Raven's Cry: Orphans Book 1 by Christian A. Brown is a unique and richly imaginative novel that seamlessly blends the elements of dark fantasy and cosmic horror. It delves into the characters' external and internal battles, drawing readers into a complex world filled with eerie atmospheres, Lovecraftian-inspired monsters, four witches known as the Aspects, who stand as Earth’s final defense against the rapacious Outer Gods, and deeply personal struggles, particularly those of its protagonist, Ana. Raven’s Cry is an intense and imaginative read perfect for dark fantasy and cosmic horror fans who enjoy intricate storytelling and a slow burn of tension.

One of the most compelling aspects of Raven's Cry is how it merges reality with hallucination and myth. Ana's seizures and her journey through pain and visions blur the line between her internal suffering and the cosmic horrors that invade her life. Christian A. Brown masterfully uses vivid descriptions to create a world where nothing feels safe or stable. The imagery is intense, the narrative is riveting, and the worldbuilding is skillfully done. A standout feature is Brown’s use of language and how he cleverly intertwines H.P. Lovecraft’s spirit into the plot. His writing is highly descriptive and atmospheric, which perfectly complements the gothic elements of the story. Readers looking for an immersive, unsettling read will find much to admire in Brown’s world of shadowy gods, cosmic chaos, and personal demons. Raven’s Cry is the first in the Orphans series, and it promises to be one you won’t want to miss.

Raven's Cry by Christian A. Brown begins with Malachi, drowning in grief after an aunt's death and the darkness within his community. He forms an uneasy alliance with Brock. Grace makes a tragic discovery in finding the bodies of four murdered young women, and a baby boy—the living “Raven’s child.” A symbol of hope, Mary and her sisters vow to protect him. Lenny, with a troubled past and his own demons, serves as a connection to the community's darker elements. Gabriel, a wise elder, offers guidance into the supernatural, helping the younger characters understand their roles. Cal, a friend of Malachi, brings a sense of camaraderie and shared history in the face of the looming threat. As Malachi and Brock embark on a journey to confront this malevolent force, Ana seeks out the transformative wolf in her visions. As all juggle with the implications, they are drawn together by the burden of fate and the supernatural forces that connect them.

Raven's Cry by Christian A. Brown is a striking introduction to the Orphans series, mixing up the genuinely supernatural with folklore in a refreshingly original way. Brown is skilled in crafting textured atmospheres and exceptional prose, exemplified by lines like, "Vanished were the days of ordinary routine, supplanted instead with a life teeming with spine-chilling terrors that commanded reverence and instilled trepidation in equal measures." Brown leans into themes of violence, prophecy, and personal burdens, as well as mental health, which I greatly appreciated. The standout to me was Brown's unique integration of Indigenous North American elements, and the result is a very distinctive twist to the genre. I enjoyed the strong female characters, Grace and Ana being my favorites. Overall, this is a thrilling, well-written start to a series that promises to deliver with more books to come. Very highly recommended.