The Ravening is a book that was different from what I originally expected. I believe this would benefit from a longer/more descriptive synopsis as I'm not sure I would have picked it up had it been explained better. We'll come back to this - but for now, let's talk about the book itself.

The story starts off with a very strong and very creepy prologue. 15 year old Jenna is traveling with her mother along a dark, empty road surrounded by thick woods. When they hit something with their car and the vehicle refuses to start again, Jenna's mother gets out to see if she can figure out what the issue is. Alone in the car, Jenna begins to get a sense that they are not alone out here - shortly after, her mother lets out a blood curdling scream - and is never seen again. There is no blood, hair, clothing, or any trace of her mother left.

Jump to 15 year later: Jenna is 30 years old and struggling. Her childhood has left a lasting imprint and Jenna has a hard time trusting people. Riddled with trauma and abandonment issues, Jenna finds it difficult to stay fulfilled in a long term relationship. However, with her current girlfriend Holly, she seems to be in a good place and experiencing feelings she hasn't had with partners in the past.

Now, this begins to bring us to the part in the book where I went *cue meme* What happened to the Original plot of the movie?! Jenna is shocked to find out she is pregnant with her ex boyfriend's baby. When she makes an appointment for an abortion - she is KIDNAPPED by this man and held captive within a house in the woods. His goal is to force her to carry out this pregnancy and deliver the child, and then he will forcibly impregnate her a few more times to pump out a few more babies. Huh!?! This is what I mean when I say this book could do with a revised synopsis. This is a HUGE part of the plot that is not mentioned or really even hinted at in the book's description and it really threw me off. I decided to stick with it but I can see people in the future DNFing after the story takes this unexpected turn.

Now, there are certain reasons why this is happening which does connect it back to the original plot but there was a good portion of this book - I would say between the 35% and 60% mark where it wasn't holding my full attention. I felt myself zoning out and had to reread a few parts. After that, it does begin to pick up and the intrigue came back for me as this book brings in some unique horror elements and we get to learn more about the creature that lurks in the woods..

It is important to note that this story mainly focuses on Jenna more than anything else. We get to know her really well and at its core, the story is about her trauma - who she was in the past and who she is becoming in the now. We study her actions, feelings, motivations, and journey of self exploration and self acceptance throughout the book - with the clear theme being 'love will prevail.'

I would recommend this to readers who enjoy: a creature feature, ancient evil, bargaining, history of the occult, human greed, queer love, strong female characters, and character focused horror novels.

Overall, not a bad read but generally quite not for me.

I loved the Hollows so very much, so I was super excited to hear that Daniel Church had written a new book. The opening scene/setting pulled me right in and I figured I was in for another tension filled horror read. Rather quickly the story moved on around 10 years and the pace and atmosphere changed dramatically. This was also short lived as the book then moved on to what felt more like a crime/mystery/horror rather than the supernatural horror I was looking forward to. Not that there was anything wrong with this part of the novel - it was much like what I was used to when I read other genres. By this stage I was still hovering around 4 stars. But I was thrown off kilter once more by the introduction of dream-like scenes (I hate dream scenes) which promptly caused me to lose interest, start skim reading and to throw one star out the window, whilst barely holding on to the next star in my hand.

I got nothing out of the historical interludes, I was driven mad by the use of the word "babe" and really didn't need the graphic sex scene.

A two star read leveled up to three simply because it's Daniel Church.

This is a forced pregnancy/kidnapping/confinement story. Needs to be called out! Not what it was advertised.

**The Ravening** is a harrowing and immersive horror thriller that delves into the darkest corners of human trauma and the supernatural. Following the success of *The Hollows*, the author presents a gripping tale that will captivate fans of intense psychological horror and unflinching narratives.

At the heart of *The Ravening* is Jenna, a woman whose life has been marred by profound loss and suffering. The trauma of her mother’s mysterious disappearance when Jenna was fifteen has left deep scars, further compounded by her recent escape from an abusive relationship. This personal history of pain and distrust sets the stage for a compelling exploration of fear and resilience.

Jenna’s newfound happiness with her girlfriend, Holly, offers a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness that has consumed her life. However, the shadow of evil—both ancient and disturbingly personal—lingers, threatening to undo the fragile peace Jenna has managed to find. The novel masterfully juxtaposes Jenna's quest for safety and love with the malevolent forces that seek to drag her back into a world of fear and despair.

The horror elements in *The Ravening* are both visceral and psychological. The author creates a claustrophobic atmosphere that heightens the sense of dread and impending doom. The malevolent entities and supernatural forces are rendered with chilling detail, making them feel both timeless and terrifyingly real. This is a story where the line between the supernatural and the personal blurs, reflecting Jenna's internal struggle and the external horrors that confront her.

What sets *The Ravening* apart is its deep emotional core. Jenna’s journey is not just a battle against external evil but also a struggle with her own demons and the scars of her past. The novel deftly explores themes of trust, survival, and the search for genuine love in a world that seems determined to crush hope.

The character development is particularly strong, with Jenna’s resilience and vulnerability portrayed with authenticity and depth. Holly’s role as a source of support and potential redemption adds complexity to Jenna’s journey, highlighting the novel’s central theme of finding love and connection amidst chaos and terror.

**The Ravening** is a compelling addition to the horror genre, offering a rich tapestry of fear, emotion, and suspense. It is a testament to the author's ability to craft a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally frightening. For readers who appreciate horror that is as psychologically engaging as it is terrifying, **The Ravening** delivers a chilling and memorable experience.

DNF @ 100 pages

This is a forced pregnancy/kidnapping/confinement story. This isn't a spoiler as it happens within the first 50 pages. I don't know why it isn't mentioned in the blurb. If I'd known the real premise of this book, I wouldn't have chosen to read it.

The novel follows the protagonist through a series of unsettling events that blur the line between reality and delusion, making for a gripping read.
the pacing can sometimes be uneven, and certain plot elements may feel familiar to fans of the genre,
It is a strong entry in the realm of psychological thrillers and horror, showcasing Daniel Church’s ability to deliver a gripping and thought-provoking story. Good for people entering the genre.

The cover intrigued me as well as the description. It was a little wordy for me and didn’t leave a lasting impression. Just wasn’t my type of read.

A claustrophobic horror that sets a timeless nightmare against one women and her belief in herself, and the possibility that somewhere, somehow, there is love in the world. From the traumatic and mysterious loss of her mother on a dark woodland road when she was young and the abusive and controlling partner she’s recently escaped shows this character’s life has always been a fight for survival.

She knows the world is full of darkness, some of it ancient and some of it closer to home but even so she hopes to believe that love can triumph over all. But evil is not so easy to look way from and neither is it willing to let her go. This was an incredibly claustrophobic horror novel that could not be read at any time other than in the light of the day. There was something frightening and dreadful with every turn of the page and this book still keeps me awake at night.

𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐀𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐲 𝐑𝐨𝐛𝐨𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐝𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐲 𝐯𝐢𝐚 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐆𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐲 𝐃𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐥 𝐂𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐡

The Ravening is action-packed, thrilling, and touching. It’s one of the best thriller/horror books I’ve read in a while. The characters are very well developed and the plot is well paced and kept me interested the whole way through.

Thanks to Angry Robot for this ARC, always appreciated.

Spoilers ahead




I went into this book fairly blind, as there are no trigger warnings and the blurb is vague. I don’t have any triggers per se, but I do not enjoy reading about pregnancy in any capacity. If I had known this going in, I wouldn’t have requested the book.

I did enjoy the beginning bit, and the dialogue was interesting. Unfortunately, this book just wasn’t for me. I would give this author another go, as long as it didn’t involve pregnancy.

Wow this was a gripping read. I could barely put it down! The otherworldly horror vibes and also the vibes of forced conception. I was screaming for Jenna at every turn. I don't know what scared me more, the monster in the woods or the humans trying to breed Jenna like a broodmare. The lore of the Templar knights thrown in there was a great way to include some background and context when we discover who the monster is. Loved this!

I did not care for how this book switched from folk horror to medieval something wtf. I was enjoying it until it went way off to weird land. Sometimes, simple is better.

I just finished The Ravening by Daniel Church, and I have to say, it’s a pretty gripping horror novel. The story centers around Jenna, who’s had more than her fair share of trauma. From losing her mother in a mysterious incident on a dark woodland road when she was fifteen to recently escaping an abusive boyfriend, Jenna’s life has been a fight. Now, she's trying to find happiness with her new girlfriend, Holly, but darkness still looms around her.

One of the things I really appreciated about this book is how easy it is to read. The chapters are fairly short, which kept me turning pages quickly. The first part of the book is especially creepy and eerie—I almost felt like I was right there in the woods with Jenna and her mom. When the story shifts to present-day Jenna and she starts experiencing those same sinister vibes, you just know things are about to get intense. The suspense doesn’t let up, which is exactly what I want from a horror novel.

That said, the plot didn’t really grab me, and I didn’t particularly like Jenna, but that’s just personal preference. There’s plenty of intrigue, fast pacing, interesting villains and heroes, and even a nice touch of female love. The story stays interesting and keeps moving right up until the end.

The book starts off strong with a perfect atmosphere and a chilling plot that grabs you . The prose is straightforward and easy to read, fitting well with the thriller vibe, although I found the dialogue to be a bit subpar at times.

Overall, The Ravening is a solid horror read. Even though I had my reservations about certain aspects, it’s definitely worth picking up if you enjoy fast-paced, eerie thrillers with strong female characters.

This book really sucked you in during the first six chapters but then it slowed down and the plot took a turn for something I didn’t enjoy. The folk horror that I so much adore in books was put on the side for something totally different. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thanks to Angry Robot and NetGalley for this ARC of The Ravening by Daniel Church.

Jenna experienced the horrible disappearance of her mother when a young teen which directly shaped her personality and relationships from that point forward. We join her when she's realizing that her most recent partner, Holly, seems to be a new departure for her but one she's having great difficulty accepting or adapting to. Then she's kidnapped and everything goes berserk.

She finds her nightmares becoming real and her future seemingly mapped out for her by people and forces beyond her control and control is the one thing she finds hardest to surrender.

Starts off as an English folk horror novel but then introduces the Templars in interstitials throughout the book which keeping the plot going at a hundred miles an hour as the plot shifts around Britain.

This is a very twisty and turny story - just when you've settled in for what you think might happen it goes off somewhere else. I enjoyed that.

I think the book could probably do with a different title - I have no idea what 'The Ravening' refers to and I can't remember it being mentioned at all throughout the book. Great cover.

🐦‍⬛ THE RAVENING by Daniel Church 🐦‍⬛
🌕🌕🌗🌑🌑

Rounded up to 3 for GoodReads and NetGalley

Thank you to NetGalley, Angry Robot and the Author for providing me with an ARC to review.

This was… fine. I don’t know I don’t think this was for me. The cover and premise sounded intriguing but unfortunately I don’t think the execution was there. This was set up as a great British folk horror inspired thriller, but what I got was not what the start had me enthralled by.

To clarify, the beginning of this book (first 6 chapters or so) was insanely good. I really liked the suspense, I liked the set up scene with Jenna as a teenager and I adored the mystery surrounding the “Bonewalker” (which is also a really cool name). It fell apart when she is kidnapped.

I really wanted this to be the classic, creature from childhood terrorises woman on a trip to the woods decades later, but what I got was a kidnapping thriller about a megalomaniac that isn’t really set up prior with the help of said creature. I can appreciate, and even applaud, the attempt to subvert the aforementioned trope, but it just wasn’t executed in a way that enthralled me.

