Scan barcode
bookingbonkers's review against another edition
4.0
Corvidae is a collection of short stories and poems that are based around crows, ravens, magpies and various other Corvids.
This book has been put together and edited really well as all the stories and poem have the same other worldy, ethereal and magical feel. The stories within are not predictable tales and are almost as poetic as the poems the book contains. These are definitely a group of tales of the unexpected. The stories are very imaginative and are woven together in such a way that you feel like you are reading a magic spell.
If I had to choose my favourites it would be Visiting Hours by Michael S Pack as it is such a tender and heartbreaking tale. I would also choose Raven No More by Adria Laycraft. I enjoyed the darkness and revenge of this one. I felt that both of these stories could have been fleshed out a bit more into great novels.
A Mischief of Seven by Leslie Van Zwol is another stories that I feel could have been a bigger, more detailed novel. It left me wanting to know more details and follow the story. I feel this one has a lot of potential for its own series.
The Valvran by Megan Fennell is also an interesting one. It has a medieval feel to it and a legend within the story that is quite captivating.
Sanctuary by Laura Van Arendonk Baugh has a paranormal element to it and is also quite a tender caring tale that is quite touching and heartfelt.
The Tell Tale Heart of Existence by Michael M Rader is a dark tale of a student and their teacher that I found darkly humourous!
Collections like these are a great way of discovering new authors and talent and there are definitely a few to watch out for in this book. The theme is an interesting one and also provides a bit of education as I did not realise that all the birds mentioned are related.
The styles of writing are quite different considering the similar subject matter and that is what keeps the stories interesting even though you are reading about the same subject. I took a short break between each one as it made it easier to grasp the following stories and its switch in style, tempo and setting. Poetry is not really my thing but the poems contained in this book are writing quite beautifully that I found myself mulling them over before moving on to the next section and, on occasion, re-reading some of them.
If you enjoy dark, fantasy novels, this anthology will appeal to you a lot. And if you want to try reading this genre, this collection is a good place to start.
This book has been put together and edited really well as all the stories and poem have the same other worldy, ethereal and magical feel. The stories within are not predictable tales and are almost as poetic as the poems the book contains. These are definitely a group of tales of the unexpected. The stories are very imaginative and are woven together in such a way that you feel like you are reading a magic spell.
If I had to choose my favourites it would be Visiting Hours by Michael S Pack as it is such a tender and heartbreaking tale. I would also choose Raven No More by Adria Laycraft. I enjoyed the darkness and revenge of this one. I felt that both of these stories could have been fleshed out a bit more into great novels.
A Mischief of Seven by Leslie Van Zwol is another stories that I feel could have been a bigger, more detailed novel. It left me wanting to know more details and follow the story. I feel this one has a lot of potential for its own series.
The Valvran by Megan Fennell is also an interesting one. It has a medieval feel to it and a legend within the story that is quite captivating.
Sanctuary by Laura Van Arendonk Baugh has a paranormal element to it and is also quite a tender caring tale that is quite touching and heartfelt.
The Tell Tale Heart of Existence by Michael M Rader is a dark tale of a student and their teacher that I found darkly humourous!
Collections like these are a great way of discovering new authors and talent and there are definitely a few to watch out for in this book. The theme is an interesting one and also provides a bit of education as I did not realise that all the birds mentioned are related.
The styles of writing are quite different considering the similar subject matter and that is what keeps the stories interesting even though you are reading about the same subject. I took a short break between each one as it made it easier to grasp the following stories and its switch in style, tempo and setting. Poetry is not really my thing but the poems contained in this book are writing quite beautifully that I found myself mulling them over before moving on to the next section and, on occasion, re-reading some of them.
If you enjoy dark, fantasy novels, this anthology will appeal to you a lot. And if you want to try reading this genre, this collection is a good place to start.
arthistorygirl's review against another edition
4.0
Corvidae is book 2 in Rhonda Parrish’s Magical Menageries series of five books. In the anthology, she brings the works of seventeen authors together to form a magical series of poems and stories. Corvids have long been seen in stories since early lore and have always been intriguing. The corvid can signal disease, death, life, and luck. This collection takes that knowledge and the authors find new and intriguing ways to bring these birds into play. The stories range from alternate history fiction, steampunk, fairy tales, and stories that remind us of mythology and authors of the past such as Edgar Allan Poe.
I enjoyed the entry to the anthology with the poem “A Murder of Crows” written by Jane Yolen. Her poem was a great way to start and set the tone for the stories to come.
I am a lover of history and alternate history stories. “Whistle and Trills” by Kat Otis filled this place for me. Set during World War II Morgaine finds herself in a bad situation. There are questions as to whose side the birds are on at first for her. Who is siding with the Axis and Allies? I would definitely read more of this tale if more was written.
“Raven No More” by Adria Laycraft was a story I could relate to in ways. This is a great use of inspiration of stories of Raven. The main character finds herself leaving an abusive relationship. When her ex threatens those, she cares for most she finds power in herself.
