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Larkspur #1
Larkspur, or A Necromancer's Romance
Childhood love, forbidden magic, and a goddess of death.
A romance is reignited when Pierre Salvador returns to court, now a surgeon and ready to take up his duties as duc. But his love, family, and friends are unaware of his dealings with Mora, the Lady of Death. Striving to know all the physical and mystical means of controlling life, and ending it, he became a suitor to the daimon in return for her knowledge and power. With one final task he become a lord of death, but will Mora let him go?
A romance is reignited when Pierre Salvador returns to court, now a surgeon and ready to take up his duties as duc. But his love, family, and friends are unaware of his dealings with Mora, the Lady of Death. Striving to know all the physical and mystical means of controlling life, and ending it, he became a suitor to the daimon in return for her knowledge and power. With one final task he become a lord of death, but will Mora let him go?
59 pages, ebook
First published March 23, 2014
34 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
About the author
V.M. Jaskiernia
3 books53 followersV. M. Jaskiernia writes dark fantasy romance in the her world of Noctuina. She's been writing for over ten years, and worldbuilding for a few more. She is influenced by mythology, fairy tales, modern fantasy, horror, and history.
To receive emails with story excerpts, publication dates, and promotional days, please join the mailing list: https://bit.ly/VMJNewsletter
Email her personally at vmjaskiernia@gmail.com
Her website is https://vmjaskiernia.com/
To receive emails with story excerpts, publication dates, and promotional days, please join the mailing list: https://bit.ly/VMJNewsletter
Email her personally at vmjaskiernia@gmail.com
Her website is https://vmjaskiernia.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
August 31, 2014
Let me preface this review by saying I am not the intended audience. Romance fiction is not my thing typically, but since the author is someone I know I have an obligation to be honest. I read the book, and I didn't enjoy it. I want to explain why, and not limply. This is something I've given a great deal of thought and I know how important it is for honesty. Don't misunderstand me: this doesn't mean I think all of the other reviews are dishonest, exactly, but I do think this book lacks a certain calibre, and definitely falls down into, in my opinion, a large well where slushy, poor, self-published works exist.
From the second sentence (I didn't take notes all the way through because I quickly grew weary of the overbearing prose), there's a problem: a comma splice. A grammar problem. No real issue. Move on, you say. Okay.
The prose is where the main problem lies. I don't see this highlighted on any Goodreads reviews, though there's one that points it out on Amazon UK — the prose is quite bad. It's clumsy and layered with intentional archaic language and phrasings. If the purpose of writing is to make things clear and draw you into the world, all it serves to do consistently is jar. The characters are consistently overwraught and lacking in any real personalities. The dark, gothic essence the author says exists is no where to be seen. No real atmosphere is generated within the world (besides a feeble construct brought about by amateurish tautology).
I finished the story and you might too. There isn't a story here that will change the way you feel about other people, the viewpoint through which you see the world. Only an attempt to emulate far better stories that falls short of the mark. This work is truly and solidly dead, and even a necrocræfter can't do much to solve that.
From the second sentence (I didn't take notes all the way through because I quickly grew weary of the overbearing prose), there's a problem: a comma splice. A grammar problem. No real issue. Move on, you say. Okay.
The prose is where the main problem lies. I don't see this highlighted on any Goodreads reviews, though there's one that points it out on Amazon UK — the prose is quite bad. It's clumsy and layered with intentional archaic language and phrasings. If the purpose of writing is to make things clear and draw you into the world, all it serves to do consistently is jar. The characters are consistently overwraught and lacking in any real personalities. The dark, gothic essence the author says exists is no where to be seen. No real atmosphere is generated within the world (besides a feeble construct brought about by amateurish tautology).
I finished the story and you might too. There isn't a story here that will change the way you feel about other people, the viewpoint through which you see the world. Only an attempt to emulate far better stories that falls short of the mark. This work is truly and solidly dead, and even a necrocræfter can't do much to solve that.
June 8, 2015
It's really hard to review this story. It was interesting, and it had characters that seemed like they could also be interesting. But then the story is over and you realize this is just the first few chapters of an actual book. A book that isn't done yet.
I would have enjoyed this a lot more if it was an actual book and not a fifth of a book. I understand it's a novella but usually those are self contained. This is absolutely NOT self contained.
As a result we get something with no climax, so it feels like an introduction. An exert. You're just getting into the story and it abruptly ends. I think more should have been written before it was released to the public.
It reminds me of my early teenage years reading fanfics that were updated chapter by chapter. It's not a format I want to become popular.
If this book is finally finished and joined together into an actual book I'd be inclined to come back to it, read it, and alter my opinion. I just can't get behind this type of format.
3/5 because I liked it but was stopped from loving it by the incompleteness. It feels like a rushed release.
edit: dropping my rating to 1/5. The more I thought about it the more issues I started to feel there was with this short story. It's just left a bad taste in my mouth overall. Also tired her promoting this thing constantly when people ask for fantasy recommendations. No matter what fantasy they are looking for. So annoying.
Why exactly are these two even in love? It was a really cold romance that didn't move me
The one thing I can't get out of my head is
AND ANOTHER THING
I would have enjoyed this a lot more if it was an actual book and not a fifth of a book. I understand it's a novella but usually those are self contained. This is absolutely NOT self contained.
