THE RAVEN SCHOLAR Eternal Path Trilogy, Book 1

Narrator Daphne Kouma wows in this epic fantasy/murder mystery/political thriller. In a society built around eight powerful animal spirits, a new emperor is chosen every 24 years when those vying for the throne compete in a series of trials. When the Raven palace's contender is found dead, scholar Neema Kraa finds herself simultaneously taking her place in the trials and investigating her murder. Kouma expertly leads listeners through the lush world-building and the twisting, action-packed plot. Most impressively, she takes on the voices of many characters, including the Raven spirit, who not only tells the story, but also interjects with asides and the occasional call of "Kraa! Kraa!" It's a wonderfully immersive and satisfying performance of a richly imagined novel. J.M.D. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2025]