A Conventicle of Magpies

First of all, I find the cover of this book appropriate, eye catching and clever. 
I love reading books set in history and I love a good victorian fantasy/thriller. I enjoyed the writing style and thought it was more or less appropriate given the time setting. The author was also very descriptive throughout which really helped with keeping the visuals clear. 
I liked Rook's character. She is tough and practiced thief in a gang of lady's, who are fighting to bring about justice to their society. Blood is a powerful and valuable source, "enhancing speed and strength and agility", and people are being killed for it. 

"Billy Drainer stalks the night,
Ready to give you all a fright.
Seven swift knocks to your head,
Drains your blood and then you're DEAD!"

The elite want the minority gone, furthermore Billy Drainer is picking them off, so in order to take control and survive, they must unite with others.
This book is exciting, fast paced and keeps you wanting more.
My only criticism is, I found some of the formatting strange in parts and the newspaper text hard to read, but overall,  I think it's an interesting story and I will be certainly tuning in for book two.

Set in a fantasy version of a Victorian city, Rook is a member of the oppressed minority of society.  She is also a member of a all female gang that works undercover to bring justice and order to the women in their society.  The ruling elite wish to wipe them out and in addition there is a Jack the Ripper type character killing them off.  Rook and her fellow gang members must join forces with another gang to try to help their people overcome both the serial killer and the governing class.  
This is a thrilling and intelligently written story.  The characters are exciting, resourceful and adventurous.  The plot is fast paced and diverse.  Themes of the book are among others oppression, genocide, power and injustice.  
A dark Victorian thriller but with a very modern take.  I can't wait to read the concluding part.

An exciting and well written story that kept me hooked and I thoroughly enjoyed.
Excellent world building and character development, a plot that flows.
I can't wait to read the second part of this duology, this one is highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

***I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***

“How can anyone hate us just for who we are?”

A Conventicle of Magpies is set in Victorian era, a world where the Avanish have enslaved the Saosuíasei. It follows the story of Rook, a Saosuíasei and a thief with proficiency to use Bloodskill. Rook has grown up in a world that hates and discriminates against her race, the Saosuíasei. She's a member of the Conventicle of Magpies, one of one of the city’s most notorious gang. But when they learned that the the Avanish wishes to exterminate them all, it was time to fight for freedom and equality in an unequal world. To top that, there's a serial killer haunting the streets preying on Saosuíasei, draining their blood to satisfy the elite's demand. 

****
A+++ for the amazing cover! It's beautiful, detailed, and appropriate for the book.
The Conventicle of Magpies is action packed and fast paced. So much is happening! The sequence of events was well laid out and the scenes were rich with details. I enjoyed the entire book, especially the rising rebellion. The characters are likeable especially Rook! She's unapologetic, resourceful, and tough. I love how the magic system is based on blood and the mystery element. LMR Clarke's writing style is easy to follow and has a good mix of dialogue and description. I'm sure things will get even better in the next installment! Can’t wait!

Overall: 4/5
Characters: 4.5/5 
Plot and Theme: 4/5
Writing and Setting: 4.5/5
Vibes: 5/5
Gist of my review: A really good start to a new series! It set up a new world quite well, creating solid dynamics between characters and skillfully building up the conflict. I’m really looking forward to reading the rest of the series!

*Content Warning: Death, Suicide, Murder, Incarceration*

Summary:
The Saosuíasei people have been repressed by the Avanish for decades. As the conflict between them reaches its climax, Rook and the Conventicle of Magpies find themselves in the middle of all of it.

Characters: 4.5/5
Rook is a total badass. I love her character, her story, and everything about her. While this book was written in third person limited, I think there could have been some more focus on the other characters’ stories, as I often found myself a little confused or curious about certain aspects of them, especially with Kestrel’s story. I also wanted to know a little more about Dru. That being said, the dynamics between them all were wonderfully depicted. I especially loved Pit’s relationship to everyone, the evident tension really drew me in.

Plot and Theme: 4/5
I think the book has a very well written plot, but it seemed to be written as just a beginning. There was plenty of action, but it felt as if it was leading up to something that never came. I know it’s the beginning of a new series, and the story must continue in future books, but each book in a series should be able to stand alone as a full story in itself. 

Writing and Setting: 4.5/5
I do think that the setting was spun quite well. I was able to easily picture the world and all its dynamics through vivid imagery that well complemented the story, which is not an easy thing to do. Some of the word choice flowed a bit awkwardly, but other than that it was written eloquently and thoughtfully. This was also one of the first books I’ve read in a while that did not have any romantic aspects with the main character to it, and I must say, it’s quite refreshing!

Conclusion:
Pros: I’m a sucker for a new series, and I cannot wait to read the whole thing! It’s a refreshing take on the genre with no romance for the main character.
Cons: Rising action that didn’t really seem to culminate. I guess that makes me more excited for the next one?
Overall: 4/5

Disclaimer: I received a review copy of the book

Rook works as a thief with the titular Conventicle of Magpies to help take care of her mother and sisters after the death of her father. In her work she must contend with a serial killer and the Avanish rulers of Stamchester who look down upon the Saosuiasei who live in the Shambles. But when the Avanish accelerate their plans for Stamchester, will Rook be able to protect herself, let alone those she cares about?

Clarke writes an interesting world that seems to be influenced by their Northern Irish upbringing. Rook and her best friend Kestrel are strong and capable heroines, but not without their own weaknesses, vulnerabilities, and flaws. A lot of the plot tension come from the complications that arise from Rook sticking to a conviction that fighting against oppression must be done the right way, not just the easy way, lest she and her friends make themselves worse than the Avanish rulers.

The story is fast paced, and I kept reading on and on wanting to know what happened next. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the second book.

Got it from Netgalley.

This was so cooooool. I requested this book because NG said it was "A dark Victorian thriller. Perfect for fans of Charlie N. Holmberg's cozy mystery Spellbreaker and Susanna Clarke's enchanting and magical world of Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell.", however after reading, I think it's also perfect for fans of [book:The Final Empire|68428] by Brandon Sanderson and Money Heist. 

Mistborn has allomancers, while A Conventicle of Magpies (CoM) has Bloodskill. Both have a ruling class that is taking advantage of the underclass but little do they expect groups forming, ready to take the ruling class down. 

Money Heist because of the group and heist. It's not entirely a heist book but, without spoiling it, the adventure they go on, was crazy. That and the fact they all call each other by bird names (I only realized that 40% in >.<).

It is also so much more than that, with a serial killer on the loose, family/ friendship relationships, fast-paced action, it was exciting. And I'm very happy it's a duology because I wanted more after that ending.

I didn’t really know what to expect going into this one, as I’ve never read Clarke’s previous novels, so I won’t deny that it was this amazing cover that caught my eye! And I’m glad it did. A Conventicle of Magpies had a little bit of everything: a dynamic plot, diverse characters, and a solid chunk of social commentary to touch on topics of oppression and discrimination—a combination you don’t always find in a YA book. 

Stamchester itself was an interesting setting and was described as a kind of fictional Victorian city made up of Avanish suburbs and Saosuíasei slums—a divide that fuels the main conflict throughout the text. But this certainly isn’t the only conflict. Much of the appeal for this story lies in its fast-paced plot. Each chapter feels like a new challenge that keeps you curious and flipping through those pages. For those who prefer a single central conflict, that’s not what you’re going to get in this book. Between Billy Drainer, the Avanish, and the main character’s own personal struggles, you’re in for a ride!

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: characters always make or break a story for me, and Rook was pretty solid. She was a strong and well-rounded female protagonist—a realistic mix of fantasy hero and flawed human—with a talent for using the magic known as Bloodskill. As part of a criminal organisation (The Conventical) known for protecting the Saosuíasei women of Stamchester, Rook managed to be both fierce and compassionate. I really enjoyed reading things from her perspective and seeing how she interacted with those around her.  

