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Necromancer #2
Powered by Ghosts
An untrained sorcerer and a reclusive necromancer face a ghost-infested town.
Darien is free of his dead invaders, and his eyes have opened to a new reality. In a world of sorcerers and necromancers, he's full of power and potential, but completely ignorant. Necromancer Silas, and Silas's cat familiar, Grim, are teaching him basic skills, but danger won't hold off, just because he's not ready.
Silas never planned to share his life with anyone, but after a week of shared battles and shared nights, Darien has become a fixture in his home. Silas has never met anyone with more raw magical ability, or less idea what to do with it. When Silas is offered a job hunting ghosts, he's tempted to refill his depleted bank account, but reluctant to bring untrained Darien along. Darien's eager to help, though, and eventually Silas gives in. It's just a few ghosts. Nothing he hasn't handled before. What could go wrong?
Darien is free of his dead invaders, and his eyes have opened to a new reality. In a world of sorcerers and necromancers, he's full of power and potential, but completely ignorant. Necromancer Silas, and Silas's cat familiar, Grim, are teaching him basic skills, but danger won't hold off, just because he's not ready.
Silas never planned to share his life with anyone, but after a week of shared battles and shared nights, Darien has become a fixture in his home. Silas has never met anyone with more raw magical ability, or less idea what to do with it. When Silas is offered a job hunting ghosts, he's tempted to refill his depleted bank account, but reluctant to bring untrained Darien along. Darien's eager to help, though, and eventually Silas gives in. It's just a few ghosts. Nothing he hasn't handled before. What could go wrong?
170 pages, ebook
First published November 26, 2020
66 people are currently reading
233 people want to read
About the author
Kaje Harper
91 books2,730 followersI get asked about my name a lot. It's not something exotic, though. “Kaje” is pronounced just like “cage” – it’s an old nickname, and my pronouns are she/her/hers.
I was born in Montreal but have lived for 30 years in Minnesota, where the two seasons are Snow-removal and Road-repair, where the mosquito is the state bird, and where winter can be breathtakingly beautiful. Minnesota’s a kind, quiet (if sometimes chilly) place and it’s home.
I’ve been writing far longer than I care to admit (*whispers – fifty years*), mostly for my own entertainment, usually M/M romance (with added mystery, fantasy, historical, SciFi…) I also have a few Young Adult stories (some released under the pen name Kira Harp.)
My husband finally convinced me that after all the years of writing for fun, I really should submit something, somewhere. My first professionally published book, Life Lessons, came out from MLR Press in May 2011. I have a weakness for closeted cops with honest hearts, and teachers who speak their minds, and I had fun writing four novels and three freebie short stories in that series. I was delighted and encouraged by the reception Mac and Tony received.
I now have a good-sized backlist in ebooks and print, both free and professionally published. A complete list with links can be found on my website "Books" page at https://kajeharper.com/.
You can find me and my book reviews on my author page here on Goodreads - I hang out on Goodreads a lot because I moderate the Goodreads YA LGBT Books group. I also post free short YA stories on that group, more than 50 of them so far.
You can also find me on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/KajeHarper
I was born in Montreal but have lived for 30 years in Minnesota, where the two seasons are Snow-removal and Road-repair, where the mosquito is the state bird, and where winter can be breathtakingly beautiful. Minnesota’s a kind, quiet (if sometimes chilly) place and it’s home.
I’ve been writing far longer than I care to admit (*whispers – fifty years*), mostly for my own entertainment, usually M/M romance (with added mystery, fantasy, historical, SciFi…) I also have a few Young Adult stories (some released under the pen name Kira Harp.)
My husband finally convinced me that after all the years of writing for fun, I really should submit something, somewhere. My first professionally published book, Life Lessons, came out from MLR Press in May 2011. I have a weakness for closeted cops with honest hearts, and teachers who speak their minds, and I had fun writing four novels and three freebie short stories in that series. I was delighted and encouraged by the reception Mac and Tony received.
I now have a good-sized backlist in ebooks and print, both free and professionally published. A complete list with links can be found on my website "Books" page at https://kajeharper.com/.
You can find me and my book reviews on my author page here on Goodreads - I hang out on Goodreads a lot because I moderate the Goodreads YA LGBT Books group. I also post free short YA stories on that group, more than 50 of them so far.
You can also find me on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/KajeHarper
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
July 14, 2024
3.5 Stars!
Look, if you like urban fantasy strongly focusing on ghost and poltergeist busting, sorcery, and talking familiars to boot, all across a 1960’s vibe then come on over and check out Harper’s latest series!
Taking place shortly after Marked by Death, necromancer Silas and newbie sorcerer Darien, are not only trying to find their footing between their teacher/apprentice dynamic but also their footing in their burgeoning romance.
When a neighboring small town needs help with a recent surge in ghostly hauntings, what Silas and Darien find is a perplexing and unusual phenomenon. As they further investigate things, they come across something that shouldn’t be possible, something that’s quite alarmingly scary and doesn’t seem to be defeatable.
