I knowingly started another series. I only slightly regret it (because I need book two. I NEED IT).

In The Raven Scholar by Antonia Hodgson, the time has come for the empire of Orrun to elect a new ruler, as Bersun the Brusque’s twenty-four year reign is reaching its conclusion. So the seven selected competitors from each of the magical groups enter the trials, completing challenges of both mind and body to determine who is best suited to the role. But when one of the competitors is murdered, the High Scholar of the Ravens, Neema Kraa, is tasked not only with finding the killer, but also with taking that competitor’s place. She feels in over her head, with few allies, but knows that the stakes are too high for her to fail. Little does she know that what’s going on behind the scenes—and what’s going on with the Raven in general—is much more complex and significant. And there’s the entire empire at stake.

I think I experienced a rare case of “book hangover” after finishing this, because nothing for the last week (aside from rereading my friend’s recent debut) has grabbed my attention. How am I supposed to survive the wait between installments of this trilogy?

I listened to the audiobook of this book, narrated brilliantly by Daphne Kouma, but less than halfway through, I could tell I also wanted to own a physical copy. I needed to hold it, to have it in my collection—and also to see the footnotes! I’m a sucker for footnotes in a fantasy novel, as my love for Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell proves.

Further, beyond the academic nature of the footnotes, the narrative structure of this book is so interesting. There’s a really compelling prologue that not only is the inciting incident of much of the plot, but also only grows more compelling and significant the farther into the story you get. And it’s not even based around Neema, the protagonist!

Speaking of Neema, she’s wonderful, full of wit and analytical skills, but also up against such intense odds that she wasn’t prepared for. But her status as an underdog, as well as an interesting person in general, makes it so easy to root for her. I also love Cain and Sol and Fenn, who all have great characterizations as well. In fact, the entire cast is amazing, even the dislikeable and/or morally gray characters. There’s so much personality in this cast, and excellent development.

The worldbuilding is fascinating, too. Basically, the empire is led by eight magical factions, each allied with a different animal symbol (fox, raven, dragon, hound, and so on), symbols which reference powerful beings that are both worshipped and feared. It’s understood by all citizens that if the Eight were ever to return to this realm, destruction would ensue, and yet the Eight are also revered. It’s a good take on an old, familiar fantasy trope (having different groups for different personalities and skillsets), especially with the backdrop of court politics and imperial power. The blending of magic and governance is really well done, similarly to how Robert Jackson Bennett blends the two in his Ana and Din series.

And yes, this book is on the longer side (over 600 pages—though I suppose that’s nothing to you [us] crazy Sanderson fans), but I never felt that the plot dragged. The setup of the magical competition for the seat of power, combined with the intrigue and danger of the murder case, makes for a compulsively readable experience. That, and the aforementioned wonderful set of characters. And while the stakes are high, Hodgson injects a lot of wit and humor into this story too, several moments getting me to chuckle out loud. And then there are twists and revelations, especially in the last act, that were excellent! I can’t wait to find out what happens next!

In the end, The Raven Scholar is a brilliant work from a strong new voice in fantasy (Hodgson has other books, but this is her first foray into this genre, and wow, I’m glad she’s here!). It’s dark and intense, but offset very well by endearing characters and clever dialogue. The themes of secrets and power, trust and allyship, are amazing. I can already tell this is going to be one of my favorite reads of the year!

The Raven Scholar is available now!