I’m a character driven man, I love my characters to be hateable, loveable, relatable or any combination of the three. What I can’t get behind is characters that annoy me because of any of the three, and unfortunately Jenna falls into that category. At least I’m glad she’s self aware of it.

The prose was standard, easy to read, thriller-core and the dialogue was a step below that.

I can’t help but WISH for the life of me that the atmosphere from the beginning of the book was held onto because the interspersion of real world history and the supernatural/divine here would have absolutely KILLED it. I would’ve loved this if it was just the tropey nonsense that I adore.

This is not a negative review due to the quality of the book, this is a good quality book. This was just a good quality book that wasn’t for me.

Thanks to Angry Robot and NetGalley for this ARC for an honest review.

I wanted to love this book. It started out so promising, with what seemed like a clear direction of what to expect. Then, the plot shifted into a new direction. When the two directions were brought together, it felt forced. Everything just seemed to go off the rails after that. I wanted to DNF many times, but as this was an RTR book, I felt I owed it to the author to follow through.

It's difficult to write about points of the book without spoiling the plot. Plots? The characters aren't very likeable, I hope to never read the word 'babe' again, and some of the action scenes felt like they were there just because the author wanted to write them rather than because they made sense with the plot. I believe that with more time, the author has potential. He has ideas and writes well. While this is not a book I would recommend, I would be interested in reading future works by the author to see how they have progressed

Jenna's has experienced a traumatic past with her mother seemingly disappearing into thin air which was only the beginning of the downward spiral she encounters into her adulthood. She is met with abusive relationships or relationships that she cannot keep for long until she meets Holly and decides a camping trip would be great for the both of them. She is then thrusted into this world of darkness, bringing back her abuser and some other dark entities into her life.

The only thing intriguing about this book is the cover. The characters are insufferable, and this is a perfect stereotype of "men not being able to write female characters". Jenna is obnoxious, annoying and overly dramatic. Holly is the worst partner someone could ask for. James is a slime-ball for obvious reasons, but there was no empathy garnered for any of the characters. Even Jenna's mother is obnoxious.

The story starts in the past, but then makes the jump to present day without a smooth transition. There is a scattering of medieval folklore spread throughout the novel breaking it up, but it does not seem to have any ties to the story. Was it show that evil has always lingered throughout time? Who knows. All I know is that this book took A LOT for me not to DNF.

There was an overuse of the words bitch, lovey and babe which of course were all done by the female characters which tie back into my initial statement of why some men should not be writing female characters.

Would I recommend this book? No. Would I reread or attempt to read other books from this author? Nope.

<i>Thank you NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.</i>

This is not my usual genre, but I really, really liked this book!

Characters
Jenna: Appropriate development and understanding of her situation. LOVE the connection to Holly! She is tough, focused, and determined. Nice, strong female character.
Holly: Her kindness both lends itself to softening Jenna and motivates her to find Jenna and help her. The climax is great with these two characters.
The villains are pulled off very well.

Setting
The forest and river, and bigger cities all work well together to add to the essence of the story.

Plot
I was wondering if the inclusion of the templar information was even necessary. By the end of the book, the readers get there. It works as a nice literary element throughout.

The book is fast-paced and exciting to read.

Based on the marketing done for and around this book I don’t think the author and publisher want the reader to have too much information going in. This horror/fantasy features Jenna who lost her mother in a very mysterious way when she was a teen. She is just recently shed of a controlling boyfriend and now she has a new love in her life, Holly. But there is also evil, lots of evil in her world and it does not want to let her go.

When I was actually reading this book I liked it fairly well, with its reminder that there is generally a price to pay for what one receives; I did not li e the ending, though. However, now that only a week or so has gone by I find that I don’t even remember much about it, so it didn’t make a big impression. Three stars, to be fair.