Raven Calls

January 16, 2012
Murphy’s seventh Walker Papers urban fantasy (after Spirit Dances) shakes things up nicely. Shaman Joanne Walker has resigned from the police force after being bitten by a werewolf. Feeling called to Ireland, Jo trades in romantic interest Mike Morrison and Seattle’s cityscape for her old pal Gary Muldoon and encounters with the Morrígan and wild banshees, slowly learning about her new werewolf abilities as she goes. Some fans might be frustrated that Jo and Mike are separated so soon after finally getting their romantic opportunity, but it’s a crafty decision on Murphy’s part, forcing Jo to focus on immediate threats and the continuing revelations about her heritage. A few twists lead to a cliffhanger ending to set up book eight. Fans of the series will enjoy this chapter, while new readers should be able to put together enough of the backstory to jump on board. Agent: Jennifer Jackson, Donald Maass Literary Agency.

February 15, 2012

The seventh book in this long-running paranormal series (after Spirit Dances) finds shaman Joanne Walker traveling to Ireland on a whim. Joanne's recent battle with a werewolf has left her scarred, both physically and emotionally, and she isn't entirely sure what effects the werewolf bite on her arm will have on her powers. Upon her arrival in Ireland, she quickly realizes that she's there for a couple of reasons--to bury her mother's bones and to battle the Morrigan, an ancient goddess whose vengeful ways have shaped history. Joined by the goddess Meabh, her long-lost cousin Caitriona, and her best friend, Gary, Joanne uses her shamanic powers to battle a variety of supernatural beings while trying to sort out her complex relationship with her mother, who abandoned her as a child. VERDICT Readers who enjoy Karen Marie Moning's "Fever" series or Patricia Briggs's "Mercy Thompson" series will appreciate Joanne Walker's quest to master her powers while staying true to herself. The cliffhanger ending implies that Joanne will be back for another installment.--Nanette Donohue, Champaign P.L., IL

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