This had a good mystery to it and continues to really shine with the magical aspects where I absolutely adore the animal familiars depicted here. The magic shenanigans are great though more enlightenment would be much appreciated, and while the relationship is ripe with prickliness, insecurity, and understandably jealousy because of its novelty, this second installment firmly establishes Silas and Darien as a couple at its conclusion.
Overall, entertaining with an interesting plot, plenty of life threatening situations, and smexy to boot! I’m liking this new series and look forward to more!
Necromancer Series
1. Marked by Death - 4 Stars
2. Powered by Ghosts - 3.5 Stars
3. Bound by Memories - 4 Stars
4. Trapped by Greed - 4 Stars
5. Beset by Demons - 4 Stars
6. Consumed by Fire - 4 Stars
Look, if you like urban fantasy strongly focusing on ghost and poltergeist busting, sorcery, and talking familiars to boot, all across a 1960’s vibe then come on over and check out Harper’s latest series!
Taking place shortly after Marked by Death, necromancer Silas and newbie sorcerer Darien, are not only trying to find their footing between their teacher/apprentice dynamic but also their footing in their burgeoning romance.
When a neighboring small town needs help with a recent surge in ghostly hauntings, what Silas and Darien find is a perplexing and unusual phenomenon. As they further investigate things, they come across something that shouldn’t be possible, something that’s quite alarmingly scary and doesn’t seem to be defeatable.
This had a good mystery to it and continues to really shine with the magical aspects where I absolutely adore the animal familiars depicted here. The magic shenanigans are great though more enlightenment would be much appreciated, and while the relationship is ripe with prickliness, insecurity, and understandably jealousy because of its novelty, this second installment firmly establishes Silas and Darien as a couple at its conclusion.
Overall, entertaining with an interesting plot, plenty of life threatening situations, and smexy to boot! I’m liking this new series and look forward to more!
Necromancer Series
1. Marked by Death - 4 Stars
2. Powered by Ghosts - 3.5 Stars
3. Bound by Memories - 4 Stars
4. Trapped by Greed - 4 Stars
5. Beset by Demons - 4 Stars
6. Consumed by Fire - 4 Stars
Read
November 26, 2020This book is now available on Amazon and Smashwords (and coming soon on other retailers) - book 1 (Marked by Death) is a permanently free read.
And book 3 - Bound by Memories - a holiday novella -will release in December
And book 3 - Bound by Memories - a holiday novella -will release in December
August 14, 2023
I'm glad I'm not judging this book by its cover because...the cover isn't my fave. *cringe*
What I DID enjoy was more time with Darren and Silas.
I didn't mind the speed of their relationship. When magic is involved and it has the power to take its toll on physical appearance, it's fairly clear life is short in this world.
I guess what I'm saying, it felt appropriate here. Death plays an active part in their lives and I was thrilled that they've found happiness in one another.
I absolutely adore Pip and think he's the perfect addition to this crew.
And Grim is still Grim (which is delightfully ornery).
The 'bad guy' gave me the shivers and I held my breath every time we visited the river.
Lots of unique and new magical stuff and I was engaged the entire time.
If they've cast a spell, I'm happily bewtiched.
What I DID enjoy was more time with Darren and Silas.
I didn't mind the speed of their relationship. When magic is involved and it has the power to take its toll on physical appearance, it's fairly clear life is short in this world.
I guess what I'm saying, it felt appropriate here. Death plays an active part in their lives and I was thrilled that they've found happiness in one another.
I absolutely adore Pip and think he's the perfect addition to this crew.
And Grim is still Grim (which is delightfully ornery).
The 'bad guy' gave me the shivers and I held my breath every time we visited the river.
Lots of unique and new magical stuff and I was engaged the entire time.
If they've cast a spell, I'm happily bewtiched.
October 4, 2021
4 Stars
There seem to be a lot of mixed feelings about this PNR series, but, so far, I’m digging it!
Historically set, sometime around the 60s (is my best bet—it’s all very vague on specific time and place), this sequel continues to follow the paranormally-tinged lives of necromancer Silas and his new lover/apprentice sorcerer, Darien, as they get sent on a new assignment to rid a small-town of an unprecedented and peculiar ghost problem.
With the help of their awesome familiars—a sharp-tongued cat named Grim and a new pup with boundless energy named Pip—Silas and Darien make it their mission to not only clear the town of all its ghostly inhabitants, but also to discover why exactly so many spirits have stayed on the haunt, when usually most would pass into the beyond without a necromancer’s specific guidance.
The more they prod and poke, the more sinister things Silas and Darien discover about the unnatural happenings in town, consequently sending them up against a presence far more dangerous and unpredictable than either has the foreknowledge or experience to deal with adequately.
The stakes go from dangerous to critical fairly quickly, but together, with the protection of their furry companions and help from some local supernaturals, the group work in tandem to overcome the greatest supernatural challenge they’ve faced yet, almost at the cost of their lives.
This story was a great continuation of book one, continuing to build the romantic connection between Silas and Darien, while also widening the supernatural world-building, introducing readers to more fascinating paranormal lore and pushing the characters in new and exciting ways, magically and emotionally.
I really enjoyed this instalment, which personally improved on any issues I had with book one (AKA, the lack of sex there was well made up for here…yes, I need to exhibit some patience, I know). It may now only be a few weeks since Silas and Darien met, but I’m really enjoying their bond and their dynamic, and I particularly love the way their differing magical abilities work together to make them stronger and more formidable.
My personal favourite element of the story, though, is that of the familiars, Grim and Pip. Grim has been around, dropping snarky lines and knowledge bombs since the beginning of the series, but it was a delightful treat to meet Darien’s new guardian, Pip. New to being a dog and new to being a familiar, Pip’s entrance to the series was entertaining and joyful, adding a bit of light and levity to the otherwise spooky-ish, gothic-like series that is mostly about keeping the world safe from the likes of ghosts and demons.
Needless to say, I’ll be eagerly returning for future books in this series.
There seem to be a lot of mixed feelings about this PNR series, but, so far, I’m digging it!
Historically set, sometime around the 60s (is my best bet—it’s all very vague on specific time and place), this sequel continues to follow the paranormally-tinged lives of necromancer Silas and his new lover/apprentice sorcerer, Darien, as they get sent on a new assignment to rid a small-town of an unprecedented and peculiar ghost problem.
With the help of their awesome familiars—a sharp-tongued cat named Grim and a new pup with boundless energy named Pip—Silas and Darien make it their mission to not only clear the town of all its ghostly inhabitants, but also to discover why exactly so many spirits have stayed on the haunt, when usually most would pass into the beyond without a necromancer’s specific guidance.
The more they prod and poke, the more sinister things Silas and Darien discover about the unnatural happenings in town, consequently sending them up against a presence far more dangerous and unpredictable than either has the foreknowledge or experience to deal with adequately.
The stakes go from dangerous to critical fairly quickly, but together, with the protection of their furry companions and help from some local supernaturals, the group work in tandem to overcome the greatest supernatural challenge they’ve faced yet, almost at the cost of their lives.
This story was a great continuation of book one, continuing to build the romantic connection between Silas and Darien, while also widening the supernatural world-building, introducing readers to more fascinating paranormal lore and pushing the characters in new and exciting ways, magically and emotionally.
I really enjoyed this instalment, which personally improved on any issues I had with book one (AKA, the lack of sex there was well made up for here…yes, I need to exhibit some patience, I know). It may now only be a few weeks since Silas and Darien met, but I’m really enjoying their bond and their dynamic, and I particularly love the way their differing magical abilities work together to make them stronger and more formidable.
My personal favourite element of the story, though, is that of the familiars, Grim and Pip. Grim has been around, dropping snarky lines and knowledge bombs since the beginning of the series, but it was a delightful treat to meet Darien’s new guardian, Pip. New to being a dog and new to being a familiar, Pip’s entrance to the series was entertaining and joyful, adding a bit of light and levity to the otherwise spooky-ish, gothic-like series that is mostly about keeping the world safe from the likes of ghosts and demons.
Needless to say, I’ll be eagerly returning for future books in this series.
January 8, 2021
Well, I don't think Powered by Ghosts was a huge improvement over the first in the series, but I want these books to be good so badly that I think I willed myself to a higher rating.
I love, love, love paranormal romances, and give me a historical M/M romance with a magical twist, and I'm sold. But these books are just not quite there.
I enjoyed Grim and Pip and their personalities a great deal, and I was entertained by the plot, but the half-hearted world building and the instalove (only 10 days together??) made the book stay just at the good mark.
I'm hoping that the relationship between Darien and and Silas will continue to deepen and become more meaningful, and I hope that I won't get annoyed with Darien being magically intuitively great at everything (spoiler: already getting annoyed).
Still, despite my complaining, there was something about the story that I liked, and I finished it very quickly, in less than 24 hours. Is it enough to keep me going with the series? Remains to be seen.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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I love, love, love paranormal romances, and give me a historical M/M romance with a magical twist, and I'm sold. But these books are just not quite there.
I enjoyed Grim and Pip and their personalities a great deal, and I was entertained by the plot, but the half-hearted world building and the instalove (only 10 days together??) made the book stay just at the good mark.
I'm hoping that the relationship between Darien and and Silas will continue to deepen and become more meaningful, and I hope that I won't get annoyed with Darien being magically intuitively great at everything (spoiler: already getting annoyed).
Still, despite my complaining, there was something about the story that I liked, and I finished it very quickly, in less than 24 hours. Is it enough to keep me going with the series? Remains to be seen.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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November 29, 2020
2.5 stars
To say that I struggled with this book would be an understatement. I didn’t give up in the first half only because I didn’t want to bail on a two-person buddy read and I didn’t want to give 2020 the satisfaction of claiming my first Kaje Harper DNF, on top of everything else.
All things considered, I’m glad I finished it because I liked the second part more, but I’ve also had to accept that the problems I have with this series have nothing to do with me and my scattered brain, as I thought while I was reviewing the first book. My attention span may not be the best when it comes to fiction this year, but I don’t seem to have that much of a problem with other books, not even with other books by this author, so…I guess if it is me and not the book, it’s me in the sense that I’m not well-suited to this series.
All the things that I was ready to give the benefit of the doubt to in the first book—the insta-connection between Darien and Silas, the very light world building, the few details to make it clear and obvious that this series is indeed set in the sixties—came back with a vengeance in this second installment.
I’m not feeling the relationship. I could understand the instinctive trust in the first book due to their somewhat shared history, but now they’ve been together 10 days—10 days!—and they’re in love. I don’t get it. And since I don’t feel the relationship, everything related to it kind of rubbed me off the wrong way. I was uncomfortable with their sexual dynamic and Darien’s thought process behind it, it felt too much like It wasn’t enough to creep me out, and I don’t even think the dynamic was written in an unhealthy way, but I couldn’t shake the squicky feeling off and it didn’t help me to warm up to the romance.
Silas’s jealousy and the kind-of-miscommunication that went with it was starting to get on my nerves, too, but thankfully that was resolved
There were things I enjoyed—Grim and —and questions that were answered, like , and in the end the plot picked up enough to hold my attention despite the little connection I felt to the characters and some other nibbles I had with the plot and the world building. .
If it were any other author, I might still round up and I know it’s not fair, but in my personal Kaje-Harper scale, this just doesn’t reach 3 stars.
To say that I struggled with this book would be an understatement. I didn’t give up in the first half only because I didn’t want to bail on a two-person buddy read and I didn’t want to give 2020 the satisfaction of claiming my first Kaje Harper DNF, on top of everything else.
All things considered, I’m glad I finished it because I liked the second part more, but I’ve also had to accept that the problems I have with this series have nothing to do with me and my scattered brain, as I thought while I was reviewing the first book. My attention span may not be the best when it comes to fiction this year, but I don’t seem to have that much of a problem with other books, not even with other books by this author, so…I guess if it is me and not the book, it’s me in the sense that I’m not well-suited to this series.
All the things that I was ready to give the benefit of the doubt to in the first book—the insta-connection between Darien and Silas, the very light world building, the few details to make it clear and obvious that this series is indeed set in the sixties—came back with a vengeance in this second installment.
I’m not feeling the relationship. I could understand the instinctive trust in the first book due to their somewhat shared history, but now they’ve been together 10 days—10 days!—and they’re in love. I don’t get it. And since I don’t feel the relationship, everything related to it kind of rubbed me off the wrong way. I was uncomfortable with their sexual dynamic and Darien’s thought process behind it, it felt too much like It wasn’t enough to creep me out, and I don’t even think the dynamic was written in an unhealthy way, but I couldn’t shake the squicky feeling off and it didn’t help me to warm up to the romance.
Silas’s jealousy and the kind-of-miscommunication that went with it was starting to get on my nerves, too, but thankfully that was resolved
There were things I enjoyed—Grim and —and questions that were answered, like , and in the end the plot picked up enough to hold my attention despite the little connection I felt to the characters and some other nibbles I had with the plot and the world building. .
If it were any other author, I might still round up and I know it’s not fair, but in my personal Kaje-Harper scale, this just doesn’t reach 3 stars.
August 12, 2021
This was a fun sequel to Marked by Death - Darien and Silas are still finding their feet in their relationship while exploring a new ghostly mystery. We meet a few new characters, !
December 1, 2020
I was a bit dissapointed with this one. I was really excited to read more about Silas and Darien, but here nothing really happens and the issues I had with the first book that I was willing to overlook being that a promising start to a series, were annoying here...
January 29, 2022
2.5 stars
Still liked all the magic bits. I skimmed most of the sex scenes because I just had zero investment in them as a couple. (Although I didn't skim well enough to miss that super weird dynamic Darien was bringing to a lot of those. Wtf?) At some point I went from "not invested" to actively disliking everything about their relationship dynamic. The immaturity was too much, and it got to the point that it was coloring every single conversation between them that wasn't life or death. It eventually overshadowed what I like about the series enough that I'm going to stop here.
Still liked all the magic bits. I skimmed most of the sex scenes because I just had zero investment in them as a couple. (Although I didn't skim well enough to miss that super weird dynamic Darien was bringing to a lot of those. Wtf?) At some point I went from "not invested" to actively disliking everything about their relationship dynamic. The immaturity was too much, and it got to the point that it was coloring every single conversation between them that wasn't life or death. It eventually overshadowed what I like about the series enough that I'm going to stop here.
December 2, 2020
This is a part two in these series which according to the author started as online serial. I expected to like this one more than I liked a first part ( I graded the first one 3.5 stars), but instead I liked it less. Basically Sillas is invited to another town to deal with some ghosts and make some money, because this is how necromancers make money in this world and Silas's savings are not at its highest point. Darien wants to go along with him and Silas does not really mind.
What I liked was Darien's new familiar and that familiar interactions with Grim. I thought it was funny. I also love magic in its various forms and enjoy learning how different writers choose to make it manifest in their fictional worlds and there is a fascinating thing which some people build at some point in this book, don't want to say more without spoilers.
I still like Darien and Silas, but I expected both of them to become less sketches and get some flesh on their "bones" so to speak in this book and they did not. I just don't think their relationship moved forward in this book at all.
Also "the culprit" in this case was so easy to figure out OMG. And it still beats me why the author chose to note that 1963 is when the events of the story unfold. But for couple references to World War two already taking place it could have taken place at any time in the 20 or 21 century.
Grade : C
What I liked was Darien's new familiar and that familiar interactions with Grim. I thought it was funny. I also love magic in its various forms and enjoy learning how different writers choose to make it manifest in their fictional worlds and there is a fascinating thing which some people build at some point in this book, don't want to say more without spoilers.
I still like Darien and Silas, but I expected both of them to become less sketches and get some flesh on their "bones" so to speak in this book and they did not. I just don't think their relationship moved forward in this book at all.
Also "the culprit" in this case was so easy to figure out OMG. And it still beats me why the author chose to note that 1963 is when the events of the story unfold. But for couple references to World War two already taking place it could have taken place at any time in the 20 or 21 century.
Grade : C
January 29, 2022
3.5 rounded up to 4
Kaje Harper is a competent, experienced writer - perhaps a bit on the prosaic side, but she always works, and her world building is solid and her characters interesting. I gobbled this series in a week, and enjoyed my time with the characters but it more of light version of paranormal. There were ghouls, but no real danger/tension or pain. I like the boys but didn't love them. There isn't the high poetic drama that some books in this genre can have, it actually had a more cozy mystery feel to me.
Easy to read, easy to spend time with, easy to forget...
Kaje Harper is a competent, experienced writer - perhaps a bit on the prosaic side, but she always works, and her world building is solid and her characters interesting. I gobbled this series in a week, and enjoyed my time with the characters but it more of light version of paranormal. There were ghouls, but no real danger/tension or pain. I like the boys but didn't love them. There isn't the high poetic drama that some books in this genre can have, it actually had a more cozy mystery feel to me.
Easy to read, easy to spend time with, easy to forget...
June 10, 2025
Let me start by saying that I finished this over a week ago and have read/listened to other books in between. Been trying to get to this sooner and am trying my best to remember. Doesn't help that I didn't write much after my screenshots...
Anyway, I did enjoy this overall. It was interesting to see more about the world, the familiars and magic; the river. Jasper touched his doorframe to let them through the house wards. Silas took in the flavor of them as he passed. Competent spellmaking, low power, no brimstone. And even the "new" magic being created by Jasper. The way that magic could also bring devastation (even with good intentions) was an extremely sad part. It definitely wasn't unexpected with the other necromancer but was an interesting addition.
Pip annoyed the fuck out of me at first. I'm also not one that likes the super happy-go-lucky characters and rarely are they endearing to me. It's also always dogs. Or, if there is already a cat that exists, a dog is added. And they're always OTT. Why can't we add another cat? Or a bird, a ferret, anything? If it really has to be another dog, why not more lowkey? Also, of course, we have an unusual familiar with a sorcerer who can do practically anything. Anyway, I'm still loving Grim and I did appreciate Grim's guidance with Pip and things settled. It was great when Pip would really focus.
"In our homeworld we don't have these forms. We're... more fluid. When we end up here, we get fixed in one form. There's a lot of debate if it's random or determined."
Hopefully Darien and Silas continue to talk to each other while they're working out their new relationship from friends to more. The jealousy and other insecurities here made sense but I'm glad they didn't continue too long or have too much attention. I'll be checking out the next as well. (Sorry, this is mostly me rambling while trying to remember so it's a jumble of a review... Maybe I'll try to go back through in the future, but that rarely happens.)
Anyway, I did enjoy this overall. It was interesting to see more about the world, the familiars and magic; the river. Jasper touched his doorframe to let them through the house wards. Silas took in the flavor of them as he passed. Competent spellmaking, low power, no brimstone. And even the "new" magic being created by Jasper. The way that magic could also bring devastation (even with good intentions) was an extremely sad part. It definitely wasn't unexpected with the other necromancer but was an interesting addition.
Pip annoyed the fuck out of me at first. I'm also not one that likes the super happy-go-lucky characters and rarely are they endearing to me. It's also always dogs. Or, if there is already a cat that exists, a dog is added. And they're always OTT. Why can't we add another cat? Or a bird, a ferret, anything? If it really has to be another dog, why not more lowkey? Also, of course, we have an unusual familiar with a sorcerer who can do practically anything. Anyway, I'm still loving Grim and I did appreciate Grim's guidance with Pip and things settled. It was great when Pip would really focus.
"In our homeworld we don't have these forms. We're... more fluid. When we end up here, we get fixed in one form. There's a lot of debate if it's random or determined."
Hopefully Darien and Silas continue to talk to each other while they're working out their new relationship from friends to more. The jealousy and other insecurities here made sense but I'm glad they didn't continue too long or have too much attention. I'll be checking out the next as well. (Sorry, this is mostly me rambling while trying to remember so it's a jumble of a review... Maybe I'll try to go back through in the future, but that rarely happens.)
December 24, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Powered By Ghosts is the second in Kaje Harper’s Necromancer series and a strong follow up to its predecessor. This book picks up almost directly after the end of the first book, Marked By Death, and they must be read in order.
We meet again with necromancer Silas Thornwood and his young apprentice Darren Green just a few days after the events in Marked By Death. Darren is slowly learning to harness his newfound powers, while furthering his romantic connection with Silas. They’re still in the early days of relationship, but they read like a well-established couple. This does strain believability given how little they actually know about one another, but as characters they work so well with one another that I didn’t really mind. Darren and Silas just fit and while Silas tries to be protective, it’s obvious that Darren is his equal in nearly every way. They’re a couple that feel in tune with one another and, as a result, it’s easier to connect with them as a reader.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Powered By Ghosts is the second in Kaje Harper’s Necromancer series and a strong follow up to its predecessor. This book picks up almost directly after the end of the first book, Marked By Death, and they must be read in order.
We meet again with necromancer Silas Thornwood and his young apprentice Darren Green just a few days after the events in Marked By Death. Darren is slowly learning to harness his newfound powers, while furthering his romantic connection with Silas. They’re still in the early days of relationship, but they read like a well-established couple. This does strain believability given how little they actually know about one another, but as characters they work so well with one another that I didn’t really mind. Darren and Silas just fit and while Silas tries to be protective, it’s obvious that Darren is his equal in nearly every way. They’re a couple that feel in tune with one another and, as a result, it’s easier to connect with them as a reader.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
July 30, 2024
2024 re-read: this time, I'd rate this one 3.5 stars, because of the over-use of italics, often awkward in third person, and some dorky feelings that could've been more thoughtful. Otherwise, as below:
2021 review:
This one, in a word, is 'satisfying.' Silas and Darien's relationship is still counted in days, although they have been through a lot and go through more in this installment, so I am on board with their deep feelings. There's enough magical progress, there's enough trouble in the plot, I didn't notice any plot holes, and as always I enjoyed the humor. But I give it four instead of five stars because this time the magic felt less wonderous, and more nuts-and-bolts. (Had this same issue with the latest Harry Dresden book, and dnf'd it.) Hope the next one's better again. (Writing a series is hard, y'all.)
2021 review:
This one, in a word, is 'satisfying.' Silas and Darien's relationship is still counted in days, although they have been through a lot and go through more in this installment, so I am on board with their deep feelings. There's enough magical progress, there's enough trouble in the plot, I didn't notice any plot holes, and as always I enjoyed the humor. But I give it four instead of five stars because this time the magic felt less wonderous, and more nuts-and-bolts. (Had this same issue with the latest Harry Dresden book, and dnf'd it.) Hope the next one's better again. (Writing a series is hard, y'all.)
September 29, 2023
4.5 stars
I really liked Darien, Silas, Grim, and Pip! This is a well crafted world with danger and humour both. Their are some good side characters to go with the story. I hope the author writes more in this world. It was just as great on re-read!!
I really liked Darien, Silas, Grim, and Pip! This is a well crafted world with danger and humour both. Their are some good side characters to go with the story. I hope the author writes more in this world. It was just as great on re-read!!
March 5, 2021
This was a much more satisfying read for me compared to Marked by Death; especially after firmly reminding myself from the get -go of the 1960s timeframe of this series. The author also provides a far better balance (IMO) between paranormal action/investigation and romance/action. Tackling the mysterious ghostly infestation provided one or two not-too-scary surprises and I deduced what might have been the cause of this unsettling phenomenon just past midway of the book. The M-M action was nicely sizzling but relationship-wise, mainly stayed within a 'still negotiating the power-imbalance' dynamic range between Silas and Darien (which I guess is understandable since this book takes up almost immediately after the first book). I did like the at the final battle sequence. Newly introduced secondary character Pip was also a delightful surprise, proving a nice foil to Sir Grim the Cynical, and I wonder where the author is going with Jasper, another intriguing new character. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
December 7, 2022
2.5 stars. This book didn't do it for me. It felt like the character and relationship development just weren't there, and when there were important relationship moments it felt more like they were just randomly sprinkled in rather than built up to and paid off in a satisfying way. I also don't really get why there wouldn't be more of a time skip between the books, the first book only took place over a few days and by the end of this it's been ten days total across the series. It's just not giving the relationship or characters much depth or growth. I really want to like this couple (and I do!) but I didn't end up emotionally connecting with them in this book. The paranormal parts and Darien's magic could be interesting to learn more about but there isn't any solid arc or throughline there either since they haven't had time to do much with it yet.
January 26, 2021
I liked it more than the first one. A lot more freedom, Darien actively using his powers and a bit of mystery. Grim was adorable and Pip was a breath of fresh air. I felt sorry for Jasper dealing with Silas’s jealousy. A lot more freedom than the first. Curious about Pip’s brother.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2020
Powered by Ghosts was a great follow up to Marked by Death. I loved the addition of new characters Pip and Jasper and REALLY hope the series will continue as I definitely have not gotten my fill of any of them.
Hopefully I’ll come back and elaborate on my thoughts but I’m so sleepy right now and don’t have it in me at the moment.
4 - 4.5 stars. Rounding down for now but with serious potential for a round up when I’ve read it again as I’m sure I will eventually.
Hopefully I’ll come back and elaborate on my thoughts but I’m so sleepy right now and don’t have it in me at the moment.
4 - 4.5 stars. Rounding down for now but with serious potential for a round up when I’ve read it again as I’m sure I will eventually.
November 28, 2020
Loved it. Silas and Darien go ghost hunting and meet a ghoul.
Plenty of Grim and Darien also finds his own familiar.
Hoping there will be a 3rd book
Plenty of Grim and Darien also finds his own familiar.
Hoping there will be a 3rd book
August 20, 2021
Great sequel and taking place shortly after Marked by Death. It's great to see Silas and Darien again. They are still grasping their role in their relationship and apprenticeship. I especially love the addition of a new member to their team - Pip! So cute and filled with so much joy.
February 24, 2022
Well, of course Pip. :D
I skipped the bedroom scene, as it's not my thing, and the connection between Silas and Darien works on many different levels anyway. Obviously, the magical is the important one, and I very much like how it's developing.
On to Book 3...
I skipped the bedroom scene, as it's not my thing, and the connection between Silas and Darien works on many different levels anyway. Obviously, the magical is the important one, and I very much like how it's developing.
On to Book 3...
February 16, 2021
Thanks so much for the gift Santa. Secret Santa. Secret (007) Santa. <3
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I hate to say it, because I love this author, but this was a borderline DNF for me. I generally enjoyed the first book, and though there were issues they were easy to overlook and they were the kinds of things I hoped would be improved in the next book. Unfortunately, I enjoyed this one even less. The heat that was missing in book 1 was present, but I found the dynamic really off-putting and something about it felt a little forced. I was overwhelmingly left with the sense that I didn't really know either of the characters all that well, nor did I feel particularly invested in their relationship or convinced of their compatibility. Damien continued to grate on me, and I found myself really frustrated by his reactions--he came across as quite petulant and childish, which was extra annoying because he was mostly petulant about being treated like a child, but he also was acting like a child and it was just a bit exhausting. The whole thing feels a bit underdeveloped and not really up to Harper's usual standard.
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I hate to say it, because I love this author, but this was a borderline DNF for me. I generally enjoyed the first book, and though there were issues they were easy to overlook and they were the kinds of things I hoped would be improved in the next book. Unfortunately, I enjoyed this one even less. The heat that was missing in book 1 was present, but I found the dynamic really off-putting and something about it felt a little forced. I was overwhelmingly left with the sense that I didn't really know either of the characters all that well, nor did I feel particularly invested in their relationship or convinced of their compatibility. Damien continued to grate on me, and I found myself really frustrated by his reactions--he came across as quite petulant and childish, which was extra annoying because he was mostly petulant about being treated like a child, but he also was acting like a child and it was just a bit exhausting. The whole thing feels a bit underdeveloped and not really up to Harper's usual standard.
January 13, 2021
Powered By Ghosts is the second book in the ‘Necromancer’ series. This is told in third person through Darien, Silas, and Grim’s povs.
November 26, 2020
Kaje Harper brings back necromancer, Silas Thornwood and sorcerer, Darien Green in another amazing story.
Silas has gone to the Guild to collect earnings for demons that he and Darien destroyed but the Guide makes a bad decision. So, to get paid Silas agrees to take an assignment to rid the Greenleigh Mental Health Center of ghosts.
When Silas delivers the news, Darien feels that Silas wants to leave him behind. That doesn’t sit well with him. Darien still want’s to be more to Silas and there’s still some hard feelings about how Darien came to be in this position. After some discussion Silas decides it would help to have Darien with him, along with his familiar Grim. Darien believes he can help protect Silas, too.
They meet Clarice the sorcerer, who runs the rooming house that the Guild booked. Her specialty is matchmaking but they eventually find out she has more specialties than that. Clarice informs Silas and Darien just how serious the issue of ghosts and poltergeists have become. The local necromancer Pasternak has neglected his job because his wife is seriously ill. As they make their way to the mental hospital Silas takes notice of the many ghost that remain in the town.
Silas and Darien’s dealing at the mental hospital with the ghosts lead them to meet the ghostly Louise Ketchum and she relays her frightening tale of why she was holding on to her humanity. After speaking with Pasternak and finding out why he’s neglected his job for so long Silas knows he’s going to need more help. Seeking advice from Clarice she sends them to sorcerer Jasper.
Silas, Darien and Jasper along with Grim and Pip set out on a terrifying journey to rid the ghosts. They have an idea what their up against but will the evil that awaits them lead them to death?
Kaje Harper sets out to educate readers about: necromancers, sorcerers, demons, ghouls, ghost, poltergeist or geist, familiars, wards, runes, The River, Veil, and the Otherworld. For me, that’s what makes this a very interesting novel. Harper has a way of explaining all these aspects and still tells Silas’ and Darien’s story, that it makes it a very easy read to follow. I like the emotions, banter and jealousy that’s brought to the forefront without loosing the scary moments of the story.
I like the secondary characters: Jasper is a great addition to the story and I can’t wait to see what develops for him. Clarice was so understanding of Silas and Darien’s situation. Lot’s of humorous moments with Grim and the hyper terrier Pip.
I am so hoping there is a third book in the works. I’ve really enjoyed the “Necromancer” series. I highly recommend reading the first book “Marked by Death” and definitely “Powered by Ghosts”.
Silas has gone to the Guild to collect earnings for demons that he and Darien destroyed but the Guide makes a bad decision. So, to get paid Silas agrees to take an assignment to rid the Greenleigh Mental Health Center of ghosts.
When Silas delivers the news, Darien feels that Silas wants to leave him behind. That doesn’t sit well with him. Darien still want’s to be more to Silas and there’s still some hard feelings about how Darien came to be in this position. After some discussion Silas decides it would help to have Darien with him, along with his familiar Grim. Darien believes he can help protect Silas, too.
They meet Clarice the sorcerer, who runs the rooming house that the Guild booked. Her specialty is matchmaking but they eventually find out she has more specialties than that. Clarice informs Silas and Darien just how serious the issue of ghosts and poltergeists have become. The local necromancer Pasternak has neglected his job because his wife is seriously ill. As they make their way to the mental hospital Silas takes notice of the many ghost that remain in the town.
Silas and Darien’s dealing at the mental hospital with the ghosts lead them to meet the ghostly Louise Ketchum and she relays her frightening tale of why she was holding on to her humanity. After speaking with Pasternak and finding out why he’s neglected his job for so long Silas knows he’s going to need more help. Seeking advice from Clarice she sends them to sorcerer Jasper.
Silas, Darien and Jasper along with Grim and Pip set out on a terrifying journey to rid the ghosts. They have an idea what their up against but will the evil that awaits them lead them to death?
Kaje Harper sets out to educate readers about: necromancers, sorcerers, demons, ghouls, ghost, poltergeist or geist, familiars, wards, runes, The River, Veil, and the Otherworld. For me, that’s what makes this a very interesting novel. Harper has a way of explaining all these aspects and still tells Silas’ and Darien’s story, that it makes it a very easy read to follow. I like the emotions, banter and jealousy that’s brought to the forefront without loosing the scary moments of the story.
I like the secondary characters: Jasper is a great addition to the story and I can’t wait to see what develops for him. Clarice was so understanding of Silas and Darien’s situation. Lot’s of humorous moments with Grim and the hyper terrier Pip.
I am so hoping there is a third book in the works. I’ve really enjoyed the “Necromancer” series. I highly recommend reading the first book “Marked by Death” and definitely “Powered by Ghosts”.
December 2, 2020
“Powered by Ghosts” by Kaje Harper continues the adventures of newbie sorcerer Darien as he strives to be an equal partner to necromancer Silas. A job that requires dealing with the unexpected number of ghosts and poltergeists in a neighboring town may require talents that are beyond the fledgling sorcerer’s abilities, but finding new allies seem to be well within his capabilities.
This adult paranormal romance is the sequel to “Marked by Death” and continues immediately after the events in that story. Although it isn’t quite as intense as the first tale, there are fascinating elements, as well as an adorable familiar-in-training who almost steals the show. I like that Darien continues to experiment and fight to be an asset to the relationship while not being a pushover, and it is wonderful to watch the pair work to become secure in their relationship while respecting each other’s boundaries. It’s remarkable to think that they have known each other for such a short time, given how seamlessly they are learning to anticipate the other’s needs, and it’s heartwarming to see the genuine affection they display. This story would be best appreciated if the first in the series is read.
A copy was provided for review
This adult paranormal romance is the sequel to “Marked by Death” and continues immediately after the events in that story. Although it isn’t quite as intense as the first tale, there are fascinating elements, as well as an adorable familiar-in-training who almost steals the show. I like that Darien continues to experiment and fight to be an asset to the relationship while not being a pushover, and it is wonderful to watch the pair work to become secure in their relationship while respecting each other’s boundaries. It’s remarkable to think that they have known each other for such a short time, given how seamlessly they are learning to anticipate the other’s needs, and it’s heartwarming to see the genuine affection they display. This story would be best appreciated if the first in the series is read.
A copy was provided for review
July 6, 2023
4+ stars. A solid continuation to Marked by Death. The guys have a ghost clearing gig out of town that turns out to be a new bigger mystery. Darien is trying to find his place in the world and with Silas, and there's a new cute addition to the team. This was different than the first book but very enjoyable. I really like how things are developing, and I think we see more of Silas' personality in this book. Hopefully I'll have time to continue the series soon.
October 28, 2021
I really live Darien and Silas, and seeing them develop in this new adventure is a treat. I like the new chatacters and extra settings. I'm honestly excited about this series
March 17, 2022
4.25 stars
December 15, 2022
A grand adventure!
These guys have packed a lot into their short acquaintance. I can't wait to see what's next for them.
These guys have packed a lot into their short acquaintance. I can't wait to see what's next for them.
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