From publisher blurb: Ravens’ Cradle, a prosperous farming community governed by superstition and folklore, lies far off the beaten track. Mysteriously guarded by hundreds of pitch-black ravens, an ancient power haunting the surrounding forest watches over the village. Vicious bandits are found pecked to death in the nearby forests, greedy merchants trying to fleece the villagers are pursued from the village by a flock of hateful birds and sometimes travellers just disappear. Behind the scenes, a coven of witches worships the ancient spirit and madmen dance in the shadows. Untouched by all, and warded only by superstition and fear—and a terrible curse—an immense diamond of magical origin and improbable size stands proudly at the village’s heart. Woe betide any who would steal it.