A review by ecstatic_yet_chaotic
The Raven and the Dove by Kaitlyn Davis

3.0

If world building was the only aspect I was looking at, I would give this book all the stars. Different avian kingdoms (all birds, different kinds) come together to participate in a contest where they choose their next queen/king through a series of tests. Davis takes her own sweet time to develop these kingdoms, with their special features and nature and their standing in the entire kingdom. The Sea of Mist is well described, giving it the villainous voice it deserves. There is a spy hiding in plain sight, there's magic that exists but whose purpose cannot be ascertained and there are Dragons (you'll be disappointed, I promise).

But the whole love story fell flat. Lyanna is hot tempered and used to getting her way. She is fierce when required, takes risks and is way too excited about things for her own good. Xander is her mate (ignore him, because everyone else does). Then there's Rafe, the bastard (I'm sure that has your attention), misunderstood, broody and stubborn. Also the guy Lyanna is in love (?) with. This slow-burn romance doesn't burn at all. The chemistry is missing, there's no character development and the whole angle is absurd.

The twist and turns, however, had my attention because things truly happened (in an earth shaking manner). The cliffhanger at the end is making me look forward to the next book and I just hope that the author rectifies the problematic areas because God knows, this story has potential.