The Necromancer's End: An Epic Fantasy Adventure

by Jack Pembroke

When a young necromancer stumbles into an adventuring party, he embarks on a year of danger and discovery that challenges him at every turn.

Jeremiah Thorn is a necromancer who knows almost nothing about his calling—except that, though he’s just trying to survive, most people consider his magic to be the worst kind of evil. While attempting to explore a dungeon in hopes of claiming treasure, he instead finds a quirky band of professional adventurers who agree to include him in their quests, believing him to be simply a beginner.

With his peculiar toad familiar by his side, Jeremiah quickly learns to rely on new human and half-elf alike. But despite his kindness and good attitude, his taboo power over the dead is soon exposed. Condemned to prison with only a slight chance of proving himself a worthy citizen, he faces a powerful elf named Vivica, a mysterious and nihilistic creature who’s more than she seems . . .

In the days that follow, everything Jeremiah believes is called into question. Thrust into one terrifying situation after another—from hard labor to a battle with a barbarian army—he finds his idealistic worldview shaken and his simple ideas of the nature of good and evil shattered, possibly forever.

Full of breathtaking exploits peppered with humor, The Necromancer’s End is the first book in an adventure series that’s perfect for fans of Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman.

The first volume of the hit fantasy-adventure series—with more than 250,000 views on Royal Road—now available on Kindle, Kindle Unlimited, and Audible!

Genres: Fantasy

295 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 4, 2024

Reviews

[Jack Pembroke]

I wrote it, and I think I did a pretty good job. Hope you'll give it a try!

[Aniconomics · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was mostly satisfied with the story. The pacing was adequate. The characters were well defined. The dialogue was great. Flooso was my favorite character. I really liked the moral relativism part while also acknowledging the existence of objectively evil entities such as gods and demons. This seems like a very classic action adventure fantasy story. Nothing I haven't seen before but that's irrelevant. A story does not need to reinvent the wheel every time. All I require is good writing.

I say mostly satisfied but I disagreed with the ending. I really like progression fantasy. I found the increase of Jeremiah's abilities very satisfying. I do wish there was more, including equipment upgrades. Deciding to give up on his necromancy near the end was underwhelming to say the least.

I am a libertarian so, I strongly believe in limited government. Hierarchy's naturally tilt towards corruption and the more power you provide a hierarchy, the more corrupt is becomes over time. Hence the phrase "absolute power corrupts absolutely" A feudal system is very flawed. Which is why I sympathized with the antagonists motivations. Tear down the existing system so a new one can take its place. Unfortunately, she did not possess the foreknowledge nor the will to institute something better like a democracy or a constitutional republic. Destroying the existing hierarchy then fucking off isn't a good plan. The same feudal system would likely be reinstated just with new people at the top. I doubt this world has gone through something similar to the enlightenment. Suffice it to say, I found the ending bitter sweet.

Not all rich people are corrupt/evil. Which the protagonists side did get right. On the other hand, violating a persons right to private property by using state sanctioned force or just stealing it directly (Bruno) is wrong. You acknowledge the state is corrupt but use that very same power to seize all the wealth. Admittedly it was to stop a war but two wrongs don't make a right. Lets not even talk about issues with inflation after losing all that wealth.

The possibility for a second volume exists. Why? Flooso's open offer to study advanced necromancy in the future. As well as the antagonists death not being confirmed. But this book being a one off is fine.

[Joshua Guzman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a gift and it’s also a book I would have never given a second glance, let alone a first glance, in the book store. That being said, “The Necromancer’s End” is a gem of a story. The story is entertaining and paced well. The characters and their development individually and as a group are believable and enjoyable. I cared about the character’s outcome during certain events in the story. I found myself wrapped up in the story more than I thought I would be. I ended up following the author on Amazon so I’ll receive notification when the next book comes out. Do yourself a favor and go out and pick this book up for yourself.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mooooaaar.

[Lexi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently had the pleasure of reading The Necromancers End, and I must say, it was an absolutely amazing experience. This book truly stood out to me for several reasons.

First and foremost, the adventure-packed storyline kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The author masterfully crafted a narrative that was both thrilling and engaging. Each chapter brought new twists and turns, making it impossible to put the book down.

Moreover, the writing was exceptional. The descriptions were vivid, the dialogue was realistic, and the pacing was perfect. The characters were well developed and relatable, adding depth to the already captivating plot.

Overall, Necromancer’s End is a must read for anyone who loves a good adventure. It’s a well written masterpiece that I highly recommend. If you're looking for a book that will keep you hooked and leave you wanting more, this is definitely the one for you.

[Justin · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Necromancer's End is a classic take on the action adventure fantasy story with all of the essential ingredients that makes you feel like you're dropped into a D&D campaign. The prose and pacing are excellent with strong character development that happens naturally. The story itself is immersive, playing off your emotions and forcing you to navigate moral, ethical and political boundaries in unique ways. The only reason I didn't give this book 5 stars is because the ending, unlike the rest of the book, felt rushed and fell flat of my expectations. While this book doesn't leave any open story lines and could be a stand alone, I'm excited that it's numbered because I want to see what's next for this band of misfits.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Geoffrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished the audio book and I really enjoyed it start to finish. Felt very much like an incredible D&D adventure with good plot twists and fun characters.

The narration in the audio book was very good. Distinct characterization for each character and great quality overall.

I want to see more of these characters. In particular I enjoyed Bruno and Deliliah two of the secondary characters who have well developed and fun personalities in very different ways. I am excited to see more development in Jeremiah as he continues on his journey. Being a necromancer and a sympathetic lead character is hard to do but he does it. Also Jeremiah’s mentor Flusoh is the absolute best minor character.

I will definitely be reading the rest of the series when it comes out!

[Martin Canavan · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm undecided. It wasn't bad but it also wasn't good in terms of "epic fantasy" felt more like a fantasy drama about the negatives of being a necromancer. Simple fix of the whole books morality issue = don't use humanoids, go to a inn, hunter or butcher an take there bones/corpses to use. Didn't mind the 3 adventurers personalities, I got the impression that they are experienced veterans on paper but in the action they were like novices all bark no bite.
But it's a solid start being the authors first ever book.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Necromancer's End is a masterfully written fantasy novel. Its rich world, compelling characters, and thrilling plot make it an ideal candidate for a movie adaptation. Fans of epic fantasy will find themselves enchanted by Jack Pembroke's storytelling, and a film adaptation would undoubtedly enchant audiences around the world.

[Anthony Milton · Rating 5 out of 5]

huh

I feel like I’m involuntarily giving the book 5 stars.I kind had to side with the antagonist on a moral level,but I’m giving it 5 stars because I never wanted to put the book down or got bored.

[Cora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous

I was delightfully surprised by this book. Well rounded character arcs and relationships between characters. Very tight story! I am eagerly awaiting book 2.

[Trey Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

An accomplishment in Necromancy

This has been one of my favorite reads. It feels like I was in the adventure with them myself. Great book

[The Rat's Attic · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC received for free through Book Sirens.

Gosh I wanted to dislike this book. It's one of oh-so-many tabletop rpg-inspired adventure stories where characters fall into boringly boilerplate archetypes - the tough and honorable warrior lady, the shady criminal with a heart of gold, the quirky genius polymath, and the good-natured main character who will always find the right path. It's full of tropes and stereotypes lifted straight out of a D&D campaign.

But...I really enjoyed it.

Our hero is Jeremiah Thorn, a young necromancer hoping to do good and find friendship, despite the stigma surrounding his trade. While scouting out a dungeon, he runs into an adventuring party and the beginnings of companionship.

The plot is simple to follow, but in a way that is comforting, and the characters, though unoriginal, are somehow written well enough that you feel camaraderie for the band, wanting them all to succeed (even though you know they will). I almost finished the whole thing in one sitting, but at around 3:40 am I ended up dropping the kindle on my face, so clearly a break was needed.

I am annoyed that I liked this, because now I have to wait for the next book.

Recommended for RPG players and people who like classic fantasy adventures.

[Joris Roelofs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've always been intrigued by the premise of a good necromancer, and Jack Pembroke delivered more than I ever could've imagined. Following the characters as they waded through the reality of their not-so-black-and-white society often left me emotional, as every character no matter how minor felt like they had a life with plenty of stories to be told (how Pembroke managed to do this while keeping the reading pace nice and brisk I'll never know). Yet I was just as often entertained with endearing moments like Bruno describing a lock at if he were the fantasy version of the Lockpicking Lawyer. Pembroke's work made me laugh as much as it made me think, and it left me much to ponder on.

If Pembroke wishes to write another book I will be one of the first to buy it!

[LOUISE BOUSFIELD · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.
It starts quite interesting and refreshing but then becomes a bit boring and repetitive. Giving up necromancy is weird and also I didn't like Vivica's fate. She seemed interested in reaching a deal at the very end, plus they were at a diplomatic reunion. Betraying her like that seemed very disloyal and against characters' traits. I don't think I'll read the next one.