“The Tell-Tale Heart of Existence” by Michael M. Rader is a new way to look at Poe’s tale. A doctoral student driven mad and the professor who is the focus of his madness. I think this is a relatable story for those who have been students and feel that the progress being made is being hindered by someone in a way of power.
“Sanctuary” by Laura VanArendonk Baugh is an interesting mix of science and mythology. Set at a research center a woman finds a crow in the road. Soon there is a strange man who appears. This has some great twists the story which will have you questioning yourself. Will you guess what is happening?
The stories have a great flow from one to the next. I was not familiar with these authors but several caught my attention and I will be looking for more from them. I enjoy a mix of fiction and got that with the stories. Also, this was a great reminder that old myths and fables can be brought into current day stories and still hold the attention of the reader. The corvidae have been used by authors for centuries and still can hold their own in this world of technology.
I enjoyed the entry to the anthology with the poem “A Murder of Crows” written by Jane Yolen. Her poem was a great way to start and set the tone for the stories to come.
I am a lover of history and alternate history stories. “Whistle and Trills” by Kat Otis filled this place for me. Set during World War II Morgaine finds herself in a bad situation. There are questions as to whose side the birds are on at first for her. Who is siding with the Axis and Allies? I would definitely read more of this tale if more was written.
“Raven No More” by Adria Laycraft was a story I could relate to in ways. This is a great use of inspiration of stories of Raven. The main character finds herself leaving an abusive relationship. When her ex threatens those, she cares for most she finds power in herself.
“The Tell-Tale Heart of Existence” by Michael M. Rader is a new way to look at Poe’s tale. A doctoral student driven mad and the professor who is the focus of his madness. I think this is a relatable story for those who have been students and feel that the progress being made is being hindered by someone in a way of power.
“Sanctuary” by Laura VanArendonk Baugh is an interesting mix of science and mythology. Set at a research center a woman finds a crow in the road. Soon there is a strange man who appears. This has some great twists the story which will have you questioning yourself. Will you guess what is happening?
The stories have a great flow from one to the next. I was not familiar with these authors but several caught my attention and I will be looking for more from them. I enjoy a mix of fiction and got that with the stories. Also, this was a great reminder that old myths and fables can be brought into current day stories and still hold the attention of the reader. The corvidae have been used by authors for centuries and still can hold their own in this world of technology.
katie_83's review against another edition
4.0
Corvidae – by Rhonda Parrish (Editor)
4 stars
Corvidae is a collection of short stories and poems and is the second anthology in the Magical Menagerie series. I have to say that this read was a little out of my comfort zone but I did really enjoy reading something different. Each of the stories and poems focused on something different and I found them to be really interesting to read. It was difficult to choose but I have chosen a few of my favourites from the anthology for this review but they were all a great read and would highly recommend this anthology.
The anthology includes work by Jane Yolen, Kat Otis, Megan Fennell, Leslie Van Zwol, Michael S. Pack, Tim Deal, Mike Allen, C.S.E. Cooney, Adria Laycraft, Michael M. Rader, Laura VanArendonk Baugh, Sara Puls, M.L.D. Curelas, Mark Rapacz, Megan Engelhardt, and Angela Slatter.
Flight by Angela Slatter
I was quickly captivated by this story. I liked that it wasn’t predictable and was beautifully written. For me it had a coming of age feel about it but with a twist! Emer is a princess who on her birthday suddenly begins to sprout tiny little hairs which become beautiful raven black feathers. The story takes on an unusual twist. This was one of my favourite stories in the anthology.
Seven for a Secret by Megan Engelhart
I really enjoyed this story! It had such a magical feel about. I loved the authors beautiful descriptions of the aviadam, I could imagine exactly what they looked like. The twist in the story was unexpected. I always wondered why people talk about respecting magpies – I think I know now!! I think that I would happily read a longer version of this story! It is about two cryptozoologists who are investigating rumours of a bird man!
Sanctuary by Laura VanArendonk Baugh
I loved this story! I never guessed the twist at all in this storyline and the author did a great job of concealing it until the end! The story is about a woman who has a close encounter with a stranger on a road one night as he looks for an injured crow. She takes the crow back to her research centre to try and help it with the stranger called Jun. Except things aren’t quite what they seem!
A Mischief of Seven by Leslie Van Zwol
I loved how this story started with a rhyme from my childhood about magpies that I still do to this day and I still believe in it! I really enjoyed this story and its fantastic paranormal twist. For such a short story the author did a really great job of hooking me in straight away. This was definitely one of my favourites. I think I would definitely have liked to read more about Pike and see him solve more murders!
I’m not usually a fan of poems and very rarely read them but I found A Murder of Crows and Postcards from the Abyss by Jane Yolen really had me thinking long after I had finished reading them. I know poetry is subjective but it was a nice change to read some amongst some great short stories.
