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Hearts of Allaria #1
The Necromancer's Prisoner
Sometimes the real villain isn't who it seems...
Alistair's first solo mission as a paladin sounded simple enough: purge the undead terrorizing a remote mountain village and bring the wicked necromancer controlling them to justice. But when he's captured, he begins to suspect that the village faces a far greater threat than a few skeletons…and that his strange captor might need protecting just as badly.
Paladins have hunted Ignatius his entire life. His crime—daring to be born with the wrong kind of magic. The mountains seemed like the perfect place to seek refuge for the winter…until an obnoxiously handsome paladin arrives on his doorstep. Ignatius expects to loathe Alistair like the rest of his arrogant kin; however, when a harsh winter storm forces them together, he finds himself opening up to the paladin in ways he’d never dreamed possible.
Alistair and Ignatius both have every reason not to trust the other. Yet, as mysterious magic threatens to eradicate the nearby village, they have little choice except to combine forces if they hope to survive.
Can a paladin and a necromancer set aside their differences for the greater good…or will the rift between them prove impossible to ever bridge?
A slow burn, fade-to-black M/M fantasy romance featuring forced proximity, hurt/comfort, enemies-to-lovers, and a hard-won HEA. Every book in Hearts of Allaria is standalone and can be read in any order. Perfect for fans of K. D. Edwards, Tavia Lark, and Ben Alderson.
Alistair's first solo mission as a paladin sounded simple enough: purge the undead terrorizing a remote mountain village and bring the wicked necromancer controlling them to justice. But when he's captured, he begins to suspect that the village faces a far greater threat than a few skeletons…and that his strange captor might need protecting just as badly.
Paladins have hunted Ignatius his entire life. His crime—daring to be born with the wrong kind of magic. The mountains seemed like the perfect place to seek refuge for the winter…until an obnoxiously handsome paladin arrives on his doorstep. Ignatius expects to loathe Alistair like the rest of his arrogant kin; however, when a harsh winter storm forces them together, he finds himself opening up to the paladin in ways he’d never dreamed possible.
Alistair and Ignatius both have every reason not to trust the other. Yet, as mysterious magic threatens to eradicate the nearby village, they have little choice except to combine forces if they hope to survive.
Can a paladin and a necromancer set aside their differences for the greater good…or will the rift between them prove impossible to ever bridge?
A slow burn, fade-to-black M/M fantasy romance featuring forced proximity, hurt/comfort, enemies-to-lovers, and a hard-won HEA. Every book in Hearts of Allaria is standalone and can be read in any order. Perfect for fans of K. D. Edwards, Tavia Lark, and Ben Alderson.
275 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 27, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
November 28, 2023
⭐️ 3 stars ⭐️
Cute fantasy, not much of a romance.
Very action-packed and immersive plot, but the romance between the main characters was such a small fraction of this story, I feel this can’t be qualified as such. I didn’t deduct from my rating because of it, merely fit my scale to how much I enjoyed the actual book, not what I thought was missing.
The Necromancer’s Prisoner resembles for many aspects The Necromancer's Light.
A lonely and misunderstood necromancer meets a good boy Paladin and they join forces to fight a common enemy.
The pacing is what kind of threw me off. We spend the first 40% of the book getting to know the MCs, watching them become friends and hoping they get together. They do, but the one and only smut scene is fade to black. I get it, some don’t enjoy spice and that’s fine - it just felt like a mega tease only to get absolutely nothing.
The action and mystery moments were interspaced by weird filler moments that didn’t really add much to the story, and thus throwing off the pacing and making it feel like they were both running to the finish line and snail-walking there.
Overall, I think having read and loved a book with such similar characters made me enjoy this one way less, both for the writing and for the plot.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes(spoilers):
- Fade to black (no smut)
- Misunderstood MC
- Forced proximity
- Enemies to lovers
- Hurt/comfort
- Magical elements
«Two lonely, broken souls that recognized their heartache in one another.»
Cute fantasy, not much of a romance.
Very action-packed and immersive plot, but the romance between the main characters was such a small fraction of this story, I feel this can’t be qualified as such. I didn’t deduct from my rating because of it, merely fit my scale to how much I enjoyed the actual book, not what I thought was missing.
The Necromancer’s Prisoner resembles for many aspects The Necromancer's Light.
A lonely and misunderstood necromancer meets a good boy Paladin and they join forces to fight a common enemy.
The pacing is what kind of threw me off. We spend the first 40% of the book getting to know the MCs, watching them become friends and hoping they get together. They do, but the one and only smut scene is fade to black. I get it, some don’t enjoy spice and that’s fine - it just felt like a mega tease only to get absolutely nothing.
The action and mystery moments were interspaced by weird filler moments that didn’t really add much to the story, and thus throwing off the pacing and making it feel like they were both running to the finish line and snail-walking there.
Overall, I think having read and loved a book with such similar characters made me enjoy this one way less, both for the writing and for the plot.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes(spoilers):
- Fade to black (no smut)
- Misunderstood MC
- Forced proximity
- Enemies to lovers
- Hurt/comfort
- Magical elements
January 4, 2024
This was more of a 3.75 as it ended a but abruptly, and I wanted to know more about the kingdom and order.
December 27, 2023
This was marketed as a thrilling enemies to lovers. It wasn’t thrilling and it wasn’t actually enemies to lovers when they stop hating each other less than 20% into the book. It was fine. It dragged, I wouldn’t rec. it’s definitely a book I read (and did so because stupid ads and I’m just so easy)
December 4, 2023
Elric Shaw’s The Necromancer’s Prisoner is a story that had me conflicted. A part of me was tempted to give this a three-star rating, yet I was addicted enough to give it a four-star rating. In truth, this sits pretty solidly at a three-point-five-star rating, yet I opted to round it up.
The Necromancer’s Prisoner was a story that had me curious from the start. It instantly pulled me in and had me eagerly turning the pages to see how things developed. While I was hooked throughout the story and enjoyed watching things play out, I did spend most of the book hoping there would be more depth to things. This never came – the story was very easy throughout, without things being explored as much as I’d hoped, which made details rather predictable – yet I was hooked enough that I could not put it down and did not mind these things. That is why I rounded my rating up. Despite the fact that I constantly wanted more, I was hooked enough to overlook the details. Did I fall as deeply for the story as I had hoped? Sadly, no. Did I find the book difficult to put down? Surprisingly so. Thus, it managed to hit hard despite the fact that it left me wanting.
All in all, this was an addictive read. I am curious about the next book in the series and will be crossing my fingers that things are explored more in that story.
The Necromancer’s Prisoner was a story that had me curious from the start. It instantly pulled me in and had me eagerly turning the pages to see how things developed. While I was hooked throughout the story and enjoyed watching things play out, I did spend most of the book hoping there would be more depth to things. This never came – the story was very easy throughout, without things being explored as much as I’d hoped, which made details rather predictable – yet I was hooked enough that I could not put it down and did not mind these things. That is why I rounded my rating up. Despite the fact that I constantly wanted more, I was hooked enough to overlook the details. Did I fall as deeply for the story as I had hoped? Sadly, no. Did I find the book difficult to put down? Surprisingly so. Thus, it managed to hit hard despite the fact that it left me wanting.
All in all, this was an addictive read. I am curious about the next book in the series and will be crossing my fingers that things are explored more in that story.
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March 24, 2024This didn't engaging me as much as I would have liked as it's slow-paced romance fantasy. The plot is straightforward and romance-driven. If you like low-key romances set in high fantasy worlds with captive/captee and fluffy dynamics, and some mystery and magic. I'd say this is for you.
Golden Questions of Romance:
If there was no sex would they still have a relationship? Yes.
If there was no romance would there be a story? Yes. One minor plot.
How much did I like it? It wasn't for me, but wasn't bad. Left Unrated.
Ideas - World Building: 4.5 Stars
Ideas - Plot: 4 Stars
Emotional highs and lows: Standard
Character Depth: 4 Stars
Character interactions: Standard (main cast)
Animal Characterisation: n/a
Non-human Characterisation: Standard
Content Warning: Fade-to-black with some detail sex scenes. Mild violence.
Execution: 4.9 Stars
Golden Questions of Romance:
If there was no sex would they still have a relationship? Yes.
If there was no romance would there be a story? Yes. One minor plot.
How much did I like it? It wasn't for me, but wasn't bad. Left Unrated.
Ideas - World Building: 4.5 Stars
Ideas - Plot: 4 Stars
Emotional highs and lows: Standard
Character Depth: 4 Stars
Character interactions: Standard (main cast)
Animal Characterisation: n/a
Non-human Characterisation: Standard
Content Warning: Fade-to-black with some detail sex scenes. Mild violence.
Execution: 4.9 Stars
December 28, 2023
Reviewed for Love Bytes – 4.75 hearts.
Alistair is a young, new paladin Knight of the Order of the Radiant Dawn who many believed inherited his title rather than earned it. Alistair intended to prove the doubters wrong. When a small town in the hills claims that their village is being plundered by the undead, Alistair is sent to investigate. However, chasing his undead quarry leads Alistair into a dire situation that may not be so much of a calamity in the long run. Then again, Alistair and Iggy have years of bigotry and indoctrination to overcome before something positive can appear.
The Necromancer’s Prisoner is a charming tale that advertises the message - ‘The many should not be reviled for the sins of the few’. An important lesson, to be sure. This moral is weaved into a mystery of magic, missing persons, theft, and other heart-wrenching dramas that had me thoroughly enjoying this splendid novel – and shedding the odd tear.
The story is told in the third person, with alternating chapters from the viewpoints of Alistair and Iggy. Technically, it rides the odd line between autonomous body parts vs what’s acceptable in the third person – so this is purely a case of what’s right for you. As the first book in a series of standalone stories set in a specific universe, this particular tale is set in an alpine-style district cut off from civilization when the winter blizzards block the passes. The terrain mixed with a wealth of runes, magic, religion, and mystery provided numerous scenarios that kept me guessing ‘who dunnit’.
Alistair and Iggy have tragedy in their past. While Alistair has become the shining Knight who brandishes his magical light with pride, Iggy sank into the shadows to live, using his undead as family. Both have prejudices to overcome, and when the two connect, Iggy realizes that surviving isn’t enough. Iggy is an absolute star who melted my heart with childhood songs and memories that raised a lump in my throat.
The extended cast is small, yet it covers a significant personality range. There’s the opinionated priest, a yellow-bellied mayor, the power-hungry, a happy mage, and, my favorite of the bunch, Liliana – a tough lady whose good opinion is hard won, but once gained, it is unfailing.
The only element that stopped me from giving this story full marks was the short timeline in which so much happened.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
Alistair is a young, new paladin Knight of the Order of the Radiant Dawn who many believed inherited his title rather than earned it. Alistair intended to prove the doubters wrong. When a small town in the hills claims that their village is being plundered by the undead, Alistair is sent to investigate. However, chasing his undead quarry leads Alistair into a dire situation that may not be so much of a calamity in the long run. Then again, Alistair and Iggy have years of bigotry and indoctrination to overcome before something positive can appear.
The Necromancer’s Prisoner is a charming tale that advertises the message - ‘The many should not be reviled for the sins of the few’. An important lesson, to be sure. This moral is weaved into a mystery of magic, missing persons, theft, and other heart-wrenching dramas that had me thoroughly enjoying this splendid novel – and shedding the odd tear.
The story is told in the third person, with alternating chapters from the viewpoints of Alistair and Iggy. Technically, it rides the odd line between autonomous body parts vs what’s acceptable in the third person – so this is purely a case of what’s right for you. As the first book in a series of standalone stories set in a specific universe, this particular tale is set in an alpine-style district cut off from civilization when the winter blizzards block the passes. The terrain mixed with a wealth of runes, magic, religion, and mystery provided numerous scenarios that kept me guessing ‘who dunnit’.
Alistair and Iggy have tragedy in their past. While Alistair has become the shining Knight who brandishes his magical light with pride, Iggy sank into the shadows to live, using his undead as family. Both have prejudices to overcome, and when the two connect, Iggy realizes that surviving isn’t enough. Iggy is an absolute star who melted my heart with childhood songs and memories that raised a lump in my throat.
The extended cast is small, yet it covers a significant personality range. There’s the opinionated priest, a yellow-bellied mayor, the power-hungry, a happy mage, and, my favorite of the bunch, Liliana – a tough lady whose good opinion is hard won, but once gained, it is unfailing.
The only element that stopped me from giving this story full marks was the short timeline in which so much happened.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
January 24, 2024
wonderful characters, terrific plot
Rating: 4🌈
Elric Shaw is a new author for me and I found Shaw’s new fantasy novel a wonderful story and enjoyable start to a new series.
Several elements drew me immediately to this story. A misunderstood necromancer, a Paladin with a mission, and a magical mystery. Yes, please.
It’s actually more complicated than that, the two men, Alistair, Knight of the Church, and Ignatius, necromancer, both has painful, emotionally traumatic wounds from their respective childhoods. Each tragic event that ended up causing the deaths of the other’s parents, while the men not being actually responsible, the Church and magic was.
Shaws made Alistair and Iggie so relatable with their own doubts about the lives they are living, building such depths into their characters. For Alistair, it’s living the life his father and the Church wanted for him without any real introspection. Until the mission, Iggie, and a snowstorm intervened.
The same for Necromancer Iggie, alone, almost starving in his temporary home with his animated skeletons as companions, hating the Church, its Knights for his tragic past and what they represent. Until Alistair charges into his life bringing light and a huge change.
There’s a mystery that needs investigating. A village known for its magical crystals at its heart and a relationship between two men that’s uncertain to resolve until the end.
Just a couple of elements I wish were fully explored. The magic itself here. I loved the crystal elements, and there’s one amazing scene where Iggie sings to a dull solitary crystal bringing it to unbelievable splendor. There was poignancy and wonder. Why? What happened? I wanted more of that.
Alistair was someone whose actions as an indoctrinated Knight of the Church made sense but also frustrating from a narrative standpoint. Poor Iggie.
Shaw just pulls it all together in a smashing (literally) battle and has a satisfying ending, with a touch of the sadness. As it should.
I’m looking forward to the next book and more from this author. It’s a definite recommendation.
Hearts of Allaria:
- [ ] The Immortal Covenant #0.5
- [x] The Necromancer's Prisoner #1
- [ ] The Prince’s Curse #2 - May 2024
Rating: 4🌈
Elric Shaw is a new author for me and I found Shaw’s new fantasy novel a wonderful story and enjoyable start to a new series.
Several elements drew me immediately to this story. A misunderstood necromancer, a Paladin with a mission, and a magical mystery. Yes, please.
It’s actually more complicated than that, the two men, Alistair, Knight of the Church, and Ignatius, necromancer, both has painful, emotionally traumatic wounds from their respective childhoods. Each tragic event that ended up causing the deaths of the other’s parents, while the men not being actually responsible, the Church and magic was.
Shaws made Alistair and Iggie so relatable with their own doubts about the lives they are living, building such depths into their characters. For Alistair, it’s living the life his father and the Church wanted for him without any real introspection. Until the mission, Iggie, and a snowstorm intervened.
The same for Necromancer Iggie, alone, almost starving in his temporary home with his animated skeletons as companions, hating the Church, its Knights for his tragic past and what they represent. Until Alistair charges into his life bringing light and a huge change.
There’s a mystery that needs investigating. A village known for its magical crystals at its heart and a relationship between two men that’s uncertain to resolve until the end.
Just a couple of elements I wish were fully explored. The magic itself here. I loved the crystal elements, and there’s one amazing scene where Iggie sings to a dull solitary crystal bringing it to unbelievable splendor. There was poignancy and wonder. Why? What happened? I wanted more of that.
Alistair was someone whose actions as an indoctrinated Knight of the Church made sense but also frustrating from a narrative standpoint. Poor Iggie.
Shaw just pulls it all together in a smashing (literally) battle and has a satisfying ending, with a touch of the sadness. As it should.
I’m looking forward to the next book and more from this author. It’s a definite recommendation.
Hearts of Allaria:
- [ ] The Immortal Covenant #0.5
- [x] The Necromancer's Prisoner #1
- [ ] The Prince’s Curse #2 - May 2024
April 28, 2024
A necromancer and a paladin walk into a blizzard and fall in love.
I liked this one. The story sets a fast pace and I personally thought it flowed well. I especially like the dual POV 3rd person narrative style which gave me more insight into the characters actions, thoughts and feelings especially when seen through both perspectives. The best example is the last few chapters which I am not ashamed to admit brought tears to my eyes for the heroes.
I would say it took a while for me to like Alistair as he frustrated me with his views and actions as a Paladin. This is nothing against the writing or author as I am biased when it comes to the misunderstood necromancers of the fantasy genre (they deserve all the hugs and pets). I will admit that the flaws I disliked meant that Alistair was more believable and I was invested in his growth and journey.
I feel like certain events could have been expanded on more (for example the detective like scenes) however the relationships between characters is what makes this story shine.
This isn't as raunchy as some books in my arsenal but the intimacy between the characters was beautiful. The physical and emotional connection brought tears to my eyes as it is not often we have characters with emotional maturity which can grow and learn and just make me smile at the end of the journey. Hopefully this makes sense!
I look forward to the next installment and book 0! It would be interesting to see the world at large with the Harmonite and other magic systems.
4*s from me
I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked this one. The story sets a fast pace and I personally thought it flowed well. I especially like the dual POV 3rd person narrative style which gave me more insight into the characters actions, thoughts and feelings especially when seen through both perspectives. The best example is the last few chapters which I am not ashamed to admit brought tears to my eyes for the heroes.
I would say it took a while for me to like Alistair as he frustrated me with his views and actions as a Paladin. This is nothing against the writing or author as I am biased when it comes to the misunderstood necromancers of the fantasy genre (they deserve all the hugs and pets). I will admit that the flaws I disliked meant that Alistair was more believable and I was invested in his growth and journey.
I feel like certain events could have been expanded on more (for example the detective like scenes) however the relationships between characters is what makes this story shine.
This isn't as raunchy as some books in my arsenal but the intimacy between the characters was beautiful. The physical and emotional connection brought tears to my eyes as it is not often we have characters with emotional maturity which can grow and learn and just make me smile at the end of the journey. Hopefully this makes sense!
I look forward to the next installment and book 0! It would be interesting to see the world at large with the Harmonite and other magic systems.
4*s from me
I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 9, 2023
To honor his father’s legacy, Alastair set a goal to become a paladin. He achieved that goal and is now ready for his first solo mission – traveling to a small mountain village to rid that village of their undead problem and bring the necromancer to justice. Ignatius is that necromancer. He has been hounded his whole life just for having the wrong type of magic. He survives however he can including pilfering the village of their extra supplies. Chasing down the undead finds Alastair stranded in a snow storm and captured by the necromancer. The two expect to hate each other as they are opposites – Alastair is a paladin of the Light while Ignatius is a necromancer of the dark. When it turns out the menace to the town is more than undead, the two will need to work together to overcome the mysterious magic.
Alastair was truly a good man and was willing to listen to what Iggie had to say. Iggie was the same but before they could realize that both men had to take the time to listen to each other. Both were so conditioned to expect one thing that truly listening was very difficult. However, with the help of a major storm, the two learned so much about each other. Their relationship had to survive the omcing battle with that mysterious magic. Beautifully written, set in an incredible world and with two wonderful heroes, The Necromancer’s Prisoner is sure to be a hit.
I received a complimentary copy and it was my pleasure to voluntarily leave this review.
Alastair was truly a good man and was willing to listen to what Iggie had to say. Iggie was the same but before they could realize that both men had to take the time to listen to each other. Both were so conditioned to expect one thing that truly listening was very difficult. However, with the help of a major storm, the two learned so much about each other. Their relationship had to survive the omcing battle with that mysterious magic. Beautifully written, set in an incredible world and with two wonderful heroes, The Necromancer’s Prisoner is sure to be a hit.
I received a complimentary copy and it was my pleasure to voluntarily leave this review.
November 28, 2023
Un unexpected hero, or two...
This is a new author to me and I was pleasantly surprised by this story. It is a well written paranormal adventure romance with heroes and monsters, and figuring out who is the hero and who is the evil monster is not as cut an dried as you might expect. The world building is solid and the characters are fleshed out with emotions and some growth throughout the story. The MCs are adults, although a bit young and angsty. They have some strong preconceived opinions that have alternating funny and dramatic results. I loved the way the story and characters developed, how they overcame their insecurities, how they reacted to the unknown and later adjusted their initial worldview. The adventure (who is responsible for the disappearances of villagers and the strange light) and the twists and turns kept the story interesting and fun until the end, with a HEA to finish it off. Plenty of craziness and action and some slow burn romance, but no graphic violence or romance. This is the first story in the Allaria Universe, however the book has a link to a free story in the same universe. There is no cliffhanger. I had the opportunity to receive this book as an ARC, all opinions are my own.
This is a new author to me and I was pleasantly surprised by this story. It is a well written paranormal adventure romance with heroes and monsters, and figuring out who is the hero and who is the evil monster is not as cut an dried as you might expect. The world building is solid and the characters are fleshed out with emotions and some growth throughout the story. The MCs are adults, although a bit young and angsty. They have some strong preconceived opinions that have alternating funny and dramatic results. I loved the way the story and characters developed, how they overcame their insecurities, how they reacted to the unknown and later adjusted their initial worldview. The adventure (who is responsible for the disappearances of villagers and the strange light) and the twists and turns kept the story interesting and fun until the end, with a HEA to finish it off. Plenty of craziness and action and some slow burn romance, but no graphic violence or romance. This is the first story in the Allaria Universe, however the book has a link to a free story in the same universe. There is no cliffhanger. I had the opportunity to receive this book as an ARC, all opinions are my own.
November 26, 2023
First in series (Hearts of Allaria). Fantasy. Enemies to lovers. Slow burn/low burn. Hurt/comfort. Dual POV. Alistair is a paladin, protector of the people and church warrior, sent on his first solo mission to a solitary mountain town from a necromancer stealing supplies and possibly kidnapping villagers. But when Alistair is saved, then captured by Iggie, he quickly changes his opinion, Iggie is not evil and he is not responsible for all the town’s misfortunes. Alistair and Iggie form a connection quickly, both having lost their parents when they were younger and being held to certain expectations - Alistair to become a paladin and Iggie always shunned for his form of magic. There is some action, some struggles against outside forces and prejudices, as well as some personal growth from both characters. An entertaining story and two likable characters to root for, finding strength in each other, and some supportive secondary characters. A really good start to a new series, looking forward to the next book. 4.5 rounded up
December 3, 2023
4.5/5 Alistair and Iggie are two lonely young men who are desperate to find their place in the world—Alistair eager to prove he belongs in the Order and has earned his place as a paladin, and Iggy wanting somewhere, anywhere where he can be safe from everyone who hates necromancers. They have contrasting magics and both have reasons to fear what the other person represents—and they do not get off to a good start.
What I love best about these two is their ability to communicate and learn from one another (at least once they start making an effort). They still mess up, they can get scared and get things wrong, but they constantly adapt to new information and new realisations. It was lovely to watch.
