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A Season of Ravens
Confronting werewolves, exploring haunted forests, calming angry spirits, and befriending ancient vampires.
These are just a few of the tasks that Asher Norwood and his raven partner Aethon find themselves doing on any given day.
Asher is a sin eater, a guild of mages that exists to combat dark magic wherever it rears its ugly head. Invoking the forces of nature to protect a society that looks down on him, Asher will stop at nothing to defeat the monsters that plague his world.
These are just a few of the tasks that Asher Norwood and his raven partner Aethon find themselves doing on any given day.
Asher is a sin eater, a guild of mages that exists to combat dark magic wherever it rears its ugly head. Invoking the forces of nature to protect a society that looks down on him, Asher will stop at nothing to defeat the monsters that plague his world.
451 pages, ebook
Published November 21, 2020
17 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
About the author
J.R. Snyder
6 books22 followersJ. R. Snyder is a fantasy author living in the Puget Sound area of Washington with his family, two cats, and a handful of chickens. When he’s not writing, he enjoys gardening, beekeeping, hiking, and exploring the rocky beaches near his home.
The Sin Eater Tales series is currently comprised of three novels with more on the way.
The Sin Eater Tales series is currently comprised of three novels with more on the way.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
spfbo7
May 19, 2021Read this as a guest judge (With FanFiAddict) for SPFBO 7.
August 19, 2023
This book was very enjoyable to read. It is written as connected short stories that show the main character Asher's quests as he travels and fights monsters, investigates or helps friends.
I especially like his characterisation, he wasn't the all-knowing, all-powerful guy who can defeat every opponent he comes across so he uses his wits and help of his companions which I was glad to see, and magic system is very useful but has a cost and limitations.
The stories are used to introduce the reader to different locations, people and monsters which helps to explore the wider world that Asher occupies. The last story introduced an element that will play a role in the sequel and I intend to read it soon.
I especially like his characterisation, he wasn't the all-knowing, all-powerful guy who can defeat every opponent he comes across so he uses his wits and help of his companions which I was glad to see, and magic system is very useful but has a cost and limitations.
The stories are used to introduce the reader to different locations, people and monsters which helps to explore the wider world that Asher occupies. The last story introduced an element that will play a role in the sequel and I intend to read it soon.
January 28, 2021
~About
A Season of Ravens is a short story collection, set in the fantasy lands of Eyora, with each story involving the notorious sin eater, Asher Norwood. The stories are told using third person narration, with a writing style that paints a detailed picture of the magical lands explored.
~My Favourite Stories
Some of my personal favourites of this collection were:
The Aldergeist Witch
Wolf of Hulbruck
The Obsidian Circle
A Season of Ravens
Each of these stories had a unique sense of wonder and mystery that kept me engaged throughout and made them top favourites in my eyes.
~Likes
The world building for Eyora, combined with the sensory details used created a wonderfully balanced experience, which pulled me in. Eyora’s form of magic (Trace) is artfully described, as energy drawn in from a Sin eater’s environment.
The third person, close narration style works well for these short fictional pieces. Each tale was well written and captured a certain essence of both place and character.
I loved how each story followed Asher Norwood, a character I have come to be increasingly familiar with over time. His role as a Sin Eater was interesting to explore and it was great to see how his character developed from one tale to the next.
Finally, the Traveller’s Guide to Eyora snippets included at the start of each story helped to provide the necessary backstory, to help me understand the world of Eyora on a deeper level.
~Memorable Quotes
Two specific quotes caught my attention within this collection.
1) ‘Asher wanted to comfort her, to say something insightful that might ease her pain, but he had learned that sometimes the best thing to do was just sit.’
2) ‘We must remember, no matter how dark our surroundings, that there is always a small amount of light waiting to be called.’
The second quote in particular stuck with me, reminding me that no matter how bad a situation may get, there is always some small measure of hope to be found.
~Overview
Overall, A Season of Ravens, by Jesse Snyder was a wonderful short story collection, with much to offer.
My rating: 4 stars.
Recommended to: fantasy lovers of all ages.
A magical collection of short stories, with a distinctly medieval-folklore feel. I loved every moment.
A Season of Ravens is a short story collection, set in the fantasy lands of Eyora, with each story involving the notorious sin eater, Asher Norwood. The stories are told using third person narration, with a writing style that paints a detailed picture of the magical lands explored.
~My Favourite Stories
Some of my personal favourites of this collection were:
The Aldergeist Witch
Wolf of Hulbruck
The Obsidian Circle
A Season of Ravens
Each of these stories had a unique sense of wonder and mystery that kept me engaged throughout and made them top favourites in my eyes.
~Likes
The world building for Eyora, combined with the sensory details used created a wonderfully balanced experience, which pulled me in. Eyora’s form of magic (Trace) is artfully described, as energy drawn in from a Sin eater’s environment.