As a result we get something with no climax, so it feels like an introduction. An exert. You're just getting into the story and it abruptly ends. I think more should have been written before it was released to the public.
It reminds me of my early teenage years reading fanfics that were updated chapter by chapter. It's not a format I want to become popular.
If this book is finally finished and joined together into an actual book I'd be inclined to come back to it, read it, and alter my opinion. I just can't get behind this type of format.
3/5 because I liked it but was stopped from loving it by the incompleteness. It feels like a rushed release.
edit: dropping my rating to 1/5. The more I thought about it the more issues I started to feel there was with this short story. It's just left a bad taste in my mouth overall. Also tired her promoting this thing constantly when people ask for fantasy recommendations. No matter what fantasy they are looking for. So annoying.
Why exactly are these two even in love? It was a really cold romance that didn't move me
The one thing I can't get out of my head is
AND ANOTHER THING
February 4, 2017
Unusual magic (necromancy and healing) set in a Gothic pseudo-European court.
It started off strong and I liked the language, but that quickly fell away. There's no tension whatsoever, so it ended up being a series of Events Happening rather than any build up or plot foreshadowing.
It also just ends. No resolution or cliffhanger, just the end of a chapter: this makes it very clearly a section of a longer work rather than a self-contained story or teaser intro.
It started off strong and I liked the language, but that quickly fell away. There's no tension whatsoever, so it ended up being a series of Events Happening rather than any build up or plot foreshadowing.
It also just ends. No resolution or cliffhanger, just the end of a chapter: this makes it very clearly a section of a longer work rather than a self-contained story or teaser intro.
August 20, 2017
This was an interesting book. Particularly interesting since it's something that I probably wouldn't have picked up outside of the /r/fantasy Resident Authors bookclub. It seems to have been inspired by victorian-era France, and features some soft necromancy-based magic - although there are different types of magic that exist in the world.
Our main character is Pierre, a Duc and a necromancer. And, believe it or not, a large part of A Necromancer's Romance focuses on the romance between Pierre and his teenage-hood sweetheart, Elizabeth.
[At this point in the review, my kindle decided to update, so I can no longer refer to the text].
Along with his relationship with Elizabeth, Pierre also has a relationship with the Lady of Death, Mora. It appears that in exchange for his necromantic powers, Pierre has to pay a pretty hefty price.
This was an interesting book, but I'm not sure that it did much to excite me. For the most part, I didn't understand the why of most of the things that were happening. Pierre makes a bunch of decisions, but his motivations were pretty unclear, and that distanced me from the story a bit.
The magic was interesting, and while we do get to see quite a bit of it, I wish it was explored a little more. I felt that some of the magic-heavy scenes could have been expanded on, and I would have liked to have seen a lot more emotion there.
I think that, in the end, "interesting, but not exciting" is how I would sum up my own feelings on this book. In my opinion, it could have done with a bit more of everything. For such a short book, there are a lot of scenes. I feel like if those scenes were fleshed out a bit, and allowed for more characterisation, and the authors talents to shine through, then this could have been a hell of a book.
But hey, this was the author's debut, and it shows a lot of promise. It's a short and entertaining read, and it's worth the .99 price tag. I'm intrigued to see how Jaskiernia improves in her next book.
Our main character is Pierre, a Duc and a necromancer. And, believe it or not, a large part of A Necromancer's Romance focuses on the romance between Pierre and his teenage-hood sweetheart, Elizabeth.
[At this point in the review, my kindle decided to update, so I can no longer refer to the text].
Along with his relationship with Elizabeth, Pierre also has a relationship with the Lady of Death, Mora. It appears that in exchange for his necromantic powers, Pierre has to pay a pretty hefty price.
This was an interesting book, but I'm not sure that it did much to excite me. For the most part, I didn't understand the why of most of the things that were happening. Pierre makes a bunch of decisions, but his motivations were pretty unclear, and that distanced me from the story a bit.
The magic was interesting, and while we do get to see quite a bit of it, I wish it was explored a little more. I felt that some of the magic-heavy scenes could have been expanded on, and I would have liked to have seen a lot more emotion there.
I think that, in the end, "interesting, but not exciting" is how I would sum up my own feelings on this book. In my opinion, it could have done with a bit more of everything. For such a short book, there are a lot of scenes. I feel like if those scenes were fleshed out a bit, and allowed for more characterisation, and the authors talents to shine through, then this could have been a hell of a book.
But hey, this was the author's debut, and it shows a lot of promise. It's a short and entertaining read, and it's worth the .99 price tag. I'm intrigued to see how Jaskiernia improves in her next book.
August 4, 2021
This is the best necromancer story I have read in like forever. It has a start of a little romance and it's so sweet. Kill yourself over a girl is stupid but it works here in the book. Such a great book and it's written so beautifully and it makes me want to read more. I do cannot wait to read the second book.
I have received a free copy of the book and is voluntarily leaving a review
I have received a free copy of the book and is voluntarily leaving a review
July 14, 2014
LARKSPUR: A NECROMANCER’S ROMANCE by V. M. Jaskiernia is a beautifully written Dark Fantasy novelette. According to the author, it is the first published story set in the land of Clandestina, a Victorian-esque France/England. Clandestina has some of the best healers around. Doctors there are skilled in medicine and surgery. This land is also rich with magic and has portals into Faery.
The story begins when Pierre Salvador, the duc of Piques, returns home from medical school, having graduated one year early. He’s quite talented in the practice of medicine. At a party in his honor, he dances with Lady Elizabeth Anne. It’s clear that they have deep feelings for each other. However, true to Victorian custom, they treat each other with proper etiquette. When Pierre becomes seriously ill at the party and retreats to his room, Lady Elizabeth volunteers to help with his care. We soon discover that Pierre’s sickness is due not to natural causes, but to his practicing the dark art of necrocraeft. We also learn that Pierre is in love with two women: Lady Elizabeth Anne and Mora, the Lady of Death. From this point on, there are many twists in the story, right straight through to a revealing twist at the end.
The author’s writing style reminds me of THE HISTORIAN by Elizabeth Kostova. LARKSPUR is convincingly written as though the story is real history. V. M. Jaskiernia does a wonderful job of creating a world in which both the dialogue of the characters and the language of the writer/narrator reflect the time and place of a Victorian-style Europe, in the same way that Elizabeth Kostova convincingly created a European world in which vampires supposedly lived. LARKSPUR also reminds me of Anne Rice’s vampire novels, in that both Anne Rice and V. M. Jaskiernia have the ability to make Dark Fantasy beings seem real—with needs, desires, and lives in many ways similar to those of the normal human beings with whom they share the world.
The story begins when Pierre Salvador, the duc of Piques, returns home from medical school, having graduated one year early. He’s quite talented in the practice of medicine. At a party in his honor, he dances with Lady Elizabeth Anne. It’s clear that they have deep feelings for each other. However, true to Victorian custom, they treat each other with proper etiquette. When Pierre becomes seriously ill at the party and retreats to his room, Lady Elizabeth volunteers to help with his care. We soon discover that Pierre’s sickness is due not to natural causes, but to his practicing the dark art of necrocraeft. We also learn that Pierre is in love with two women: Lady Elizabeth Anne and Mora, the Lady of Death. From this point on, there are many twists in the story, right straight through to a revealing twist at the end.
The author’s writing style reminds me of THE HISTORIAN by Elizabeth Kostova. LARKSPUR is convincingly written as though the story is real history. V. M. Jaskiernia does a wonderful job of creating a world in which both the dialogue of the characters and the language of the writer/narrator reflect the time and place of a Victorian-style Europe, in the same way that Elizabeth Kostova convincingly created a European world in which vampires supposedly lived. LARKSPUR also reminds me of Anne Rice’s vampire novels, in that both Anne Rice and V. M. Jaskiernia have the ability to make Dark Fantasy beings seem real—with needs, desires, and lives in many ways similar to those of the normal human beings with whom they share the world.
August 10, 2017
I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this little novella about a necromancer and his powers. Not at all what I expected and I think that is why I enjoyed it so much. I've read a few books with a dark storyline such as this but the unique twist was refreshing. My only complaint is that it is too short and ended abruptly. I want more!
If you like dark paranormal romance and magical characters this one is an interesting read. I wish the author had given us more about this world he has given his whole life to, and why. Seems there is more to the story. Mora is quite intriguing. I want to know more about how they are connected. Sweet Elizabeth, you can't help but like her innocent character. I'm intrigued and that's saying a lot for only a few chapters of information. The author has a talent for drawing you in and I'll be looking for the sequel. 5 darkly intriguing stars!
If you like dark paranormal romance and magical characters this one is an interesting read. I wish the author had given us more about this world he has given his whole life to, and why. Seems there is more to the story. Mora is quite intriguing. I want to know more about how they are connected. Sweet Elizabeth, you can't help but like her innocent character. I'm intrigued and that's saying a lot for only a few chapters of information. The author has a talent for drawing you in and I'll be looking for the sequel. 5 darkly intriguing stars!
August 17, 2017
The world-building within Larkspur is absolutely beautiful and so very, very well done that we can see into this Victorian world as if we’re there. With a unique magic system and twisted ambitions, this short story is a very compelling read that to me is very reminisce of Edgar Allen Poe. I can’t wait to see what the next volume has to offer!
May 28, 2019
I began this story just a short while ago, and couldn't stop reading until I finished it. A very good little tale that shows a lot of imagination. Can't wait to find out what happens next in this series.
September 23, 2018
I did think that this could use more, the slow build crescendo to the end was nicely done, though it left readers hanging. I liked Pierre, and I liked the idea behind the story as well. I was honestly more interested in the boy who wanted to bring back a girl (won't say more due to spoilers), but the entire novel speaks of even more stories to be had in the next volume of the adventure.
I'm not going to say that this was one of my favorites, though it is one that I'm still thinking about days later. The ideas for the story are intriguing, and I would love to see how much more in depth the necromancy becomes. Will it be as unique as Dresden Files, for example, or will it not deal with magic but more of the romance? I have added the next book to my wish list, and hope to soon be able to purchase it when I am able.
As it stands, I'm giving this novella a 4/5 stars for creativity, a nice slow-build of a plot, and for the fascinating characters!
{Review also on my blog and Amazon.}
I'm not going to say that this was one of my favorites, though it is one that I'm still thinking about days later. The ideas for the story are intriguing, and I would love to see how much more in depth the necromancy becomes. Will it be as unique as Dresden Files, for example, or will it not deal with magic but more of the romance? I have added the next book to my wish list, and hope to soon be able to purchase it when I am able.
As it stands, I'm giving this novella a 4/5 stars for creativity, a nice slow-build of a plot, and for the fascinating characters!
{Review also on my blog and Amazon.}
June 14, 2017
A+ worldbuilding. The parallel-earth setting is absolutely beautiful and feels cohesive rather than hotchpotch, which is always a risk when mixing artifacts from various cultures. The magic system is gorgeously horrifying, and our protagonist simultaneously gentlemanly and creepy enough to toe the line between hero and antihero.
My only complaint is that this is more a scene than a complete story, but I understand the full-length novel is coming very soon (I have already preordered it!), so it won't be long before that dangling potential is fulfilled. :)
My only complaint is that this is more a scene than a complete story, but I understand the full-length novel is coming very soon (I have already preordered it!), so it won't be long before that dangling potential is fulfilled. :)
July 23, 2017
It was a short but intense read, a good introduction to Clandestina's world but left me wanting more...
More answers, more explanations, more...
I hope the next book will hold the answers as well as what will happen next to the sweet and beautiful Lizzy...
More answers, more explanations, more...
I hope the next book will hold the answers as well as what will happen next to the sweet and beautiful Lizzy...
August 16, 2018
This is a very different book and presents an unusual take on the theme with plenty of attention paid to vivid descriptions, but I was disappointed it left me wondering what happened next. I enjoy reading books in a series, but I like it better when a story has a proper tie-up, even if it does include a hook to the next.
May 22, 2018
Both good and bad.
So... While I enjoyed this, and am interested in reading more... I can't really rate it higher.
I was a little annoyed at some of the ideas presented without context, with fancy words pulled out just to sound exotic (I mean, I'm pretty sure the fae were called at least 2 or 3 different things...) .. but the world building was great...and the writing's good... and I want to know what happens to the characters!
And, that's the problem:
See, this isn't really a complete story. It's more like the first few chapters of something bigger.
Most of the story is the male being ill, and the female caring for him. Which is great.... Very romantic and such.. but... The book ends literally after the first hints of plot show up.
With the idea that a story should have...introduction, problem, conflict, climax then resolution.(or something like that, anyway) this story gets as far as "problem" ... and honestly, it feels like only the very start of a problem.
I feel like I spent the past hour reading a 99 cent sample to try and entice me to buy another book that isn't even out yet. and I can certainly see that the author's had some problems recently, so I won't hold the fact that the book's not out yet against her.... but this is not a complete story :( This story isn't finished. It's a teaser.
I guess I feel like what I bought was misrepresented. The title says "vol 1"... the description .... is evocative, but I'm not sure it really describes what's in the book at all. It does... thematically.. but not really content wise. Maybe the full story will go into if Mora will let him go or not, but so far? That's not a question I found myself wondering.
So: for the quality of writing, I'd probably rate this a star or two higher, but for now, I just feel... teased. :/
So... While I enjoyed this, and am interested in reading more... I can't really rate it higher.
I was a little annoyed at some of the ideas presented without context, with fancy words pulled out just to sound exotic (I mean, I'm pretty sure the fae were called at least 2 or 3 different things...) .. but the world building was great...and the writing's good... and I want to know what happens to the characters!
And, that's the problem:
See, this isn't really a complete story. It's more like the first few chapters of something bigger.
Most of the story is the male being ill, and the female caring for him. Which is great.... Very romantic and such.. but... The book ends literally after the first hints of plot show up.
With the idea that a story should have...introduction, problem, conflict, climax then resolution.(or something like that, anyway) this story gets as far as "problem" ... and honestly, it feels like only the very start of a problem.
I feel like I spent the past hour reading a 99 cent sample to try and entice me to buy another book that isn't even out yet. and I can certainly see that the author's had some problems recently, so I won't hold the fact that the book's not out yet against her.... but this is not a complete story :( This story isn't finished. It's a teaser.
I guess I feel like what I bought was misrepresented. The title says "vol 1"... the description .... is evocative, but I'm not sure it really describes what's in the book at all. It does... thematically.. but not really content wise. Maybe the full story will go into if Mora will let him go or not, but so far? That's not a question I found myself wondering.
So: for the quality of writing, I'd probably rate this a star or two higher, but for now, I just feel... teased. :/
May 30, 2014
Dark Fantasy, even DF Romance, can cover a multitude of dubious landscapes, but Larkspur proved a frisson of delight with its twisted reflection of the Age of Enlightenment.
