Like many of Maggie Stiefvater’s previous novels, The Raven Boys takes existing paranormal myths and legends and weaves them into something new and creative. Blue Sargent was raised in an unconventional home, living with not only her clairvoyant mother, but also with numerous relatives and friends who were similarly gifted with the Sight. Blue, unfortunately, does not have the same abilities. Instead, she has a rather grim prophecy hanging over her head that has been repeated to her many times throughout her life: her true love is destined to die. As a result, her mother warns her never to kiss anyone, and Blue—ever practical—complies. Every year on St. Mark’s Eve, Blue accompanies her mother to the ruin of an old church in their hometown of Henrietta, Virginia to transcribe the names of the spirits walking the “corpse road.” These spirits belong to the people who will die within the coming year. But this year, things were different. Not only does Blue’s mother send ...