The third person, close narration style works well for these short fictional pieces. Each tale was well written and captured a certain essence of both place and character.
I loved how each story followed Asher Norwood, a character I have come to be increasingly familiar with over time. His role as a Sin Eater was interesting to explore and it was great to see how his character developed from one tale to the next.
Finally, the Traveller’s Guide to Eyora snippets included at the start of each story helped to provide the necessary backstory, to help me understand the world of Eyora on a deeper level.
~Memorable Quotes
Two specific quotes caught my attention within this collection.
1) ‘Asher wanted to comfort her, to say something insightful that might ease her pain, but he had learned that sometimes the best thing to do was just sit.’
2) ‘We must remember, no matter how dark our surroundings, that there is always a small amount of light waiting to be called.’
The second quote in particular stuck with me, reminding me that no matter how bad a situation may get, there is always some small measure of hope to be found.
~Overview
Overall, A Season of Ravens, by Jesse Snyder was a wonderful short story collection, with much to offer.
My rating: 4 stars.
Recommended to: fantasy lovers of all ages.
A magical collection of short stories, with a distinctly medieval-folklore feel. I loved every moment.
November 28, 2020
I received this from the author in exchange for an honest review. A Season of Ravens, J.R. Snyder’s debut novel, was just the palate cleanser I needed between reading these massive epic fantasy doorstoppers. This novel is split up into several different stories following the main character of Asher Norwood. The chapters are very quick and well paced keeping the story flowing at all times throughout the novel. J.R. Snyder has truly created a fun series of adventures that any fantasy lover would enjoy, especially warm and cozy by a warm winter fire.
Asher is a sin eater, a guild of mages that exists to combat dark magic wherever it rears its ugly head. Invoking the forces of nature to protect a society that looks down on him, Asher will stop at nothing to defeat the monsters that plague his world. Him along with his raven partner Aethon must traverse the world to looking for rogue monsters that have gone astray, and the several stories you will come across were all fun to read. The real joy of this book was Asher himself. His strength and courage are what really shine through but we also get some sprinkles of Asher’s sell-doubt almost to the point where he struggles to go on. This book has some pretty intense battle scenes and very strong character moments that kept the pages turning. These scenes were written beautifully and I look forward to reading more about Asher in the future.
The stories connect in the end through the characters and the choices they make. A Season of Ravens was a great adventure story that you don’t come across everyday. If you are looking for a fun, different, quick read or a break from the giant tomes in the fantasy genre, this is the book for you. Congratulations J.R Snyder on your debut and I look forward to reading about Asher, Aethon, Rane, and Beatrice in the next volume.
Cheers!
More reviews at undertheradarsffbooks.com
Asher is a sin eater, a guild of mages that exists to combat dark magic wherever it rears its ugly head. Invoking the forces of nature to protect a society that looks down on him, Asher will stop at nothing to defeat the monsters that plague his world. Him along with his raven partner Aethon must traverse the world to looking for rogue monsters that have gone astray, and the several stories you will come across were all fun to read. The real joy of this book was Asher himself. His strength and courage are what really shine through but we also get some sprinkles of Asher’s sell-doubt almost to the point where he struggles to go on. This book has some pretty intense battle scenes and very strong character moments that kept the pages turning. These scenes were written beautifully and I look forward to reading more about Asher in the future.
The stories connect in the end through the characters and the choices they make. A Season of Ravens was a great adventure story that you don’t come across everyday. If you are looking for a fun, different, quick read or a break from the giant tomes in the fantasy genre, this is the book for you. Congratulations J.R Snyder on your debut and I look forward to reading about Asher, Aethon, Rane, and Beatrice in the next volume.
Cheers!
More reviews at undertheradarsffbooks.com
December 15, 2020
This book was sent to me for review, this in no way affects my rating.
I had a really fun time reading this book. It was a compelling and entertaining read, fast paced and well structured. It did have some of the usual editing choices expected of indie authors and the prose was more simplistic (though the latter certainly feels like a concious decision not to use flowery writing). I found the short story and case by case format worked very well, though it didn't allow for much development for the secondary characters it was interesting to see the protagonist in different circumstances. It was also nice to see him in a logical and sensible role (Not something usually associated with protagonists) and also subverting so many common tropes. I enjoyed it and have a full review coming to my blog. I would recommend to any fantasy loves looking for a lighter read and also to people looking to dip their toes into the genre.
I had a really fun time reading this book. It was a compelling and entertaining read, fast paced and well structured. It did have some of the usual editing choices expected of indie authors and the prose was more simplistic (though the latter certainly feels like a concious decision not to use flowery writing). I found the short story and case by case format worked very well, though it didn't allow for much development for the secondary characters it was interesting to see the protagonist in different circumstances. It was also nice to see him in a logical and sensible role (Not something usually associated with protagonists) and also subverting so many common tropes. I enjoyed it and have a full review coming to my blog. I would recommend to any fantasy loves looking for a lighter read and also to people looking to dip their toes into the genre.
November 24, 2020
Asher Norwood is a very busy man.
As a Sin Eater he travels with his faithful raven companion Aethon, constantly searching for that next contract. Along the way he meets new friends, new enemies, and many ghosts that haunt him along the way.
At first, I was bothered by the suddenness by which characters tended to disappear from the story, at times just as soon as they’re introduced, until it dawned on me that we are experiencing the world of A Season of Ravens through its protagonist’s eyes. Asher’s life is one of travel and of constant change. He doesn’t stay in one place longer than his contracts last. But what does stick with him are the mistakes made along the way, the death, and the innocents caught in between.
The first time we get to see behind the curtain of Asher’s apparent toughness is when he meets Imra, the ghost of an elf child searching for her mother. Asher feels for the child and is regretful that there isn’t much he can do to help her. The book is filled with these moments of regret (some to greater degrees that others), where, although Asher is a de-facto mage, he just never seems to be quite good enough, or strong enough.
But what he does have in spades is perseverance. Asher isn’t the type to give up, not on a friend looking to mend a missing limb, not for his feathered companion when she’s on the verge of death. That's where Asher's real strength lies.
I really enjoyed reading through A Season of Ravens. It's well-written, well-paced, and a whole lot of fun, masterfully balancing action, levity, and moments of awe. Much like the short stories that weave together to form a larger narrative, it’s about people weaving their stories together into a shared history. I look forward to seeing where Asher, Aethon, Rane, and Beatrice’s story heads next.
As a Sin Eater he travels with his faithful raven companion Aethon, constantly searching for that next contract. Along the way he meets new friends, new enemies, and many ghosts that haunt him along the way.
At first, I was bothered by the suddenness by which characters tended to disappear from the story, at times just as soon as they’re introduced, until it dawned on me that we are experiencing the world of A Season of Ravens through its protagonist’s eyes. Asher’s life is one of travel and of constant change. He doesn’t stay in one place longer than his contracts last. But what does stick with him are the mistakes made along the way, the death, and the innocents caught in between.
The first time we get to see behind the curtain of Asher’s apparent toughness is when he meets Imra, the ghost of an elf child searching for her mother. Asher feels for the child and is regretful that there isn’t much he can do to help her. The book is filled with these moments of regret (some to greater degrees that others), where, although Asher is a de-facto mage, he just never seems to be quite good enough, or strong enough.
But what he does have in spades is perseverance. Asher isn’t the type to give up, not on a friend looking to mend a missing limb, not for his feathered companion when she’s on the verge of death. That's where Asher's real strength lies.
I really enjoyed reading through A Season of Ravens. It's well-written, well-paced, and a whole lot of fun, masterfully balancing action, levity, and moments of awe. Much like the short stories that weave together to form a larger narrative, it’s about people weaving their stories together into a shared history. I look forward to seeing where Asher, Aethon, Rane, and Beatrice’s story heads next.
December 4, 2020
“A Seasons of Ravens” by J.R. Snyder is an interesting fantasy book, with an original narrative twist; the book consists of eight different stories, with a common story arc. Each story can be read as a stand alone and tells a different adventure in the life of the main character, usually confronting some monster. Through the different stories we learn to know the MC and all his different characteristics, as well as the backstories of some recurring characters. After reading all eight stories, the overall storyline completes the first installment in “Sin Eater” series.
J.R. Snyder approach to storytelling is fresh and original, allowing the readers to enjoy story at their own leisure by reading all eight short stories separately or reading the book cover to back. All stories are equally entertaining and help to bring the arc across, in a very organic manner. Asher Norwood (MC) and Aethon (his Raven familiar/companion) are well-crafted, fully-fleshed and immediately relatable, Asher ‘job’ as a Sin Eater allows him to travel through the realm and meet a vast assemble of characters (all of them multidimensional and credible), which in return allows Snyder to build a fantastic world. This book has all the markers to become a great epic fantasy saga.
J.R. Snyder approach to storytelling is fresh and original, allowing the readers to enjoy story at their own leisure by reading all eight short stories separately or reading the book cover to back. All stories are equally entertaining and help to bring the arc across, in a very organic manner. Asher Norwood (MC) and Aethon (his Raven familiar/companion) are well-crafted, fully-fleshed and immediately relatable, Asher ‘job’ as a Sin Eater allows him to travel through the realm and meet a vast assemble of characters (all of them multidimensional and credible), which in return allows Snyder to build a fantastic world. This book has all the markers to become a great epic fantasy saga.
November 3, 2020
I've been looking for awhile for a book just like this! I didn't want to read a huge epic fantasy like The Hobbit but something that I could cozy up with and drink a cup of tea with.
J.R. Snyder really captured the seasonal moods throughout the story and I really felt that I was following Asher through a whole year of battling/investigating monsters. Each story is unique in describing who Asher is as a person, exploring the cities and towns, and introducing you to the monsters that plague the world; after reading the whole book I had a good sense of what would be in the books to come.
The diverse characters Asher meets throughout the way were all compelling in their own ways and I was left wondering which ones will stick throughout the rest of the series. My personal favorites are Beatrice and Rane :)
I'm excited to see where Asher is taken next and what he does with his fate!
J.R. Snyder really captured the seasonal moods throughout the story and I really felt that I was following Asher through a whole year of battling/investigating monsters. Each story is unique in describing who Asher is as a person, exploring the cities and towns, and introducing you to the monsters that plague the world; after reading the whole book I had a good sense of what would be in the books to come.
The diverse characters Asher meets throughout the way were all compelling in their own ways and I was left wondering which ones will stick throughout the rest of the series. My personal favorites are Beatrice and Rane :)
I'm excited to see where Asher is taken next and what he does with his fate!
November 10, 2020
Really loved this book! I found J. R. on reddit a while ago and quite enjoyed his first two short stories. This novel really expands on the world that he created and adds a ton of more depth.
Despite some danger throughout the story, the world is very cozy, and I thought the characters were great. The monsters were very interesting. Some of them were kind of the usual fantasy monsters like werewolves and vampires. But some of them were totally new, which was cool!
Without spoilers, the ending of this book came together nicely and sets Asher up for the next story in a big way. Can't wait to read more.
Despite some danger throughout the story, the world is very cozy, and I thought the characters were great. The monsters were very interesting. Some of them were kind of the usual fantasy monsters like werewolves and vampires. But some of them were totally new, which was cool!
Without spoilers, the ending of this book came together nicely and sets Asher up for the next story in a big way. Can't wait to read more.
June 14, 2023
Strong Start, Decent Finish
The hook of this book was great. The story was fun, but read more like a series of side quests rather than a main storyline with lots of character development.
The side quests were still fun, but the timeline for all of the events could've been more drawn out to help portray the grand scale of the adventures.
One complaint is how casual the characters were in life or death situations or right after facing traumatic situations. It would've been nice to see more heaviness/baggage put on the characters, or to see them start cheery and then slowly get whittled down. There was also a lot of telling rather than showing.
Overall it was a fun read.
The hook of this book was great. The story was fun, but read more like a series of side quests rather than a main storyline with lots of character development.
The side quests were still fun, but the timeline for all of the events could've been more drawn out to help portray the grand scale of the adventures.
One complaint is how casual the characters were in life or death situations or right after facing traumatic situations. It would've been nice to see more heaviness/baggage put on the characters, or to see them start cheery and then slowly get whittled down. There was also a lot of telling rather than showing.
Overall it was a fun read.
May 25, 2025
A collection of 8 short stories, Asher is followed through a series of ever more connecting tales. At first it seemed a bit disjointed to me, then a tad repetitive, but understanding it is the expansion of 2 short stories into a collection put that into focus. A bit dark, a bit cozy, but all intriguing and an enjoyable read and easy to either binge or break apart into multiple sittings without feeling lost.
February 10, 2021
This was a nice little break from my normal epic fantasy novels. Almost a fairy tale, just a simple man traveling to different destinations to rid evil beast from the world. Nothing ground breaking, no interesting twist, just a feel good story that flows along nicely. Sometimes a different read is in need and this was it.
October 24, 2022
I didn't expect to love this book as much as I did! The stories are very cozy with just enough action where they're not boring. A welcome change from some darker fantasy stories. The characters are likable and there is some fun magic throughout the various stories. Definitely recommend!
October 31, 2020
An exciting and highly engaging collection of diverse adventures, companions, and mysteries. J.R. Snyder shows a unique ability to paint vibrant scenes with words alone. Highly recommend!
November 11, 2020
A truly enjoyable book full of colorful characters, beautiful imagery, and exciting adventures, set in a unique world that promises more adventures to come!
February 1, 2021
Absolutely loved it! So fun!
February 9, 2025
The world is incredibly rich and leaves me curious to learn more. The stories sometimes have a mysterious, darker edge to them but wrap up nicely by the end. Asher is humble and a steady gentle force that is both skilled and interesting. He's someone you could cozily explore the world with except for the fact that he encounters one monster after the next as a sin eater. It's obvious that Snyder is an excellent storyteller and seasoned writer. The ending is a great set up for a full length novel about Asher and his next great adventure. I'm excited to read more about the world and what Asher and his companions will do next.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews