The Raven Key – The Famirian Chronicles Book 1

Unlocking the truth of his past could end the world’s future.

Something is wrong with Seth. At least, that’s what his mother believed the night she tried to murder him when he was six. Almost twelve years later, Seth still struggles to reclaim a sense of normalcy after that trauma, an endeavor that isn’t helped by his father’s alcoholism or the ever-present void of his mother’s absence.

It’s an emptiness Seth isn’t sure how to fill until a romance sparks with Gabriel, a kindhearted college senior who offers Seth the support and intimacy he craves. But Gabriel is more than what he seems—and Seth might be as well.

When he wakes one night to the metallic tang of blood in his mouth and a menacing voice in his head, Seth is forced to confront the very evil his mother had feared. Now, more than one war is being waged inside Seth, and even with Gabriel’s help, he isn’t sure he’s strong enough to win.

Its definitely not for the faint of heart, but I enjoyed it. It had good pacing and the action in it is well portrayed. I really love the idea of familiars and became quite attached to the characters and their struggles and triumphs.

goodreads review

Carnes’s writing style is quite accessible, making it easy to forget you’re safe on your sofa, and truly get swept up in the story. Seth’s thoughts and actions felt authentic, as did dialogue between characters. Chapters flow easily one into the other, making it really hard to put the book down.

goodreads review

It is a fantastical story with deep themes of mental illness and fighting to stay a float. I absolutely adore the love story and I can not wait for the sequel!

Amazon review