Whistles and Trills by Kat Otis
This is a great story, the first in the anthology. When Morgaine and Walter are in a crash which leaves Walter unconscious it’s up to Morgaine to try and find them somewhere safe to shelter. I loved the setting for this story – I wasn’t expecting it at all. This is one of the reasons I think I enjoyed it because it was unusual and great to read.
Overall I think that this is a great selection of stories and poems, all of which are worthy of a read. Rhonda Parish has done a great job at putting together such a great anthology.
4 stars
Corvidae is a collection of short stories and poems and is the second anthology in the Magical Menagerie series. I have to say that this read was a little out of my comfort zone but I did really enjoy reading something different. Each of the stories and poems focused on something different and I found them to be really interesting to read. It was difficult to choose but I have chosen a few of my favourites from the anthology for this review but they were all a great read and would highly recommend this anthology.
The anthology includes work by Jane Yolen, Kat Otis, Megan Fennell, Leslie Van Zwol, Michael S. Pack, Tim Deal, Mike Allen, C.S.E. Cooney, Adria Laycraft, Michael M. Rader, Laura VanArendonk Baugh, Sara Puls, M.L.D. Curelas, Mark Rapacz, Megan Engelhardt, and Angela Slatter.
Flight by Angela Slatter
I was quickly captivated by this story. I liked that it wasn’t predictable and was beautifully written. For me it had a coming of age feel about it but with a twist! Emer is a princess who on her birthday suddenly begins to sprout tiny little hairs which become beautiful raven black feathers. The story takes on an unusual twist. This was one of my favourite stories in the anthology.
Seven for a Secret by Megan Engelhart
I really enjoyed this story! It had such a magical feel about. I loved the authors beautiful descriptions of the aviadam, I could imagine exactly what they looked like. The twist in the story was unexpected. I always wondered why people talk about respecting magpies – I think I know now!! I think that I would happily read a longer version of this story! It is about two cryptozoologists who are investigating rumours of a bird man!
Sanctuary by Laura VanArendonk Baugh
I loved this story! I never guessed the twist at all in this storyline and the author did a great job of concealing it until the end! The story is about a woman who has a close encounter with a stranger on a road one night as he looks for an injured crow. She takes the crow back to her research centre to try and help it with the stranger called Jun. Except things aren’t quite what they seem!
A Mischief of Seven by Leslie Van Zwol
I loved how this story started with a rhyme from my childhood about magpies that I still do to this day and I still believe in it! I really enjoyed this story and its fantastic paranormal twist. For such a short story the author did a really great job of hooking me in straight away. This was definitely one of my favourites. I think I would definitely have liked to read more about Pike and see him solve more murders!
I’m not usually a fan of poems and very rarely read them but I found A Murder of Crows and Postcards from the Abyss by Jane Yolen really had me thinking long after I had finished reading them. I know poetry is subjective but it was a nice change to read some amongst some great short stories.
Whistles and Trills by Kat Otis
This is a great story, the first in the anthology. When Morgaine and Walter are in a crash which leaves Walter unconscious it’s up to Morgaine to try and find them somewhere safe to shelter. I loved the setting for this story – I wasn’t expecting it at all. This is one of the reasons I think I enjoyed it because it was unusual and great to read.
Overall I think that this is a great selection of stories and poems, all of which are worthy of a read. Rhonda Parish has done a great job at putting together such a great anthology.
bwagner's review against another edition
4.0
Corvidae (Rhonda Parrish's Magical Mengeries Book 2) by Jane Yolen, Kat Otis, Megan Fennell, Leslie Van Zwol, Michael S. Pack, Tim Deal, Mike Allen, C.S.E. Cooney, Adria Laycraft, Michael M. Radar, Laura VanArenodonk Baugh, Sara Puls, M.L.D. Curelas, Mark Rapacz, Megan Engelhart, Angela Slatter, Rhonda Parrish is a collection of seventeen stories about life, death, disease and luck. These stories will pull at your heartstrings one minute and make you angry in another. You will enjoy the creativity of characters from all the authors and their attention to detail. They bring you true to life stories that will pull you in from the first chapters. You will want to find out what happens to all these characters as they go on journeys that will leave you wanting more from each other. Below is a few of my favorites from this anthology.
Sanctuary by Laura VanArendonk Baugh is a story about a woman who misses a crow in the road with her car and she takes the crow back to her research center. What will happen when a mystery man starts showing up? Their frienship is one that is intreging and I know you won't want to miss what happens with them. You won't want to miss this ending!
Seven for a Secret by Megan Engelhart is a story about two cryptozoologists that are sent to the southern continent to investigate rumors of a bird man. What will happen during their investigation? Are they ready for what they might find? You won't want to miss this journey!