Speaking of those around her, there were quite a few side characters in this story as well. While they didn’t always move the plot forward, they were diverse and easy to differentiate and didn’t take away from the story at all, so this wasn’t a problem for me. I also felt that the side characters had a bigger part to play, so hopefully we’ll learn more about them in the second instalment.  

Overall, this was an entertaining read with plenty of mystery to keep you going. The story raises a lot of questions—about Billy Drainer, Bloodskill, Rook’s past and even her future. Some questions are answered, and the rest I look forward to discovering in the sequel. 

4 stars.

A Conventicle of Magpies is one of those novels that demanded my attention, right from the start. No, I take that back. It was before I even started reading it. The cover, theme, and description were enough to captivate me.

I went into this novel with a lot of high expectations, which may not have been entirely fair of me. I say that because I want you to understand just how much A Conventicle of Magpies blew me away. I was captivated, by the characters, the trials they went through, and the mystery at hand. It was the perfect storm as far as my imagination was concerned.

A Conventicle of Magpies is the first novel in The Bloodskill Duology, and I am going to sit here eagerly awaiting the next installment, as I’m quite desperate to find out what happens next in Rook’s journey.

First, the cover of this book caught my eye and then after reading the description I just had to read it. I was not disappointed! I loved this story and I can't wait for the second book in this series!

A Conventicle of Magpies
(The Bloodskill Duology Book 1)
by LMR Clarke
BooksGoSocial Publishers
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read the book! What a delicious delight!
This is such a lot to unpack I don't know where to start! It's in an alternate Victorian era but racism is very much alive to the point of thriving uncontrolled! Sexist ideas are present but probably the same as it was back in Victorian times which was bad enough!
There are Skilled and Unskilled people. Skilled are people that can inject blood into themselves and get a boost of power or skill such as quick speed, strength, jumping high, etc. Blood is in high demand.
The story is based around a group of women of the underdog group that steal, spy, but not kill for pay. They are good at what they do. They are called the Magpies. They are a secret society. Their male counter part is a group called the Jaguars. The Jaguars have no qualms about killing. The Magpies' leader is someone who the Governor wants very badly!
There is also a serial killer picking off the minority group. The Governor is happy about it since the killer is killing off the people he hates.
The Governor has thought up other ways to torment the poor and the minority. When he puts his plan in place things get drastic! Lots of action, suspense, thrills, unpredictable situations, and frightening what ifs! I was terrified for the gals!
It ended with some loose ends and plenty more to do so I can't wait to read the next book! I would not call it a cliffhanger. It did conclude this story but it just dangled more trouble to solve in the next. I loved this book!
It is a great female, and females, solving problems, fighting evil, they are the underdogs, and helping others. One gal has a slight romance going but mostly it's about a family of unrelated girls, and some family, bonding, trust, and good vs evil. These girls rock!

A Conventicle of Magpies is the first book in the Bloodskill duology by L.M.R Clarke and also my very first e-arc from #netgalley 

I really enjoyed reading this book. If I had to summarize briefly what it's about, I'd say it's a Historical fiction that does a great job at explaining what many indigenous and people of African descent dealt with being forced from their homes and enslaved. Add in a serial killer, a bit of mystery and a dash of steampunk vibes 👌🏽

I had no idea how much I would relate to the topics being brought out in this book. I think it's perfect for anyone to read. The poc and lgbtq+ representation was captured so beautifully 😭 Kestrel was my favorite.

I'm so glad I read this one and I'll definitely be adding the physical copy to my personal library 🤍

This novel was a fun take on dystopian segregation. I loved the creation of the Conventicle and that it was a female powered organization. Rook was a determined heroine; and I enjoyed her as a character, but I felt like she wasn't as flawed as she could have been. The novel had a lot going on; and I almost wish it was a little longer so that we could build the enemy a bit more. 

So we have a few issues happening right off the bat, Billy the Drainer is on a murdering rampage, the drive by the Governor to wipe out their entire community, and then a bit later we have a missing sister, a rescue mission, and potential experimentation and collection of blood. Lots going on! 

We only got one little glimpse of the Governor who seems to be the driving force of the hate against Rook's community but I didn't feel like I could enough of his character or the lifestyle difference to really develop my own hate of him as the reader. I actually found myself more concerned with the Jaguar and even Ozdo's brief appearance was questionable, I thought she was going to have a bigger role than she did. 

Billy the Drainer had a very Jack the Ripper feel; and yet it seems he is going to be set up to be someone important. I'm not sure I can see an excuse for his murders to make him redeemable if this person is who we are led to believe it is at the end of the novel. 

There were a few pacing flaws, and as much as I appreciate the conscious effort to be inclusive, I felt like Kestrel's trans status was placed there just to have a representation. I felt like if the story was going to include this trans character and give her a leading role, that we should have been a bit more open with her life-struggles rather than just briefly mentioning a fear once or twice. 

Aside from a few little issues that I think will be taken care of during a final edit; I think this was a solid novel and I am looking forward to book 2.

A Conventicle of Magpies by LMR Clarke is a Victorian mystery adventure that leaves the reader wanting more.
The tale follows Rook, a girl who lives an alternative lifestyle as a pickpocket and much more. She belongs to a Conventicle of Magpies thieving group to help provide for her sick mother and sisters at home. The city is being hunted by a serial killer, draining his victims of their blood because, in this world, blood is a valuable commodity. No one is safe from the killer, not even Magpie’s girls.
The city is at war. The poor and rich hate each other and show it throughout the book. The impoverished steal from the rich and the rich turn their noses up when the poor are near. The police will not help the poor when they become victims of the killer’s blade. So, the only hope they have is Magpie’s girls and the Jaguars. It’s a race to try to survive in this hard-tough industrial world where everyone is out for themselves.
I felt Clarke brought a fleshed-out world to life with the darkness and despair around every corner. Rich with Victorian style and flair that would make Sherlock Holmes feel at home, this would be one mystery he would be intrigued to find the killer.

Let me start by saying the cover of this book is absolutely gorgeous, it was one of the main reasons why I decided to request this book as it caught my eye straight away!

On the whole, A Conventicle of Magpies was an excellent read and I thoroughly enjoyed the journey that we were taken on throughout this book. 

From the start I loved the vibe of this book, there is a very Victorian/Jack the Ripper kind of feel throughout the first chapters which grabbed my attention. And all credit to the author as they kept this theme going throughout the whole book, which definitely kept me hooked onto this one. 

I found A Conventicle of Magpies to be really easy to read, and that is in no way a criticism! It just flowed so well through the plot and before I knew it I was halfway through the book, I was so desperate to find out what would happen next that I just kept on turning the pages. 

Whilst the idea of two sides being opposed to each other and one trying to remove the other from society isn't the most original plot, the way the author wrote made us feel like it was a brand new trope. The introduction of the authors own groups (the Saosuíasei and Avanish) only helped that feel. 

And with the introduction of Rook's sister being missing, Billy Drainer our Jack the Ripper-esque serial killer and the bloodskill aspect (discussed further below) this book was not short of other interesting layers to elevate the story to a higher level.

I would like to praise LMR Clarke for the bloodskill aspect within this book. I've seen a lot of magic/fantasy ideas as to how people gain their skills but never through bloodwork, so that was a nice new introduction.

I have to say though my favourite part of this book was the Magpies, the way this book was very female led, and how strong and supportive they were of each other and the Saosuíasei people around them. It's nice to see some female representation! 

This isn't to say that the Jaguar and every other character in this book wasn't excellently written, it's just that, for me, Rook stole the show. 

The ending of this book was absolutely excellent too, it rounded the story off perfectly but also left it open for later books to be written. And I, for one, will be picking up the next book in the series when it's written.

I throughly enjoyed this book. I think the characters were great and the storyline kept you gripped throughout. I really can't wait for the next book as I really want to know what happens next.