ARC Reviews : The Necromancer’s Apprentice
"Journey through grief and magic, woven with heartwarming whimsy."
Book Details
ARC by Book Sirens
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
🛒 The Necromancer's Apprentice
Publication Date : Oct 1, 2024
224 pages
Fantasy, Fiction, Grief, Family, Middle Grade, Magic
Mini Booknotes / Review
This is a cute short reads about Georgie, a 12-year-old boy navigating grief after losing his mother. His determination to bring his mother back deepen when he sees his father falls in his sorrow and grief.
They live closely to his aunt (his mother’s sister) and inquisitive cousin Elroy. Georgie and Elroy came together in a magical adventure and learning journey with Tristan, a necromancer. All he ever wanted from the magic learning was to bring his mother back to life. Throughout their journey, they are accompanied with whimsical elements like the ancient black cat, named Void (always moody and hissing!) and an animated skeleton. The story is filled with both eerie yet heartwarming moment as Georgie discover the peak of his mentorship with the necromancer.
Elroy, resembling Hermione from Harry Potter, stands out with her studious nature and determination to uncover mysteries surrounding the necromancer (taking notes, and thinking methodically and all!).
This story is set in a fantasy world evoking medieval times (it was not that clear!). The story beautifully captures the magic's fascination while exploring into themes of sorrow and strength. There are echoes of Diana Wynne Jones vibes and her story, enchanting themes of "Howl's Moving Castle,".
In my view, "The Necromancer's Apprentice" deserves 3.5 stars (leaning to 4 but not quite 4 stars for me) for its clever enchantment and well-crafted characters in a beautifully designed setting. It offers a delightful escape for readers seeking magic and adventure without the weight of heavier themes ~ which is perfect for young readers and adults who’re seeking for a easy yet heartwarming fantasy!
Favourite quotes, words & others
The image I found and added to the blog serves as an illustrative representation to help convey the essence of what I read.
Quotes :
“A graveyard is often filled with great sorrow, loss, and memory”
“But how do you miss something that you never knew?”
“But should you find yourself a kindred spirit, they are invaluable. Even more so if they are still living.”
“Similarity alone wasn’t enough to solve the problem of his father’s grief.”
“Mind your manners with the dead”
“Love, sacrifice, and not a single thought for yourself. Your tears were for others who suffered. It is a rare and beautiful thing.”
“Grief is the reaction to many losses. The loss of life is prominent in the human experience, but there are other losses. Alas, despite its many uses, Necromancy cannot mend the death of a relationship. That is a magic far beyond my own and is far too painful to pursue.”
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.5 Stars)
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