Selene Ravenwood, once the heir to House Ravenwood, is now an exile. On the run and free of her family’s destiny, Selene hopes to find the real reason her family was given the gift of dreamwalking. But first she must adapt to her new life as wife to Lord Damien Maris, the man she was originally assigned to kill. While adjusting to her marriage and her home in the north, her power over dreams … dreams begins to grow. As the strongest dreamwalker to exist in ages, her expanding power attracts not only nightmares but the attention of the Dark Lady herself.
With a war looming on the horizon and a wicked being after her gift, Selene is faced with a choice: embrace the Dark Lady’s offer, or search out the one who gave her the gift of dreamwalking. One path offers power, the other offers freedom. But time is running out, and soon her choice will be made for her.
more
Book two of Morgan L. Busse’s Ravenwood Saga is a bit different from the first (a new setting, a deeper focus on relationships and internal struggles, and less internal action), but it is no less captivating.
As Selene and Damien navigate their new marriage and their growing respect and attraction for each other, a threat is edging closer.
Flight of the Raven is an exploration of the light—where it came from and what/who it is. Selene is on the precipice of deciding whether she’s going to place her trust in the light while her sister, Amara (who gets plenty of space in this book), is set on taking her sister’s place as the heir of Ravenwood.
Readers get to experience more of Damien’s gift as power shifts and the battle between good and evil grows to a crescendo.
Busse’s world building and characters are unforgettable and her story telling draws the reader into a story that plays out much like a movie. I, for one, cannot wait to find out what’s coming in the final installment.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Picking up right where the last book left off, Selene is adjusting to her new life with her new husband, and continuing her quest to to find the reason behind her dreamwalking gift. With tensions mounting between the great houses and possible war on the horizon, she must choose if she will serve the Dark or the Light.
Selene is courageous and brave leaving everything that she knew to blaze a new path for her and House Ravenwood. She faces the challenges of a new marriage, her growing unknown powers, and the conflict within for her soul. I admired her heart for others, and how even though she plays her cards close to her chest, she cares very deeply.
I think my very favorite thing about this book was the relationship between Damien and Selene. It isn’t easy, but Morgan Busse does an excellent job of shining a light on their ups and downs amongst the growing tensions and unknowns on the horizons.
Damien is amazing, he deeply respects Selene and supports her even when he doesn’t know if he can trust her or not, he bravely puts himself out there again and again. I loved how even though it would have been so easy to make him some perfect white knight in shining armor, he has his doubts and darks days too. I admired how his faith is a way of life for him and affects everything he does.
Overall, a thrilling follow up to Mark of the Raven, it’s rare that I like the middle book in a trilogy, as they often carry the “filler book stigma,” but not this one, in in fact I like it more than the first book. In this book the stakes are raised, great risks are taken, there are satisfying beginnings as we see Damien and Selene come to trust each other, as well as a deeper more vulnerable side of Selene that she used to keep hidden. The characters are complex, and you know it’s done right when you can sympathize with the villain. I had a very busy week when I read this book, yet I couldn’t put it down and often read late into the night, the time and the pages just flew by and sometimes I forgot I was reading. I haven’t read a fantasy series this amazing in a long time and it truly checks all of the boxes for me, fantastic plot, compelling balanced characters, great interaction, tension, secrets, actions, mounting stakes, explosive climax and strong faith imagery. You won’t want to miss it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
My daughter is an enthusiastic fantasy fan while I tend to avoid the genre entirely (with the exception of Narnia and the Avenger movies) yet we both adore The Ravenwood Saga series!
We were captivated by Damien and Selene as they navigated the uncertain waters of their (inconvenient) marriage of convenience. Damien donned his metaphorical shining armor through devotion, compassion, and love. Selene truly embodies the essence of a womanly warrior with her combination of intelligence, vulnerability, and strength.
Despite the fact that these characters have supernatural powers, they also have flaws, fears, and doubts which makes them relatable and authentic. The medieval-esque practices of horseback riding, castle dwelling, swordsmanship, and social class structure especially appealed to my historical fiction loving heart and my daughter agrees while enthusiastically embracing the wyvern (which Google told me is a two-legged dragon).
My daughter and I are both eagerly anticipating the conclusion of The Ravenwood Saga series while also hoping for multiple installments before that moment arrives.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
OMG! The Ravenwood Saga is amazing! Book #2 Flight of the Raven was just as good as book #1 if not better. This Author knows how you write, this story is so captivating Dark verses Light, a powerful read that leaves you in awe. The story just sucks you in and doesn’t let go. Selena Ravenwood is all of us I think, just trying to be right and just and finding our true purpose.
I give Flight of the Raven 5 stars for its meaningful story.