I enjoyed seeing them confide in one another and expand their understanding of the world. The mystery was engaging, the magic system was intriguing, and the romance was slow and sweet. I laughed, I cried, and the conclusion was deeply satisfying for me. I’m looking forward to more in this series.
I received an ARC from GRR. This is my honest review.
What I love best about these two is their ability to communicate and learn from one another (at least once they start making an effort). They still mess up, they can get scared and get things wrong, but they constantly adapt to new information and new realisations. It was lovely to watch.
I enjoyed seeing them confide in one another and expand their understanding of the world. The mystery was engaging, the magic system was intriguing, and the romance was slow and sweet. I laughed, I cried, and the conclusion was deeply satisfying for me. I’m looking forward to more in this series.
I received an ARC from GRR. This is my honest review.
December 8, 2023
I really liked the world building here and found it easy to get caught up in the storyline. The pacing didn’t always feel totally even— there are slower parts and parts that almost seem to be running away with plot development, but overall, the story as a whole is an enjoyable ride. There’s fantasy, adventure and some recognizable romance tropes: hurt/comfort, forced proximity, enemies to lovers etc. and for the most part I was invested in the central characters’ relationship. Alistair initially tried my patience—the balance between annoying and endearing in the “oblivious but good hearted idiot who doesn’t recognize his own privilege” teetered a bit more towards annoying in the early pages but as he grew into himself and a greater awareness of the complexities of the world I did come to like him as a character. Iggie, on the other hand, I liked from the start. That he’s never been given a break but works so hard to see the good in others is endearing as all heck. If the blurb appeals, well worth a try.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
November 29, 2023
“The Necromancer’s Prisoner” by Elric Shaw is a fade to black romance about Alistair and Ignatius. Alistar, a paladin, lacks belief in the religion he serves but is determined to live up to his father’s legacy. On his first solo mission he needs to find out who is stealing people and goods from a small winter town. His mission leads him to the necromancer Ignatius when he is held prisoner. Ignatius, a necromancer, has been hunted for what he is since he was eleven years old. His life of solitude is upended when he meets Alistair and takes him captive. Even when they are enemies, they cannot fight the fact that they start to like each other’s company.
I really liked this book. It’s a fade to black M/M fantasy romance with forced proximity and enemies to lovers’ tropes. I thought the relationship between the two main characters was cute. The story part was a little boring at times, but it was still enjoyable. I give it a 4 out of 5 stars.
I really liked this book. It’s a fade to black M/M fantasy romance with forced proximity and enemies to lovers’ tropes. I thought the relationship between the two main characters was cute. The story part was a little boring at times, but it was still enjoyable. I give it a 4 out of 5 stars.
December 8, 2023
A book about acceptance
This is the first book that I have read by Elric Shaw but I will definitely be reading more from this author because I really enjoyed this book. A tale that seems rather simple at first, an enemies to lovers trope with magic added on. But Mr Shaw has done some great world building or at least village building since most of this story is set in the village that Alistair has been sent to help. At it’s heart it’s about mindless prejudice and how much of it comes from the way you are taught and doesn’t stand up to experience. Even Ignatius falls victim to this as he believes what other people think about necromancers even though he is one himself and isn’t like that. Of course there is a star crossed love story between the two of them and I was pleased with the ending that Mr Shaw has given us even as it seemed like it would be impossible. (All of the intimate stuff is fade to black if that is something you don’t want to read.)
This is the first book that I have read by Elric Shaw but I will definitely be reading more from this author because I really enjoyed this book. A tale that seems rather simple at first, an enemies to lovers trope with magic added on. But Mr Shaw has done some great world building or at least village building since most of this story is set in the village that Alistair has been sent to help. At it’s heart it’s about mindless prejudice and how much of it comes from the way you are taught and doesn’t stand up to experience. Even Ignatius falls victim to this as he believes what other people think about necromancers even though he is one himself and isn’t like that. Of course there is a star crossed love story between the two of them and I was pleased with the ending that Mr Shaw has given us even as it seemed like it would be impossible. (All of the intimate stuff is fade to black if that is something you don’t want to read.)
December 2, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
It was easy to fall into the world the author built for this series. There wasn’t too much of an info dump at the beginning to catch the reader up on everything but I also never felt like I didn’t understand something. And I ended up really really enjoying this first book in the series.
The MCs were both broken and a bit flawed, but things never felt too heavy or too angsty while they were figuring their shit out. I appreciated that they both recognized their own failings and how that was affecting the other…I do hate when one MC is totally clueless and has to have things spelled out to them. The romance between the two of them was also really sweet and gentle, there was nothing super spicy but it was still lovely to watch them fall in love.
I’m looking forward to reading more from this author and checking out his future books!
