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The Shadow Sect Necromancers #1
In Darkness
Your next life is never guaranteed.
Split into four sects after centuries of disputes, The Shadow Sect necromancers have one decide which souls move on to the next life and which must be destroyed.
After discovering she has a rare power, strong-willed Scarlet is desperate to make a name for herself in the Lux sect. But when she encounters Micah, a necromancer from an enemy sect, Scarlet realises she may have met her match.
As wraiths flood the streets of Lancaster, all four sects are forced to work together to stop them destroying the souls of the dead. When Scarlet launches her own investigation, she soon discovers that the wraiths want more than souls, and that she and Micah might just be the key to their sinister plans.
Split into four sects after centuries of disputes, The Shadow Sect necromancers have one decide which souls move on to the next life and which must be destroyed.
After discovering she has a rare power, strong-willed Scarlet is desperate to make a name for herself in the Lux sect. But when she encounters Micah, a necromancer from an enemy sect, Scarlet realises she may have met her match.
As wraiths flood the streets of Lancaster, all four sects are forced to work together to stop them destroying the souls of the dead. When Scarlet launches her own investigation, she soon discovers that the wraiths want more than souls, and that she and Micah might just be the key to their sinister plans.
99 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 16, 2023
1 person is currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
Rosie Wylor-Owen
27 books276 followersRosie Wylor-Owen is a USA Today Bestselling author of urban fantasy and paranormal romance books.
An avid reader, Taekwondo black belt, and travel enthusiast, she draws on her real-life and fictional adventures to inspire her fast-paced, slow-burn, magical novels. In her spare time, Rosie creates sweet-treat recipes to include in her books, draws blueprints of fantasy buildings, and plays a tonne of video games.
She highly recommends her favourite authors, Deborah Harkness, Kat Ross, and L.J. Smith, who are equally responsible for her addiction to reading.
Subscribe to Rosie’s newsletter to receive a free book, and begin your magical experience!
https://dl.bookfunnel.com/i7g6zqbmuj
An avid reader, Taekwondo black belt, and travel enthusiast, she draws on her real-life and fictional adventures to inspire her fast-paced, slow-burn, magical novels. In her spare time, Rosie creates sweet-treat recipes to include in her books, draws blueprints of fantasy buildings, and plays a tonne of video games.
She highly recommends her favourite authors, Deborah Harkness, Kat Ross, and L.J. Smith, who are equally responsible for her addiction to reading.
Subscribe to Rosie’s newsletter to receive a free book, and begin your magical experience!
https://dl.bookfunnel.com/i7g6zqbmuj
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
October 13, 2023
In Darkness has Romeo & Juliet vibes. The FMC and MMC are in different sects of necromancers and everything is acrimonious from the start. There’s something going on with the dangerous wraith population booming and there needs to be cooperation between all 4 sects.
The pace moves along swiftly, so it’s a really easy read and the plot and world building is interesting. Looking forward to the next book.
The pace moves along swiftly, so it’s a really easy read and the plot and world building is interesting. Looking forward to the next book.
August 25, 2024
This author has consistently impressed me, and this book is no exception. The necromancer theme was a refreshing change from my usual reads, and the storyline kept me hooked. Although the book feels a bit unfinished due to the series’ division, I’m excited to see where the story goes next! 😊
October 12, 2023
Ooo do I love a good necromancy story! And this one is far more than just good, it's EXCEPTIONAL!!! There are 4 Necromancy sects who's duty is to collect souls, some are easy to distinguish, others not so much. There's the good souls, the bad, the unapologetically bad souls, and then there's the "in between souls", souls who have erred but could possibly be redeemable. And here's the dilemma, the Lux Brumalis sect, is all about second chances, the Solaris, nah, not so much and although none of the sects see eye to eye, these two are literally at each others throats. To add insult to injury, Scarlet is almost like the black sheep of the family, no one takes her seriously, especially her mother, so, what's a girl gonna do? Why, prove herself of course!
In a nightclub Scarlet spots both the soul she's been hunting as well as a gorgeous hunk, who turns out to be, yeah, a Solaris! But that first encounter between them was so cool! And the sparks flew, not actual live sparks, the oooo hottie sparks. Soooo, when Scarlet "steals" a soul from Micah of the Solaris, all hell breaks loose! Hang on though, there isn't only souls to be on the lookout for, there are wraiths who gorge themselves on souls, any soul, living or departed. When Scarlet observes strange behaviour by the wraiths, she and Micah are thrust together and the fun gets taken up a notch. I couldn't stop the giggles at Scarlet's reaction to Micah, whenever he's close by, she melts and chastises herself all at the same time.
But with this new theat, of the unknown, Scarlet suddenly discovers a new ability, an ability that Micah just so happens to have too. And then the literal sparks DO fly! They are strong together and I don't mean relationship strong. I'm looking forward to seeing exactly where this takes them, and here I DO mean the relationship as well as the strange magical connection they have. I loved Scarlet, I totally get why she's determined to not be sidelined, I love her attitude and feistyness, and her single minded determination, not so single minded with Micah in the picture! A wonderfully fast paced and highly entertaining read, humour, mystery, suspicion, and a whole bunch of shenanigans! A quick 100 pager of awesomeness! And I have a new catch word, "sugarplums"! Ms Wylor-Owen has outdone her, sheer perfection!
In a nightclub Scarlet spots both the soul she's been hunting as well as a gorgeous hunk, who turns out to be, yeah, a Solaris! But that first encounter between them was so cool! And the sparks flew, not actual live sparks, the oooo hottie sparks. Soooo, when Scarlet "steals" a soul from Micah of the Solaris, all hell breaks loose! Hang on though, there isn't only souls to be on the lookout for, there are wraiths who gorge themselves on souls, any soul, living or departed. When Scarlet observes strange behaviour by the wraiths, she and Micah are thrust together and the fun gets taken up a notch. I couldn't stop the giggles at Scarlet's reaction to Micah, whenever he's close by, she melts and chastises herself all at the same time.
But with this new theat, of the unknown, Scarlet suddenly discovers a new ability, an ability that Micah just so happens to have too. And then the literal sparks DO fly! They are strong together and I don't mean relationship strong. I'm looking forward to seeing exactly where this takes them, and here I DO mean the relationship as well as the strange magical connection they have. I loved Scarlet, I totally get why she's determined to not be sidelined, I love her attitude and feistyness, and her single minded determination, not so single minded with Micah in the picture! A wonderfully fast paced and highly entertaining read, humour, mystery, suspicion, and a whole bunch of shenanigans! A quick 100 pager of awesomeness! And I have a new catch word, "sugarplums"! Ms Wylor-Owen has outdone her, sheer perfection!
January 14, 2024
*4.75 stars*
This is the first book of this series. Though it seems more of a prequel to me and leaves you on a cliffhanger needing to know more.
This was different from your normal necromancy readings. Where those tend to be more morbid and dark, this one is more mystery, lighter and steamy. It says that it is aimed more towards 14-18 year olds, but I think with the descriptions and some events, it should be aimed more towards the older age than 14 year olds if you are not comfortable with light “vulgar” words and talk about lusting and more.
With that out of the way, onto the review. I am just branching out into different genres, so I haven’t read much Fantasy/Urban Fantasy. The blurb caught my attention, so I decided to give it a try. I wasn’t disappointed.
It was interesting to learn of the different sects that were once united. The details of everything in the story was enough to give you the perfect visual of the world Rosie Wylor-Owen created and not bore you, but transport you.
With an increase of Wraiths in the city, all the sects are on high alert causing more tension than usual. Two up and coming soul catchers on opposite sides (one believing in redemption and the other not) feel the pressure to prove themselves to their sect. When their paths cross, one gets outsmarted which ratchets their “enemies” label higher than the attraction level they had felt. Forced to fight for survival, Scarlet finds out she has powers and so does Micah. When they are combined, it makes them even stronger, but more in danger than they already were.
I wish that I could have had Micah’s POV on events, his feelings and thoughts instead of just Scarlet’s. I also would’ve liked to have a warning about the cliffhanger, even though it wouldn’t have stopped me from reading, I just would’ve liked to prepare for it. Regardless, I still really enjoyed reading this book and can’t wait to see what obstacles come to Scarlet and Micah and what secrets are revealed.
I received an advanced readers copy via Booksprout. These thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is the first book of this series. Though it seems more of a prequel to me and leaves you on a cliffhanger needing to know more.
