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Threads of the Lost Myth
Burning the Raven Tree
Win a free kindle copy of this book!
3 days and 10:34:27
50 copies available
U.S. only
“Burning the Raven Tree is a vivid, clever blend of folklore, myth, generational trauma, and the complicated bonds of family. Janyre Tromp pens pure poetry wrapped in small-town gothic drama, and it's a delight!”
.—Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author of The Alice Network and The Briar Club
A survivor accused of a decade-old grisly murder.
A disgraced lawyer with everything to prove.
And the only witness has stood watch for more than a millennium.
Northern Michigan is a land of ghosts and sweeping vistas. In the small town of Allentown, an ancient oak stands heavy with grief, its twisted limbs cradling shoes like silent gravestones.
The town whispers about Colwyn Cueny—the raven witch, the child killer, the woman who sees specters in the woods and locks her own sister away. But when disgraced Chicago attorney Marcus Lenarsic arrives to board with her, he doesn’t find a monster. Instead he finds a broken woman, bound by secrets and buried beneath decades of fear.
Marcus knows justice doesn’t live in shadows, and the stories people tell often hide the truths they can’t bear to face. In a nation shifting under the weight of reform, where the promises of mental health and legal justice are beginning to crack, Marcus must untangle truth from legend before the woman he’s come to protect becomes the next ghost in the trees.
A closed-door 1960s gothic historical thriller in the tradition of Rebecca. Perfect for readers who love Kate Morton, Simone St. James, and William Kent Kreuger.
“Packed with riveting moments of discovery and intersections of belief and choice, Burning the Raven Tree is thoroughly engrossing, darkly atmospheric, and hard to put down or predict.” —D. Donovan, Senior Book Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
.—Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author of The Alice Network and The Briar Club
A survivor accused of a decade-old grisly murder.
A disgraced lawyer with everything to prove.
And the only witness has stood watch for more than a millennium.
Northern Michigan is a land of ghosts and sweeping vistas. In the small town of Allentown, an ancient oak stands heavy with grief, its twisted limbs cradling shoes like silent gravestones.
The town whispers about Colwyn Cueny—the raven witch, the child killer, the woman who sees specters in the woods and locks her own sister away. But when disgraced Chicago attorney Marcus Lenarsic arrives to board with her, he doesn’t find a monster. Instead he finds a broken woman, bound by secrets and buried beneath decades of fear.
Marcus knows justice doesn’t live in shadows, and the stories people tell often hide the truths they can’t bear to face. In a nation shifting under the weight of reform, where the promises of mental health and legal justice are beginning to crack, Marcus must untangle truth from legend before the woman he’s come to protect becomes the next ghost in the trees.
A closed-door 1960s gothic historical thriller in the tradition of Rebecca. Perfect for readers who love Kate Morton, Simone St. James, and William Kent Kreuger.
“Packed with riveting moments of discovery and intersections of belief and choice, Burning the Raven Tree is thoroughly engrossing, darkly atmospheric, and hard to put down or predict.” —D. Donovan, Senior Book Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
391 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2026
About the author
Janyre Tromp
21 books332 followersJanyre Tromp is a bestselling historical novelist who loves spinning tales that, at their core, hunt for beauty, even when it isn’t pretty. Her books include: Burning the Raven Tree, The Scorpion Thief, Darkness Calls the Tiger, and Shadows in the Mind’s Eye.
She’s also a book editor, children’s book author, and lives in Michigan with her family, two crazy cats, and a slightly eccentric dog. Hang out with her on social media or through her newsletter (sign up on her website www.JanyreTromp.com).
She’s also a book editor, children’s book author, and lives in Michigan with her family, two crazy cats, and a slightly eccentric dog. Hang out with her on social media or through her newsletter (sign up on her website www.JanyreTromp.com).
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Near an aging white farmhouse, a lone oak stands guard. The tree has seen everything and holds generational memories…the ghosts of lost children…being responsible for their murder a heavy burden to bear… the oak tree, my confidant…my ravens…they too saw, and they too hold the truth behind their onyx eyes.” The raven tree is old…cracked…will it have the strength to persevere, to do battle?
Colwyn never leaves her farm. She sees shadows in the dark and hears the whisper of voices. “The wind whispers and I shiver at my own guilt telling tales…Only the guardian tree holds the world together.” Mama shared Slavic folktales where Veles ruled the roots of the tree to mete out vengeance. Perun was the God of Thunder. The Raven Tree acted in the role of intermediary. Teenagers armed with ignorance added shoes to the oak tree branches shouting accusations, calling Colwyn a “forest witch” and claiming that dead children walked through the fields after the repair shop was burned down. “I learned early that humans twist the truth for their own gain…People tend to believe what they’ve been told to believe…” Colwyn chose not to stand up to the town or their perceptions. She needed her sister and her tree, but her “Sisi” was locked away in the Traverse City State Hospital. “I work hard to drown everything. I swear there’s someone out there…voices at night…in my imagination. I feel fire…Sisi’s screams…There once were innocent days lying in a field of wildflowers.
Marcus Lenarsic is the new assistant prosecutor for Leelanau County, Michigan. He and the twins, Colwyn and Elizabeth had summered together in the past. He needed a place to reset in order to repair his reputation. His Uncle Sebastian, the county doctor, convinced an untrusting Colwyn to allow Marcus to stay at her farm and help with farm chores daily upon his return from prosecutorial cases in town. Marcus was determined to requisition and study case notes and court and police transcripts relevant to the unproven charges levelled against Colwyn for the murder of her brother- in- law and two nephews. Questions had swirled when Sebastian provided hearth and home to Colwyn and Elizabeth after the fire. In the 1950s, there were no laws addressing child abuse to consider the bruising and potential broken bones presented by the fourteen year old girls.
Marcus’ memories of the 1950s included time spent with Colwyn and Elizabeth atop a platform on the raven tree. The tree enveloped them in warmth and safety as they spun generation stories handed down by parents and grandparents. The tree protected them from memories of the beatings incurred from abusive parents. Colwyn was now meek and fragile, visited by ghosts and shadows. How could she have committed murder? She suffered burns while pulling her sister Elizabeth to safety from the fiery garage. Elizabeth was soon sent to Traverse City State Hospital on the say-so of others.
In 1965, Sheriff Benoit was still unwilling to let the cold case rest. He insisted that Colwyn committed murder, even without proof, and he intended to prove his case. Marcus was intent upon not letting that happen!
Burning the Raven Tree by Janyre Tromp is a multi-layered, complex read. For this reader, the standout was the voice of the oak tree, blanketing generations of family in its loving arms. The dual timeline of the 1950s versus the 1960s, compares and contrasts cases of child abuse as well as institutionalizing women on the say-so of the male relatives, as determined by the enactment of new laws. Under a wide umbrella, the reader will find a complicated read of historical fiction filled with gothic and folktale overtones.
Highly recommended.
Thank you Janyre Tromp for the print copy in exchange for an honest review.
Colwyn never leaves her farm. She sees shadows in the dark and hears the whisper of voices. “The wind whispers and I shiver at my own guilt telling tales…Only the guardian tree holds the world together.” Mama shared Slavic folktales where Veles ruled the roots of the tree to mete out vengeance. Perun was the God of Thunder. The Raven Tree acted in the role of intermediary. Teenagers armed with ignorance added shoes to the oak tree branches shouting accusations, calling Colwyn a “forest witch” and claiming that dead children walked through the fields after the repair shop was burned down. “I learned early that humans twist the truth for their own gain…People tend to believe what they’ve been told to believe…” Colwyn chose not to stand up to the town or their perceptions. She needed her sister and her tree, but her “Sisi” was locked away in the Traverse City State Hospital. “I work hard to drown everything. I swear there’s someone out there…voices at night…in my imagination. I feel fire…Sisi’s screams…There once were innocent days lying in a field of wildflowers.
Marcus Lenarsic is the new assistant prosecutor for Leelanau County, Michigan. He and the twins, Colwyn and Elizabeth had summered together in the past. He needed a place to reset in order to repair his reputation. His Uncle Sebastian, the county doctor, convinced an untrusting Colwyn to allow Marcus to stay at her farm and help with farm chores daily upon his return from prosecutorial cases in town. Marcus was determined to requisition and study case notes and court and police transcripts relevant to the unproven charges levelled against Colwyn for the murder of her brother- in- law and two nephews. Questions had swirled when Sebastian provided hearth and home to Colwyn and Elizabeth after the fire. In the 1950s, there were no laws addressing child abuse to consider the bruising and potential broken bones presented by the fourteen year old girls.
Marcus’ memories of the 1950s included time spent with Colwyn and Elizabeth atop a platform on the raven tree. The tree enveloped them in warmth and safety as they spun generation stories handed down by parents and grandparents. The tree protected them from memories of the beatings incurred from abusive parents. Colwyn was now meek and fragile, visited by ghosts and shadows. How could she have committed murder? She suffered burns while pulling her sister Elizabeth to safety from the fiery garage. Elizabeth was soon sent to Traverse City State Hospital on the say-so of others.
In 1965, Sheriff Benoit was still unwilling to let the cold case rest. He insisted that Colwyn committed murder, even without proof, and he intended to prove his case. Marcus was intent upon not letting that happen!
Burning the Raven Tree by Janyre Tromp is a multi-layered, complex read. For this reader, the standout was the voice of the oak tree, blanketing generations of family in its loving arms. The dual timeline of the 1950s versus the 1960s, compares and contrasts cases of child abuse as well as institutionalizing women on the say-so of the male relatives, as determined by the enactment of new laws. Under a wide umbrella, the reader will find a complicated read of historical fiction filled with gothic and folktale overtones.
Highly recommended.
Thank you Janyre Tromp for the print copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A vivid, clever blend of folklore, myth, generational trauma, and the complicated bonds of family. Suspected murderess Colwyn Cueny lives in backwoods Michigan under a seething cloud of suspicion: the woman who sent her twin sister to an asylum after the mysterious deaths of her brother-in-law and nephews. But when a disgraced Chicago lawyer and former flame shows up to champion Colwyn's cause, the past refuses once and for all to stay buried. Janyre Tromp pens pure poetry wrapped in small-town gothic drama, and it's a delight.
September 16, 2026
Burning the Raven Tree is a gritty, mind bending read by Janyre Tromp! On a sprawling property in Michigan, a Raven Tree’s roots run deep as it witnesses the joy and heartbreak of its family of owners. In 1965, Marcus moves to Michigan from Chicago in hopes of salvaging his career as a lawyer. With the help of his uncle and local doctor, Sebastian, Marcus secures housing by renting from childhood friend Colwyn. A lot of life has happened to Colwyn. Colwyn and her twin sister were abused by their father. Colwyn lost her parents tragically. And her twin sister Elizabeth lost her two sons and husband in a fire, causing Elizabeth to be institutionalized. When Marcus sees Colwyn, she is a shell of her former self and something doesn’t seem right. Despite town rumors and bias, Marcus digs deep to find out what truly happened to Colwyn. The deeper Marcus digs, the more he starts to unravel a web of deception that goes back decades.
I love the story that Janyre Tromp wove in Burning the Raven Tree! I love the depth Ms. Tromp gives to the storyline and how she weaves poignant meaning (especially with the Raven Tree). My Tromp’s storytelling is bar none! It took me a little bit to get into the story and to get a grasp of what was going on as Ms. Tromp was unfolding the story. I didn’t mind though because Ms. Tromp’s stories are always worth it to me. I love that Ms. Tromp isn’t afraid to write about issues that need to be discussed and tackled. I loved how layered the story was even though I was confused at points and didn’t always fully understand what was going on until later. I loved the character of Marcus and the dynamic of the twins—Elizabeth and Colwyn. I loved how Ms. Tromp incorporated the history of laws for children and the disabled into the plot. I also loved how the Raven Tree’s perspective was integrated into the plot. I loved how Marcus saw beyond Colwyn and remembered the true person buried deep inside and fought for her. I loved the twists and tales that were woven in Burning the Raven Tree and how Ms. Tromp kept them coming to the very last page. To me, those twists reminded me of something from a Jessica R. Patch book (especially Ms. Patch’s The Other Sister!). Burning the Raven Tree is a beautiful, mind bending read that reminds us to look into the heart of the person, because that’s where the Truth lies. I highly recommend Burning the Raven Tree by Janyre Tromp!
Have you read Burning the Raven Tree? What did you think of the book?
I would like to thank Janyre Tromp and NetGalley for giving me a copy Burning the Raven Tree to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
My review is also on my blog Leslie's Library Escape and NetGalley.
I love the story that Janyre Tromp wove in Burning the Raven Tree! I love the depth Ms. Tromp gives to the storyline and how she weaves poignant meaning (especially with the Raven Tree). My Tromp’s storytelling is bar none! It took me a little bit to get into the story and to get a grasp of what was going on as Ms. Tromp was unfolding the story. I didn’t mind though because Ms. Tromp’s stories are always worth it to me. I love that Ms. Tromp isn’t afraid to write about issues that need to be discussed and tackled. I loved how layered the story was even though I was confused at points and didn’t always fully understand what was going on until later. I loved the character of Marcus and the dynamic of the twins—Elizabeth and Colwyn. I loved how Ms. Tromp incorporated the history of laws for children and the disabled into the plot. I also loved how the Raven Tree’s perspective was integrated into the plot. I loved how Marcus saw beyond Colwyn and remembered the true person buried deep inside and fought for her. I loved the twists and tales that were woven in Burning the Raven Tree and how Ms. Tromp kept them coming to the very last page. To me, those twists reminded me of something from a Jessica R. Patch book (especially Ms. Patch’s The Other Sister!). Burning the Raven Tree is a beautiful, mind bending read that reminds us to look into the heart of the person, because that’s where the Truth lies. I highly recommend Burning the Raven Tree by Janyre Tromp!
Have you read Burning the Raven Tree? What did you think of the book?
I would like to thank Janyre Tromp and NetGalley for giving me a copy Burning the Raven Tree to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
My review is also on my blog Leslie's Library Escape and NetGalley.
September 18, 2026
Oh my goodness, Burning the Raven Tree is an absolute masterpiece of a gothic mystery! Janyre Tromp kept me completely enthralled with the surprising twists, beautiful poetic prose, captivating folklore & myths, slow-burn second chance romance, & utterly intriguing psychological mystery. It’s a story that will stay with me & I can’t wait to read it again!
Growing up, twin sisters Colwyn & Elizabeth Cueny endured terrible abuse & learned to rely on each other & the old oak tree that sheltered them from life’s storms. Now, in 1966, their horrific past & the grisly murders that followed come back to haunt the survivors.
When Chicago attorney Marcus Lenarsic returns to Northern Michigan hoping to redeem his career, he stays at Colwyn’s home at his uncle’s behest. But because of the rumors surrounding the tragedy, Colwyn refuses to leave her home & endures being labeled a murderer & witch. Faced with a prejudicial justice system & narrow-minded town, Marcus must piece together what happened all those years ago. But can he trust Colwyn & the long buried secrets she hides?
I absolutely loved this story & was completely riveted! Told from both Colwyn’s & Marcus’ POVs, I was mesmerized as the tragic tale unfolded. Colwyn’s troubled past makes her feel like an unreliable narrator, especially when there are things she can’t remember. I loved not knowing what to believe!
I really enjoyed Marcus & seeing him evolve from a frightened young man into a fierce protector. I loved how he’s compared to both the Scarecrow & Cowardly Lion from The Wizard of Oz. I enjoyed puzzling out the mystery through his eyes while watching him grapple with his feelings for Colwyn as he unravels the truth.
The writing is amazing, & I loved the folklore feel, including the POV of the Raven Tree & references to Baba Yaga & other tales. I was completely spellbound by the mystery, & loved how the author teased out each clue. The shocking ending had me on the edge of my seat! Now I can’t wait to go back & reread it knowing what happened.
Highly recommend to gothic mystery fans! I received an advanced copy but also read in Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own & voluntarily provided.
Growing up, twin sisters Colwyn & Elizabeth Cueny endured terrible abuse & learned to rely on each other & the old oak tree that sheltered them from life’s storms. Now, in 1966, their horrific past & the grisly murders that followed come back to haunt the survivors.
When Chicago attorney Marcus Lenarsic returns to Northern Michigan hoping to redeem his career, he stays at Colwyn’s home at his uncle’s behest. But because of the rumors surrounding the tragedy, Colwyn refuses to leave her home & endures being labeled a murderer & witch. Faced with a prejudicial justice system & narrow-minded town, Marcus must piece together what happened all those years ago. But can he trust Colwyn & the long buried secrets she hides?
I absolutely loved this story & was completely riveted! Told from both Colwyn’s & Marcus’ POVs, I was mesmerized as the tragic tale unfolded. Colwyn’s troubled past makes her feel like an unreliable narrator, especially when there are things she can’t remember. I loved not knowing what to believe!
I really enjoyed Marcus & seeing him evolve from a frightened young man into a fierce protector. I loved how he’s compared to both the Scarecrow & Cowardly Lion from The Wizard of Oz. I enjoyed puzzling out the mystery through his eyes while watching him grapple with his feelings for Colwyn as he unravels the truth.
The writing is amazing, & I loved the folklore feel, including the POV of the Raven Tree & references to Baba Yaga & other tales. I was completely spellbound by the mystery, & loved how the author teased out each clue. The shocking ending had me on the edge of my seat! Now I can’t wait to go back & reread it knowing what happened.
Highly recommend to gothic mystery fans! I received an advanced copy but also read in Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own & voluntarily provided.
August 15, 2026
I could not put this book down! This book was a slow burn that had me captivated. Atmospheric, gothic, and mysterious vibes describe this book. This story takes place in the 1960’s with flashbacks to the 1950’s and never felt confusing between the two time lines. I enjoyed the balance between what was happening now in the story and what happened in the past to provide context. I like a book that has a mystery to solve and this provided that. I began to have suspicions about things and while some of my thoughts were correct, there were definitely some plot twists I did not see coming! The author did a great job of weaving a captivating story together.
I liked the characters in this book. They had depth to them. Colwyn, Elizabeth, and Marcus had struggles that ran deep. This book highlights the abysmal child abuse laws of the past as well as spousal abuse that ran unchecked. There were some hard things to read in this book, but the author handles these difficult topics well and brings light and truth into the story.
Another character in this book is the oak tree. This is where the myth is brought into the story. I was not familiar with the various myths about trees holding up the sky and being the gateway to the underworld. These various myths are what link each of the books in this series together. That being said, each book can be read as a stand alone.
All in all I enjoyed this book and I look forward to reading more by Janyre Tromp.
I received an advanced readers copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
I liked the characters in this book. They had depth to them. Colwyn, Elizabeth, and Marcus had struggles that ran deep. This book highlights the abysmal child abuse laws of the past as well as spousal abuse that ran unchecked. There were some hard things to read in this book, but the author handles these difficult topics well and brings light and truth into the story.
Another character in this book is the oak tree. This is where the myth is brought into the story. I was not familiar with the various myths about trees holding up the sky and being the gateway to the underworld. These various myths are what link each of the books in this series together. That being said, each book can be read as a stand alone.
All in all I enjoyed this book and I look forward to reading more by Janyre Tromp.
I received an advanced readers copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
September 15, 2026
Goodness, this one hurt.
There were moments I was angry, moments I was heartbroken, and others when I just wanted to reach into the pages and change what was happening. The injustice of it all is devastating. Knowing how easily fear, whispers, and what people choose to believe can alter the course of someone’s life made this incredibly emotional for me.
“People aren’t always broken by the things they fear. They’re destroyed by the things they do because of that fear.”
That line. ❤️
There is a mystery here, and it unfolds almost like a puzzle. Little by little, pieces begin to fit together, only for another truth or surprise to make you question everything again. I desperately wanted answers, but even more than that, I wanted justice.
The author’s writing is absolutely beautiful. There is something almost lyrical about the way she writes this much sorrow. The setting, the old stories, the ancient tree watching it all…it sometimes felt as though the land itself remembered what everyone else wanted forgotten.
