Title: Raven, Romda, and Ravai: Malketh and the Undead

Author: Dave Maruszewski

Genre: Middle Grade / Fantasy / Young Readers’ Chapter Book

In Raven, Romda, and Ravai: Malketh and the Undead, the trio of friends must team up once again to defeat a force more powerful than any magic they’ve encountered before. Fully entrusted by the king as capable guards and protectors of the kingdom, Raven, Romda, and Ravai must now learn to trust each other as they go on their next quest.

Now that the trio has defeated the Dark Beast, all seems to be back to normal. That is, until an evil wizard, Malketh, returns to wreak havoc and brings along an army of the undead with him. If even the magicians in the kingdom are scared by Malketh’s power, how can Raven, Romda, and Ravai possibly defeat him?

In this second book of the Raven, Romda, and Ravai series, we get to see our three protagonists in a new light. With the same witty banter and silly sibling dynamic, now that they are on yet another quest, one that is even more serious than the last, there is a maturity and a stronger bond between them. We see the three of them embrace each other’s strengths and come together stronger than ever.

Like its predecessor, Raven, Romda, and Ravai: Malketh and the Undead has bite-sized chapters that are perfect for young readers to digest. Though there was just as much fun and adventure, this installment of the series didn’t have the same level of descriptive language and vivid imagery as Book one. The characters visit so many interesting people and places, so incorporating more visual descriptions would have not only helped readers to build the world in their minds, but it would have also enhanced the reading experience overall.

The most descriptive imagery we see is during a battle scene at the conclusion of the novel. This final showdown and the last few chapters of the book are by far the standout scenes. They had high energy, action, and emotion, and they helped finish the book off with a bang.

Something that makes this book unique from the first is that there is a storytelling element. Multiple characters tell stories to expose information from the past or tell legends of the land. With storytelling being such a prevalent part of the book, it feels like we get to go on mini adventures throughout, which will be sure to keep the attention of young readers. The book’s pacing flows naturally, and threads all of the different storylines together with the help of an even balance between action-packed battle scenes and light-hearted conversations.

They’ve conquered monsters, and now they must conquer magic. Raven, Romda, and Ravai: Malketh and the Undead is an adventure book perfect for activating young readers’ imaginations. Whether you want to read this aloud to your little one or let them explore this magical world on their own, parents can rest assured that this second installment in the Raven, Romda, and Ravai series will be a playful, whimsical addition to their bookshelves.

This Editorial Review was written by the Book Review Directory staff. To receive a similarly honest, professional review for one of your own books, click here.