Raven's Quest

December 20, 2010
Originally published under the name Joanna King, this early fantasy novel by paranormal romance author Bast (Jeweled) blends skillful world-building with a by-the-numbers plot. Gallus Navius Lucan, the heir to the Dragon Throne of Numia, sees his dreams and family destroyed by his power-hungry uncle Magnus. The only survivor, Lucan gathers loyal followers and spends 14 years plotting revenge. High priestess Branna ta Cattia is the Raven of Tir na Ban, a magical land also ruled by Magnus. She travels to Numia to free her people and find the handsome stranger in her dreams. Both focused on their personal goals, Branna and Lucan take some time to embrace their attraction while fighting off all manner of obstacles. The mechanical, linear story never really gets moving, and flat descriptions keep the reader from engaging with the action or the characters.