Raven Flight (Book #2 of Shadowfell Trilogy) by Juliet Marillier: A Book Review

Raven Flight (Book #2 of Shadowfell Trilogy)
Author: Juliet Marillier
Genre:YA, Fantasy
Publisher: Knopf
Release Date: 2013
Pages: 418
Source: Personal Collection
Synopsis: Neryn has finally found the rebel group at Shadowfell, and now her task is to seek out the elusive Guardians, vital to her training as a Caller. These four powerful beings have been increasingly at odds with human kind, and Neryn must prove her worth to them. She desperately needs their help to use her gift without compromising herself or the cause of overthrowing the evil King Keldec.

     Neryn must journey with the tough and steadfast Tali, who looks on Neryn's love for the double agent Flint as a needless vulnerability. And perhaps it is. What Flint learns from the king will change the battlefield entirely—but in whose favor, no one knows.

      My Review: Neryn is now the secret weapon for the rebel army against King Keldec. The army plans to strike a surprise attack against the king in midsummer, and Neryn must be ready. To help the army, Neryn must find the Guardians of Alban to complete her training as a Caller. She is accompanied by a female guard named Tali. During her training, Neryn realizes the true cost of what it means to be a Caller.

     Neryn is a girl who still has little self-confidence in herself. She has not fully come to terms with her powers. They still terrify her because she has the power to do horrible things to her enemies. Over time, she realizes that not only does she learn to trust herself, but she needs to trust nature and the world around her. Neryn also becomes wise and learns much through her training. She is very concentrated and her mind is focused on her task. 

     I also like her friendship with Tali. At first, they don’t like each other, but over time, they come to an understanding. Tali is a strong fighter, and I like how stubborn she is. While Tali is caring, I also like how she is focused on her duty and does not let her emotions cloud her judgement. She is also willing to risk her life to save her friends.

     Overall, this book is about love, friendship, loss, and redemption. It is a about a woman trying to find her self-identity. There are a few drawbacks to this story. Flint, who was one of the main character in Shadowfell, made little appearances in this book. Because of this, there was very little character development. I would have liked for him to be in this book more. The other drawback is that the magical creatures have an Irish derelict, and it slowed the pace of the my reading down as I tried to decipher what they were saying. Still, this book is filled with adventure and action that kept me glued to my seat as I was reading. I look forward to reading the final book in the trilogy, The Caller. This book will appeal to not only long-time fans of Juliet Marillier but also J.R.R Tolkien, Terry Brooks, and Sandra Waugh.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars