The Death of the Necromancer

ISBN: 0-380-97334-0 Order from: Amazon.com

An intricate fantasy with interesting characters, well-plotted magic, and exciting plot amid a solid-seeming alternate Europe.

Reviewed by David on October 25, 1998

Genre: Fantasy (Alternate Reality, Mystery)

Synopsis: Edouard Viller was a skilled researcher of magic, although possessing none of the rare talent himself. After he was framed and executed for the heinous crime of necromancy, his adopted son, Nicholas, has spent years investigating and plotting the downfall of his father's enemy. However, his mostly illegal pursuit of the powerful and ruthless nobleman who caused his father's downfall is interrupted when the stately city of Vienn is shocked by a series of brutal murders, murders that resemble ancient necromantic rituals.

Nicholas, his motley crew of thieves, actors and street magicians, have a challenging task as they try to identify the murderous and powerful sorcerer, while trying to survive the dogged attention of police, jealous maneuvers of nobility and even the unsettling gaze of the crown.

But the worst danger may be the centuries-old specters of magic, terror and madness.

Full Review: The author of The Element of Fire and City of Bones, Wells created an alternate Europe around the turn of the century, a world of gaslights, theater and sorcery, where fake spiritualists that con the bored aristocracy hide the much more ominous talents of necromancy.

Nicholas and his friends make for an engaging cast of characters. A staid art importer by day, he pursues more criminal activities at night—all in the aid for his quest of vengeance. His police adversaries, while enemies, are accorded respect, as they weave their dance across the glittering royal city. When the dark crime wave threatens to engulf the city, the criminals and the police are forced to join forces against a common enemy.

The novel is set in the world of The Element of Fire, although centuries after the events of that excellent novel. There are only a couple of very minor quibbles. I wish the intriguing queen of Ile-Rien was explored a bit more; perhaps Wells is saving her for another book. In addition, I felt Nicholas was a dramatic enough figure even without some of the minor subplots in the book.

As a whole, this is a strong and well-conceived book, combining suspense, good characters, minor romantic subplots and an intriguing and charming world.

Universe: Element of Fire

Overall: 6.5; Plot: 6; Characters: 6; Style: 6.5; World-building: 6.5; Originality: 6.5;

ISBN: 0-380-97334-0 Order from: Amazon.com