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The Raven #1
The Raven
Fearing that mankind is heading toward nuclear extinction, a group of geneticists unleash a plot to save the world. They've discovered that mythological creatures such as werewolves, vampires, witches, and satyrs were once real, and that these monstrous genetic strands are still present in human DNA.
These radical scientists unleash the bestial side of human beings that had been dormant for eons, and within months, most people are dead, and bloodthirsty creatures rule the earth. Despite the fact that Dez McClane has no special powers, he is determined to atone for the lives he couldn't save and to save the woman he loves.
But how long can a man survive in a world full of monsters?
These radical scientists unleash the bestial side of human beings that had been dormant for eons, and within months, most people are dead, and bloodthirsty creatures rule the earth. Despite the fact that Dez McClane has no special powers, he is determined to atone for the lives he couldn't save and to save the woman he loves.
But how long can a man survive in a world full of monsters?
256 pages, Paperback
First published September 8, 2020
34 people are currently reading
821 people want to read
About the author
Jonathan Janz
60 books2,080 followersJonathan Janz is an author and public schoolteacher. His sci-fi horror novel VEIL is now available, and you can find his story "Lenora" in THE END OF THE WORLD AS WE KNOW IT: NEW TALES OF STEPHEN KING'S THE STAND. He’s represented for Film & TV by Adam Kolbrenner of Lit Entertainment, and his literary agent is Lane Heymont. His ghost story The Siren and the Specter was selected as a Goodreads Choice nominee for Best Horror. Additionally, his novels Children of the Dark and The Dark Game were chosen by Booklist and Library Journal as Top Ten Horror Books of the Year. Jonathan’s main interests are his wonderful wife and his three amazing children. You can sign up for his newsletter (http://jonathanjanz.us12.list-manage....), and you can follow him on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Amazon, Threads, Bluesky, TikTok, and Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
July 13, 2023
This was a raving bloody romp through apocalypse proportions!
A small backstory:
An event known as the Four Winds decimated life and created new life in forms of creatures that roam the earth. Dez McClane survived the Four Winds but has to endure the inhabitants around him which include monsters from every form of life. Everything is in this book including Minotaurs that have free rein throughout the world. Dez is not one of these creatures as he is human which in this world is known as Latent and he is has no superhuman abilities either.
Dez has to travel through the terrain in search of his partner Susan but by searching for her, Dez will have to fight and survive the creatures roaming this world!
Thoughts:
My second reread of this book was just as awesome as the first time around!
Author, Jonathan Janz moved into horror apocalyptic, but with this book he stepped out into what I would call a cross between urban fantasy, modern day western, and science fiction horror.
Lots of twists, turns, fast pacing and descriptive blood/gore scenes that kept my attention throughout the story!
I can say it was different but there are horror elements integrated within the story with the creatures which include vampires, werewolves, cannibals, etc. just to name a few and there is tons of extreme gore interlaced through the story as well which takes the storyline into extreme splatterpunk. Keeping this book at five "Edge of the Seat" stars!
A small backstory:
An event known as the Four Winds decimated life and created new life in forms of creatures that roam the earth. Dez McClane survived the Four Winds but has to endure the inhabitants around him which include monsters from every form of life. Everything is in this book including Minotaurs that have free rein throughout the world. Dez is not one of these creatures as he is human which in this world is known as Latent and he is has no superhuman abilities either.
Dez has to travel through the terrain in search of his partner Susan but by searching for her, Dez will have to fight and survive the creatures roaming this world!
Thoughts:
My second reread of this book was just as awesome as the first time around!
Author, Jonathan Janz moved into horror apocalyptic, but with this book he stepped out into what I would call a cross between urban fantasy, modern day western, and science fiction horror.
Lots of twists, turns, fast pacing and descriptive blood/gore scenes that kept my attention throughout the story!
I can say it was different but there are horror elements integrated within the story with the creatures which include vampires, werewolves, cannibals, etc. just to name a few and there is tons of extreme gore interlaced through the story as well which takes the storyline into extreme splatterpunk. Keeping this book at five "Edge of the Seat" stars!
November 11, 2022
An Apocalyptic Book Like No Other!
The destruction of the world came about two years prior when the missiles were set off not from Russia, not from China, not from South Korea but could anyone have guessed The United States. That's right the good old United States Of America when a group of rogue scientists decided to take matters into their own hands since it would end by nuclear destruction where nothing would survive a nuclear hit, they decided to release viral pathogens into the air which also had included DNA traced back to what humans believed were fantasy legends, folklore and mythology. Now whether these scientists really knew what the ultimate effects of these deadly viruses would attain is anyone's guess because the majority of people died when the bombs hit except a select few who were given the name of latents since they had no special powers enhancing their genetic makeup. You see, this virus brought about living nightmares coming true which one could never have dreamed up in their wildest imagination. Monsters, my friends, living, breathing real life monsters that everyone has read about or have seen in horror films yet magnified many times over. Creatures that were all normal human beings before "The Shift" as many called the end of the world as they knew it. Vampires, Wererwolves, Satyrs and so many more of the worst abominations that the world could never have been imagined. Then you have the few latents left struggling to exist and trying to find food, safety and shelter while the creatures walk free with their hunger and bloodlust never satisfied. One of these latents is named Dez McClane who used to be an English teacher in the old world and is now at the center of all this horror and this will be the tale of his frightening and tortuous journey to find others like himself who can be trusted and hopefully survive in this hell on earth as it has truly become.
This was such a well-written book filled with excellent storytelling, atmosphere and characters that I just didn't want the book to come to an ending. Be forewarned there is graphic, grisly violence along with non-stop action and bloody gore throughout so if one is too sensitive they will definitely have nightmares disturbing their peaceful sleep. Dez McClain was a top notch character and so likeable in all aspects of his horrific journey that I couldn't wait to see where all his travels to survival would bring him. I have read several of Jonathan Janz's novels and I am always on the outlook for a new one. I didn't know this book was part of a series so the next book in the series is called "Blood Country" just released in October 2022 so I'm very excited to say that I can't wait and I'm reading that very soon. All horror readers if you enjoy creature feature books with the best writing and storytelling and did I forget to say Fun? Oh, yes so much fun, so please don't hesitate to get your hands on this book, you won't be sorry but remember "nightmares are included free with the price of this book" so don't say you weren't given a warning!
I want to thank the publisher "Flame Tree Press" and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this unbelievably creepy story and any thoughts or opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given this fantastic horror book a rating of 5 GRISLY AND BLOODTHIRSTY 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 STARS!!
The destruction of the world came about two years prior when the missiles were set off not from Russia, not from China, not from South Korea but could anyone have guessed The United States. That's right the good old United States Of America when a group of rogue scientists decided to take matters into their own hands since it would end by nuclear destruction where nothing would survive a nuclear hit, they decided to release viral pathogens into the air which also had included DNA traced back to what humans believed were fantasy legends, folklore and mythology. Now whether these scientists really knew what the ultimate effects of these deadly viruses would attain is anyone's guess because the majority of people died when the bombs hit except a select few who were given the name of latents since they had no special powers enhancing their genetic makeup. You see, this virus brought about living nightmares coming true which one could never have dreamed up in their wildest imagination. Monsters, my friends, living, breathing real life monsters that everyone has read about or have seen in horror films yet magnified many times over. Creatures that were all normal human beings before "The Shift" as many called the end of the world as they knew it. Vampires, Wererwolves, Satyrs and so many more of the worst abominations that the world could never have been imagined. Then you have the few latents left struggling to exist and trying to find food, safety and shelter while the creatures walk free with their hunger and bloodlust never satisfied. One of these latents is named Dez McClane who used to be an English teacher in the old world and is now at the center of all this horror and this will be the tale of his frightening and tortuous journey to find others like himself who can be trusted and hopefully survive in this hell on earth as it has truly become.
This was such a well-written book filled with excellent storytelling, atmosphere and characters that I just didn't want the book to come to an ending. Be forewarned there is graphic, grisly violence along with non-stop action and bloody gore throughout so if one is too sensitive they will definitely have nightmares disturbing their peaceful sleep. Dez McClain was a top notch character and so likeable in all aspects of his horrific journey that I couldn't wait to see where all his travels to survival would bring him. I have read several of Jonathan Janz's novels and I am always on the outlook for a new one. I didn't know this book was part of a series so the next book in the series is called "Blood Country" just released in October 2022 so I'm very excited to say that I can't wait and I'm reading that very soon. All horror readers if you enjoy creature feature books with the best writing and storytelling and did I forget to say Fun? Oh, yes so much fun, so please don't hesitate to get your hands on this book, you won't be sorry but remember "nightmares are included free with the price of this book" so don't say you weren't given a warning!
I want to thank the publisher "Flame Tree Press" and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this unbelievably creepy story and any thoughts or opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given this fantastic horror book a rating of 5 GRISLY AND BLOODTHIRSTY 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 STARS!!
March 21, 2020
A decent enough read but as a dystopian monster fest a little underwhelming.
Sure, there were some gory and fun fight scenes, but even they couldn't distract me from the fact that I was bored by this book. There's nothing at all here to really grab you. The main character is bland, his repeated escapes unlikely, and there was nobody to connect to save one late addition whose POV we don't get due to everything being narrated by Dull Dez.
The blurb puts this right in my wheelhouse but the fact that a book with all this potenial awesome doesn't manage to hit even the basic level of crazy that I usually love... well... that shows just how disappointing it was. It's just ok. All of it.
ARC via Netgalley
Sure, there were some gory and fun fight scenes, but even they couldn't distract me from the fact that I was bored by this book. There's nothing at all here to really grab you. The main character is bland, his repeated escapes unlikely, and there was nobody to connect to save one late addition whose POV we don't get due to everything being narrated by Dull Dez.
The blurb puts this right in my wheelhouse but the fact that a book with all this potenial awesome doesn't manage to hit even the basic level of crazy that I usually love... well... that shows just how disappointing it was. It's just ok. All of it.
ARC via Netgalley
Want to read
September 8, 2020Happy Publication Day to Jonathan Janz and The Raven!!! I need to get to this soon.
'Tis the season, after all.
Original:
OH YEAH!!! Thank you for my ARC, Flame Tree Press. I am really excited about this one!
This. Sounds. Amazing.
'Tis the season, after all.
Original:
OH YEAH!!! Thank you for my ARC, Flame Tree Press. I am really excited about this one!
This. Sounds. Amazing.
April 7, 2020
Blurb:
"It’s my opinion that Janz has found a new niche genre for himself with THE RAVEN. I’m pleased that ending leaves this story and this universe, wide open for more. I’m a fan."
Full review coming to Cemetery Dance close to the release date.
"It’s my opinion that Janz has found a new niche genre for himself with THE RAVEN. I’m pleased that ending leaves this story and this universe, wide open for more. I’m a fan."
Full review coming to Cemetery Dance close to the release date.
October 7, 2020
THE RAVEN is a post-dystopian novel by author Jonathan Janz. In this new world--which begins two years after a catastrophic event that . . . changes . . . many of mankind--we go along with Dez, a lone man searching for someone who was taken from him.
". . . He hoped it wouldn't get him killed."
The characters we encounter are all unique. For example, Dez is a "Latent", which in this new era equates a "normal" person without any kind of extra or supernatural abilities.
Powerless, some would say.
Others run the gauntlet, incorporating all manner of beings. The one thing that really stands out to me, is that no matter what the situation, there are always humans looking to exploit it for their personal gain.
". . . Deep down, the human race is--or was--pretty goddamned selfish . . ."
The action starts out strong, with breaks for introspective thoughts by our main characters on things that happened in the past. Although these sections give us the backstory of what caused the world to be as it was now, other parts--where Dez obsessed over his lover and son--got a bit repetitious as the novel went on.
". . . Everyone looks human. No one looks like a monster, not all of the time . . ."
The creativity and magnitude of the different "groups" here was staggering. Almost anything you could think up was addressed at some point. this is a novel that could easily become a series, in my opinion, as there was so much left unexplored yet.
"You learned, or you died."
Overall, a novel of epic proportions, catering to horror lovers of all kinds. The idea presented could easily be expanded on in sequels, although this book concluded well enough for its own story. I did feel that some of Dez's thoughts got a bit repetitious, and others were just unnecessary to the plot. However, my general opinion was a fast paced tale--with a few "lulls" in the action--that tackles a subject I would love to read more about.
". . . there was some good in the world, but you had to look hard to find it."
Recommended.
". . . He hoped it wouldn't get him killed."
The characters we encounter are all unique. For example, Dez is a "Latent", which in this new era equates a "normal" person without any kind of extra or supernatural abilities.
Powerless, some would say.
Others run the gauntlet, incorporating all manner of beings. The one thing that really stands out to me, is that no matter what the situation, there are always humans looking to exploit it for their personal gain.
". . . Deep down, the human race is--or was--pretty goddamned selfish . . ."
The action starts out strong, with breaks for introspective thoughts by our main characters on things that happened in the past. Although these sections give us the backstory of what caused the world to be as it was now, other parts--where Dez obsessed over his lover and son--got a bit repetitious as the novel went on.
". . . Everyone looks human. No one looks like a monster, not all of the time . . ."
The creativity and magnitude of the different "groups" here was staggering. Almost anything you could think up was addressed at some point. this is a novel that could easily become a series, in my opinion, as there was so much left unexplored yet.
"You learned, or you died."
Overall, a novel of epic proportions, catering to horror lovers of all kinds. The idea presented could easily be expanded on in sequels, although this book concluded well enough for its own story. I did feel that some of Dez's thoughts got a bit repetitious, and others were just unnecessary to the plot. However, my general opinion was a fast paced tale--with a few "lulls" in the action--that tackles a subject I would love to read more about.
". . . there was some good in the world, but you had to look hard to find it."
Recommended.
April 22, 2023
Many thanks to NetGalley, Jonathan Janz, and Flame Tree Press for a chance to review this book. Every word of this review is solely and completely mine. I had never read anything Jonathan Janz, so he was a new author to me. So, when I checked out NetGalley and I saw the cover to this work, I was intrigued.
On the cover, it blatantly states that this book is a post-apocalyptic thriller by Janz "the modern master of horror and suspense." I don't believe that Janz wrote that little blurb himself, but I felt there was a really huge set of grapefruits advertising this work for someone I had never even heard of. Yet, I still wanted to check it out.
The post-apocalyptic world being constructed fascinated me. A virus had been unleashed by American geneticists in an attempt to prevent what appeared to be an imminent nuclear war. The road to ill is paved with good intentions, as we well know. The nuclear war is avoided, but the dark bits of humanity begin to disseminate through the population to the extent that otherwise fantastical, and fictional monsters are birthed in humanity. Vampires, werewolves, satyrs, and inhuman cannibals are among the diaspora of humanity that is now, depending on your point of view, less than/more than human.
With that bit of world building, he was off to the races. The main character named Dez, enters very quickly into a harrowing situation that he must try to extricate from and he does so while demonstrating the way things organically happen in this world. Most latents (normal people who have not yet developed a bestial ability) are thin, because they must hide and run with very little to eat. When someone is heavy-set or thick in some way, they must be bestial because only the bestial get to eat well, enjoy life, experience health.
Dez is looking for his woman, who was taken from him. It has been a while since her disappearance, so she may have been sold to vampires, and therefore no longer alive, but he feels compelled to find out. His travels take him to a bar that's a converted church. At the door, he is greeted by a seer that calls him the Raven and foreshadows what is to come.
There are some really good action sequences, rife with extensive horror elements and tropes turned on their ear. If you like gore, this book doesn't skimp on the gore. If you enjoy suspense, there is suspense that is organically built as opposed to being contrived out of thin air. The characters are strong and I'm sure we shall see them again. Janz didn't take such care to build this world, not to use it again. I will read Janz again. High recommendation!
On the cover, it blatantly states that this book is a post-apocalyptic thriller by Janz "the modern master of horror and suspense." I don't believe that Janz wrote that little blurb himself, but I felt there was a really huge set of grapefruits advertising this work for someone I had never even heard of. Yet, I still wanted to check it out.
The post-apocalyptic world being constructed fascinated me. A virus had been unleashed by American geneticists in an attempt to prevent what appeared to be an imminent nuclear war. The road to ill is paved with good intentions, as we well know. The nuclear war is avoided, but the dark bits of humanity begin to disseminate through the population to the extent that otherwise fantastical, and fictional monsters are birthed in humanity. Vampires, werewolves, satyrs, and inhuman cannibals are among the diaspora of humanity that is now, depending on your point of view, less than/more than human.
With that bit of world building, he was off to the races. The main character named Dez, enters very quickly into a harrowing situation that he must try to extricate from and he does so while demonstrating the way things organically happen in this world. Most latents (normal people who have not yet developed a bestial ability) are thin, because they must hide and run with very little to eat. When someone is heavy-set or thick in some way, they must be bestial because only the bestial get to eat well, enjoy life, experience health.
Dez is looking for his woman, who was taken from him. It has been a while since her disappearance, so she may have been sold to vampires, and therefore no longer alive, but he feels compelled to find out. His travels take him to a bar that's a converted church. At the door, he is greeted by a seer that calls him the Raven and foreshadows what is to come.
There are some really good action sequences, rife with extensive horror elements and tropes turned on their ear. If you like gore, this book doesn't skimp on the gore. If you enjoy suspense, there is suspense that is organically built as opposed to being contrived out of thin air. The characters are strong and I'm sure we shall see them again. Janz didn't take such care to build this world, not to use it again. I will read Janz again. High recommendation!
May 1, 2020
The Raven is a veritable monsters ball of action horror which doesn't let up from the first pulse pounding fight scene to the epic bloodbath of a conclusion.
Dez is a latent living in a world of mythological creatures made real thanks to a near extension-level-event caused by a group of rouge scientists who released airborne pathogens into the atmosphere - either killing or transforming the worlds human populace. However, a select few survived in their 'native' state, and that's where The Raven comes in.
The book is largely a dark and dangerous search and rescue mission with survival horror and action themes as Dez travels far and wide in search of his partner Susan who had been taken by force by a band of marauders.
Along the way Dez encounters werewolves, cannibals, a telekinetic, and a bunch of other mythical creepies; dispatching some with brutal efficiency while taking licks from others - the fighting is relentless.
The setting is intimidating and intriguing and the concept allows for further exploration of the new world inhabitants and their stories. Fingers crossed this is the start of something much larger.
Dez is a latent living in a world of mythological creatures made real thanks to a near extension-level-event caused by a group of rouge scientists who released airborne pathogens into the atmosphere - either killing or transforming the worlds human populace. However, a select few survived in their 'native' state, and that's where The Raven comes in.
The book is largely a dark and dangerous search and rescue mission with survival horror and action themes as Dez travels far and wide in search of his partner Susan who had been taken by force by a band of marauders.
Along the way Dez encounters werewolves, cannibals, a telekinetic, and a bunch of other mythical creepies; dispatching some with brutal efficiency while taking licks from others - the fighting is relentless.
The setting is intimidating and intriguing and the concept allows for further exploration of the new world inhabitants and their stories. Fingers crossed this is the start of something much larger.
May 12, 2023
This was so much fun! I love the entire premise of this dystopian horror where humans have been changed into various horror creatures and beasts, and I loved how action-packed this was. Full review coming soon!
August 19, 2020
Humans have always been monsters. We just needed a push to embrace our shadow side.In a world of monsters, Dez is a Latent. That sounds fancy, like his superpowers are just about to emerge. It actually means Dez is one of the few people that don’t have any powers, which is especially unfortunate considering he’s surrounded by cannibals, vampires, werewolves and satyrs. Dez has managed, against all odds, to survive for two years since the Four Winds but any moment could be his last.
Although it was the promise of monsters and blood spatter that drew me to this book, it was Dez himself that sucked me in. Despite all of the horrors he’s witnessed and participated in to stay alive, he has retained his humanity. He still has feelings. The grief and guilt he lives with for surviving while so many of his loved ones didn’t threatens to consume him. Although the odds are very slim that she’s still alive, Dez maintains hope of finding Susan, who he last saw being dragged away.
I learned enough about Dez’s personal history to become invested in his survival. The details provided about the various monsters enabled me to picture them, but I also understood that Dez still has a lot to learn, if only he can survive long enough.
So much blood is shed you could probably swim laps in it. I’m a huge fan of visceral horror so loved the descriptions of the carnage, where “shredded guts oozed like wine drenched cutlets” and a “chest was a wicker weave of stringed meat”.
I’m really hoping for a sequel that will take me to Blood Country. Some answers are given in this book. New people and monsters are introduced, and many are eviscerated, bludgeoned and ripped to shreds. But we’re on a journey here, and we’re not even close to the finish line. We need to search for loved ones, get to know new acquaintances (who are hopefully trustworthy) and battle more monsters.
This book surprised me in the best possible way. When I first saw the cover image I found it striking but didn’t really think it was signalling that this was the book for me. It was the blurb that enticed me and I’m so glad I took a chance on The Raven because it was a winner. I’m definitely going to be seeking out more books by this author.
Content warnings include mention of death by suicide, drug addiction and sexual assault. I’m all for slicing and dicing so I was keen for the gruesome deaths, though I was concerned about the satyrs and the potential for on page sexual assaults. Thankfully, while past assaults are mentioned, graphic details were not provided.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Flame Tree Press for the opportunity to read this book. I’m rounding up from 4.5 stars.
Blog - https://schizanthusnerd.com
October 4, 2020
This is one of those books I would never have heard of were it not for GR a post-apocalyptic thriller generally does not fit in my taste in books and they tend to be bloody doorstops of books.
This one is actually quite lean and mean clocking 245 pages of story which is kind of readable if the book is less than satisfying.
For the good news the writer does know how to write and tell a story, he does not meander a lot about what happened to get Dez McClane's story going. As a latent his DNA had nothing to rewrite so Dez remains a normal human being while he manages to stay alive among the horrors of mythological creatures who were hidden in our DNA all along.
A simple story of a man looking for his stolen mate in a world that is unrecognizable for us, Dez is nothing special if not very goal minded.
A really fascinating and good read I can only advise you to read, it might become a series I do not know but if I would gladly return. If not that deserves some kudos too for leaving this very successful scenery for just one book instead of an extended series. Which is my main problem with fantasy they tend to put out sequel after sequel to keep the cash register going.
Anyhow do read the book it is worthy of attention.
This one is actually quite lean and mean clocking 245 pages of story which is kind of readable if the book is less than satisfying.
For the good news the writer does know how to write and tell a story, he does not meander a lot about what happened to get Dez McClane's story going. As a latent his DNA had nothing to rewrite so Dez remains a normal human being while he manages to stay alive among the horrors of mythological creatures who were hidden in our DNA all along.
A simple story of a man looking for his stolen mate in a world that is unrecognizable for us, Dez is nothing special if not very goal minded.
A really fascinating and good read I can only advise you to read, it might become a series I do not know but if I would gladly return. If not that deserves some kudos too for leaving this very successful scenery for just one book instead of an extended series. Which is my main problem with fantasy they tend to put out sequel after sequel to keep the cash register going.
Anyhow do read the book it is worthy of attention.
October 6, 2020
A runaway train of post-apocalyptic horror, suspense, gore, and fun—flying down the tracks. You don’t want to look, but you can’t look away. If you like post-apocalyptic stories, or just supernatural or horror in general, you have to read this book! Then again I’d recommend every Janz book that has ever been written to just about anyone that isn’t squeamish.
Another masterful book from arguably my favorite author, who I would put up there with the likes of Robert Mccammon instead of another super well known horror author, because not only can he birth the most amazing tales, but he can also completely land the ending. Shots fired, but that’s my opinion. Mccammon and Janz are two of the most powerful kings to me 😲😲
It bears stating that I have found that I hate supernatural or unbelievable style in horror, unless it’s executed very well. “Look, it’s a chupacabra,” or, “Hey, there are bushes shaped like animals chasing me.” Those things just bug me when they’re not handled correctly. I’ve never had this problem with Janz. After loving every single Janz read, Children of the Dark was the first book of his that I thought would turn me off, but Janz drug me in and made every single far-fetched thing believable. I’ve never doubted him again. Raven is even more over the top, but Janz again makes everything seem so possible and spins the tale it in new and unique ways that drag you in and won’t let go. I love his pacing, his usage of just the right amount of humor at the correct times, and his analogies. If you’ve read Janz and haven’t noticed that his unique analogies are unrivaled in their field, then have you really read Janz? 😂
In every Janz book there are horror moments that are mind-blowingly matchless and singular to Janz. (The tooth brushing scene in Exorcist Falls, the member scooping scene in Wolfland, etc.) In Raven we have a shriveled “Mushroom” welcome sign to a den of iniquity and a “heady” railing. I would also add the forehead/face biting scene as a contender. Excited?! You’ll have to read it to find out!
On top of all this, Janz named the main character after me!!! 🤣😂Ok, so it’s a very minor character and completely not named after me, but I can pretend, right?! The ending is tied up in a perfect bow, as Janz so deftly does, but also left open for a return to this world. I’m in. I can’t wait to go back. Janz for president. I’m out. Peace.
P.s. sorry for gushing, he’s my favorite author. Read the book, there is better gushing in there. Gobbets of flesh and rivulets of blood like tributaries from a Stygian river........
Another masterful book from arguably my favorite author, who I would put up there with the likes of Robert Mccammon instead of another super well known horror author, because not only can he birth the most amazing tales, but he can also completely land the ending. Shots fired, but that’s my opinion. Mccammon and Janz are two of the most powerful kings to me 😲😲
It bears stating that I have found that I hate supernatural or unbelievable style in horror, unless it’s executed very well. “Look, it’s a chupacabra,” or, “Hey, there are bushes shaped like animals chasing me.” Those things just bug me when they’re not handled correctly. I’ve never had this problem with Janz. After loving every single Janz read, Children of the Dark was the first book of his that I thought would turn me off, but Janz drug me in and made every single far-fetched thing believable. I’ve never doubted him again. Raven is even more over the top, but Janz again makes everything seem so possible and spins the tale it in new and unique ways that drag you in and won’t let go. I love his pacing, his usage of just the right amount of humor at the correct times, and his analogies. If you’ve read Janz and haven’t noticed that his unique analogies are unrivaled in their field, then have you really read Janz? 😂
In every Janz book there are horror moments that are mind-blowingly matchless and singular to Janz. (The tooth brushing scene in Exorcist Falls, the member scooping scene in Wolfland, etc.) In Raven we have a shriveled “Mushroom” welcome sign to a den of iniquity and a “heady” railing. I would also add the forehead/face biting scene as a contender. Excited?! You’ll have to read it to find out!
On top of all this, Janz named the main character after me!!! 🤣😂Ok, so it’s a very minor character and completely not named after me, but I can pretend, right?! The ending is tied up in a perfect bow, as Janz so deftly does, but also left open for a return to this world. I’m in. I can’t wait to go back. Janz for president. I’m out. Peace.
P.s. sorry for gushing, he’s my favorite author. Read the book, there is better gushing in there. Gobbets of flesh and rivulets of blood like tributaries from a Stygian river........
July 25, 2023
For lovers of action/adventure who don't mind the extreme gore and violence there's a lot to like here, whether readers crave horror, science fiction, fantasy, even elements of classic westerns. This is a very well-written hodgepodge of those genres with a generous dose of intensity.
The world ends not with a devastating nuclear bomb but with an array of genetic DNA missiles that revive ancient strains long dormant, as vampires, werewolves, cannibals, satyrs and minotaurs roam once again and plunge the world into post-apocalyptic mayhem where only the strong or crafty can survive. Telepaths, seers, and other paranormal abilities manifest in all but those survivors labeled as "Latents" (no special abilities).
It's a fantastic template for more stories to come, as Janz focuses on one man's (Dez McCane) exploration of this strange new world and search for his missing girlfriend. He's an empathetic character and readers see, feel, and experience the world through his eyes and thoughts.
While this is an action-packed wild ride that proceeds at a rapid pace I read THE RAVEN slowly, several chapters at at time, because I needed to put it down so my heart rate could return to normal.
Also, I feel that if I read something like this straight through I become numb and/or immune to the violence . . . and I don't want that to happen.
From the first chapter, Janz immediately drops the reader into the middle of the conflict. Legendary science-fiction author Alfred Bester said something like this regarding how to gain reader interest. (I'm paraphrasing) . . . . . On the first page, grab your reader by the collar and punch their face repeatedly. I definitely felt that when beginning to read this.
The latter part of the story features a chapters-long bar fight that, along with Gunfight At The OK Corral, has to make the list of classic bar fights/brawls/melees.
The story leaves an opening for more, which I hope occurs.
The world ends not with a devastating nuclear bomb but with an array of genetic DNA missiles that revive ancient strains long dormant, as vampires, werewolves, cannibals, satyrs and minotaurs roam once again and plunge the world into post-apocalyptic mayhem where only the strong or crafty can survive. Telepaths, seers, and other paranormal abilities manifest in all but those survivors labeled as "Latents" (no special abilities).
It's a fantastic template for more stories to come, as Janz focuses on one man's (Dez McCane) exploration of this strange new world and search for his missing girlfriend. He's an empathetic character and readers see, feel, and experience the world through his eyes and thoughts.
While this is an action-packed wild ride that proceeds at a rapid pace I read THE RAVEN slowly, several chapters at at time, because I needed to put it down so my heart rate could return to normal.
Also, I feel that if I read something like this straight through I become numb and/or immune to the violence . . . and I don't want that to happen.
From the first chapter, Janz immediately drops the reader into the middle of the conflict. Legendary science-fiction author Alfred Bester said something like this regarding how to gain reader interest. (I'm paraphrasing) . . . . . On the first page, grab your reader by the collar and punch their face repeatedly. I definitely felt that when beginning to read this.
The latter part of the story features a chapters-long bar fight that, along with Gunfight At The OK Corral, has to make the list of classic bar fights/brawls/melees.
The story leaves an opening for more, which I hope occurs.
September 11, 2020
What do you associate with an awesome reading experience? The final page has been digested, the last word consumed, and time feels like it has literally stood still. The Raven made me feel like I was in a different place…in a different time. The book felt like it was magnetised to my fingers. If I had to put it down to do you know, adulty things, I ended up looking for any excuse to get straight back to it.
I’m ashamed to say that this was my first Jonathan Janz book, but it will a gazillion per cent not be the last. The Raven was fully inhaled in one sitting and I was all in and invested in the story. I was carried away by the cognitively pleasing atmosphere and a narrative style that just etched a lasting impression upon my soul. This being my first book by Janz, I wasn’t sure just what I was letting myself in for. It was a closed door, I needed the key that would open up a whole new world that I just needed to explore. The narrative is so pleasingly savage and brutal with monsters, potential human extinction and scary as shit DNA lying dormant.
My true love is horror and one that is written so perfectly such as this gives me the book hangover to end all hangovers. The Raven is just so compulsive and dark that it reminds me of the crack in the earth’s crust after a monumental earthquake. Dez McClane is a survivor in the days after an apocalyptic event known as The Shift. He is trying to find his way/path in unknown territory. He is now faced with trying to survive in a world where the monsters of our nightmares are very very real. He’s unremarkable at first, but isn’t that how all of the worlds hero’s start off?
Jonathan Janz’ characterisation is a strong, swift kick to the genitals. He highlights humanity’s strengths and weaknesses, actions and consequences and death and loss being the prominent themes being portrayed through-out. This bleak world will come to life before your eyes and the characters will call out to you just like a lamenting swan song…its beautiful but devastatingly haunting. I don’t really want to reveal anything further about the plot, you need to experience the emotions that this book will wreck upon you.
The Raven had me always pulling towards the lone wolf element of the story. He’s been through a lot and continues to do so. It’s not a fairy-tale but real life and the damage that can be wrought upon the world. We can end up alone and fighting not only the beasts within our head but apparently “fictional” ones too. I’m glad I took the leap and I’ll be back for more.
The Raven is a humdinger of a Apocalyptic horror. Janz creates characters that you can relate to, who have your instant respect and then thrusts them into situations that are our deep-seated fears. Hypnotically readable.
I’m ashamed to say that this was my first Jonathan Janz book, but it will a gazillion per cent not be the last. The Raven was fully inhaled in one sitting and I was all in and invested in the story. I was carried away by the cognitively pleasing atmosphere and a narrative style that just etched a lasting impression upon my soul. This being my first book by Janz, I wasn’t sure just what I was letting myself in for. It was a closed door, I needed the key that would open up a whole new world that I just needed to explore. The narrative is so pleasingly savage and brutal with monsters, potential human extinction and scary as shit DNA lying dormant.
My true love is horror and one that is written so perfectly such as this gives me the book hangover to end all hangovers. The Raven is just so compulsive and dark that it reminds me of the crack in the earth’s crust after a monumental earthquake. Dez McClane is a survivor in the days after an apocalyptic event known as The Shift. He is trying to find his way/path in unknown territory. He is now faced with trying to survive in a world where the monsters of our nightmares are very very real. He’s unremarkable at first, but isn’t that how all of the worlds hero’s start off?
