I received an advance reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. S.L. Prater has crafted a captivating fantasy world where witches, gods, and otherworldly entities coexist in a delicate balance of power. The magic system is intriguing - our protagonist isn't your typical "green witch" but something far more dangerous, possessing abilities that even the gods themselves have reason to fear. The dynamic between Maven and Asher is easily one of the highlights of the novel. Their banter crackles with tension, particularly when he nicknames her "Trouble" - a fitting moniker for someone willing to challenge divine beings. Their relationship evolves in unexpected ways that add emotional depth to what could have been a straightforward revenge tale. They are well-developed, each harboring their own secrets that become increasingly important as the story progresses. The revelation about Maven's true identity, while hinted at throughout, still manages to deliver impact when fully revealed. At times, the pacing feels uneven, with certain plot points resolved too quickly while others drag on longer than necessary. The "games" aspect mentioned in the title works well with the overall flow of the story, though it could have been expanded upon slightly more to fully leverage its potential within the narrative. Some of the worldbuilding details about the Otherworld and its various divine factions could be more clearly established early on, as understanding the power dynamics between different gods becomes crucial to following certain plot developments. Final Thoughts: "The Crow Games" delivers an engaging start to what promises to be an exciting series. With its combination of witchcraft, divine politics, and a protagonist who refuses to play by anyone's rules, this dark fantasy will appeal to readers who enjoy determined heroines, enemies-to-potential-lovers dynamics, and stories where mortals dare to challenge gods.