I cried. More than once. This story can be painful and infuriating, and there were parts that genuinely broke my heart. Yet it never leaves you completely without hope.
Then I reached these words:
“As if she’s heard me, the woman shields her eyes, letting her gaze travel up to my crown, hazy with new leaves. A smile spreads with the sunlight. And while my end is still coming, I know that as I transform to dust, this place is reborn as a place of life. The Sister of the Dawn and the surprising city man hold the gate. The old stories are true-fire burns away the lies so something living can rise. Beauty from ashes.”
Beauty from ashes. ❤️
After everything this story made me feel, those words meant even more. Darkness Calls the Tiger has been my favorite by Janyre Tromp, and this one is right there beside it. Absolutely unforgettable. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
There were moments I was angry, moments I was heartbroken, and others when I just wanted to reach into the pages and change what was happening. The injustice of it all is devastating. Knowing how easily fear, whispers, and what people choose to believe can alter the course of someone’s life made this incredibly emotional for me.
“People aren’t always broken by the things they fear. They’re destroyed by the things they do because of that fear.”
That line. ❤️
There is a mystery here, and it unfolds almost like a puzzle. Little by little, pieces begin to fit together, only for another truth or surprise to make you question everything again. I desperately wanted answers, but even more than that, I wanted justice.
The author’s writing is absolutely beautiful. There is something almost lyrical about the way she writes this much sorrow. The setting, the old stories, the ancient tree watching it all…it sometimes felt as though the land itself remembered what everyone else wanted forgotten.
I cried. More than once. This story can be painful and infuriating, and there were parts that genuinely broke my heart. Yet it never leaves you completely without hope.
Then I reached these words:
“As if she’s heard me, the woman shields her eyes, letting her gaze travel up to my crown, hazy with new leaves. A smile spreads with the sunlight. And while my end is still coming, I know that as I transform to dust, this place is reborn as a place of life. The Sister of the Dawn and the surprising city man hold the gate. The old stories are true-fire burns away the lies so something living can rise. Beauty from ashes.”
Beauty from ashes. ❤️
After everything this story made me feel, those words meant even more. Darkness Calls the Tiger has been my favorite by Janyre Tromp, and this one is right there beside it. Absolutely unforgettable. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Riveting!
Myth and legends of magic collide with the secrets of the past and present in Janyre Tromp's Burning the Raven Tree. I found this story spellbinding. An old farmhouse with its legendary tree breathes with a life of its own, setting the stage for the secrets that will be revealed. Not only does Ms. Tromp's prose describe the setting, it sets an atmospheric mood of magic and mystery, heartache and fear.
Told from several POVs, that of the tree, Marcus and one of the sisters, the readers will quickly realize the abuse suffered has tragically marked the Cueney family for generations. She has suppressed memories of a past tragedy, that are slowly coming back. but will they prove her innocence or her guilt?
A young lawyer's crusade for justice has sent him to this backwoods community. He struggles to separate his personal emotions as his mission to solve the old mystery brings the return of a villain who is on their own crusade of vengeance.
Ms. Tromp's historical detail brings to light the injustice of the law, turning its back on the women and children who suffered abuse as well as those institutionalized in a system meant to care for their patients. It also paints the heartbreaking way a community has labeled a young woman as a monster and treats her as an outcast. Yet woven through a story of evil and vengeance is one of a heroine who will overcome the powers of darkness. A story of a young woman who must dig deep for strength, resilience and hope.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Myth and legends of magic collide with the secrets of the past and present in Janyre Tromp's Burning the Raven Tree. I found this story spellbinding. An old farmhouse with its legendary tree breathes with a life of its own, setting the stage for the secrets that will be revealed. Not only does Ms. Tromp's prose describe the setting, it sets an atmospheric mood of magic and mystery, heartache and fear.
Told from several POVs, that of the tree, Marcus and one of the sisters, the readers will quickly realize the abuse suffered has tragically marked the Cueney family for generations. She has suppressed memories of a past tragedy, that are slowly coming back. but will they prove her innocence or her guilt?
A young lawyer's crusade for justice has sent him to this backwoods community. He struggles to separate his personal emotions as his mission to solve the old mystery brings the return of a villain who is on their own crusade of vengeance.
Ms. Tromp's historical detail brings to light the injustice of the law, turning its back on the women and children who suffered abuse as well as those institutionalized in a system meant to care for their patients. It also paints the heartbreaking way a community has labeled a young woman as a monster and treats her as an outcast. Yet woven through a story of evil and vengeance is one of a heroine who will overcome the powers of darkness. A story of a young woman who must dig deep for strength, resilience and hope.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 17, 2026
A cold case murder. A woman who speaks to ravens. Tales of Baba Yaga. And gothic vibes. This book drew me in immediately and I enjoyed every bit of it! I'm not normally a historical fiction fan but the writing was so immersive and intriguing that I couldn't help but keep reading. If you're looking for something with a touch of magical realism, you love cold case mysteries, and you enjoy psychological suspense, I highly recommend this.
Trigger/audience notes: Abuse and suicide come up, so if that's triggering for you, be aware
Overall: Loved it!
Trigger/audience notes: Abuse and suicide come up, so if that's triggering for you, be aware
Overall: Loved it!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have to be honest, this type book is not usually "my jam". However Janyre Tromp has a way of writing these tales that draws me in.
Burning the Raven Tree is the second book in the Threads of Lost Myths series and no they don't have to be read in order.
This tale is such a compelling and fascinating one. I loved the twists, the vivid descriptions, and the telling of the story from different view points. While I don't put stock into myths, what people believe and why is interesting. In Burning the Raven Tree there's mythology and truth, darkness and light, reality verses buried and false memories and long ago decisions that matter in the present.
If you love gothic, historical, thrillers, this book is a must yo read. Even if you don't , perhaps like me, you will discover that though not quite "your jam", this book will keep you turning pages and up waaaay into the dark night biting your nails and totally engrossed in the story that's unfolding.
Burning the Raven Tree is the second book in the Threads of Lost Myths series and no they don't have to be read in order.
This tale is such a compelling and fascinating one. I loved the twists, the vivid descriptions, and the telling of the story from different view points. While I don't put stock into myths, what people believe and why is interesting. In Burning the Raven Tree there's mythology and truth, darkness and light, reality verses buried and false memories and long ago decisions that matter in the present.
If you love gothic, historical, thrillers, this book is a must yo read. Even if you don't , perhaps like me, you will discover that though not quite "your jam", this book will keep you turning pages and up waaaay into the dark night biting your nails and totally engrossed in the story that's unfolding.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This isn't quite what I normally read, but I thought I'd give it a try and am so glad I did!
