Codespell

Ravirn is coming to terms with his existence as a minor demigod of Chaos, but his life isn't getting any more simple. Even more people want him dead, including an explicit nemisis, and the computer network underlying the fabric of the multiverse is still disrupted in the aftermath of Ravirn's visit to Hades in Cybermancy.

The storytelling is still focusing on the crises, with the character development all from those crucibles, and the exposition can be a bit clumsy at times. The ending was a bit of a deus ex machina, even if the main character is a pipsqueak deus. There are still plenty of grins in the tale as the Greek mythos collide with modern imagery. Save the whole series for a time when you need mind candy and you'll be pleased.

CodeSpell picks up just after Cybermancy and we join Ravirn on his quest to right some of the damage caused by his adventures in Cybermancy. This book continues along the same overall style as the two earlier books. Ravirn (aka the demigod The Raven) tries to hack and crack his way through the complex layers of the magic-web to help his friends and save the world; all while dealing with the backstabbing family politics that comes from being a (minor) member of the Greek pantheon. Ravirn and his web goblin partner Melchior continue to be endearing as the self effacing pranksters they are, as they try to save Necessity. The author, Kelly McCullough, does a good job of pacing the story without resorting to the hand waving solutions that show more are possible when multiple gods, magic, and Necessity herself are involved. The one place where this series is starting to wear on me is how hard it is for Ravirn and Melchior to do anything without substantial help. We have seen evidence of their significant abilities but they seem helpless at times. It reminds me of the old Superman stories: Superman has to stand there and take a beating before ultimately doing what it takes to win. I would like to see this series progress along a more strategic path where the powers are equal and it takes cunning and daring to carry the day.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and this series. The mixed Greek gods, magic, and hacking combine to make an interesting story. I look forward to the next book in this series, but unless it moves past the current formula a little I will likely stop reading this series after the next book. show less

I may have to go back and upgrade my review of Book 2, Cybermancy. This book actually pays it off, turning the whole series thus far into a Bildungsroman, as Raven grows into demigodhood.

Definitely a different twist on magic by an author that I don't believe I've ever read before. Held my attention and made me want to read more about these characters.

See review for #1 in series - Webmage.