blood War. She’s been sheltered her entire life, then gets kidnapped by Onyx, a warrior from the Night Realm who has spent months planning to capture her and take her to the Night King.
And yet… I felt absolutely nothing between these two. 😭
He literally kidnaps her. She doesn’t even know his name. And somehow we’re supposed to get to a point where she’s falling for him? I just never felt the connection or chemistry between them.
I also REALLY struggled with Wrennlyn. She’s the freaking White Raven. Her entire existence has been built around this prophecy and she’s supposedly clever and defiant, but I spent so much of the book wondering how this girl was going to survive another five minutes. 😭 She couldn’t fight, couldn’t seem to make a good decision to save her life, and I just wasn’t buying her as this incredibly important prophesized character.
By about 70%, I finally had to call it. At that point it felt like we were just traveling, making questionable decisions, and having shit rain down on them over and over again.
I’m genuinely bummed because I REALLY wanted to love this one. Maybe I would have connected with it more as a physical read, but unfortunately the ALC just wasn’t it for me. 💔
September 7, 2026
2.75⭐️ rounded up to 3⭐️
Audio provided by NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for an honest review.
This dark fantasy follows a young princess raven kidnapped on her wedding night and taken to a rival land. This book was stated to contain Norse folklore, raven magic, a dark anti-hero, arranged marriage, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, the high praise on bookstagram had my expectations way too high because although some of those are my favorite tropes it did not meet the expectations. I did not guess the twist at the end of the book but I did have some thoughts that I’m not going to spoil so that twist wasn’t super surprising.
There’s not a lot of world building in this book. Much of the book consists of them traveling to another kingdom. I do not like MMC at all, nothing about him was sexy or intriguing. I love a morally gray/black MMC (Theon, iykyk) but this guy has no attractive quality whatsoever! The fact that he was cruel and the FMC was fawning over him was cringy. I also struggled with the fact the FMC is a teenager and every man she met wanted to fill her with their seed. Just gave me the ick.
I don’t know if I’ll listen to the second book. I do want to know more about the reveal at the end.
‼️There should be content warnings for this book‼️
Thank you NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing!
Audio provided by NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for an honest review.
This dark fantasy follows a young princess raven kidnapped on her wedding night and taken to a rival land. This book was stated to contain Norse folklore, raven magic, a dark anti-hero, arranged marriage, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, the high praise on bookstagram had my expectations way too high because although some of those are my favorite tropes it did not meet the expectations. I did not guess the twist at the end of the book but I did have some thoughts that I’m not going to spoil so that twist wasn’t super surprising.
There’s not a lot of world building in this book. Much of the book consists of them traveling to another kingdom. I do not like MMC at all, nothing about him was sexy or intriguing. I love a morally gray/black MMC (Theon, iykyk) but this guy has no attractive quality whatsoever! The fact that he was cruel and the FMC was fawning over him was cringy. I also struggled with the fact the FMC is a teenager and every man she met wanted to fill her with their seed. Just gave me the ick.
I don’t know if I’ll listen to the second book. I do want to know more about the reveal at the end.
‼️There should be content warnings for this book‼️
Thank you NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Well, that did not end the way I expected it to. Wow. Just wow.
I’ll be honest: I was not impressed with this book in the beginning. But since it was short, I felt like I needed to push through because it did seem like it had potential. I am so glad I did!
I really didn’t like the female main character for most of the book. She was incredibly naïve, selfish, and, privileged. I also had to ignore the fact she was only 18 and in my head I just made her older because, yuck. By the end, she sort of started to grow on me. Then came those last few sentences….iykyk 🤯🤯Now I absolutely cannot wait for the second book to see where this story goes.
The male main character, on the other hand, was brutal, unyielding, and honestly? I loved him because well, duh 😂
I do think the world building could have been better, but I felt like the book established a good enough foundation and I’m interested to see how the author builds on it.
Despite a questionable start, I’m really glad I stuck with it. That ending completely hooked me.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys enemies to what I hope will be lovers, morally questionable characters, and a story that saves some major surprises for the end. ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
I’ll be honest: I was not impressed with this book in the beginning. But since it was short, I felt like I needed to push through because it did seem like it had potential. I am so glad I did!
