Book Review: Flight of the Raven by Judith Sterling

What a beautiful story! Judith Sterling's Flight of the Raven is truly romantic, deliciously medieval, and a very satisfying read, especially knowing it's part of a series.

Ordered to marry by the king, Emma, Lady of Ravenwood, and William l'Orage (the Storm) enter the marriage with reservations. Due to a mortal curse, she will not willingly agree to consummate their marriage unless they truly love each other. Of course, he scoffs at the notion of a curse. They are mutually attracted, and he wants sons. But he won't force her. He'll woo her, instead. And oh, his efforts are magnificent.

Emma and William are noble individuals. Their situation is tense, but they treat each other reasonably and respectfully. There's not a lot of unnecessary angst between them, and that's a refreshing change. It made me all the more eager for the moment these passionate people would give in to their feelings for each other.

Of course, not everyone wishes them well. Curse or no, they have enemies who will stop at nothing, including murder, to get what they want. Emma and William could lose everything before they surrender to their love for each other.  

I love this couple, and I'm also quite attached to Wulfstan and Robert, wonderful characters that I look forward to seeing again. Hints of magic and mystery enhance the gorgeous medieval setting.

Flight of the Raven is an absorbing, enchanting romance.