I would recommend this story to Everyone really, it’s that good!!! Fantasy fans will love.
Y’all, I read Flight of the Raven in LESS THAN 24 HOURS. I could NOT put this book down.
Now, if you’ve been following me for any amount of time, you know that the author of Flight of the Raven, Morgan Busse, and I are good friends. But did you know I was a big fan of hers before we became as close as we are now? Her stories have always resonated with me and kept me hanging on until the beautiful ending.
And Flight of the Raven, book 2 in the Ravenwood Saga, does not disappoint!
The relationship journey between Lady Selene and Lord Damien was my favorite part. At the end of Book 1, we saw them make the choice to get married under extreme circumstances (if you haven’t read Mark of the Raven–do that now!). Now they are a married couple who are virtually strangers and they have to learn what being married means in light of everything else going on around them.
And the threat from escaping Selene’s mother is not the only problem!
So many twists and turns as Selene learns, not only what it means to be a wife, but also what it means to be a dreamwalker. As her powers grow, she faces even more challenges on the mental and spiritual level that test her resolve and her heart. I found myself on the edge of my seat!
Yes, I laughed. I cried. My heart broke. My heart warmed with joy. This story was a rollercoaster for the reader–in the best way possible.
A great second installment in Busse’s enthralling fantasy series!
I read and loved the first book in this series when it released last year, and as soon as I finished it I knew I wanted to read the next book. So needless to say I jumped at the chance to read and review Flight of the Raven! I already knew I loved Selene and Damien and it was fabulous to watch their relationship develop and deepen. One of my very favorite scenes was when Damien offered to brush and style Selene’s hair and then proceeded to do just that, it was just such a tender and incredibly sweet scene that I totally melted!
I love this storyworld! In general I’m not a big fan of fantasy, partly due to the fact that I usually struggle to keep all the different characters and groups of people straight in my mind, but I have never for a moment had that problem with this series!
I did really enjoy this book, but the pace was a bit too slow for my taste. I completely understand why it was slower paced, and while I was reading I was engrossed in the story, but when I would set it down I didn’t really feel much of a pull to return to it. There were several moments in this book that I loved, especially towards the end! The spiritual message is my favorite part of the series and never fails to bring a smile to my face!
Overall, even though I didn’t love Flight of the Raven as much as Mark of the Raven I am very glad I read it and I can’t wait for the next book in the series! I highly recommend Flight of the Raven, but be sure to read Mark of the Raven first.
(4 Stars!)
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. Which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
I am such a fan of Mark of the Raven (the first book) that I knew I just NEEDED the sequel immediately after that insane and beautiful ending. The sequel picks up right where the first book ends. Morgan is such a phenomenal writer. She pulls me into the story and I feel like I’m in the setting with the characters as they interact. The first 10 chapters bored me because it was a lot of inner thought and descriptions, however once I got past chapter 10 I was HOOKED!
Selene is now Grand Lady Maris. She is traveling home Grand Lord Damien to Nor Esen. These two deal with many internal conflicts and struggle with building a life together.
Selene is still battling with herself, even more so now because she’s trying to understand the dreamwalker gift. She is attracted to the Light, but is so used to being pulled by the Dark Lady. In this book she learns much about the Light and begins to seek after him for herself. Selene overcame a lot in the first book and continues to show her strength in the sequel. She never has a easy decision, but she always pushes forward when she wants to really give up. She has heart! I love her and finding out how powerful she was blew my mind!!! I was so happy for her. I can’t wait to see how things progress for her as Grand Lady.
Grand Lord Damien is the most amazing man ever! He has his doubts at first, but knowing the Light he continues to be a man of many great things. I love his heart for all people. I love how he helps and honors people. Damien has many things he had to deal with as well, but he overcame them. I love his words of wisdom as well.
The romance was P E R F E C T. My entire book has mainly pink tabs because the romance was just superb. It was a slow burn and when they finally kissed I squealed! They actually loved one another despite how they married. I loved seeing them become true husband and wife and help one another. Learning together, growing together and eventually ruling together. They are just an awesome team.
Lady Ragna is still a twisted woman. I hated her since book one, however, the final chapter I was able to somewhat understand her heart. She’s a broken woman that allowed rules, tradition and her gift control her life and make her miserable. She needs help. Unfortunately, I’m still wishing for her demise cause she so damn evil OR I’d like to see the Light change her. Either way is find by me.
The Dark Lady is crazy! All that stalking — LOL — she’s crazy. She was determined to find and use Selene. She’s a crazy one. I can’t wait to see how she comes into play in the next book.
Amara is such a broken girl seeking her mother’s love. I feel bad for her, but also can’t stand how she treats and thinks of Selene. I wish she had more time to work things out. I almost cried when her fall came, but I was glad she was able to understand the Light before it all ended.
As great as this book was I have HIGH hopes for the third book. I am gushing over this saga and cannot wait for the release next year. I am loving everything that Damien and Selene stand for.
The faith aspects in this book are just as amazing. I was pulled into every bit of wisdom Damien was giving and how it could be related back to scripture. This Christian fantasy is one that I highly recommend! There’s magic, romance, relatable family problems and humor thrown in — all while still giving some amazing encouraging words about God.
Highly recommend!!!
Morgan Busse does not disappoint in this second installment of the Ravenwood Saga. The story line keeps moving and the characters of developed even more in this book. Selene comes into her own and discovers how her powers have grown. While some parts are sad, there are parts that are very touching. It’s the kind of book you’re glad you read. The ending isn’t a real cliff-hanger that would cause nightmares and frustrations until the final book comes out. But it does end with a sense of impending doom. How will Selene overcome her mother’s powers? How will the Dark Lady be defeated? Waiting for the next installment will only make us appreciate it more. Good job, Morgan! You’re in my prayers.
Thank you to Morgan and Bethany House for an ARC for an honest review–my privilege and honor.
Book two of Morgan Busse’s Ravenwood Saga, Flight of the Raven takes up where the previous book ends with Selene Ravenwood and her new husband Damien Maris on their journey to his home in the north. From that point on the tale grows more intense by the page with plenty of action, danger, and a developing romance.
I was enthralled by this story as Selene searched for the truth – drawn to the difference she witnessed in Damien and those who surrounded him yet hesitant to embrace the Light herself. I felt that the author managed to express valuable Christian truth within this wonderful fantasy and did so beautifully. I so appreciated the development of the relationship between Selene and Damien that was natural and unhurried. It made their eventual decisions so much more believable.
It is difficult to express how much I enjoyed Flight of the Raven without divulging too many spoilers so I encourage other readers to read this one for themselves. Although some may enjoy it on its own, I personally would recommend reading Mark of the Raven first in order to understand the tale in its entirety. I look forward to the next installment of this most excellent series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided by the author. I had also purchased a copy. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
“Dreams are where the deepest part of a person dwells.”
Selene Ravenwood knows the truth of this statement better than anyone, for she is a dreamwalker; able to enter the dreams of those around her at will. For many years the House of Ravenwood had been secretly employing this ancient gift as a weapon of darkness; Selene and her sister constantly honing their skills, poised to carry out the heinous commands of the their mother. Now that Selene has broken away from that destiny, by entering into a hasty marriage relationship with Grand Lord Damien of the house of Maris, she wonders (not for the first time) who she was really created to be. If all the gifts were created by The Light, then why does her soul remain so dark?
Not only is this story . . . . a great story; with its beautiful imagery and brilliant characterizations . . . . it’s a magnificent display of the power that light has over darkness, and a tender reminder of the deep agony befalling those who seek the light only to be pushed and pulled and torn and shoved by the shadows of darkness, who whisper falsehoods and accusations. Ultimately it’s a great love story, for Damien and Selene have many obstacles to overcome, not the least of which is whether or not Selene is even capable of giving away her heart to a man who cannot decide whether or not he can trust her.
You’ll enjoy every chapter of this book!
Mark of the Raven was one of my favorites and this second book did not disappoint. I would suggest reading Mark of The Raven first to know about the different characters, but it is not necessary as this book can stand alone. The settings and character interaction were so vivid and full of life. The author brought life to the words written. There were plenty of good twists and page turning moments. I loved this book. It’s probably the best Christian Fiction Fantasy I’ve read in years. How the author brought God into the book was unique. The LIGHT was the presence of the Almighty One. Of course, there was the good versus evil aspect…….. I was given a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and I am happy to leave my review.
Flight of the Raven by Morgan Busse is number two in the fantasy series entitled The Ravenwood Saga. I read the first book a while ago, but I had a hard time remembering what I read. I believe, and this series proved it, that fantasy novels need to be read one right after another. The stories are usually pretty linear, and flow naturally, but it is hard to process what happened before if it has been a while since reading. I do enjoy how Busse allowed the heroine Selene to be interested in searching for the truth about the Light and going against what her families legacy currently is. She is discovering more about what really makes world tick, and I enjoy her curiosity. The series is building toward its climactic moment, and I can’t wait to see how this plays out. As for the plot in this series, it really is about Selene finding herself and learning to love, but the big action I hope will play out in the final book. Overall, Flight of the Raven is an enticing read filled with memorable characters and a overarching threat, begging to explode like the water surrounding the kingdom.
I received a complimentary copy of Flight of the Raven by Morgan Busse from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.