Jonathan Janz’ characterisation is a strong, swift kick to the genitals. He highlights humanity’s strengths and weaknesses, actions and consequences and death and loss being the prominent themes being portrayed through-out. This bleak world will come to life before your eyes and the characters will call out to you just like a lamenting swan song…its beautiful but devastatingly haunting. I don’t really want to reveal anything further about the plot, you need to experience the emotions that this book will wreck upon you.
The Raven had me always pulling towards the lone wolf element of the story. He’s been through a lot and continues to do so. It’s not a fairy-tale but real life and the damage that can be wrought upon the world. We can end up alone and fighting not only the beasts within our head but apparently “fictional” ones too. I’m glad I took the leap and I’ll be back for more.
The Raven is a humdinger of a Apocalyptic horror. Janz creates characters that you can relate to, who have your instant respect and then thrusts them into situations that are our deep-seated fears. Hypnotically readable.
February 4, 2022
While this isn’t my absolute favourite Janz book, it still remains a phenomenal story. It’s got just about everything you could possibly want from a horror story and more! I mean, witches and vampires and werewolves AND more fantastical creatures all in one great story? This is the very fabric that a horror fan’s dreams are made of. My only minor complaint and what stopped it from being a full five star blowout is that I just didn’t connect with the main character, Dez. Something about him just didn’t strike any chords for me and I’m a very character driven reader. I’m not left feeling disappointed though, I thoroughly enjoyed it anyways! And it was quite different than anything I’ve read by Janz before so definite bonus points for that, he has an awesome range in his writing that I really appreciate.
July 28, 2020
The Raven, Jonathan Janz’s latest horror romp, is both a departure from the neo-gothic style he’s perfected over the course of his career with works like The Sorrows, House of Skin, and The Dark Game, and a continuation of several familiar hallmarks from the author’s career. It treads new ground for Janz, while also feeling a bit like a culmination of the man’s work to date with a promise to chart new horizons in the immediate future.
Dez is the survivor of an apocalyptic event known as the Four Winds, which populated the world with monsters. He’s also a Latent, one of the few humans left that do not possess any type of supernatural power, which makes him an easy target for the cannibals, vampires, werewolves, and other assorted nasties populating this changed Earth. Hunting for his kidnapped lover, Susan, he routinely comes into contact with these monstrosities, and Janz wastes no time showing us the marked depravity to which humanity has succumbed.
The Raven hits the ground running with an opening sequence of high brutality that immediately lets you know Janz ain’t playing around here and sets the tone for the story that follows. Over the course of roughly a dozen novels, Janz has shown an impeccable knack for crafting immediately loathsome characters, while also giving us some unexpected twists on common tropes. The Raven has a planet full of deplorable characters, but few are as bad as Keaton, a barman and trafficker of humans for the cannibals and vampires of Indiana’s wilderness. The book itself is also a nifty, off-beat twist on the post-apocalyptic genre itself, taking the premise of “humans are the worst monsters” to the next level by literally making humans into actual, honest-to-goodness monsters of legend and lore.
Two years ago, terrorists launched an attack with the aid of rogue scientists who had managed to unlock the mysteries of the junk DNA in our genetic code. Turns out, all the horror legends we’ve grown up with in books and movies actually existed long ago. Vampires were as real as you and I once upon a time, as were werewolves, witches, and all the rest, but as mankind’s population grew these horrifying traits were bred or persecuted out out of human genes. The Four Winds terror attack managed to re-trigger these ancient abilities and destroy contemporary mankind, returning society to a state of barbarism populated almost entirely by monsters.
It’s a premise that coasts along on pulpy comic book or video game logic, so don’t expect a lot of actual hard science here. You just have to enjoy it for the fun premise it is. It’s also a premise that allows Janz to go back to some familiar creatures he’s dabbled with previously in works like Dust Devils and Wolf Land, as well as mash together a few genres to create some layered tones and atmosphere that work exceptionally well. With its focus on a lone hero wandering the wastelands to save his girl and bring justice to those who captured her, heading for Keaton and his tavern of depravities, The Raven has a rich Western genre aesthetic to it, at times feeling like a post-apocalyptic, creature-laden Man With No Name flick. I'm always game for some Weird Westerns, and I good and truly dug that Janz leaned hard into this mode of storytelling. The Raven is assuredly some fun post-apocalyptic monster mayhem, but what makes it all the more special for me is the fact that it's a post-apocalyptic spaghetti western!
The Raven is also the first in a proposed series, and Janz leaves enough plot threads dangling to lure readers back for more. Thankfully, Janz has created a monstrous enough world filled with plenty of potential and promise that I’m more than eager to return to again. There's a lot of directions this series can take and I'm curious to see what directions Janz goes in with future installments and how the relationships between Dez and his small cadre of fellow survivors develop.
Dez is the survivor of an apocalyptic event known as the Four Winds, which populated the world with monsters. He’s also a Latent, one of the few humans left that do not possess any type of supernatural power, which makes him an easy target for the cannibals, vampires, werewolves, and other assorted nasties populating this changed Earth. Hunting for his kidnapped lover, Susan, he routinely comes into contact with these monstrosities, and Janz wastes no time showing us the marked depravity to which humanity has succumbed.
The Raven hits the ground running with an opening sequence of high brutality that immediately lets you know Janz ain’t playing around here and sets the tone for the story that follows. Over the course of roughly a dozen novels, Janz has shown an impeccable knack for crafting immediately loathsome characters, while also giving us some unexpected twists on common tropes. The Raven has a planet full of deplorable characters, but few are as bad as Keaton, a barman and trafficker of humans for the cannibals and vampires of Indiana’s wilderness. The book itself is also a nifty, off-beat twist on the post-apocalyptic genre itself, taking the premise of “humans are the worst monsters” to the next level by literally making humans into actual, honest-to-goodness monsters of legend and lore.
Two years ago, terrorists launched an attack with the aid of rogue scientists who had managed to unlock the mysteries of the junk DNA in our genetic code. Turns out, all the horror legends we’ve grown up with in books and movies actually existed long ago. Vampires were as real as you and I once upon a time, as were werewolves, witches, and all the rest, but as mankind’s population grew these horrifying traits were bred or persecuted out out of human genes. The Four Winds terror attack managed to re-trigger these ancient abilities and destroy contemporary mankind, returning society to a state of barbarism populated almost entirely by monsters.
It’s a premise that coasts along on pulpy comic book or video game logic, so don’t expect a lot of actual hard science here. You just have to enjoy it for the fun premise it is. It’s also a premise that allows Janz to go back to some familiar creatures he’s dabbled with previously in works like Dust Devils and Wolf Land, as well as mash together a few genres to create some layered tones and atmosphere that work exceptionally well. With its focus on a lone hero wandering the wastelands to save his girl and bring justice to those who captured her, heading for Keaton and his tavern of depravities, The Raven has a rich Western genre aesthetic to it, at times feeling like a post-apocalyptic, creature-laden Man With No Name flick. I'm always game for some Weird Westerns, and I good and truly dug that Janz leaned hard into this mode of storytelling. The Raven is assuredly some fun post-apocalyptic monster mayhem, but what makes it all the more special for me is the fact that it's a post-apocalyptic spaghetti western!
The Raven is also the first in a proposed series, and Janz leaves enough plot threads dangling to lure readers back for more. Thankfully, Janz has created a monstrous enough world filled with plenty of potential and promise that I’m more than eager to return to again. There's a lot of directions this series can take and I'm curious to see what directions Janz goes in with future installments and how the relationships between Dez and his small cadre of fellow survivors develop.
September 15, 2020
It's been 2 years since a man-made plague has been unleashed upon the world reverting most human beings into creatures of myth, which was locked within our DNA. Dez McClane is what as known as a latent a human who has not turned at all. He has been on a quest to find Susan another latent who was kidnapped for sale to highest bidder.
This is a fast paced gore filled romp through a world that has essentially become the wild west. If your fan of vampires, werewolves, cannibals, people with psychic powers etc. you are sure to enjoy this.
A bit different for Jonathan Janz, but that's what makes him one of my favorites, always trying something new.
This is a fast paced gore filled romp through a world that has essentially become the wild west. If your fan of vampires, werewolves, cannibals, people with psychic powers etc. you are sure to enjoy this.
A bit different for Jonathan Janz, but that's what makes him one of my favorites, always trying something new.
March 18, 2020
THE RAVEN by Jonathan Janz is my favorite book by Janz so far which is really saying something because I love his work. THE RAVEN has great characters and an extremely wide range of different baddies and Janz makes it work with the kind of amazing characterization Janz fans have come to expect from his books. I have read that Janz plans to make THE RAVEN into the first book in a series which has me excited because I want more adventures in this world Jonathan Janz has created.
July 22, 2022
Dez (The Raven) survives the nuclear attack on mankind, which was engineered by scientists to reawaken monster DNA in humans. The monster DNA that has been laying dormant for years has not created a world of creatures only read about in fictional books. The monsters are real but the suppressed DNA has no special powers so regular humans like Dez have only a small chance of survival.
The Raven opens with with jaw dropping action involving Dez, which immediately hooks the reader’s attention. At the start of the book, Dez is looking for a character that sells souls to monsters because his love, Susan, has disappeared in this post apocalyptic world.
The Raven a fast-paced book with monsters of epic proportions that do not relent. Janz’s fresh perspectives on this type of novel was refreshing because there were no zombies. There was a healthy mix of traditional monsters and mythical creatures like werewolves, satyrs, vampires, cannibals, Minotaurs and more.
The book ended on a cliffhanger which leaves the story open for another book. I hope there is a sequel because that would be mind blowing. Janz never disappoints me. I loved the entire book. I recommend this book 100%. It was pure genius.
August 29, 2020
If ever a novel was right up my street it was this one. A spaghetti western action-horror in a post-apocalyptic landscape, with a serious nod to "from dusk till dawn", crammed full of mythical monsters and beasties. It is a well worn trope to have the protagonist in stories of this nature be some mysterious, almost invincible figure but Janz avoids falling into this pitfall by having Dez prove to be oh so fallible. He doubts himself and his actions, especially when in life or death situations, feels guilt for those that he has failed previously and often seems utterly outmatched when faced with a werewolf, vampire, cannibal or any of the other monsters he encounters on his quest.
Highly recommended. One of the most fun horror reads I have had this year.
Highly recommended. One of the most fun horror reads I have had this year.
September 18, 2020
The Raven, Wow! I have so much to say.
I have not read a Jonathan Janz book yet that I haven’t enjoyed, but I this is my favorite so far, I loved everything about it.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world where Dez is a survivor of a man-made Bio attack known as the Four Winds. Scientists had discovered that the monsters we know from myths and Lore did once exist and now lay dormant in our genetic code. The four Winds attack reignited these codes and the world is now at the mercy of Werewolf’s, Vampires, Cannibals, Witches, Telekinetic’s and many other forms.
Dez is a ‘Latent’ one of a small percentage of the population left who has no ‘abilities’.
The Raven hits the ground running, straight into the action and the scene is set instantly.
‘Finding a dead body wasn’t uncommon – the creatures who ruled the world now didn’t scruple about leaving their victims exposed to the elements. But it was still a nasty jolt to find himself standing on a dead man’s forearm’
Dez is on a mission to track down Keaton, a tyrant who has made his name trafficking people for the flesh trade, selling to vampires, cannibals and other creatures. During an attack Keaton kidnapped Dez’s love interest Susan. Dez has tracked Keaton to the Four Winds Bar, and so the journey begins.
I am a big fan of post-apocalyptic fiction, I love the suspense and the constant search for safety, the distrust between people and the relationships formed between people (and creatures in this case) who would never have normally crossed paths.
I think Janz does this perfectly. The characters have layers and layers of personality and although we are introduced to many characters in a fast-paced story, their personalities are all very discernible.
Dez is a very believable and relatable character, I noted as I was reading the first few chapters, I liked the clever way we get insight into Dez’s character through his diary entries. I like everything about him.
‘Apparently he needed no new issues; the old ones simply grew more corrosive in his isolation. The bad decisions he’d made with Susan. His wife and son. The manner in which he’d spoken to his father. His failure with his little brother. Most of all, the things he hadn’t said and done’
Also, of note we have an awesome female protagonist in Iris, I cannot wait to find out more about her and the others who ended the story together.
Let’s not forget to mention how fantastically brutal and gory The Raven is a no holds barred ride, in true Janz style, many pages are slick with blood and gore and I loved every minute. The detail and imagery were so good I felt like I was watching the scenes unfold rather than reading them. Possibly not for the faint hearted haha.
I am so pleased that the story was left open for more, not a cliff-hanger, more like the end of part 1 (please let it be a trilogy!) and please don’t make us wait too long Mr Janz!
The world building foundations that have been laid are truly exciting and with so many potential avenues the story could go absolutely anywhere. I’m so excited!
I would usually use this space to note any negative comments or thoughts, but I have none.
The Raven is a fast paced, brutal post-apocalyptic thriller. Awesome characters, engaging story and immersive imagery. I want more and I want it now!
If you haven’t already ordered a copy, I suggest you do so immediately!
I have not read a Jonathan Janz book yet that I haven’t enjoyed, but I this is my favorite so far, I loved everything about it.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world where Dez is a survivor of a man-made Bio attack known as the Four Winds. Scientists had discovered that the monsters we know from myths and Lore did once exist and now lay dormant in our genetic code. The four Winds attack reignited these codes and the world is now at the mercy of Werewolf’s, Vampires, Cannibals, Witches, Telekinetic’s and many other forms.
Dez is a ‘Latent’ one of a small percentage of the population left who has no ‘abilities’.
The Raven hits the ground running, straight into the action and the scene is set instantly.
‘Finding a dead body wasn’t uncommon – the creatures who ruled the world now didn’t scruple about leaving their victims exposed to the elements. But it was still a nasty jolt to find himself standing on a dead man’s forearm’
Dez is on a mission to track down Keaton, a tyrant who has made his name trafficking people for the flesh trade, selling to vampires, cannibals and other creatures. During an attack Keaton kidnapped Dez’s love interest Susan. Dez has tracked Keaton to the Four Winds Bar, and so the journey begins.
I am a big fan of post-apocalyptic fiction, I love the suspense and the constant search for safety, the distrust between people and the relationships formed between people (and creatures in this case) who would never have normally crossed paths.
I think Janz does this perfectly. The characters have layers and layers of personality and although we are introduced to many characters in a fast-paced story, their personalities are all very discernible.
Dez is a very believable and relatable character, I noted as I was reading the first few chapters, I liked the clever way we get insight into Dez’s character through his diary entries. I like everything about him.
‘Apparently he needed no new issues; the old ones simply grew more corrosive in his isolation. The bad decisions he’d made with Susan. His wife and son. The manner in which he’d spoken to his father. His failure with his little brother. Most of all, the things he hadn’t said and done’
Also, of note we have an awesome female protagonist in Iris, I cannot wait to find out more about her and the others who ended the story together.
Let’s not forget to mention how fantastically brutal and gory The Raven is a no holds barred ride, in true Janz style, many pages are slick with blood and gore and I loved every minute. The detail and imagery were so good I felt like I was watching the scenes unfold rather than reading them. Possibly not for the faint hearted haha.
I am so pleased that the story was left open for more, not a cliff-hanger, more like the end of part 1 (please let it be a trilogy!) and please don’t make us wait too long Mr Janz!
The world building foundations that have been laid are truly exciting and with so many potential avenues the story could go absolutely anywhere. I’m so excited!
I would usually use this space to note any negative comments or thoughts, but I have none.
The Raven is a fast paced, brutal post-apocalyptic thriller. Awesome characters, engaging story and immersive imagery. I want more and I want it now!
If you haven’t already ordered a copy, I suggest you do so immediately!
September 20, 2020
I'm not that keen on apocalyptic novel but I got to admit that I really enjoyed this one. Jonathan Janz has become a must-read for me and I'm so glad I had the chance to read an ARC via NetGalley and the publisher. This novel is well-written, has interesting characters and a fun plot, and it’s really scary. The journey these fictitious people take to stay alive will grab you from page one and make you want to read it in one sitting. If not, you'll find yourself grabbing the book whenever time permits. That's what happened to me. I look forward to read anything else by this talented man.
December 22, 2020
The Raven was a fun read and another winner from Jonathan Janz. My review can be read here ---> https://wp.me/p5t5Tf-1WE
Read
September 4, 2020** Edited as review is now live on Kendall Reviews**
DNF
First off, let me start by saying, I’ve loved everything I’ve read by Janz. Wolf Land, Children of the Dark, The Dark Game etc. I still need to get to Siren and the Spectre and Savage Species, but that’ll be happening shortly.
Second off, The Raven was a DNF for me. I’ll go into that here shortly, but I went back and forth between writing a review or just putting a few comments on Goodreads about it, but ultimately, each book is an individual’s experience. So, here is my experience, and I’m hoping that maybe what I say will still get some of you to buy it.
What I liked: The Raven is a post-apoc book set in the not-so-distant future, following an ‘end of world’ bomb event. The difference here is that some crazy scientists dropped bombs that turned some people into cannibals, some vampires and some werewolves. This left some folk as normal or ‘latents.’
The book picks up in the middle of some action. Dex, our MC has stumbled on some people in the woods, as he continues to make his way to the mysterious Four Winds Bar.
Janz writes with such ease that the choreography described was easily pictured as a big-budget, Hollywood action film.
I was intrigued with the notebooks our character kept with him and with the amount I read, we find out that he’s struggling with feelings of being a failure over not being able to save his family. It really humanized a character that needs to kill to stay alive.
What I didn’t like: For me personally, I’ve fallen off the enjoyment of shows like The Walking Dead where it’s people trying to survive against the elements and the undead coming to kill them and at points, I thought I was reading a book about Daryl with his crossbow. For someone to survive on their own for so long, Dex sure made a lot of bonehead decisions in the 30% of the book I read and that was what ultimately made me stop reading. I couldn’t comprehend that this guy would be killing vampires and werewolves yet let someone walk up behind him and apprehend him. The thing that ultimately did it in for me was Dex coming across a strange old man and willingly followed him into his house, all in the hopes that the man had popcorn.
Why you should buy it: Janz is one of the best horror writers out there. He has produced a number of truly stunning releases and there are more coming down the road for sure. While The Raven ultimately missed its mark with me, for old fans and new, it offers a fun action/adventure romp where killing is Dex’s business… and business is good.
DNF
First off, let me start by saying, I’ve loved everything I’ve read by Janz. Wolf Land, Children of the Dark, The Dark Game etc. I still need to get to Siren and the Spectre and Savage Species, but that’ll be happening shortly.
Second off, The Raven was a DNF for me. I’ll go into that here shortly, but I went back and forth between writing a review or just putting a few comments on Goodreads about it, but ultimately, each book is an individual’s experience. So, here is my experience, and I’m hoping that maybe what I say will still get some of you to buy it.
What I liked: The Raven is a post-apoc book set in the not-so-distant future, following an ‘end of world’ bomb event. The difference here is that some crazy scientists dropped bombs that turned some people into cannibals, some vampires and some werewolves. This left some folk as normal or ‘latents.’
The book picks up in the middle of some action. Dex, our MC has stumbled on some people in the woods, as he continues to make his way to the mysterious Four Winds Bar.
Janz writes with such ease that the choreography described was easily pictured as a big-budget, Hollywood action film.
I was intrigued with the notebooks our character kept with him and with the amount I read, we find out that he’s struggling with feelings of being a failure over not being able to save his family. It really humanized a character that needs to kill to stay alive.
What I didn’t like: For me personally, I’ve fallen off the enjoyment of shows like The Walking Dead where it’s people trying to survive against the elements and the undead coming to kill them and at points, I thought I was reading a book about Daryl with his crossbow. For someone to survive on their own for so long, Dex sure made a lot of bonehead decisions in the 30% of the book I read and that was what ultimately made me stop reading. I couldn’t comprehend that this guy would be killing vampires and werewolves yet let someone walk up behind him and apprehend him. The thing that ultimately did it in for me was Dex coming across a strange old man and willingly followed him into his house, all in the hopes that the man had popcorn.
Why you should buy it: Janz is one of the best horror writers out there. He has produced a number of truly stunning releases and there are more coming down the road for sure. While The Raven ultimately missed its mark with me, for old fans and new, it offers a fun action/adventure romp where killing is Dex’s business… and business is good.
March 14, 2021
(Been several months behind in book reviews, so please excuse the time span in between when read and my review now)
I've long been a huge fan of the works by Jonathan Janz and his latest from Flame Tree certainly doesn't disappoint. Or let up from page one.
The whole has gone to shit. The apocalypse has killed millions, left ragged bands of survivors struggling to survive. A group of scientists, based on a twisted ideology, released a virus that unleashed monstrous genetics that lay in just about everyone. Creatures of myth, legend, and nightmares become very real and wreak bloody destruction. One man named Dez McClane is traveling across a bleak world in middle America looking for a lost love, but instead finds himself trapped amidst a band of bloodthirsty creatures and mercenaries. Except for a few unlikely allies, will the man known as The Raven survive?
So much about this I really loved but especially the way Janz writes nonstop action and relatable heroes and even villains that you despise and love. Also this book clearly sets up a future sequel. Can't wait!
Highly recommended!
I've long been a huge fan of the works by Jonathan Janz and his latest from Flame Tree certainly doesn't disappoint. Or let up from page one.
The whole has gone to shit. The apocalypse has killed millions, left ragged bands of survivors struggling to survive. A group of scientists, based on a twisted ideology, released a virus that unleashed monstrous genetics that lay in just about everyone. Creatures of myth, legend, and nightmares become very real and wreak bloody destruction. One man named Dez McClane is traveling across a bleak world in middle America looking for a lost love, but instead finds himself trapped amidst a band of bloodthirsty creatures and mercenaries. Except for a few unlikely allies, will the man known as The Raven survive?
So much about this I really loved but especially the way Janz writes nonstop action and relatable heroes and even villains that you despise and love. Also this book clearly sets up a future sequel. Can't wait!
Highly recommended!
May 5, 2020
I actually finished this a bit ago, but wanted to think a while before writing the review. You see, I saw so many unabashed five star reviews of this online and I was just: I mean, I liked it…
The book is good. You have a main character who is almost iconic. There are breathtaking action sequences and moments of pure heartbreak. And…I liked it. I didn’t completely love it.
You see, it took me a while to buy into this world. I had so many questions about the various supernaturals and the hows and the whys and especially about the cannibals that it kind of interrupted the world for me. At times, instead of just enjoying the ride, my mind was full of questions. While the author did eventually answer each one of those questions, it wasn’t a seamless read for me.
I still liked it. I love the author and will be first on board for whatever he brings me next. This one just gave me the occasional hiccup.
*ARC Provided via Net Galley
The book is good. You have a main character who is almost iconic. There are breathtaking action sequences and moments of pure heartbreak. And…I liked it. I didn’t completely love it.
You see, it took me a while to buy into this world. I had so many questions about the various supernaturals and the hows and the whys and especially about the cannibals that it kind of interrupted the world for me. At times, instead of just enjoying the ride, my mind was full of questions. While the author did eventually answer each one of those questions, it wasn’t a seamless read for me.
I still liked it. I love the author and will be first on board for whatever he brings me next. This one just gave me the occasional hiccup.
*ARC Provided via Net Galley
September 12, 2021
Janz literally never disappoints. I didn't even have to know what the story was about I just saw it was a Janz and I bought it. I was happy to discover that it was a post-apocalyptic tale, allowing for a myriad of monsters, and with plenty of heart to go along with it.
September 11, 2020
This may be a ranting review because Mr Janz what are you doing to me!!! I really bloody hope there is another book and you know maybe a third or a fourth! I was enjoying the book, it was intense there at the end and then…then…bam…Acknowledgements. Now I checked my kindle just in case I was missing something, check my book to see if I was missing pages or anything had come loose. I text Kate (Portable Magic) to ask if it was the same for her. I can’t repeat what I said to her afterwards, it’s too spoiler territory but she did laugh at me. I howled at the moon in despair, wait what?! But no bottom line is, I had the complete book and ebook, I’m not missing anything. My other conclusion is that Mr Janz has finished the book and maybe it cut off at the printers? Or he forgot to send that bit to the publishers? I can come up with many theories here but none of this detracts what a wild ride this book is!
Now everyone who is anyone in my little bubble knows that this author, the legend that he is, is my go-to for all things spooky and gory. This is most definitely the gory side of things, I did also make the mistake of starting this book on my lunch break. Now nothing normally puts me off my food, ever, but this book well I might have felt slightly queasy, so that is an accomplishment there! I mean if flayed penises are your thing at lunchtime come on over and join the crew.