I really didn’t like the female main character for most of the book. She was incredibly naïve, selfish, and, privileged. I also had to ignore the fact she was only 18 and in my head I just made her older because, yuck. By the end, she sort of started to grow on me. Then came those last few sentences….iykyk 🤯🤯Now I absolutely cannot wait for the second book to see where this story goes.
The male main character, on the other hand, was brutal, unyielding, and honestly? I loved him because well, duh 😂
I do think the world building could have been better, but I felt like the book established a good enough foundation and I’m interested to see how the author builds on it.
Despite a questionable start, I’m really glad I stuck with it. That ending completely hooked me.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys enemies to what I hope will be lovers, morally questionable characters, and a story that saves some major surprises for the end. ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
September 7, 2026
I have such mixed feelings on this one. On the one hand, this was really fast-paced and bingeable, and I loved that the enemies-to-lovers was actually giving ENEMIES in the beginning. The world-building was interesting if not yet fully developed, but I think that makes sense given how sheltered the FMC was.
On the other hand, I really did not like either main character. While some of the FMC's behavior made sense given how brainwashed she had been her whole life, the way she viewed/treated people she perceived to be her lessors was pretty gross and hard to come back from. There were also parts of the book that were extremely repetitive (e.g., the FMC trying to escape her kidnapper just to almost get herself killed, over and over and over again). But hey, I love irredeemable characters that somehow manage to redeem themselves throughout a series, so maybe the rest of this series will also redeem the first book.
One thing about Stacey Marie Brown is that she knows how to write a book with a diabolical cliffhanger, and I need the next book in this series immediately.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
On the other hand, I really did not like either main character. While some of the FMC's behavior made sense given how brainwashed she had been her whole life, the way she viewed/treated people she perceived to be her lessors was pretty gross and hard to come back from. There were also parts of the book that were extremely repetitive (e.g., the FMC trying to escape her kidnapper just to almost get herself killed, over and over and over again). But hey, I love irredeemable characters that somehow manage to redeem themselves throughout a series, so maybe the rest of this series will also redeem the first book.
One thing about Stacey Marie Brown is that she knows how to write a book with a diabolical cliffhanger, and I need the next book in this series immediately.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
September 15, 2026
I really enjoyed this one! The story completely sucked me in, and I’m definitely curious to see where this series goes next.
BUT. We need to talk about the ALC. 😩 This was single narration, and unfortunately, this narrator’s male voices just were not it for me. So much so that I think I’ll be continuing this series with my eyeballs instead of my ears.
Also, the MMC was basically always hard. And if he wasn’t? A side-eye was apparently all it took to get him there. Sir, PLEASE.
I will say, if you’re new to SMB, you may find this FMC a little… insufferable. And by “a little,” I mean she absolutely is. BUT one thing SMB does SO well is character growth, so I’m very willing to trust the process because I know these characters can evolve in ways that make you completely obsessed with them.
The middle did drag a little for me, too, with some parts feeling repetitive, but it never lost its hold on me enough to make me want to put it down.
And the character art?? PERFECT. 👏🏻
Narrator grievances and a slightly repetitive middle aside, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot WAIT to see what she has planned for book 2. Because after THAT ending?! 👀 I need to know where this story is going.
BUT. We need to talk about the ALC. 😩 This was single narration, and unfortunately, this narrator’s male voices just were not it for me. So much so that I think I’ll be continuing this series with my eyeballs instead of my ears.
Also, the MMC was basically always hard. And if he wasn’t? A side-eye was apparently all it took to get him there. Sir, PLEASE.
I will say, if you’re new to SMB, you may find this FMC a little… insufferable. And by “a little,” I mean she absolutely is. BUT one thing SMB does SO well is character growth, so I’m very willing to trust the process because I know these characters can evolve in ways that make you completely obsessed with them.
The middle did drag a little for me, too, with some parts feeling repetitive, but it never lost its hold on me enough to make me want to put it down.
And the character art?? PERFECT. 👏🏻
Narrator grievances and a slightly repetitive middle aside, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot WAIT to see what she has planned for book 2. Because after THAT ending?! 👀 I need to know where this story is going.
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