It was easy to fall into the world the author built for this series. There wasn’t too much of an info dump at the beginning to catch the reader up on everything but I also never felt like I didn’t understand something. And I ended up really really enjoying this first book in the series.
The MCs were both broken and a bit flawed, but things never felt too heavy or too angsty while they were figuring their shit out. I appreciated that they both recognized their own failings and how that was affecting the other…I do hate when one MC is totally clueless and has to have things spelled out to them. The romance between the two of them was also really sweet and gentle, there was nothing super spicy but it was still lovely to watch them fall in love.
I’m looking forward to reading more from this author and checking out his future books!
December 11, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
The Necromancer’s Prisoner is the first book in the Hearts of Allaria series by author Elric Shaw. It’s a fantasy that plays with and explores paladin and necromancer tropes. The story is told in alternating perspectives, split between Alistair and Ignatius. I felt like Alistair was more often in the driver seat, so to speak. Having a paladin and a necromancer for main characters mean there is plenty of enemies-to-lovers energy going on. I was impressed with how slow the burn is and how hard both Alistair and Ignatius must work to acknowledge and rectify their preconceived notions about good and evil.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
The Necromancer’s Prisoner is the first book in the Hearts of Allaria series by author Elric Shaw. It’s a fantasy that plays with and explores paladin and necromancer tropes. The story is told in alternating perspectives, split between Alistair and Ignatius. I felt like Alistair was more often in the driver seat, so to speak. Having a paladin and a necromancer for main characters mean there is plenty of enemies-to-lovers energy going on. I was impressed with how slow the burn is and how hard both Alistair and Ignatius must work to acknowledge and rectify their preconceived notions about good and evil.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
December 5, 2023
This is more of a period type, close proximity story, with large religious over tones. You have our Knight (in literal shinning armor), wielding magical flame representing the church. He's come to help a remote village find out who is stealing from them and where their missing villagers went. Alistair may not be into all the religious connotations of his profession, but he enjoys helping people and is driven by family duty to be the best Paladin in the Order.
The other half of this unlikely pairing is a wilding who wields dark magic, able to reanimate dead creatures. Even though Iggy is actively hunted where ever he goes, he just wants to be left alone, so he is constantly on the move. Getting stuck in the mountains wasn't ideal, and he may be stealing from the town, but they have more than enough to share because they produce and sell song crystals, very expensive artwork that is coveted in the kingdoms.
This is a lighter story. There is some angst/tension/drama, but it is resolved rather quickly. There isn't a lot of action, it's more of a mystery really. But don't worry, the Knight always has to fight the monster, even if he can't beat it.
The other half of this unlikely pairing is a wilding who wields dark magic, able to reanimate dead creatures. Even though Iggy is actively hunted where ever he goes, he just wants to be left alone, so he is constantly on the move. Getting stuck in the mountains wasn't ideal, and he may be stealing from the town, but they have more than enough to share because they produce and sell song crystals, very expensive artwork that is coveted in the kingdoms.
This is a lighter story. There is some angst/tension/drama, but it is resolved rather quickly. There isn't a lot of action, it's more of a mystery really. But don't worry, the Knight always has to fight the monster, even if he can't beat it.
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January 6, 2024Utterly Lovely
Honestly, I love a book that makes me cry, so long as I know it will end with a HEA. I was so invested in these characters, their struggles, and their love story.
Both Iggy and Alastair have to overcome lifetimes of prejudice and struggle with the pressures of society and church doctrine. Deciding to do what's right, rather than what's easy or even expected. Their belief in eachother, and through that, themselves, helps others open their minds and hearts to change and new possibilities.
This is a wonderful paladin/necromancer story (always a favorite), full of hurt/comfort and all the feels. I look forward to more in Allaria.
Highly recommended.
Honestly, I love a book that makes me cry, so long as I know it will end with a HEA. I was so invested in these characters, their struggles, and their love story.
Both Iggy and Alastair have to overcome lifetimes of prejudice and struggle with the pressures of society and church doctrine. Deciding to do what's right, rather than what's easy or even expected. Their belief in eachother, and through that, themselves, helps others open their minds and hearts to change and new possibilities.
This is a wonderful paladin/necromancer story (always a favorite), full of hurt/comfort and all the feels. I look forward to more in Allaria.
Highly recommended.
November 28, 2023
I wasn’t sure what to expect or whether I would even like it, but I’m glad I give it a chance, because I really enjoyed this book.
Ignatius was an absolute sweetheart but he didn’t deserve the life he was living. I cried several times for his loss and the toll it took on him.
Alastair had a lot to figure out. His duty pulled him one way whereas, his heart pulled him another.
I would highly recommend this book - it exceeded my expectations.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
Ignatius was an absolute sweetheart but he didn’t deserve the life he was living. I cried several times for his loss and the toll it took on him.
