The Night Raven is a very well written YA historical mystery series opener by Johan Rundberg. Originally published in 2021 in Swedish, this English language translation was released 1st Nov 2023 by Amazon on their Children's imprint. It's 192 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.
Set in the winter of 1880 in Stockholm, it's dangerously bitterly cold and a ruthless killer is stalking the population. Mika, a 12 year old orphan, has honed her powers of observation as a survival skill. She's recruited by one of the few competent and honorable policemen to assist in his investigation. The partnership is -very- well written and sensitively handled. He doesn't ignore or denigrate her contributions, and they develop a good working relationship despite the age difference.
It's aimed at young readers (Lexile 680, grades ~5-9), but there are many difficult themes in the book, threatened and actual violence, physical abuse and starvation of vulnerable children, extremely austere living standards for the poor of the period, working conditions for the lower classes (including/especially children). Some parts are scary for sensitive readers. The denouement and resolution are exciting and satisfying. There are currently two books released in English in the series, with a third announced for release in Jan 2025.
The English translation work by A.A. Prime is well rendered and seamless. It flows very well and is accessible and doesn't get in the way of the story at all.
Four stars. Possibly too dark for a younger middle grade audience (school library acquisitions folk should read it before ordering). It would make a good choice for public library acquisition, for home use, or for YA readers who enjoy more dire/tragic mysteries.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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