Despite the quasi-European aristocratic setting of grand house, footmen and gardens by moonlight, the author does not attempt to weigh the story with description. Instead she uses deft touches to ignite readers’ own internal picture-scapes thus creating visual backdrops unique to each reader. For a new writer this shows an exceptionally mature grasp of the alchemy of story-telling. The choice of formal speech patterns and internal narrative fits impeccably with the setting and the strict hierarchy where a signalling fan spoke as loudly as an averted eye, and where no unwed lady walked without a chaperone.
And yet the lady is without a chaperone – part trusting to familial connections, part spurred by unseen Mama for an above-station marriage – and the innocent steps into a gilded chamber where the knowledge of healing is openly exalted and the mastery of the soul’s journey beyond death pursued with the dark cravings of an addict.
VM Jaskiernia has created her world so well that the fey, the allusions to other realms with unique attributes, sits as easily as Pluta, the familiar that cleanses ‘misdeeds’, and the ephemeral Lady of Death, and I truly felt for the quivering girl in her nightgown and the torn suitor who delivers her up.
If no 2 in the series, ‘Delphinium’, had been available I would have shunned the next on my TBR list and devoured it. Alas I had to make do with joining the author’s mailing list so I don’t miss its launch date. I suggest you do, too.
Despite the quasi-European aristocratic setting of grand house, footmen and gardens by moonlight, the author does not attempt to weigh the story with description. Instead she uses deft touches to ignite readers’ own internal picture-scapes thus creating visual backdrops unique to each reader. For a new writer this shows an exceptionally mature grasp of the alchemy of story-telling. The choice of formal speech patterns and internal narrative fits impeccably with the setting and the strict hierarchy where a signalling fan spoke as loudly as an averted eye, and where no unwed lady walked without a chaperone.
And yet the lady is without a chaperone – part trusting to familial connections, part spurred by unseen Mama for an above-station marriage – and the innocent steps into a gilded chamber where the knowledge of healing is openly exalted and the mastery of the soul’s journey beyond death pursued with the dark cravings of an addict.
VM Jaskiernia has created her world so well that the fey, the allusions to other realms with unique attributes, sits as easily as Pluta, the familiar that cleanses ‘misdeeds’, and the ephemeral Lady of Death, and I truly felt for the quivering girl in her nightgown and the torn suitor who delivers her up.
If no 2 in the series, ‘Delphinium’, had been available I would have shunned the next on my TBR list and devoured it. Alas I had to make do with joining the author’s mailing list so I don’t miss its launch date. I suggest you do, too.
April 10, 2014
This book is in the Fantasy genre, in particular it is a dark fantasy romance. Now, normally, I am not a romance person, but I took a shine to this one because it was about a necromancer and not your typical vamp fiction—not that I don’t love vamps, mind you. But this one looked unique.
I was not wrong. I was very happy I picked up this book.
It was very unique and I enjoyed the book very much. You won’t be disappointed if you like the general feel of dark fiction, but are looking for something with a bit of a different feel to it.
I like authors who show the reader the respect of spending the time thinking about the little things—not obsessing over them, mind you, but making sure that things work—like character titles (Lords and Ducs and Princes and such) and getting the geography right, getting the language and dialects to fit, and just making sure that all the small details fit into the bigger story. I think Ms. Jaskiernia has done this wonderfully.
Necromancers are cool, let’s be honest. The idea of necromancy is even cool—but we’ve all been inundated with zombie animators and such. But, this book is even unique as it relates to the masters of the dead!
The characters in this book are very well written and the conflict between them builds quickly and early and doesn’t really relax.
Overall, I thought that this was a really good book. If you like this kind of fiction, pick it up. If you are not generally into it, you might be surprised. Give it a shot!
September 26, 2014
A tale that so very easily straddles the genres of Dark Fantasy and Romance, Larkspur has a little for everyone. The magic within this short novelette intrigues and grabs hold, making you want to learn more about its inner workings, limits and consequences. All of this is contained within the framework of a young man rediscovering his love for an old friend.
More complicated than a mere tale of romance, the world of Larkspur is full of fine nuances that are well worth taking the time to digest. It reminds me of an 18th Century France or Belgium if looked through a darkened mirror. Magic is real and both known and studied. Some fields are lauded, its masters gratefully sought after while others, such as our Necromancer's field, are reviled and politely ignored.
The protagonist, the Necromancer, is a complicated young man that tempts you to be disgusted while at the same showing you compassion, reason and real, human affection. This is not a story about a troubled youth fallen to dark powers, but one of an educated man on a chosen, but difficult path.
In the middle of this is the young woman who has held his heart since his youth. The plot of this story centers around his courtship of Elizabeth, the secrets he must keep from her and the lengths he's willing to go to keep her.
More complicated than a mere tale of romance, the world of Larkspur is full of fine nuances that are well worth taking the time to digest. It reminds me of an 18th Century France or Belgium if looked through a darkened mirror. Magic is real and both known and studied. Some fields are lauded, its masters gratefully sought after while others, such as our Necromancer's field, are reviled and politely ignored.
The protagonist, the Necromancer, is a complicated young man that tempts you to be disgusted while at the same showing you compassion, reason and real, human affection. This is not a story about a troubled youth fallen to dark powers, but one of an educated man on a chosen, but difficult path.
In the middle of this is the young woman who has held his heart since his youth. The plot of this story centers around his courtship of Elizabeth, the secrets he must keep from her and the lengths he's willing to go to keep her.
July 5, 2014
I have to be honest, this was my first necromancer book. AS I first began to read this book, I was a bit concerned I was not going to be able to get into it. However, with each page I turned, I was sucked into the story even more. It is a very unique story, that you just feel the need to have more of. I scored it a 4 because I felt their could have been a little more character development. There were times I felt a bit confused because I did not understand what was going on. I feel some back story on the characters might have helped with that some. With that being said, the story was darkly beautiful and I am awaiting book 2, as I feel a deep need to know what happens next. Perhaps Pierre has me under a spell just from reading the book....or perhaps it is Lizzy that I must find out more about. I do believe that in his only way Pierre love Lizzy, but I fear, Lizzy will has fallen in love with someone in which she has no idea of what he is capable of. Could this lead to a falling out, or a Gothic love affair that the readers can't put down. I, myself can not wait to find out!
July 12, 2014
Behind the proprieties of a Victorian society are those testing the limits of legality and morality with a power beyond most. And yet for as much as they grant him, Pierre's clandestine abilities can come with near crippling side effects, as well as the fear of discovery by those who would find such acts unsavory. But how will Pierre handle his blossoming romance with Elizabeth, keeping his necromancy hidden, and teaching his arcane powers to a new student? A story shrouded in mystery and compelling romance, Larkspur will quickly captivate you.
The laconic prose is enough to allow readers to build their own vivid view of the world of Larkspur, yet remains a very non-intrusive amount of imagery. Despite initial lack of character depth, this book lays out solid enough groundwork for a story of much greater potential in books to come.
Minor spelling and grammatical errors are present and should be tried to avoid in the future.
My curiosity has been piqued though and that is always a good sign; I do think I will read the second volume.
The laconic prose is enough to allow readers to build their own vivid view of the world of Larkspur, yet remains a very non-intrusive amount of imagery. Despite initial lack of character depth, this book lays out solid enough groundwork for a story of much greater potential in books to come.
Minor spelling and grammatical errors are present and should be tried to avoid in the future.
My curiosity has been piqued though and that is always a good sign; I do think I will read the second volume.
April 22, 2016
I'd heard about this story and seen that it'll be leading into a much bigger book (possibly already out as I write this) and when it went on sale, I grabbed it. I liked things about it. The world feels really interesting and the titular necromancy feels unique (admittedly I haven't read tons of things with necromancy). Some of the moral ambiguity about becoming a necromancer while having your own code is cool too. Unfortunately, I didn't really like the prose style. At the same time, it fits really well for what it's going for. Just down to personal preference. I also wish the leads would have had their relationship fleshed out more. Pierre seems a little bit too taken with Elizabeth but maybe that's just a product of the shortness. I'm interested in the full book but I'd hope the prose was a little smoother. Dialogue's fine.
September 2, 2014
A strange and beautiful story of love and very dark magic. There is something dreamlike about it, as though the whole story could be a nightmare of death and life, sleep and wake. There were moments when Elizabeth and Pierre recalled Madeline and Porphyro in Keats' The Eve of St Agnes. There is a bitter chill in Larkspur, but it is also painted with jewel-like colours, secrecy and passion.
The magic system - "necrocraeft" - reminded me of Garth Nix's Abhorsen series, and fans of those books may find this interesting.
It's an unusual read but very compelling, and the reader is left curious about the next instalment, and also to learn more about this fascinating, disturbing world.
The magic system - "necrocraeft" - reminded me of Garth Nix's Abhorsen series, and fans of those books may find this interesting.
It's an unusual read but very compelling, and the reader is left curious about the next instalment, and also to learn more about this fascinating, disturbing world.
July 28, 2014
Larkspur had just the right amount of new take and familiar references to make it easy and fun to get drawn into this world. It's definitely spooky romance rather than high fantasy with a love story, and there's not a darn thing wrong with that. She was also able to tell enough of the story and world in a short novella to make it accessible to try out a new author but compelling enough that I'd gladly pre-order the next few books. Each new character twist where I thought I knew where she was going surprised me in a good way, not always easy after a few hundred fantasy books. Would recommend for anyone who loved Leanna Renee Hieber's Persephone books.
May 22, 2014
I was very happy that I picked up this on amazon.
In the realm of fantasy/romance, it is on the dark side.
This book is as beautiful as the flower it is named after.
Larkspur is a simple, beautiful, and slightly twisted love story. My imagination came to life with the images that Jaskiernia created. The author has a way with words that I am excited to see expanded upon in the sequel. I wish that the story was a full length novel, I want to keep reading and falling in love with these characters. I just have to wait for the sequel to come out, I guess.
In the realm of fantasy/romance, it is on the dark side.
This book is as beautiful as the flower it is named after.
Larkspur is a simple, beautiful, and slightly twisted love story. My imagination came to life with the images that Jaskiernia created. The author has a way with words that I am excited to see expanded upon in the sequel. I wish that the story was a full length novel, I want to keep reading and falling in love with these characters. I just have to wait for the sequel to come out, I guess.
April 21, 2014
A quick and easy read with a refreshing new take on the paranormal. Can't wait to see what's in store for part two.
July 2, 2014
It was a bit like Pushing Daisies with Ned, the pie maker as Pierre, the necrocraefter.
Read
February 4, 2015Not my normal genre (romantic).
May 16, 2022
So first off, my 3-stars isn't due to the writing style, content, or quality. I found out after receiving this book as a gift that it's available from the author as a free Ebook so I would recommend getting that and also buying the second book in the series if you plan on reading this.
This book was a compilation of a serial series. It is EXTREMELY short. It really is more of a teaser for the series in my opinion.
So right away we meet Elizabeth and then switch mostly to learning about and seeing Pierre's perspective. There is a lot of rapid world building and magic system building in a short time. The writing style is different than a lot of books, BUT I think it works well with the genre and isn't unnecessarily difficult to read. I did connect with Wolfram (a side character) more than the main characters but I think that is because his motives were clear from the beginning. I had some minor issues with certain things being referred to by several versions of the same name (such as the Fae) and some rapid glossing over of what felt like important world details (such as a connection or once a connection to another realm?)
My HUGE issue is that the end brings us to an abrupt, slam your face into the wall STOP. We are getting into the a problem (well several) and heading towards a climax and then the book ends. If you are looking for a resolution in this part of the quartet, you won't find one. And that is my biggest issue that brought it from a 4 star read to 3 stars for me.
HOWEVER, there is a lot of good in this book. The world is very interesting, the characters and Pierre's motives are intriguing. I personally was not tripped up by the writing style and think it added to the essence and feel of the story. The magic system, specifically how necromancy is practiced and Pierre's relationship with Moira were strong aspects. There were some really strong scenes that had me immersed in the world. I love the symbolism of Larkspur throughout.
In the end the biggest issue is that I didn't get a complete story of any sort. I don't even mind cliffhangers in a book IF at least some question or issues was brought to a resolution, but I missed that here. HOWEVER, I will be eventually picking up the next book because I have a feeling that together this series is going to be an excellent read.
This book was a compilation of a serial series. It is EXTREMELY short. It really is more of a teaser for the series in my opinion.
So right away we meet Elizabeth and then switch mostly to learning about and seeing Pierre's perspective. There is a lot of rapid world building and magic system building in a short time. The writing style is different than a lot of books, BUT I think it works well with the genre and isn't unnecessarily difficult to read. I did connect with Wolfram (a side character) more than the main characters but I think that is because his motives were clear from the beginning. I had some minor issues with certain things being referred to by several versions of the same name (such as the Fae) and some rapid glossing over of what felt like important world details (such as a connection or once a connection to another realm?)
My HUGE issue is that the end brings us to an abrupt, slam your face into the wall STOP. We are getting into the a problem (well several) and heading towards a climax and then the book ends. If you are looking for a resolution in this part of the quartet, you won't find one. And that is my biggest issue that brought it from a 4 star read to 3 stars for me.
HOWEVER, there is a lot of good in this book. The world is very interesting, the characters and Pierre's motives are intriguing. I personally was not tripped up by the writing style and think it added to the essence and feel of the story. The magic system, specifically how necromancy is practiced and Pierre's relationship with Moira were strong aspects. There were some really strong scenes that had me immersed in the world. I love the symbolism of Larkspur throughout.
In the end the biggest issue is that I didn't get a complete story of any sort. I don't even mind cliffhangers in a book IF at least some question or issues was brought to a resolution, but I missed that here. HOWEVER, I will be eventually picking up the next book because I have a feeling that together this series is going to be an excellent read.
November 28, 2018
This is a creepy but endearing short story like no other I’ve read. Necromancers are great entertainment, but necromancers who sacrifice their health and sometimes their lives to practice are gold. But Larkspur takes things even further with a morbid but thrilling love triangle.
Pierre Salvador actively practices dark magic granted to him by Mora, the Lady of Death. Set in the fictional land of Clandestina, Pierre returns home from University to find his childhood friend Elizabeth is unmarried and she quickly steals his heart. Pierre is descended from humans and fae, but chose to remain among humans unlike his sister who joined their fae family years before.
Mora, the Lady of Death, urges Pierre to join her in the land of the dead, but with the beautiful Elizabeth back in his life, Pierre is hesitant. Elizabeth and Pierre grow closer as she helps return him back to full health, unaware that Pierre is recovering from his own death. Love blossoms between them, while Pierre continues to practice necromancy to aid his recovery.
Larkspur is a dark and magical story, with undertones that are both sinister and endearing. I’ve never read a book with this feeling before, and it was oddly alluring! Larkspur is a well written story, with drama and heartache in all the right places.
While the story is set entirely in Pierre’s castle in Clandestina, it is easy to understand that the story is set in medieval times. Having said that, sometimes the language spoken by the characters is a little more modern. But the exchanges between characters, the depth of the characters and the progression of the story has been well thought out and makes for a truly enjoyable read.
It would have been lovely to have read a longer story by this author, and I hope they write a novel. But Larkspur definitely does justice to the medium of short story and according to the author, it is the first of a serial of similar stories. For sure, I can’t wait to read the next one!
Pierre Salvador actively practices dark magic granted to him by Mora, the Lady of Death. Set in the fictional land of Clandestina, Pierre returns home from University to find his childhood friend Elizabeth is unmarried and she quickly steals his heart. Pierre is descended from humans and fae, but chose to remain among humans unlike his sister who joined their fae family years before.
Mora, the Lady of Death, urges Pierre to join her in the land of the dead, but with the beautiful Elizabeth back in his life, Pierre is hesitant. Elizabeth and Pierre grow closer as she helps return him back to full health, unaware that Pierre is recovering from his own death. Love blossoms between them, while Pierre continues to practice necromancy to aid his recovery.
Larkspur is a dark and magical story, with undertones that are both sinister and endearing. I’ve never read a book with this feeling before, and it was oddly alluring! Larkspur is a well written story, with drama and heartache in all the right places.
While the story is set entirely in Pierre’s castle in Clandestina, it is easy to understand that the story is set in medieval times. Having said that, sometimes the language spoken by the characters is a little more modern. But the exchanges between characters, the depth of the characters and the progression of the story has been well thought out and makes for a truly enjoyable read.
It would have been lovely to have read a longer story by this author, and I hope they write a novel. But Larkspur definitely does justice to the medium of short story and according to the author, it is the first of a serial of similar stories. For sure, I can’t wait to read the next one!
April 17, 2018
My rationale for rating a book is - it gets at least 3 stars if I can finish reading it. Larkspur got 3 stars for precisely that reason.
What I liked: A unique environment, at least for me, filled with some interesting subject matter, magic and mystery. There are definitely many pieces of the puzzle to play with.
What I did not like: The puzzle pieces never fit together and never formed a cohesive picture. It took me nearly half the book, and it is a short story, to grasp who these people were, where they were and find a semblance of plot. Even with magic and the supernatural there need to be rules, rules and boundaries that people must conform to or face dire consequences. This just seemed lawless and they could do anything they wanted. The characters were indifferent to their own lives which was strange. There was sickness, death, murder and spirits and I'm still not sure why. They just were there, even the cat - familiar. And the language was also all over the map, sometimes too common, other times too flowery. Characters need to have their own customs and styles when it comes to language and it seemed they often were whatever the author wanted them to be at any given moment.
The author has plenty to work with here and like I said, created an interesting environment with a compelling topic but the story itself and the people in it need to be imbued with more purpose and some rules that add tension. Something that will help the reader be drawn to them.
What I liked: A unique environment, at least for me, filled with some interesting subject matter, magic and mystery. There are definitely many pieces of the puzzle to play with.
What I did not like: The puzzle pieces never fit together and never formed a cohesive picture. It took me nearly half the book, and it is a short story, to grasp who these people were, where they were and find a semblance of plot. Even with magic and the supernatural there need to be rules, rules and boundaries that people must conform to or face dire consequences. This just seemed lawless and they could do anything they wanted. The characters were indifferent to their own lives which was strange. There was sickness, death, murder and spirits and I'm still not sure why. They just were there, even the cat - familiar. And the language was also all over the map, sometimes too common, other times too flowery. Characters need to have their own customs and styles when it comes to language and it seemed they often were whatever the author wanted them to be at any given moment.
The author has plenty to work with here and like I said, created an interesting environment with a compelling topic but the story itself and the people in it need to be imbued with more purpose and some rules that add tension. Something that will help the reader be drawn to them.
May 13, 2020
Straight 3/5. Larkspur is a short story about a duc who returns from medical school with an additional set of skills - necromancy. The story focuses mainly on his interactions with Elizabeth, the younger sister of one of his friends, and how they gradually become romantically involved.
I downloaded this book for free from Amazon.
The story is too short to really expect much development. As the history between the two main characters isn't given the chance to be fleshed out, it feels a bit like a report on two characters being in love rather than showing the natural development of romance. The language is clearly reflective of the setting but I found it stiff and unappealing. I felt that there were too many similar names in this story as well - so many P names or names with P in them.
The magic is interesting, but it felt repetitive reading about how Pierre's blood turns black when he wounds himself. I am unsure of the purpose of his magic except to stop spirits from hurting him. The story gives no chance for his magic to really be proven useful - except for his own benefit(?). I would hope the next book gives some more explanation of family trees and magic, regional magic, and maybe a bit more information about the world they're in.
A decent short story but I will not continue on with the series.
I downloaded this book for free from Amazon.
The story is too short to really expect much development. As the history between the two main characters isn't given the chance to be fleshed out, it feels a bit like a report on two characters being in love rather than showing the natural development of romance. The language is clearly reflective of the setting but I found it stiff and unappealing. I felt that there were too many similar names in this story as well - so many P names or names with P in them.
The magic is interesting, but it felt repetitive reading about how Pierre's blood turns black when he wounds himself. I am unsure of the purpose of his magic except to stop spirits from hurting him. The story gives no chance for his magic to really be proven useful - except for his own benefit(?). I would hope the next book gives some more explanation of family trees and magic, regional magic, and maybe a bit more information about the world they're in.
A decent short story but I will not continue on with the series.
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