For those who don’t know about SPFBO (the Self Published Fantasy Blog Off) – this is a competition created and run by Mark Lawrence.  The competition is now in its tenth year and you can find out more about all the other entrants and judges over on Mark Lawrence’s blog.

I separated my books into three batches which you can find here, here and here.  Having read the first 25% (at least) I’ve chosen five books that I intend to read further before choosing potential semi finalists to pass to the Critiquing Chemist to read. Today I am posting my third SPFBO review for River of Crows by NP Thompson.

River of Crows would not be a book that I would normally be drawn to, primarily because it’s aimed at the older end of MG/lower end of YA.  That being said, having read the first 25% of the book I did find myself hooked and wanting to read more.

I completed River of Crows last night and I can say that this was such a good read.  It’s the kind of story that is definitely aimed at a younger audience but can also be enjoyed by adults at the same time.  It brought back fond memories of stories such as The Wizard of Oz and The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe whilst standing quite firmly on it’s own two feet.

River of Crows is a story that brings to you a prophecy of the Chosen One and I think would make a great gateway book for younger readers into the fantasy world.

I thought this was really well executed.  The storyline had good pacing, the characters were easy to like and there are a few twists along the way.

As the story begins we meet Ty Baxter who is about to be sucked into a grand adventure after trying to help an injured bird, along with a classmate, Ayslenne, when they find themselves disappearing down a portal into another world (okay, I’m over simplifying so you’ll have to go and read it).

The world here is split between two places.  Ordane and Arcania.  Ordane has no magic whilst Arcania has sorcerers, shape shifters and mythical beasts.  There’s a good history to the setting.  There used to be only one place until the mages of the time separated the two in a bid to intensify the magic and keep none magic wielders at bay.  Arcania is now run by a tyrant, a strong mage who uses his talents to entrap children into the form of crows and use them as his Black Guard.  In turn this keeps his subjects in order as they are terrified of any repercussions.  This backstory is all delivered in a very natural way, no info dumps or huge drawn out history lessons.

The characters are easy to get along with.  Ty is very easy going and likes to help others but at the same time wants to find a way home.  Ayslenne is in search of her brother who has been taken by the Emperor and Ty, whilst homesick, promises to help her.  The two both go in search of a powerful mage who may be able to help both.  Along the way they make the acquaintance of three others and the five join together in search of answers.

The plot is well thought out.  The writing is clear and easy to get along with and the dialogue is quick and witty.

I have to say this was very entertaining.  Definitely not my typical read but it had no problems sinking it’s talons in and keeping me hooked to the end.  I highly recommend this for younger readers seeking out a good fantasy adventure.

I received a copy from the author, for which my thanks.  The above is my own opinion.

My review for Fortitude’s Prize by Ceril N Domace, and The First Assignment by Billy Kramer can be found here and here.