The worrying thing about The Raven is I have always a small fear about books and films about a chemical that can make people into zombies, carry the virus which makes them crazy, you know the everyday world we are living in now!! So when this book pops up, I don’t read the blurb, don’t need to, but man this book could be just as real as any other romance or thriller we read. This is a lab-based virus which wipes people out, and then others with “junk” DNA can turn in to a whole array of mystical creatures it’s astounding. Something I think could happen now! I mean hello Resident Evil, Covid?
I have so many theories with this book but I can’t share them here for the fear of spoiling but if you read it and want to discuss feel free to message me! I have theories behind why he is called The Raven. I have theories about the Edgar Allen Poe poem mentioned in the book. I have a theory about the entire book! But these are theories, let’s talk about the book!
This book is one heck of a gruesome, Walking Dead kinda vibe. Think Neagan and you have Keaton, only not as hot. You have to have a bad guy, and this guy is as bad as they come, remember the penis comment, well thank him! I found it fascinating the combination of the supernatural creatures in a community. We have everything you can think of and then you have the Latents, the no supernatural abilities whatsoever which add an extra spice to the book. It is a tale of man, Dez, seeking revenge, best kind and well things don’t always work out how you expect them. So much blood, guts and gore you will be sliding all over the place, just how it’s meant to be in Shadeland. Yes, we are back there again and I love it! This place is like Maine in a King book, just don’t ever go there!!
I haven’t even spoken about the main characters or any characters really. I don’t think I will, I think you should meet them yourself. They all have their own story for you to hear plus they tell it better than me. Just make sure you listen closely.
I feel like I had some sort of weird trippy drug trip with this book. There is so much going on in such few pages. Still, with its homage to a Richard Laymon book, it packs quite a few punches. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Even though my mojo has gone on holiday, I know that a Janz book is one that will pick me up straight away. I mean how long is this review!!
Bottom line, I want more of the Raven and I want more of Janz’ stories! Win-win really! Janz has all the magic of a horror book, the tension, the backstory, the girl, enough to keep you on hanging on the hook demanding more (have I done that enough!?). He powers through you with all of this and he leaves you with the taste of blood in your mouth and a need for more.
Now everyone who is anyone in my little bubble knows that this author, the legend that he is, is my go-to for all things spooky and gory. This is most definitely the gory side of things, I did also make the mistake of starting this book on my lunch break. Now nothing normally puts me off my food, ever, but this book well I might have felt slightly queasy, so that is an accomplishment there! I mean if flayed penises are your thing at lunchtime come on over and join the crew.
The worrying thing about The Raven is I have always a small fear about books and films about a chemical that can make people into zombies, carry the virus which makes them crazy, you know the everyday world we are living in now!! So when this book pops up, I don’t read the blurb, don’t need to, but man this book could be just as real as any other romance or thriller we read. This is a lab-based virus which wipes people out, and then others with “junk” DNA can turn in to a whole array of mystical creatures it’s astounding. Something I think could happen now! I mean hello Resident Evil, Covid?
I have so many theories with this book but I can’t share them here for the fear of spoiling but if you read it and want to discuss feel free to message me! I have theories behind why he is called The Raven. I have theories about the Edgar Allen Poe poem mentioned in the book. I have a theory about the entire book! But these are theories, let’s talk about the book!
This book is one heck of a gruesome, Walking Dead kinda vibe. Think Neagan and you have Keaton, only not as hot. You have to have a bad guy, and this guy is as bad as they come, remember the penis comment, well thank him! I found it fascinating the combination of the supernatural creatures in a community. We have everything you can think of and then you have the Latents, the no supernatural abilities whatsoever which add an extra spice to the book. It is a tale of man, Dez, seeking revenge, best kind and well things don’t always work out how you expect them. So much blood, guts and gore you will be sliding all over the place, just how it’s meant to be in Shadeland. Yes, we are back there again and I love it! This place is like Maine in a King book, just don’t ever go there!!
I haven’t even spoken about the main characters or any characters really. I don’t think I will, I think you should meet them yourself. They all have their own story for you to hear plus they tell it better than me. Just make sure you listen closely.
I feel like I had some sort of weird trippy drug trip with this book. There is so much going on in such few pages. Still, with its homage to a Richard Laymon book, it packs quite a few punches. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Even though my mojo has gone on holiday, I know that a Janz book is one that will pick me up straight away. I mean how long is this review!!
Bottom line, I want more of the Raven and I want more of Janz’ stories! Win-win really! Janz has all the magic of a horror book, the tension, the backstory, the girl, enough to keep you on hanging on the hook demanding more (have I done that enough!?). He powers through you with all of this and he leaves you with the taste of blood in your mouth and a need for more.
September 5, 2020
To be honest I didn't expect so much gore and violence (cannibals weren't mentioned in the blurb) and that was a bit off putting. The scenes are quite graphic and maybe not for everyone. However the concept sounded intriguing but how the author wove in the explanation about how all those mythical creatures were already living hidden within the society and how the "Four Winds event" changed the DNA of people was a bit lacking and not believable enough. This book might have to have been longer to really explore the world and events more, but for under 300 pages it was still well done.
I wasn't a big fan of Dez. His movie references and being the "lone wolf" (raven) searching for his lost love and mulling over what a failure he is and drowning in guilt isn't my favorite trope, but others might enjoy that.
My biggest problem was that the action scenes didn't make much sense in my head when I read them. I can easily conjure up whole scenes in my head, but I kept thinking about where the characters were located and who threw what at what person and how and it made me confused, which didn't make for an enjoyable experience.
The author has great potential and I'll give this a 2.5 star for my reasons above.
I am still keen on checking out more from the author in the future.
Thank you Netgalley and Flame Tree Press for providing me with an eARC for an honest review.
I wasn't a big fan of Dez. His movie references and being the "lone wolf" (raven) searching for his lost love and mulling over what a failure he is and drowning in guilt isn't my favorite trope, but others might enjoy that.
My biggest problem was that the action scenes didn't make much sense in my head when I read them. I can easily conjure up whole scenes in my head, but I kept thinking about where the characters were located and who threw what at what person and how and it made me confused, which didn't make for an enjoyable experience.
The author has great potential and I'll give this a 2.5 star for my reasons above.
I am still keen on checking out more from the author in the future.
Thank you Netgalley and Flame Tree Press for providing me with an eARC for an honest review.
September 6, 2020
I'm happily familiar with Jonathan Janz' excellent character-driven horror, but in his newest novel, THE RAVEN, Mr. Janz takes up a new venue, that of post-apocalyptic horror, and horrifying it is. In a sort of combination goal: to cleanse the planet and to return it to a paradisical state; and to proactively prevent nuclear destruction; a group of brilliant scientists at John Hopkins University join with a Narcissistic corporation (Four Winds Aerospace) in inventing a virus that devolves most of humanity to monsters. Literally: Monsters. Monsters of Myth and Legend. Unfortunately, the consequences do not remove human greed or cupidity, so that even those few who are "Latents" (without a monstrous alter ego) can still be purveyors of human evil.
Dez McClane, former teacher of Creative Writing, English, and Short Stories, is a quintessential Feckless Hero. As a Latent, he has no "super-power," and is physically ineffectual. Constantly crippled by grief over his son, father, brother, and kidnapped lover, Dez seems destined for failure. But author Janz delineates Dez right down to his very core, so that his character and purpose become a part of the reader; then starts Dez out on his own Hero's Journey, his quest to locate his lost Susan, literally against all odds, facing Monsters of Myth. The Denouements are stunning, and unfold almost consecutively. I have in mind at least three mind-blowing revelations which boggled my mind and ripped my heart, but I will leave those discoveries to future readers.
This surely will develop sequels; the conclusion leaves open future adventures, and I long to travel that Hero's Path with Dez: his work here is not yet done.
Dez McClane, former teacher of Creative Writing, English, and Short Stories, is a quintessential Feckless Hero. As a Latent, he has no "super-power," and is physically ineffectual. Constantly crippled by grief over his son, father, brother, and kidnapped lover, Dez seems destined for failure. But author Janz delineates Dez right down to his very core, so that his character and purpose become a part of the reader; then starts Dez out on his own Hero's Journey, his quest to locate his lost Susan, literally against all odds, facing Monsters of Myth. The Denouements are stunning, and unfold almost consecutively. I have in mind at least three mind-blowing revelations which boggled my mind and ripped my heart, but I will leave those discoveries to future readers.
This surely will develop sequels; the conclusion leaves open future adventures, and I long to travel that Hero's Path with Dez: his work here is not yet done.
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