This was different from your normal necromancy readings. Where those tend to be more morbid and dark, this one is more mystery, lighter and steamy. It says that it is aimed more towards 14-18 year olds, but I think with the descriptions and some events, it should be aimed more towards the older age than 14 year olds if you are not comfortable with light “vulgar” words and talk about lusting and more.
With that out of the way, onto the review. I am just branching out into different genres, so I haven’t read much Fantasy/Urban Fantasy. The blurb caught my attention, so I decided to give it a try. I wasn’t disappointed.
It was interesting to learn of the different sects that were once united. The details of everything in the story was enough to give you the perfect visual of the world Rosie Wylor-Owen created and not bore you, but transport you.
With an increase of Wraiths in the city, all the sects are on high alert causing more tension than usual. Two up and coming soul catchers on opposite sides (one believing in redemption and the other not) feel the pressure to prove themselves to their sect. When their paths cross, one gets outsmarted which ratchets their “enemies” label higher than the attraction level they had felt. Forced to fight for survival, Scarlet finds out she has powers and so does Micah. When they are combined, it makes them even stronger, but more in danger than they already were.
I wish that I could have had Micah’s POV on events, his feelings and thoughts instead of just Scarlet’s. I also would’ve liked to have a warning about the cliffhanger, even though it wouldn’t have stopped me from reading, I just would’ve liked to prepare for it. Regardless, I still really enjoyed reading this book and can’t wait to see what obstacles come to Scarlet and Micah and what secrets are revealed.
I received an advanced readers copy via Booksprout. These thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 15, 2023
Not your usual take on necromancers which makes this fun. When you read necromancer stories it usually involves gravedigging and a more morbid and gruesome tone. This was more amusing with biting sarcasm, division of ideals that will clash with inevitable drama, and an explosive budding romance. I gobbled this story up and am eagerly awaiting the next installment.
Scarlet belongs to the Lux sect of necromancers. While out on a job of collecting a soul with her best friend Ffion they thwart their rival sect, Solis, from obtaining it. After successfully securing the soul they unfortunately lose it to a pack of wraiths, which definitely isn’t normal. Rushing home she wants nothing more than to report this to the leader and go hunt down clues to what is going on. But the Lux leader, who happens to be her mother, calls for a meeting between all the sects. Scarlet wants to prove herself and her worth to her sect and her mother but feels crushed when she gets passed over again for her sister. Now determined to gather her own information, she stumbles across a plot larger than she can handle on her own and a rival Solis who may not be an enemy but something more. With wraiths not acting normal and more dangerous things building, she will take what help she can get.
Received as an ARC and this review is voluntary.
Scarlet belongs to the Lux sect of necromancers. While out on a job of collecting a soul with her best friend Ffion they thwart their rival sect, Solis, from obtaining it. After successfully securing the soul they unfortunately lose it to a pack of wraiths, which definitely isn’t normal. Rushing home she wants nothing more than to report this to the leader and go hunt down clues to what is going on. But the Lux leader, who happens to be her mother, calls for a meeting between all the sects. Scarlet wants to prove herself and her worth to her sect and her mother but feels crushed when she gets passed over again for her sister. Now determined to gather her own information, she stumbles across a plot larger than she can handle on her own and a rival Solis who may not be an enemy but something more. With wraiths not acting normal and more dangerous things building, she will take what help she can get.
Received as an ARC and this review is voluntary.
October 29, 2023
Rcvd an advanced reader copy from booksprout for giving my two cents. We meet necromancer Scarlet who belongs to one of 4 necromancer sects. Her and her friend are out at a clubbing hunting when 3 guys from another sect come in and try to get the soul their after. The one guy is hot with a capital H. Scarlets sect believes that a soul can be redeemed if it is between good and evil whereas thr Solis sect goes in with guns blazing. After getting the soul, scarlet and her friend are attacked by wraiths...5 of them...and they never work in groups...what's going on? They are after souls as well. Wraiths have been around way more and its troubling. Scarlets mom is head of their sect and when she calls an emergency with all the sects...she runs into hot guy Micah. After an agreement to work together, when scarlet returns home, she sees a wraith outside and follows it. She observes it at a human hospital and follows it. It backfires and when she's attacked her exhibits a strong light from her hands to keep it at bay...what the heck is going on. Micah finds her in their territory running away and takes her into custody. While at Solis, the sect is attacked by weird looking zombie things and they are run for their lives. Something fishy is going on and things are getting interesting. Hopefully scarlet and Micah can find some common ground to find the solution.
October 31, 2023
I'm a huge Rosie Wylor-Owen fan or this book may not have been read nor the review been given. I'm an old gal and think of cringe worthy zombies when I see the word...necromancer. I'M SO GLAD I READ IT!!! We're talking more souls and wraiths then the other aforementioned creepies.
It's the perfect series starter. The world building is out of this world. One big group of necromancers whom eventually break into four distinct sects. One for good souls, one for horrific souls and two that fight between souls. One of which believes in second chances and the other, not so much. Those two sects are the center of this novella. The characters on both sides are delightful, quirky, funny and a romance blooms. There is intrigue, drama and a big evil that'll force all four sects to work together again before it's all said and done.
I can't wait for the actual first book! I foresee this series being as fantastic as her Valkyrie series! Thanks for the wild ride Ms. Wylor-Owen.
October 14, 2023
This is a nice take on necromancers. They are not the evil sorcerers I’m used to. They take the souls after death and send them where they are supposed to go or deal with evil wraiths. This is also a Romeo and Juliet type story where 2 of the rival necromancer sects have an unwanted connection that gives them a special ability. I enjoyed reading about this world. Scarlett and Micah are still trying to prove themselves and will have to learn to work together. Will they be able to save their families and protect everyone?
October 19, 2023
4 sects set across the land. One for the good souls, one for bad and the remaining two fighting for those in-between. This tale has almost a Montague and Capulet type feeling, with our two MCs fighting each other and their feelings. The 4 have sects need to become together to destroy a common enemy. I hope the next in the series is longer as it was over far to quickly
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 30, 2023
They come from opposing sects of Necromancers, who have different beliefs on how to handle the souls, on whether they deserve to move onto the next life or destroyed. There is trouble brewing, so they might have to work together. Can Scarlet and Micah work together? I loved this necromancer sects story, with some steam, lots of suspense/danger and things to work out, it certainly had me turning the pages. Bring on the next book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2023
Necromancers Must Band Together
Wraiths aren't supposed to work together and Zombie's in places they shouldn't be set off a chain of events that forces opposing sects of Necromancers to work together. Among them is Micah and Scarlet who have had a previous run in with each other. Things are beginning to heat up as souls are being stolen. Anticipating the next part of this story as unique world building and storyline are full of intrigue.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wraiths aren't supposed to work together and Zombie's in places they shouldn't be set off a chain of events that forces opposing sects of Necromancers to work together. Among them is Micah and Scarlet who have had a previous run in with each other. Things are beginning to heat up as souls are being stolen. Anticipating the next part of this story as unique world building and storyline are full of intrigue.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 16, 2023
I really enjoyed this story that begins a new series and introduces a world hidden from regular people. 4 groups of people handle various dead but something is going on with the wraiths and spells trouble for out main characters. Hooked from the beginning as these two from opposing sects are a riot as they interact and the story progresses with a few surprises. Left with questions needing answers.
October 21, 2023
Good series starter!
Necromancers, zombies, wraiths, and an unknown power set the stage for this exciting new series. I like the idea of sects of necromancers with a different set of powers at odds but coming together against common enemies. It will be interesting to see where the storyline goes from here but there are definitely some great possibilities! I received an advance copy but my review is honest and voluntary.
Necromancers, zombies, wraiths, and an unknown power set the stage for this exciting new series. I like the idea of sects of necromancers with a different set of powers at odds but coming together against common enemies. It will be interesting to see where the storyline goes from here but there are definitely some great possibilities! I received an advance copy but my review is honest and voluntary.
October 30, 2023
Micah and Scarlet
Soul mates
Book 1 introduces us to Micah and Scarlet rival necromancers. Both are treated by their respective sects like they are too young and immature to be of importance; but, they have a secret. The four necromancy sects have been divide for a long but have to put aside their differences to battle wraiths and zombies. A good introduction to to a new series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Soul mates
Book 1 introduces us to Micah and Scarlet rival necromancers. Both are treated by their respective sects like they are too young and immature to be of importance; but, they have a secret. The four necromancy sects have been divide for a long but have to put aside their differences to battle wraiths and zombies. A good introduction to to a new series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2023
Thrillingly different, riveting drama and enticingly written with touches of humor and a bit of snark. Micah and Scarlets story is told with a fresh twist on necromancers, not your usual morbid or deathly tale. They are rivals with heat trying to navigate in a world where others think they are not ready to handle. Throughly enjoyed this story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 10, 2023
Nicely written with humor and some snark. If you're fans of Brian Lumely's Necromancer series, this is not that kind of story. It has a different twist of the necromancers. They've been divided into sects, and surprise surprise, they don't get along. Story ends with a cliffhanger. Looking forward to seeing what Scarlet, Micah and Zaya do in book 2.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 30, 2024
A fantastic start to a necromancer series. I was hooked on the feuding sect situation and the differences in their belief systems and methodology. I think this story shares a lot of similarities to Amanda M Lee's Aisling Grimlock series, which I also really enjoyed. It's a fun, fast-paced, quick introduction to this series and I can't wait for more. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 21, 2023
This prequel sets up a compelling premise for the series! It is immediately gripping and pulls you in to the action from the very first scene, telling a story that can barely be put down. There is intrigue, surprising romance, and lots of necromancing action! I like the protagonist and am excited to see where the series takes her.
October 29, 2023
Their world split into four realms and one has to decide which souls are saved and which ones die. She has a rare power and she will meet an enemy who may be a match to her. What is going to happen? How will they all get on? See just what is going to happen.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2023
Great YA!
It takes a talented writer to make me care about young/immature protagonists these days, as I'm old and cranky. But this author managed it!
A very fresh and wonderful take on the paranormal field
It takes a talented writer to make me care about young/immature protagonists these days, as I'm old and cranky. But this author managed it!
A very fresh and wonderful take on the paranormal field
October 28, 2023
Phenomenal introductory novella that reads like a full short novel. Great characters, lots of chemistry for these enemy to lovers! Great world building! Cannot wait for the first book!!!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2023
battling necromancy groups seem to be divided on what to do with souls
lethal divisions?
perhaps, for there are indeed many things worse than death
intriguing celestial and possibly eternal challenges
lethal divisions?
perhaps, for there are indeed many things worse than death
intriguing celestial and possibly eternal challenges
October 31, 2023
In Darkness is a read that grabs you, holds you and sucks you right in. Micah and Scarlett are great characters. A great read if you love reapers and wraiths.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 1, 2023
What a spooky beginning to this new series!
With all the ghostly mayhem, coven politics and the simmering spice between the Romeo and Juliet of the covens this really was an enjoyable read!
May the spook continue!
With all the ghostly mayhem, coven politics and the simmering spice between the Romeo and Juliet of the covens this really was an enjoyable read!
May the spook continue!
November 1, 2023
Scarlet just wants to prove herself to her sect leader who happens to be her mother who keeps passing her over. So she goes out with Solis who may not be a rival after all. Really good book looking forward to the series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 10, 2023
This fantasy was wonderful with a truly unique story. Most fantasy stories I have read focus on the elements and their story may lack depth but not the case with this book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2024
I’m not fond of the enemies-to-lovers theme complete with insta-lust, and that is the primary backdrop of this novella. There is also the need for better editing (“what me and Micah had accomplished,” instead of “Micah and I”). However, the pacing was great, so I’ll probably read the next one.
October 30, 2023
Loved it
Absolutely loved this short story by Rosie Wylor-Owen, and I can't wait for the next one. Brilliantly written and loving the tension between Scar and Micah
Absolutely loved this short story by Rosie Wylor-Owen, and I can't wait for the next one. Brilliantly written and loving the tension between Scar and Micah
January 26, 2024
Set aside an afternoon for this action-packed opening contemporary YA paranormal fantasy romance involving the Shadow Sect Necromancers in Lancashire, England.
August 9, 2024
Sweet, easy YA read with the Romeo and Juliet of necromancers. This little book has plenty of action and magic, ideal for a quick fling. Ideal if you're trying this author for the first time as it doesn't take long to get through and get the vibe.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews