Dawnthief

August 15, 2009
For years, the seven mercenaries collectively known as The Raven made their fortunes by fighting the wars of others, loyal only to one another and to their code. Now, as thoughts of retirement and intimations of their own mortality occupy them, they receive news of a threat that drives them to fight for the Dark College of Xetsekian mages. Barclay's ("Cry of the Newborn") series opener begins in the midst of battle and never stops its fast-paced, action-based momentum. VERDICT With heroes that possess believable strengths and flaws, this fantasy adventure, first published in Britain in 2002, should appeal to fans of Glen Cook's "Black Company" novels. [Coming in October is the second book, "Noonshade".Ed.]

Copyright 2009 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 1, 2002
Blood, sex and magic dance (sort of awkwardly) to a Terry Brooks tune in the pages of James Barclay's sprawling epic Dawnthief, the first book in his Chronicles of the Raven series. When members of the mercenary gang The Raven (motto: "Kill But Never Murder") agree to accompany a Xeteskian mage on his journey, little do they know that he will hold their destinies and the fate of the world in his hands, as he struggles to destroy the Wytch Lords, command the Dawnthief spell and live long enough to be a father to his unborn child.