When Marcus Lenarsic, a disgraced Chicago lawyer, comes to work in a small town in Michigan where he spent time as a child, he finds himself embroiled in a cold case mystery involving the children he grew up playing with. Colwyn Cueney is shunned by the town after being accused of killing her brother-in-law and two nephews in a fire some years ago. Although there was never enough evidence to convict her, there was never enough to prove her innocent, either. Marcus, who is lodging at her house, refuses to believe the girl he played with as a child could grow up to commit murder, and is determined to discover the truth.
As Marcus digs into old police reports and interviews, and as Colwyn dredges up various snippets of the story from her memories, the true story slowly begins to piece itself together. However, it soon becomes clear that discovering the truth is more pressing than it originally seemed, as the past tragedy seems to be catching up with Colwyn in the present.
The writing style really pulls the reader into the story and describes everything in such an evocative way. It combines Slavic folklore, Michigan landscape, a past tragedy still haunting the town, and shocking twists to create an eerie, unputdownable story. Add an atmospheric, looming sense of foreboding permeating the story, and I got chills reading this even outdoors in the scorching August sun.
The plot twists, reveals, and unreliable narration kept me on the edge of my seat and questioning everything. I stayed up past midnight reading this, then thought about it all the next day until I got home and could finish it.
I did have trouble at first trying to figure out how everyone got to that point, but eventually I both got a better bearing on the general backstory, and realised that the main plot of the book was focused on figuring out just that, so it started making more sense.
I also cannot believe I caught on to the main plot twist! I felt like it was very well-done and not obvious until right before the actual reveal, so I'm extra proud of myself. Even so, it was a great twist that gave me a jolt as soon as I realised it. As soon as I suspected, however, I looked back over everything we knew and realised it made complete sense. I almost want to re-read the book just to see how all of the puzzle pieces fit together now that I know the full story.
While this is part of a series, it reads as a standalone. However, I do intend to investigate the other books in the series after enjoying this one so much!
Thank you to NetGalley, Ember and Vine Press, and Janyre Tromp for providing a digital ARC of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
When Marcus Lenarsic, a disgraced Chicago lawyer, comes to work in a small town in Michigan where he spent time as a child, he finds himself embroiled in a cold case mystery involving the children he grew up playing with. Colwyn Cueney is shunned by the town after being accused of killing her brother-in-law and two nephews in a fire some years ago. Although there was never enough evidence to convict her, there was never enough to prove her innocent, either. Marcus, who is lodging at her house, refuses to believe the girl he played with as a child could grow up to commit murder, and is determined to discover the truth.
As Marcus digs into old police reports and interviews, and as Colwyn dredges up various snippets of the story from her memories, the true story slowly begins to piece itself together. However, it soon becomes clear that discovering the truth is more pressing than it originally seemed, as the past tragedy seems to be catching up with Colwyn in the present.
The writing style really pulls the reader into the story and describes everything in such an evocative way. It combines Slavic folklore, Michigan landscape, a past tragedy still haunting the town, and shocking twists to create an eerie, unputdownable story. Add an atmospheric, looming sense of foreboding permeating the story, and I got chills reading this even outdoors in the scorching August sun.
The plot twists, reveals, and unreliable narration kept me on the edge of my seat and questioning everything. I stayed up past midnight reading this, then thought about it all the next day until I got home and could finish it.
I did have trouble at first trying to figure out how everyone got to that point, but eventually I both got a better bearing on the general backstory, and realised that the main plot of the book was focused on figuring out just that, so it started making more sense.
I also cannot believe I caught on to the main plot twist! I felt like it was very well-done and not obvious until right before the actual reveal, so I'm extra proud of myself. Even so, it was a great twist that gave me a jolt as soon as I realised it. As soon as I suspected, however, I looked back over everything we knew and realised it made complete sense. I almost want to re-read the book just to see how all of the puzzle pieces fit together now that I know the full story.
While this is part of a series, it reads as a standalone. However, I do intend to investigate the other books in the series after enjoying this one so much!
Thank you to NetGalley, Ember and Vine Press, and Janyre Tromp for providing a digital ARC of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
Burning the Raven Tree pulled me in with that eerie, almost haunting atmosphere, but what stayed with me most was how much heart there is underneath all the darkness. The story feels like more than a gothic mystery. It’s about family, buried pain, the stories people create about those they don’t understand, and how difficult it can be to separate truth from what we’ve been taught to believe.
I especially loved the atmosphere of Allentown. The raven tree, the woods, the whispers, and the feeling that the past is never really gone created such an unsettling backdrop. There were moments when I genuinely felt that sense of unease, wondering what was real and what was being shaped by fear and old legends.
Colwyn was the character who really stayed with me. Seeing how other people viewed her compared with what Marcus gradually discovers about her made her story heartbreaking. I found myself wanting to understand her rather than simply judge her, and that made the mystery feel much more personal.
Marcus was also a character I really enjoyed following. His own failures and determination to uncover the truth gave the story another layer, and I liked watching the relationship between him and Colwyn develop naturally as more secrets came to light.
What I appreciated most was that the book didn’t rely only on suspense. It made me think about how easily a person can become a monster in the eyes of a community when people would rather believe a frightening story than face a painful truth.
The writing has a beautiful, almost poetic quality, while still keeping that dark, mysterious feeling throughout. I went into this expecting a gothic thriller, but I came away feeling like I had read something much more emotional and layered.
Definitely a book I would recommend to readers who enjoy atmospheric mysteries, family secrets, folklore, and stories that keep you questioning what is really happening until the very end. Burning the Raven Tree is haunting in the best possible way, and it’s the kind of story that lingers in your thoughts after you’ve finished reading.
August 12, 2026
Burning the Raven Tree is a beautifully eerie blend of gothic atmosphere, folklore, and slow‑burn suspense that settles over you like mist from the northern Michigan woods. Janyre Tromp has crafted a story that feels both mythic and deeply human—rooted in generational trauma, small‑town secrets, and the fragile hope of redemption.
Colwyn Cueny is a haunting, unforgettable character. The town calls her a murderer, a forest witch, a woman carved by curses—but Tromp reveals her with such tenderness that every accusation feels like another wound you want to shield her from. When Marcus Lenarsic arrives, disgraced and determined to rebuild his life, the dynamic between them becomes the beating heart of the novel. Their connection is quiet, cautious, and full of the kind of emotional tension that makes you lean in.
The setting is extraordinary—an ancient oak heavy with shoes, a town steeped in superstition, and a landscape that feels alive with memory. Tromp uses these elements not as decoration but as living threads in the story, weaving myth and reality until you’re not entirely sure where one ends and the other begins. The 1960s justice‑reform backdrop adds a compelling layer, grounding the gothic elements in real‑world stakes.
This is a novel about truth and the stories we tell to survive, about the ghosts we inherit and the ones we create. It’s atmospheric, clever, and quietly devastating in all the right ways. Fans of Kate Morton, William Kent Krueger, and Rebecca will find themselves right at home.
A haunting, lyrical gothic thriller that lingers long after the last page.
With thanks to Janyre Tromp, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Colwyn Cueny is a haunting, unforgettable character. The town calls her a murderer, a forest witch, a woman carved by curses—but Tromp reveals her with such tenderness that every accusation feels like another wound you want to shield her from. When Marcus Lenarsic arrives, disgraced and determined to rebuild his life, the dynamic between them becomes the beating heart of the novel. Their connection is quiet, cautious, and full of the kind of emotional tension that makes you lean in.
The setting is extraordinary—an ancient oak heavy with shoes, a town steeped in superstition, and a landscape that feels alive with memory. Tromp uses these elements not as decoration but as living threads in the story, weaving myth and reality until you’re not entirely sure where one ends and the other begins. The 1960s justice‑reform backdrop adds a compelling layer, grounding the gothic elements in real‑world stakes.
This is a novel about truth and the stories we tell to survive, about the ghosts we inherit and the ones we create. It’s atmospheric, clever, and quietly devastating in all the right ways. Fans of Kate Morton, William Kent Krueger, and Rebecca will find themselves right at home.
A haunting, lyrical gothic thriller that lingers long after the last page.
With thanks to Janyre Tromp, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
September 16, 2026
4.5 rounded up
I have read this author before, and I absolutely love her writing style. She has a way of completely drawing you in with the descriptive details and an unforgettable story!
An ancient oak tree stands in the small town of Allenwood, MI in 1965, it's heavy with grief and shoes. The shoes are like gravestones. It also happens to be in Colwyn Cueny's yard. She's the one the townspeople call the raven witch, the child killer, the one who sees ghosts in the woods, and locks her own sister away. She's been outcast by the town and keeps to herself. She never leaves her property. But when disgraced Chicago lawyer Marcus Lenarsic comes to stay with her it opens up old wounds of the past. Marcus is determined to find out the truth of the past and prove Colwyn's innocence. This time he vows to stay and protect her. But what or who is he protecting her from?
Told from multiple POVs, including the tree's, and across dual timelines, this was a riveting read. It was dark, atmospheric, and mysterious, full of Slavic folklore, buried secrets, and generational trauma. A complex story with slow-burn suspense and an incredible plot twist. The beautiful writing had me completely captivated. The author covers the injustices faced by abused children and women during that time period and their institutionalization. It was emotional and definitely pulled at my heartstrings. I found this to be an immersive, compelling, haunting historical thriller that I really enjoyed and highly recommend!🩷 P.S. - Don't forget to read the author's notes.
I have read this author before, and I absolutely love her writing style. She has a way of completely drawing you in with the descriptive details and an unforgettable story!
An ancient oak tree stands in the small town of Allenwood, MI in 1965, it's heavy with grief and shoes. The shoes are like gravestones. It also happens to be in Colwyn Cueny's yard. She's the one the townspeople call the raven witch, the child killer, the one who sees ghosts in the woods, and locks her own sister away. She's been outcast by the town and keeps to herself. She never leaves her property. But when disgraced Chicago lawyer Marcus Lenarsic comes to stay with her it opens up old wounds of the past. Marcus is determined to find out the truth of the past and prove Colwyn's innocence. This time he vows to stay and protect her. But what or who is he protecting her from?
Told from multiple POVs, including the tree's, and across dual timelines, this was a riveting read. It was dark, atmospheric, and mysterious, full of Slavic folklore, buried secrets, and generational trauma. A complex story with slow-burn suspense and an incredible plot twist. The beautiful writing had me completely captivated. The author covers the injustices faced by abused children and women during that time period and their institutionalization. It was emotional and definitely pulled at my heartstrings. I found this to be an immersive, compelling, haunting historical thriller that I really enjoyed and highly recommend!🩷 P.S. - Don't forget to read the author's notes.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Netgalley and Ember and Vine Press for the advance copy in exchange for my own opinion.
A beautiful story of generational trauma and what must be done to break the cycle, set against the backdrop of rural Michigan during the 1940s to 1960s, when the Civil Rights Movement was in full swing and, in turn, helped inspire mental health rights. This book does a good job demonstrating the trials and tribulations that one faced in dealing with heavy grief and trauma. It was very interesting to have the different perspectives: a city lawyer trying to fight against an unjust system, a twin who lost her family to what seems like an unbreakable cycle and unfair circumstances, and a mythical tree that weaves in tales of old with our current, still-modern story of the cycle of abuse and also perseverance.
While I was still very much hooked on the story, I struggled with the pacing up until the 60% mark of the book. It felt as though a lot of nothing was really happening. Another problem I had with the novel was that the chapters change from first-person to third-person perspective depending on whose POV you were reading. I don't like that, and to me, it is very jarring to switch between the two when it comes to Marcus and Colwyn. However, I did not mind the Raven Trees' perspective being in first-person, because the Raven Tree is essentially a type of god.
A beautiful story of generational trauma and what must be done to break the cycle, set against the backdrop of rural Michigan during the 1940s to 1960s, when the Civil Rights Movement was in full swing and, in turn, helped inspire mental health rights. This book does a good job demonstrating the trials and tribulations that one faced in dealing with heavy grief and trauma. It was very interesting to have the different perspectives: a city lawyer trying to fight against an unjust system, a twin who lost her family to what seems like an unbreakable cycle and unfair circumstances, and a mythical tree that weaves in tales of old with our current, still-modern story of the cycle of abuse and also perseverance.
While I was still very much hooked on the story, I struggled with the pacing up until the 60% mark of the book. It felt as though a lot of nothing was really happening. Another problem I had with the novel was that the chapters change from first-person to third-person perspective depending on whose POV you were reading. I don't like that, and to me, it is very jarring to switch between the two when it comes to Marcus and Colwyn. However, I did not mind the Raven Trees' perspective being in first-person, because the Raven Tree is essentially a type of god.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is beyond amazing! It's good versus evil; truth versus deception; reality versus ancient folklore. I'll admit that I was completely immersed in the story!
The characters are BRILLIANTLY written! Each one fighting their own unique battles against "dark" forces. Colwyn and Elizabeth are alike and opposite in many ways. They're both survivors but one is a sister of the dawn and the other is the sister of midnight. Marcus is running from his own mistakes and finds himself smack dab in the middle of an unsolved murder. His feelings for the twins often blind him to the truth. The Raven Tree is my favorite! She's a fighter, a survivor and steadfast.
My favorite quote is from the Raven tree. "And while my end is still coming, I know that as I transform to dust, this place is reborn as a place of life. ...the old stories are true- fire burns away the lies so something living can rise. Beauty from ashes."
*Personal note: a few things really touched my heart in this story. 1. There are a lot of hurting people in this world. 2. Mental illness is real and impacts many lives. 3. There's always hope for a better future.
I was provided a complimentary ARC copy of the book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The characters are BRILLIANTLY written! Each one fighting their own unique battles against "dark" forces. Colwyn and Elizabeth are alike and opposite in many ways. They're both survivors but one is a sister of the dawn and the other is the sister of midnight. Marcus is running from his own mistakes and finds himself smack dab in the middle of an unsolved murder. His feelings for the twins often blind him to the truth. The Raven Tree is my favorite! She's a fighter, a survivor and steadfast.
My favorite quote is from the Raven tree. "And while my end is still coming, I know that as I transform to dust, this place is reborn as a place of life. ...the old stories are true- fire burns away the lies so something living can rise. Beauty from ashes."
*Personal note: a few things really touched my heart in this story. 1. There are a lot of hurting people in this world. 2. Mental illness is real and impacts many lives. 3. There's always hope for a better future.
I was provided a complimentary ARC copy of the book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 17, 2026
There are books you read for the story, and then there are books where the story is only part of the experience. Burning the Raven Tree is the latter.
Janyre Tromp has created something wonderfully difficult to categorize—a historical mystery woven with folklore, family secrets, generational trauma, and just enough uncertainty to keep you questioning what is real, what is remembered, and what has simply been believed for so long that no one remembers the difference.
The strength of this story is its people. They are complicated, wounded characters carrying the consequences of things that happened long before they had the ability to understand them. Their choices and relationships give the darker elements of the story an emotional weight that goes far beyond solving the mystery.
Underneath the mystery and Gothic atmosphere, this is a story about the damage people carry, the stories families tell themselves, and whether the past determines what comes next. Atmospheric, unusual, and deeply layered, Burning the Raven Tree gives you something to think about after you've turned the final page.
I received an advance copy from the author, but as always, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Janyre Tromp has created something wonderfully difficult to categorize—a historical mystery woven with folklore, family secrets, generational trauma, and just enough uncertainty to keep you questioning what is real, what is remembered, and what has simply been believed for so long that no one remembers the difference.
The strength of this story is its people. They are complicated, wounded characters carrying the consequences of things that happened long before they had the ability to understand them. Their choices and relationships give the darker elements of the story an emotional weight that goes far beyond solving the mystery.
Underneath the mystery and Gothic atmosphere, this is a story about the damage people carry, the stories families tell themselves, and whether the past determines what comes next. Atmospheric, unusual, and deeply layered, Burning the Raven Tree gives you something to think about after you've turned the final page.
I received an advance copy from the author, but as always, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and Janyre Tromp for allowing me the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Burning the Raven Tree.
This gripping novel seamlessly weaves together elements of gothic mystery, suspense, and deception. I was completely engrossed in the story from start to finish.
Set in rural Michigan in the 1940’s to 1960’s, the story revolves around two sisters, Colwyn, a reclusive woman who has been ostracized by her local community and labeled a witch. She finds solace in her mystical Oak tree adorned with shoes, and engages in conversations with the wildlife. And Elizabeth, who has been confined to an institution since a tragic event, believed to be mentally unstable.
A grisly murder from their past raises the question of whether one of the sisters could be the killer. The narrative takes a thrilling turn as it seamlessly weaves between the past and the present, blurring the lines between reality and folklore. When an old friend returns to town, can he assist in solving the murder? Can he clear the name of a sister, or perhaps both?
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys gothic historical thrillers, mystery, and suspense novels.
This gripping novel seamlessly weaves together elements of gothic mystery, suspense, and deception. I was completely engrossed in the story from start to finish.
Set in rural Michigan in the 1940’s to 1960’s, the story revolves around two sisters, Colwyn, a reclusive woman who has been ostracized by her local community and labeled a witch. She finds solace in her mystical Oak tree adorned with shoes, and engages in conversations with the wildlife. And Elizabeth, who has been confined to an institution since a tragic event, believed to be mentally unstable.
A grisly murder from their past raises the question of whether one of the sisters could be the killer. The narrative takes a thrilling turn as it seamlessly weaves between the past and the present, blurring the lines between reality and folklore. When an old friend returns to town, can he assist in solving the murder? Can he clear the name of a sister, or perhaps both?
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys gothic historical thrillers, mystery, and suspense novels.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Mystery and Myth permeate this story that takes place in Michigan in 1955 and 1965.
Sometimes difficult to read about, this story shows how family abuse can be passed through generations. There is a haunting myth about an old oak tree that affects the lives of twins, Elizabeth and Colwyn and their family. When childhood friend Marcus returns to Allenwood, Michigan, he is determined to dig into the past. Complex situations and relationships cloud the truth. Who can Marcus trust and who is hiding facts and undermining reality.
A very atmospheric tale, I was fascinated to learn how myths and legends with underlying faith themes told an intriguing story. This had a clear good versus evil plot but was twisty enough to make you think.
Fans of Jaime Jo Wright might want to try this one.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Sometimes difficult to read about, this story shows how family abuse can be passed through generations. There is a haunting myth about an old oak tree that affects the lives of twins, Elizabeth and Colwyn and their family. When childhood friend Marcus returns to Allenwood, Michigan, he is determined to dig into the past. Complex situations and relationships cloud the truth. Who can Marcus trust and who is hiding facts and undermining reality.
A very atmospheric tale, I was fascinated to learn how myths and legends with underlying faith themes told an intriguing story. This had a clear good versus evil plot but was twisty enough to make you think.
Fans of Jaime Jo Wright might want to try this one.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
September 18, 2026
This is a fabulous mix of folklore and mystery!
Colwyn Cueny survived the unthinkable as a child. She learned to live with the rumors—to endure being the woman some call child murderer, madwoman, or witch. But when the past refuses to stay buried, surviving may no longer be enough.
I enjoyed this intricate tale. This story is full of a little bit of everything…folklore, family drama, mystery and a good dose of psychological suspense.
I especially loved Colwyn Cueny. And as the story begins to unfold, you truly do not know where this woman stands. And let me tell you she has been through it. And you need to read this to find out what because that is some major intensity.
This is narrated by Abigail Reno. I started researching her right away. I don’t think I have ever listened to one of her narrated books, but I will be on the lookout from now on.
Need a twisted tale to keep you guessing… THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this for a honest review.
Colwyn Cueny survived the unthinkable as a child. She learned to live with the rumors—to endure being the woman some call child murderer, madwoman, or witch. But when the past refuses to stay buried, surviving may no longer be enough.
I enjoyed this intricate tale. This story is full of a little bit of everything…folklore, family drama, mystery and a good dose of psychological suspense.
I especially loved Colwyn Cueny. And as the story begins to unfold, you truly do not know where this woman stands. And let me tell you she has been through it. And you need to read this to find out what because that is some major intensity.
This is narrated by Abigail Reno. I started researching her right away. I don’t think I have ever listened to one of her narrated books, but I will be on the lookout from now on.
Need a twisted tale to keep you guessing… THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this for a honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book started off a bit slow for me, but it was worth sticking with until the end. I don't usually prefer books written in present tense, but that faded from my awareness as I got into the story.
I enjoyed the writing as well as the plot. The different perspectives (even the tree's POV) each served a purpose, and the mysteries kept me guessing. It was hard to put it down toward the end!
The (recent) historical realities of committing people to asylums and the lack of mental health support were interesting as well as heartbreaking. I'm glad that the author shined a light on those issues while also creating an entertaining and twisty book.
I received an ARC from the author; these opinions are entirely my own.
I enjoyed the writing as well as the plot. The different perspectives (even the tree's POV) each served a purpose, and the mysteries kept me guessing. It was hard to put it down toward the end!
The (recent) historical realities of committing people to asylums and the lack of mental health support were interesting as well as heartbreaking. I'm glad that the author shined a light on those issues while also creating an entertaining and twisty book.
I received an ARC from the author; these opinions are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow.
Talk about keeping you guessing! With identical twins, a split timeline, and generational abuse thrown in alongside of Old-Country-Eastern-European myth, Burning the Raven Tree is one that will keep you up much later than you anticipate.
I really enjoyed it. It's as close to horror as I like to get - which isn't very close, honestly! The creeping sense of dread, of something just outside the pages that the author hasn't quite revealed yet but you KNOW something is coming. Something that isn't good is lurking just beyond what you can see. It kept me reading much later into the night than what I should have but it was worth every minute.
I received an ARC; this is my honest opinion.
Talk about keeping you guessing! With identical twins, a split timeline, and generational abuse thrown in alongside of Old-Country-Eastern-European myth, Burning the Raven Tree is one that will keep you up much later than you anticipate.
I really enjoyed it. It's as close to horror as I like to get - which isn't very close, honestly! The creeping sense of dread, of something just outside the pages that the author hasn't quite revealed yet but you KNOW something is coming. Something that isn't good is lurking just beyond what you can see. It kept me reading much later into the night than what I should have but it was worth every minute.
I received an ARC; this is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you net galley for the gifted copy of Burning The Raven Tree. This was a slow burn, but I was engaged the entire time. There are two sisters, twins, who grow up in a poor area in the 40’s. There is a mysterious tree on their land enchanted with old gods. We’re flip flopped between time frames where the girls are young, and then again when they’re older and they’re trying to figure out a horrible murder. There is a flicker of romance, dual POV, witches, old gods, unsolved crime, family tension, and a sense of uncomfortable sense of uneasiness. I would recommend this book if you’re into modern day witches and folk lore.
September 15, 2026
This story grabs you from the beginning and has you intrigued all the way through. Complex, interesting characters, lots of emotion, a mysterious tree that provides a POV, it all makes for a standout story. I didn’t see the twists coming. I loved it.
Read this for:
🖤 Themes of trauma, guilt, mental health, domestic violence, gothic folklore, and more
🤫 Secrets — small town, long ago buried ones 👀
📝 An epistolary element
🐦⬛⬅️ This atmosphere
🔀 twists that have you re-reading 👀
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Read this for:
🖤 Themes of trauma, guilt, mental health, domestic violence, gothic folklore, and more
🤫 Secrets — small town, long ago buried ones 👀
📝 An epistolary element
🐦⬛⬅️ This atmosphere
🔀 twists that have you re-reading 👀
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 16, 2026
Man, what a beautifully written book. Janyre Tromp has such a magical, almost musical or poetic prose in this book. It sucked me right in.
I can picture it all: the tree, the shoes, the wood sprite, the ravens, the...well, I don't want to give anything away.
I LOVE this book. This is part of Janyre's Threads of the Lost Myth series, but these are stand-alone books. I recommend you run and get this one. But only if you like gothic, twisty-turny tales that will keep you entranced the whole way through.
I can picture it all: the tree, the shoes, the wood sprite, the ravens, the...well, I don't want to give anything away.
I LOVE this book. This is part of Janyre's Threads of the Lost Myth series, but these are stand-alone books. I recommend you run and get this one. But only if you like gothic, twisty-turny tales that will keep you entranced the whole way through.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, this book held me spellbound from start to finish. The twists and turns, complex characters, layers of history and myth entwined into a truly captivating read. It’s hard to say much without giving it away, but suffice it to say, this is my favorite book that I’ve read by Tromp. She really excelled in creating a compelling thriller of a story.
I received an early copy of this book. All opinions are my own and were not solicited in any way.
I received an early copy of this book. All opinions are my own and were not solicited in any way.
August 14, 2026
Thank you to Ember and Vine Press and NetGalley for the ARC!
I really enjoyed a lot of the elements of this book but something in it left me wanting. I think the fantasy elements combined with the twist at the end were just a bit too over the top for me. I really loved the introspective look at the cycle of abuse and mental health. I also like the way the author played with POV prospective. The Raven Tree was definitely my favorite character.
I really enjoyed a lot of the elements of this book but something in it left me wanting. I think the fantasy elements combined with the twist at the end were just a bit too over the top for me. I really loved the introspective look at the cycle of abuse and mental health. I also like the way the author played with POV prospective. The Raven Tree was definitely my favorite character.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a great story where history, mystery, and myth are blended seamlessly! The story is set in the 1950s and 1960s Michigan and Colwyn is the town pariah. She was accused of killing a child and seeing specters in the woods. She is just trying to survive her complicated past on her family land and move forward when along comes Marcus. He is a disgraced big-city lawyer and childhood friend who needs a place to stay and start again. Together they come to an agreement and put most of the past behind them to work together to help a missing child find the truth.
I loved the complexity of the story and how the past comes back to impact Colwyn and Marcus's present life. The secrets the characters have kept hidden make life more complicated as they are revealed. As the story progresses, little bits of detail are illuminated for the reader to better understand the characters and their decisions. The descriptions of the Michigan landscape and Colwyn's farm are beautiful and makes me want to take a trip to the area. I also enjoyed how the myth was woven into the story and the Raven Tree, as a character, almost seemed real.
I would recommend this book for readers who enjoy historical mysteries with a touch of magic.
#BurningtheRavenTree
Thank you to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
I loved the complexity of the story and how the past comes back to impact Colwyn and Marcus's present life. The secrets the characters have kept hidden make life more complicated as they are revealed. As the story progresses, little bits of detail are illuminated for the reader to better understand the characters and their decisions. The descriptions of the Michigan landscape and Colwyn's farm are beautiful and makes me want to take a trip to the area. I also enjoyed how the myth was woven into the story and the Raven Tree, as a character, almost seemed real.
I would recommend this book for readers who enjoy historical mysteries with a touch of magic.
#BurningtheRavenTree
Thank you to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
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