A Murder of Crows by Jane Yolen is a fun poem that talks about crows being friends and family. They sing together, they gather together a heart beat. They morn their dead and we are left trying to figure out what make them live. This is a cute poem that will touch your heart.
Visiting Hours by Michael S. Pack is a story about illness and struggles or willingness to accept it. This story will pull at your heartstrings but will keep you hoping. What will happen when a raven appears and a foklore takes over. Will the raven help with accepting the inevitable? You will enjoy this story as it is sad but more true to life then we realize.
What is Owed by C.S.E. Cooney is a poem that can be interepeted a few different ways. Everyone can get something different out of a poem but this is what I got out of this one lovely one. This poem is about leaving home and the struggles of life that you go through on your journey. When you find what you think you are looking for, it may not be all that you expected or wanted. You may not like what you are in search of. This is a must read poem, it will warm your heart and make you sad all at the same time.
There are so many more enjoyable stories in this book, you will have to read. Each author has their own creativeness and you will find something in each of their writings to enjoy. Each story is unique and you will enjoy some more then others. You will find something in each story to relate too even the poems. I highly recommend this book as I know you will enjoy reading each of the 17 short stories as much as I did.
Sanctuary by Laura VanArendonk Baugh is a story about a woman who misses a crow in the road with her car and she takes the crow back to her research center. What will happen when a mystery man starts showing up? Their frienship is one that is intreging and I know you won't want to miss what happens with them. You won't want to miss this ending!
Seven for a Secret by Megan Engelhart is a story about two cryptozoologists that are sent to the southern continent to investigate rumors of a bird man. What will happen during their investigation? Are they ready for what they might find? You won't want to miss this journey!
A Murder of Crows by Jane Yolen is a fun poem that talks about crows being friends and family. They sing together, they gather together a heart beat. They morn their dead and we are left trying to figure out what make them live. This is a cute poem that will touch your heart.
Visiting Hours by Michael S. Pack is a story about illness and struggles or willingness to accept it. This story will pull at your heartstrings but will keep you hoping. What will happen when a raven appears and a foklore takes over. Will the raven help with accepting the inevitable? You will enjoy this story as it is sad but more true to life then we realize.
What is Owed by C.S.E. Cooney is a poem that can be interepeted a few different ways. Everyone can get something different out of a poem but this is what I got out of this one lovely one. This poem is about leaving home and the struggles of life that you go through on your journey. When you find what you think you are looking for, it may not be all that you expected or wanted. You may not like what you are in search of. This is a must read poem, it will warm your heart and make you sad all at the same time.
There are so many more enjoyable stories in this book, you will have to read. Each author has their own creativeness and you will find something in each of their writings to enjoy. Each story is unique and you will enjoy some more then others. You will find something in each story to relate too even the poems. I highly recommend this book as I know you will enjoy reading each of the 17 short stories as much as I did.
angelahayes's review against another edition
4.0
4 Stars
Corvidae is a fantastic Anthology which is made up of stories and poems by 16 wonderfully talented contributing authors. Each story/poem is unique, individual and quite distinct from one another; yet they all have the same inspiration/theme- which is the Corvidae.
Corvidae (Corvids) are the very well known ‘family’ of birds that are made up of Crows, Ravens, Choughs, Treepies, Magpies, Jays, Piciacs, Nutcrackers, Rooks… and many more. We are all familiar with at least one or more of these birds, which have long been the subject of myths, legends, folklore and wives-tales. These stories/poems all showcase one or more of the Corvids traits such as intelligence, playfulness and self-awareness- and also plays off the darkness and light of their natures. Corvids have long been associated with life and death; disease; luck; trickery; or omens. They are often connected with witchcraft, voodoo, magic, or as manifestations or ‘familiars’ of deities, and the topic of many famous stories.
The works contained in this Anthology cover a wide variety of genres, voices, tones and moods. There is bound to be something here that you will fall in love with. So strap yourself in and prepare for an unexpectedly riveting ride, as you take flight to discover the wonders within.
A Murder of Crows… by Jane Yolen.
“But nobody knows,
How the crow language goes”
This is such an amusing poem and such a fun introduction to the Anthology. It immediately piked my interest and had me looking forward to more. An enjoyable read!
Whistles and Trills… by Kat Otis.
In this story the author has put her own spin on the history of World War II. In this alternate version we meet Morgaine and Walter who have crash landed their plane into the side of a mountain. Morgaine awakens and with night approaching and enemies around, it is imperative that she find shelter, if they are to survive. At a loss of what to do, her attention is caught by a persistent bird. What part does the bird have to play in the story? You will need to read the book to find out.
First off, I think this story would make a great full length novel and perhaps even the first instalment of a great series. This fantasy is really wonderfully imaginative, beautifully written and enthralling!
The Valravn... by Megan Fennell.
