Mark of the Raven Book Review

Boy, was I wrong.

I’ve been intending to read Morgan L. Busse’s Mark of the Raven for years. But there was just something about the cover. It said, “futuristic dystopian,” to me, and I find that depressing. Between AI taking over, the ever present threat of another pandemic, and the mystery surrounding 3I/Atlas, who needs fictional dystopia?

But this book was nothing like what I expected. It’s a rich fantasy, full of meaning and insight, that sucked me in from the first page. I did have to put it down to breathe at times. It’s that intense. Be warned – it’s a three part saga that won’t let you go until you finish.

Lady Selene of House Ravenwood has come into her gifting, and it’s not what she expected. Her mother helps her hone her gift – a gift meant to control, to harm, even to kill. Selene is heartsick, wondering why the gifts were given at all if they’re used for evil. Could they have been given originally for good? She determines to discover the true purpose of the gifts and the nature of the One who gave them.

The timing for finally tackling it was perfect. My Bible study group is studying spiritual gifts, and this book has made me appreciate in new and profound ways the gifts and the Giver.

And, of course, there’s intrigue, danger, and romance. Beautifully crafted, complex characters wrestling with conflict and internal struggles. Five stars.