Alastair had a lot to figure out. His duty pulled him one way whereas, his heart pulled him another.
I would highly recommend this book - it exceeded my expectations.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
December 8, 2023
New to me author but since I really enjoy the paranormal genre and necromancer especially I tried it and am glad I did. This was a well written story with a storyline that just sucks you in from the beginning. I’m not an overly emotional reader but I legit cried twice during this book. Why not 5 stars you may wonder… well the heat was non existent and the romance while there wasn’t developed enough I feel. I would have loved Alistair to show more of a hurt him a die vibe and put Ziggy first like he deserves. Still really enjoyed this one and will absolutely read more from this author
December 9, 2023
This was a good story which had great world building that it was easy to imagine and get into the story. Both characters have their flaws and yet they endeared themselves to me that I was invested on the outcome to their romance. The romance and spiciness was low key and was tame but I don't mind that and it never bothered me that it wasn't really steamy. It was sweet and cute but the story carried it along that my interest was always there, will be looking forward to the next book in this series.
December 10, 2023
This was a fun, easy read. I enjoyed the worldbuilding – it's not overly complicated for the first book in a series, which is great, because that means we avoid a lot of info-dumping early on. Iggie is a sweet character and I like the dynamic between him and Alistair and the way they grow together.
There's some darkness in their backstories, but overall it's pretty light, with a much more chill, fun necromancer vibe than anything really skating a moral edge. Light on the spice, too, if you're looking for that!
There's some darkness in their backstories, but overall it's pretty light, with a much more chill, fun necromancer vibe than anything really skating a moral edge. Light on the spice, too, if you're looking for that!
December 11, 2023
Alistair, a paladin who does his duty with no deep belief seeks out the necromancer Ignatius to destroy him and save the village he is attacking with his magic. When he arrives, meets Ignatius and they are forced together, they begin to understand that something else is going on in the area and Alistair has to reevaluate the things he's been told. These are two very interesting characters, the plot the author involves them in is nicely mysterious and I really enjoyed the world building. I'll definitely be back for the next in the series.
December 4, 2023
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it’s the first book of a new series, I enjoyed the story it was well written and the world building was good as was the characters, both MCs are a little broken, the story kept my interest from the beginning and I enjoyed watching the bond forming between Iggy and Alastair starting as a friendship and processing with the story until they get their Hea. I’m looking forward to reading more from this series.
December 6, 2023
This story!!!! Oh my heart! It was so good. I loved the world this author has created and am going to keep my eyes open for future books! Iggy and Alistair are simply everything good in the world. Nothing is ever fully just black and white or good and evil as Alistair finds out when confronted with the “evil” necromancer Iggy. All Iggy has ever wanted is to be left alone and allowed to live in peace, not to be hunted and killed simply for the mistake of his birth magic.
January 5, 2024
Prisoner
I will give this book a 4/5. I think it was an interesting book. Alistair is a paladin sent to destroy an evil necromancer, Ignatius. But Ignatius is not the evil person that was described to Alistair. There is something else terrorizing the village. The men will have to work together to discover what it is and put a stop to it. Of course it would be a lot easier if the two men could work through their attraction for each other and lack of trust.
I will give this book a 4/5. I think it was an interesting book. Alistair is a paladin sent to destroy an evil necromancer, Ignatius. But Ignatius is not the evil person that was described to Alistair. There is something else terrorizing the village. The men will have to work together to discover what it is and put a stop to it. Of course it would be a lot easier if the two men could work through their attraction for each other and lack of trust.
February 24, 2024
loved it
This book drew me in from the very beginning. Unsure of how the enemies to lovers would turn out, I wouldn’t necessarily call it a slow burn as much as it’s two people that have been taught to hate each other learn that not everyone is good or evil just because of the type of magic they have. There is a tiny bit of spice but does not go into detail like other books I have read. But this is definitely worth the read.
This book drew me in from the very beginning. Unsure of how the enemies to lovers would turn out, I wouldn’t necessarily call it a slow burn as much as it’s two people that have been taught to hate each other learn that not everyone is good or evil just because of the type of magic they have. There is a tiny bit of spice but does not go into detail like other books I have read. But this is definitely worth the read.
December 9, 2023
Life is not going to be normal for him when he takes to being the light against the dark. He will go on a mission to stop a necromancer being the death alive. He ends up getting caught and now he has another issue. It seems they need help as well. How will it all go? Can he get free? Will he be able to help them as well? See just how it will all go
August 30, 2024
Great world building, lots of plot. If you're looking for lots of sex, this isn't the book for you. There's romance and kissing/touching, but no graphic sex. I don't consider that a negative - sometimes it's nice to read a story without all that detail. . There's plenty of well-written characters & lots of action. I enjoyed this a LOT and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
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