The inspiration for this story comes from old Danish Folklore, which is both gruesome and yet quite compelling. This story opens to a cabin deep in the forest on a very stormy night. Klara and her mother are surprised by a loud knock on the door. They find a mysterious stranger named Rikard on their doorstep seeking shelter from the storm. He claims to be a story teller and Klara is fascinated by his flamboyant attire and charisma. He proceeds to tell the tale of the Valravn. But there is more to the story than meets the eye and little does Klara know that this encounter will change her life forever.
This has such a poetic feel to the writing. I loved the inclusion of the Danish legend, it made the story really fascinating and I was completely engrossed from the first page until the last. It had a dark, ‘Hansel and Gretel’ feel to it, with an ending I didn’t see coming. Well done!
A Mischief of Seven… by Leslie Van Zwol.
A Mischief of Seven is an urban fantasy with paranormal elements. The author has used a myth as the inspiration for this tale. It is a little dark, with some suspense, mystery and drama. We meet Pike who is a very cynical and jaded police detective. He is called to a murder scene and discovers that there is a string of murders that can all be linked to the same killer- someone who is familiar to the detective. As the story progresses will Pike be able to trace the killer and stop any more deaths from occurring. Will he need to call on others to help him with the investigation? Who is the killer and how does Pike know them?
This was one of my favourite reads from the Anthology. It is gritty and a little thrilling, and captured me right from the start. A great read!
Visiting hours… by Michael S. Pack.
This is an intensely emotional story that tugged at my heartstrings and brought a tear to my eye. It explores the Corvids folklore connection to death. The author writes beautifully and this touching tale really needs to be read, so you too can appreciate just how good it is. We meet Lorraine, a grieving mother at the bedside of her deathly ill son. She struggles to understand his illness and the situation she finds herself in. A raven appears at the hospital window and she is told a story regarding ravens and what they can do. What is the story she is told? Will it have any bearing on her feelings about her son’s condition? For such a short story, it certainly packs a punch. I was thinking about it long after I had finished it. Well worth the read!
The Rookery of Sainte-Mere-Eglise… by Tim Deal.
I found this story to be a little confusing to begin with, but it all came together in the end. It’s a typical Saturday, with Birgit going about her daily tasks. She notices a number of Rooks which seem to follow her. She is due to meet her friend Lucien and the Rooks again seem to follow along. Are they trying to capture her attention? With a strange situation and a discovery to be made, this little adventure begins. This story certainly had a lot going on for such a short read. This story explores the Corvid connection to battles and War. It is quite interesting and a different take on the Anthology theme.
The Cruelest Team Will Win… by Mike Allen.
Another story that explores the Corvid’s folklore connection to death. This is a paranormal story that is a little dark, dramatic and somewhat creepy. Leanne helps people with peculiar and disturbing problems that she is uniquely qualified to solve. She uses her ability to rid people of their problem and gets quite a buzz out of helping them. But her ‘job’ doesn’t come without danger, as she (and us) soon discover. What happens when Leanne comes across a seemingly insurmountable problem? What is the danger and what can Leanne do about it?
This is a well written story, which has a great pace and a smooth flow. I really enjoyed this story and think this would make a really great movie or even a TV series.
“What Is Owed”… C.S.E. Cooney.
This is a poem about the Magpie, the trickster. It is really well written, rich and full bodied, quite emotive. I felt it has the feel of a ‘yarn’ or story that is told in pubs or taverns. It would make a great piece to be read aloud to an audience, with something for everyone to appreciate.
Raven No More… by Adria Laycraft.
This is a superb story that is another of my favourites of this Anthology. The author uses the Corvids cunning and reputation as a trickster, as well as lore from the Nuu-Chah-Nulth (the Indigenous tribes of the north west coast of Canada) as the inspiration for this story. It is also about finding the strength to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds and about transformation. We are introduced to Sandra who has been in an very abusive relationship and finally breaks free. But things don’t always go as planned and the story takes an interesting turn when she runs into a trickster.
An interesting and quite informative story which I really enjoyed reading.
The Tell-Tale Heart of Existence… by Michael M. Rader.
The Tell Tale Heart is an engaging, dark and slightly macabre story where the author has cleverly and very effectively re-imagined Edgar Allan Poe’s tale “Tell Tale Heart”. It has all the feel, flavour and impact that the original had, but with its very own identity. The narrator is a PhD student with quite a large chip on his shoulder and an axe to grind with his mentor/advisor Dr. Dupain. The story is in effect a journal of one man’s decent into madness, where the author takes us along for the ride.
A really well written and ingenious tale, that hooked me right from the beginning. I finished the story quite impressed by the author’s skilful twist on an old classic.
“Sanctuary”… by Laura VanArendonk Baugh.
Sophie is a wildlife rescuer and rehabilitator who comes across an injured crow on the road one night. She takes it back to her centre in the hope of rehabilitating it and then releasing it. Back at the centre, a mysterious man appears at odd times and strikes up a friendship with Sophie. This story kept me guessing the whole way through, with an ending that I certainly never saw coming.
There is a paranormal element to the story, with some drama and mystery thrown in for good measure. It is really quite touching and heart-warming story.
Knife Collection, Blood Museum, Birds (Scarecrow Remix) … by Sara Puls.
This is quite a heavy story with dark undertones. It introduces us to Renee whose life is slowly breaking down due to her fixation with cutting. She feels stuck in a cycle that she can’t get out of and doesn’t know how to stop. Yes other people cut, but perhaps not for the same reasons that Renee does. She has little interest outside of her cutting and it seems to be the only thing that makes her happy, even if it’s only for a while. Will Renee finally find someone who understands and is willing to help? Will she find a way to break the cycle? What part does the Corvidae play in this story? The answer just may surprise you.
An interesting story which left me wondering about it for quite some time after I finished reading it. I liked it and think the author delivered a really original and solid piece of work.
Flying the Coop… by M.L.D. Curelas.
Flying the Coop is such a great story. It is a steampunk fantasy that would make a great full length novel. It is about Hanna who has been tasked with smuggling a magpie named Jenny, out of the city. But there are sinister forces that want to get their hands on Jenny and will do anything to prevent Hanna from getting her out of the city. Hanna will need to use all her skill and cunning to complete her mission and we get to ride along on this mesmerising tale. There is more to this story than first meets the eye, an adventure full of action, intrigue, twists and surprises. The characters are fantastic, really well written and fully developed; especially considering it’s such a short story. There is quite a lot going on in this book, but it never felt cut short or rushed. The author did a superb job!
You are sure to love this story as much as I do!
Postcards from the Abyss… by Jane Yolen.
I don’t often read poetry, but I can appreciate it. But I am no expert when it comes to critiquing a poet’s work. I can only try and express the feelings that it evokes in me. So that said, this poem had a melancholy feel, a sense of sadness and a real bleakness about it. It captured my attention with the intensity of Ms. Yolen’s words. It definitely made me think and I have gone back and read it several times.
Bazyli Conjures a Blackbird… by Mark Rapacz.
We’re told a tale along with Kuba where the storyteller recounts a story of war and the magical entertainer that would mesmerise the crowd with his show. This felt like a cautionary tale to me where the author used the Corvids folktale connection to battle and war to great effect. The story was a little morbid, dark and gruesome. It gave me a lot to think about and drove home the consequences of war.
Seven for a Secret… by Megan Engelhardt.
Seven for a Secret is a story I would like to read more of. I can see the lead characters in a series of books as we follow them on their adventures. With rumours of a birdman abounding, cryptozoologists Miss Harris and Lady Zinnia Carmichael are called to the southern continent to investigate if there is any truth to these rumours. What will they discover? Are the rumours true? Will they get their birdman?
I really loved this story and was disappointed when it ended because I wanted it to go on. A unique story with a terrific synopsis and wonderfully executed. Miss Harris and Lady Zinnia are really incredible characters. The story is a showcase of the author’s brilliant writing skills.
Flight… by Angela Slatter.
This is the final story in the Anthology. It is a dark fantasy that explores the trickster reputation of the Corvidae. In the story we discover Princess Emer, who is trying to hide the fact that she is sprouting feathers. The story is an incredible tale of curses, finding one’s inner strength, overcoming fear and obstacles, facing difficult challenges and finding strength in tragedy.
Such a great story. It was quite complex for such a short tale. I really liked it and lost myself in it for the entire time. I loved how the author pulled all the threads together and how she wrapped up the story. Fantastic!
This is such a complex, imaginative and entirely unique collection of stories. I was pleasantly surprised by this Anthology and the quality of the work it contains.
I am familiar with some of the authors, but quite a few are new to me and I now look forward to exploring their other works.
I can guarantee that after reading this collection of stories, you are never going to look at a Corvid in the same way ever again!
Thank you to all the contributing authors!
Corvidae is a fantastic Anthology which is made up of stories and poems by 16 wonderfully talented contributing authors. Each story/poem is unique, individual and quite distinct from one another; yet they all have the same inspiration/theme- which is the Corvidae.
Corvidae (Corvids) are the very well known ‘family’ of birds that are made up of Crows, Ravens, Choughs, Treepies, Magpies, Jays, Piciacs, Nutcrackers, Rooks… and many more. We are all familiar with at least one or more of these birds, which have long been the subject of myths, legends, folklore and wives-tales. These stories/poems all showcase one or more of the Corvids traits such as intelligence, playfulness and self-awareness- and also plays off the darkness and light of their natures. Corvids have long been associated with life and death; disease; luck; trickery; or omens. They are often connected with witchcraft, voodoo, magic, or as manifestations or ‘familiars’ of deities, and the topic of many famous stories.
The works contained in this Anthology cover a wide variety of genres, voices, tones and moods. There is bound to be something here that you will fall in love with. So strap yourself in and prepare for an unexpectedly riveting ride, as you take flight to discover the wonders within.
A Murder of Crows… by Jane Yolen.
“But nobody knows,
How the crow language goes”
This is such an amusing poem and such a fun introduction to the Anthology. It immediately piked my interest and had me looking forward to more. An enjoyable read!
Whistles and Trills… by Kat Otis.
In this story the author has put her own spin on the history of World War II. In this alternate version we meet Morgaine and Walter who have crash landed their plane into the side of a mountain. Morgaine awakens and with night approaching and enemies around, it is imperative that she find shelter, if they are to survive. At a loss of what to do, her attention is caught by a persistent bird. What part does the bird have to play in the story? You will need to read the book to find out.
First off, I think this story would make a great full length novel and perhaps even the first instalment of a great series. This fantasy is really wonderfully imaginative, beautifully written and enthralling!
The Valravn... by Megan Fennell.
The inspiration for this story comes from old Danish Folklore, which is both gruesome and yet quite compelling. This story opens to a cabin deep in the forest on a very stormy night. Klara and her mother are surprised by a loud knock on the door. They find a mysterious stranger named Rikard on their doorstep seeking shelter from the storm. He claims to be a story teller and Klara is fascinated by his flamboyant attire and charisma. He proceeds to tell the tale of the Valravn. But there is more to the story than meets the eye and little does Klara know that this encounter will change her life forever.
This has such a poetic feel to the writing. I loved the inclusion of the Danish legend, it made the story really fascinating and I was completely engrossed from the first page until the last. It had a dark, ‘Hansel and Gretel’ feel to it, with an ending I didn’t see coming. Well done!
A Mischief of Seven… by Leslie Van Zwol.
A Mischief of Seven is an urban fantasy with paranormal elements. The author has used a myth as the inspiration for this tale. It is a little dark, with some suspense, mystery and drama. We meet Pike who is a very cynical and jaded police detective. He is called to a murder scene and discovers that there is a string of murders that can all be linked to the same killer- someone who is familiar to the detective. As the story progresses will Pike be able to trace the killer and stop any more deaths from occurring. Will he need to call on others to help him with the investigation? Who is the killer and how does Pike know them?
This was one of my favourite reads from the Anthology. It is gritty and a little thrilling, and captured me right from the start. A great read!
Visiting hours… by Michael S. Pack.
This is an intensely emotional story that tugged at my heartstrings and brought a tear to my eye. It explores the Corvids folklore connection to death. The author writes beautifully and this touching tale really needs to be read, so you too can appreciate just how good it is. We meet Lorraine, a grieving mother at the bedside of her deathly ill son. She struggles to understand his illness and the situation she finds herself in. A raven appears at the hospital window and she is told a story regarding ravens and what they can do. What is the story she is told? Will it have any bearing on her feelings about her son’s condition? For such a short story, it certainly packs a punch. I was thinking about it long after I had finished it. Well worth the read!
The Rookery of Sainte-Mere-Eglise… by Tim Deal.
I found this story to be a little confusing to begin with, but it all came together in the end. It’s a typical Saturday, with Birgit going about her daily tasks. She notices a number of Rooks which seem to follow her. She is due to meet her friend Lucien and the Rooks again seem to follow along. Are they trying to capture her attention? With a strange situation and a discovery to be made, this little adventure begins. This story certainly had a lot going on for such a short read. This story explores the Corvid connection to battles and War. It is quite interesting and a different take on the Anthology theme.
The Cruelest Team Will Win… by Mike Allen.
Another story that explores the Corvid’s folklore connection to death. This is a paranormal story that is a little dark, dramatic and somewhat creepy. Leanne helps people with peculiar and disturbing problems that she is uniquely qualified to solve. She uses her ability to rid people of their problem and gets quite a buzz out of helping them. But her ‘job’ doesn’t come without danger, as she (and us) soon discover. What happens when Leanne comes across a seemingly insurmountable problem? What is the danger and what can Leanne do about it?
This is a well written story, which has a great pace and a smooth flow. I really enjoyed this story and think this would make a really great movie or even a TV series.
“What Is Owed”… C.S.E. Cooney.
This is a poem about the Magpie, the trickster. It is really well written, rich and full bodied, quite emotive. I felt it has the feel of a ‘yarn’ or story that is told in pubs or taverns. It would make a great piece to be read aloud to an audience, with something for everyone to appreciate.
Raven No More… by Adria Laycraft.
This is a superb story that is another of my favourites of this Anthology. The author uses the Corvids cunning and reputation as a trickster, as well as lore from the Nuu-Chah-Nulth (the Indigenous tribes of the north west coast of Canada) as the inspiration for this story. It is also about finding the strength to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds and about transformation. We are introduced to Sandra who has been in an very abusive relationship and finally breaks free. But things don’t always go as planned and the story takes an interesting turn when she runs into a trickster.
An interesting and quite informative story which I really enjoyed reading.
The Tell-Tale Heart of Existence… by Michael M. Rader.
The Tell Tale Heart is an engaging, dark and slightly macabre story where the author has cleverly and very effectively re-imagined Edgar Allan Poe’s tale “Tell Tale Heart”. It has all the feel, flavour and impact that the original had, but with its very own identity. The narrator is a PhD student with quite a large chip on his shoulder and an axe to grind with his mentor/advisor Dr. Dupain. The story is in effect a journal of one man’s decent into madness, where the author takes us along for the ride.
A really well written and ingenious tale, that hooked me right from the beginning. I finished the story quite impressed by the author’s skilful twist on an old classic.
“Sanctuary”… by Laura VanArendonk Baugh.
Sophie is a wildlife rescuer and rehabilitator who comes across an injured crow on the road one night. She takes it back to her centre in the hope of rehabilitating it and then releasing it. Back at the centre, a mysterious man appears at odd times and strikes up a friendship with Sophie. This story kept me guessing the whole way through, with an ending that I certainly never saw coming.
There is a paranormal element to the story, with some drama and mystery thrown in for good measure. It is really quite touching and heart-warming story.
Knife Collection, Blood Museum, Birds (Scarecrow Remix) … by Sara Puls.
This is quite a heavy story with dark undertones. It introduces us to Renee whose life is slowly breaking down due to her fixation with cutting. She feels stuck in a cycle that she can’t get out of and doesn’t know how to stop. Yes other people cut, but perhaps not for the same reasons that Renee does. She has little interest outside of her cutting and it seems to be the only thing that makes her happy, even if it’s only for a while. Will Renee finally find someone who understands and is willing to help? Will she find a way to break the cycle? What part does the Corvidae play in this story? The answer just may surprise you.
An interesting story which left me wondering about it for quite some time after I finished reading it. I liked it and think the author delivered a really original and solid piece of work.
Flying the Coop… by M.L.D. Curelas.
Flying the Coop is such a great story. It is a steampunk fantasy that would make a great full length novel. It is about Hanna who has been tasked with smuggling a magpie named Jenny, out of the city. But there are sinister forces that want to get their hands on Jenny and will do anything to prevent Hanna from getting her out of the city. Hanna will need to use all her skill and cunning to complete her mission and we get to ride along on this mesmerising tale. There is more to this story than first meets the eye, an adventure full of action, intrigue, twists and surprises. The characters are fantastic, really well written and fully developed; especially considering it’s such a short story. There is quite a lot going on in this book, but it never felt cut short or rushed. The author did a superb job!
You are sure to love this story as much as I do!
Postcards from the Abyss… by Jane Yolen.
I don’t often read poetry, but I can appreciate it. But I am no expert when it comes to critiquing a poet’s work. I can only try and express the feelings that it evokes in me. So that said, this poem had a melancholy feel, a sense of sadness and a real bleakness about it. It captured my attention with the intensity of Ms. Yolen’s words. It definitely made me think and I have gone back and read it several times.
Bazyli Conjures a Blackbird… by Mark Rapacz.
We’re told a tale along with Kuba where the storyteller recounts a story of war and the magical entertainer that would mesmerise the crowd with his show. This felt like a cautionary tale to me where the author used the Corvids folktale connection to battle and war to great effect. The story was a little morbid, dark and gruesome. It gave me a lot to think about and drove home the consequences of war.
Seven for a Secret… by Megan Engelhardt.
Seven for a Secret is a story I would like to read more of. I can see the lead characters in a series of books as we follow them on their adventures. With rumours of a birdman abounding, cryptozoologists Miss Harris and Lady Zinnia Carmichael are called to the southern continent to investigate if there is any truth to these rumours. What will they discover? Are the rumours true? Will they get their birdman?
I really loved this story and was disappointed when it ended because I wanted it to go on. A unique story with a terrific synopsis and wonderfully executed. Miss Harris and Lady Zinnia are really incredible characters. The story is a showcase of the author’s brilliant writing skills.
Flight… by Angela Slatter.
This is the final story in the Anthology. It is a dark fantasy that explores the trickster reputation of the Corvidae. In the story we discover Princess Emer, who is trying to hide the fact that she is sprouting feathers. The story is an incredible tale of curses, finding one’s inner strength, overcoming fear and obstacles, facing difficult challenges and finding strength in tragedy.
Such a great story. It was quite complex for such a short tale. I really liked it and lost myself in it for the entire time. I loved how the author pulled all the threads together and how she wrapped up the story. Fantastic!
This is such a complex, imaginative and entirely unique collection of stories. I was pleasantly surprised by this Anthology and the quality of the work it contains.
I am familiar with some of the authors, but quite a few are new to me and I now look forward to exploring their other works.
I can guarantee that after reading this collection of stories, you are never going to look at a Corvid in the same way ever again!
Thank you to all the contributing authors!
More...