Best Novels and Stories with Necromancers

n the vast realm of literature, certain themes and characters captivate readers, taking them on thrilling journeys through imagination and intrigue. One such captivating archetype is the necromancers, a character shrouded in mystique and dark arts.

Novels and stories featuring necromancers have the power to enthrall readers with their gripping narratives, supernatural elements, and exploration of life and death. In this article, we delve into the intriguing world of necromancers in literature, uncovering remarkable works that will leave readers spellbound. The world of necromancers cover a huge domain of murder, mystery and mayham and you can find a list of 10 best murder mystery stories here. There have been tons of legendary short stories featuring necromancers as well, but we will cover that list later.

Well without further ado, lets dive in and see what made the top list and also a few honorary mentions which have made heads turn (hopefully not all the way around)! Short story list, here we come!!!

The ultimate short story: “The Monkey’s paw” 

“The Monkey’s Paw” is a haunting and suspenseful short story written by W.W. Jacobs and is the only one which makes it into the list as a short story simply because of its fame and about how beautifully it is written. The tale revolves around the White family, who come into possession of a mystical monkey’s paw that grants its owner three wishes. However, the wishes come with dire consequences. As the family’s desires unfold, they soon realize the price they pay is steep and irreversible.

The story delves into themes of greed, fate, and the dangers of tampering with the supernatural. With its chilling atmosphere and twist ending, “The Monkey’s Paw” continues to captivate readers and serves as a cautionary tale about the unforeseen repercussions of unchecked desires.

1. “The Summoning” by H.P. Lovecraft

   • In this iconic tale by H.P. Lovecraft, a desperate scholar embarks on a perilous journey into the depths of occult knowledge. Driven by an insatiable curiosity, he attempts to summon an otherworldly entity, delving into forbidden rituals and incantations. However, as the necromantic experiment unfolds, the boundaries between reality and cosmic horror begin to blur. The protagonist’s sanity crumbles in the face of unimaginable terror, leading to a chilling climax that leaves a lingering sense of dread.

2. “The Necromancer” by Clark Ashton Smith

   • Set in a desolate and sinister world, Clark Ashton Smith’s “The Necromancer” follows the path of a powerful sorcerer who seeks to defy death itself. Driven by an insatiable thirst for immortality, he delves into the darkest corners of necromantic arts. As the line between life and death blurs, the necromancer faces dire consequences and discovers that tampering with the natural order has a price. This haunting tale explores themes of power, mortality, and the boundaries of human ambition.

3. “The Bone Conjurer” by Sarah Gailey

   • In Sarah Gailey’s “The Bone Conjurer,” readers are transported to a gritty urban landscape where magic and dark arts hold sway. Enter Sam, a gifted necromancer navigating the seedy underbelly of the city. Sam possesses a unique ability to control and manipulate bones, using them to cast spells and command the dead. However, as Sam delves deeper into the world of necromancy, personal demons and dangerous enemies threaten to unravel everything. Gailey crafts a compelling narrative that explores themes of identity, morality, and the consequences of wielding forbidden powers.

4. “The Death Mage’s Apprentice” by Karen E. Taylor

   • In Karen E. Taylor’s “The Death Mage’s Apprentice,” a young and impressionable apprentice finds himself under the tutelage of a notorious necromancer. Drawn to the dark arts, the apprentice seeks to master the secrets of death and resurrection. As the bond between teacher and student deepens, the apprentice grapples with moral dilemmas and the potential consequences of his newfound power. Taylor weaves a tale of dark magic, mentorship, and the pursuit of knowledge, exploring the boundaries between life and death, and the choices that shape our destinies.

5. “In the Hills, the Cities” by Clive Barker

   • Clive Barker’s “In the Hills, the Cities” takes readers on a journey to a remote Balkan town, where an ancient ritual unfolds every ten years. Two couples become entangled in a bizarre tradition that involves constructing towering creatures made from the bodies of the townsfolk. As the colossal figures take form, tensions rise, and the protagonists find themselves trapped in a deadly game of life and death. Barker’s evocative storytelling delves into themes of sacrifice, collective identity, and the macabre, leaving readers with a haunting exploration of the human condition.

6. “The Necromancer” by Robert E. Howard

   • In this tale by Robert E. Howard, a powerful necromancer named Kuthulos seeks to conquer death itself. Through ancient rituals and forbidden magic, Kuthulos gains control over the spirits of the departed, bending them to his will. But as his power grows, he becomes a target of rival sorcerers and vengeful spirits, leading to a cataclysmic confrontation. Howard’s mastery of storytelling shines in this dark fantasy, painting a vivid picture of a world teeming with supernatural forces and the consequences of tampering with life and death.

7. “A Necessary End” by Peter Crowther

   • Peter Crowther’s “A Necessary End” introduces readers to a world where necromancers are tasked with guiding souls to their final resting place. The protagonist, a weary necromancer named Marcus, faces a moral quandary when a soul refuses to move on, wreaking havoc among the living. As Marcus delves into the mystery, he must confront his own troubled past and make difficult choices to restore balance. Crowther weaves a tale of redemption, personal sacrifice, and the complexities of life and death, exploring the intertwined nature of the mortal and spirit realms.

8. “A Night in the Tropics” by Jeffrey Ford

   • Jeffrey Ford’s “A Night in the Tropics” transports readers to an exotic island shrouded in mystery and dark magic. A peculiar necromancer named Bernardo employs unconventional methods to communicate with the dead. When a prominent citizen dies under strange circumstances, Bernardo is drawn into a web of intrigue and deceit. As he unravels the secrets of the island, Bernardo confronts his own past and navigates a treacherous landscape of powerful individuals who will stop at nothing to protect their interests. Ford crafts a tale brimming with atmosphere, rich characterization, and a sense of the uncanny.

9. “The Souls of the Living” by Caitlín R. Kiernan

   • Caitlín R. Kiernan’s “The Souls of the Living” offers a haunting exploration of necromancy in a world devastated by a cataclysmic event. Set in a post-apocalyptic landscape, a necromancer known as the Collector scours the wasteland for remnants of humanity’s souls, seeking to restore what has been lost. But as she embarks on her quest, she must confront her own inner demons and the price she is willing to pay for redemption. Kiernan’s poetic prose brings to life a harrowing vision of a world on the brink of extinction, examining the boundaries of grief, memory, and the human spirit.

10. “The Corpse Master” by Daniel R. Robichaud

    • Daniel R. Robichaud’s “The Corpse Master” introduces readers to a world where necromancy is an art practiced by the secretive and enigmatic Corpse Masters. When a string of grisly murders rocks a small town, a young apprentice embarks on a perilous journey to uncover the truth. As he delves into a web of dark secrets and forbidden magic, the apprentice’s own powers and convictions are tested. Robichaud’s tale explores themes of morality, power, and the delicate balance between life and death, offering a captivating and atmospheric glimpse into a world where the dead hold secrets that can change the course of history.

11. “The Sealed Room” by Arthur Porges

    • Arthur Porges’ “The Sealed Room” presents a chilling tale of a reclusive necromancer who hides a sinister secret within his locked chamber. As rumors of his macabre experiments spread, an intrepid investigator is determined to uncover the truth. Delving into the necromancer’s domain, the investigator confronts otherworldly horrors and the price of unearthing forbidden knowledge. Porges masterfully weaves an atmospheric narrative, heightening suspense and delivering a shocking conclusion that leaves readers questioning the boundaries of life and death.

12. “Necromancer” by Molly Tanzer

    • In Molly Tanzer’s “Necromancer,” readers enter a Victorian-era setting where a young woman named Helena seeks to break free from societal constraints. Drawn to the dark arts of necromancy, Helena embarks on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Along the way, she encounters mysterious allies and formidable adversaries, testing her resolve and challenging her understanding of life and mortality. Tanzer’s narrative skillfully explores themes of gender roles, societal expectations, and the allure of forbidden knowledge.

13. “Bone Whispers” by Tim Lebbon

    • Tim Lebbon’s “Bone Whispers” takes readers to a war-torn fantasy world where necromancy is a gruesome reality. In this tale of desperation and survival, a young girl named Kara discovers a hidden talent for communing with the dead. Haunted by the spirits she encounters, she must navigate a treacherous landscape filled with political intrigue and supernatural forces. Lebbon’s storytelling prowess shines as he combines elements of horror, fantasy, and coming-of-age themes, crafting a gripping narrative that explores the price of power and the resilience of the human spirit.

14. “The Death of Hades” by Elizabeth Hand

    • Elizabeth Hand’s “The Death of Hades” introduces readers to a mysterious necromancer named Cassandra, who possesses the ability to communicate with the dead. In a world ruled by powerful gods and goddesses, Cassandra finds herself entangled in a cosmic power struggle. As she navigates treacherous alliances and confronts divine forces, she unravels dark secrets that could change the fate of the world. Hand’s evocative prose and skillful world-building create a mesmerizing tale that explores themes of destiny, mythology, and the blurred line between life and death.

15. “Tales of the Dying Earth” by Jack Vance

    • Jack Vance’s “Tales of the Dying Earth” is a collection of stories set in a distant future where the sun is nearing its end, and magic reigns supreme. Within this richly imagined world, necromancers ply their trade, wielding dark powers and delving into forbidden knowledge. These tales transport readers to a realm of twisted wonders, where sorcery, deceit, and cosmic forces converge. Vance’s exquisite storytelling and vibrant descriptions create a vivid tapestry of a dying world, immersing readers in a darkly enchanting experience.

16. “The Magician” by W. Somerset Maugham

    • W. Somerset Maugham’s “The Magician” offers a psychological exploration of necromancy and the corrupting nature of power. Oliver Haddo, a charismatic and enigmatic magician, seeks to master the darkest arts. With sinister intent, he delves into necromancy and alchemy, becoming a force of malevolence. As the story unfolds, Haddo’s dark desires and manipulations take center stage, leading to a shocking climax that reveals the depths of his depravity. Maugham’s masterful prose delves into the human psyche, presenting a cautionary tale of obsession, hubris, and the destructive allure of the occult.

17. “With Fate Conspire” by Vandana Singh

    • Vandana Singh’s “With Fate Conspire” weaves a magical narrative set in a lush and mystical world. In this story, a young necromancer named Nidhi grapples with her powers while navigating a society rife with political intrigue and racial tensions. As she uncovers secrets buried deep within her family’s history, Nidhi finds herself at the center of a dangerous conspiracy that could reshape her world. Singh’s lyrical prose and intricate world-building immerse readers in a tale that explores themes of identity, social justice, and the complexities of power.

18. “Dead Man’s Hand” by Tim Marquitz

    • Tim Marquitz’s “Dead Man’s Hand” offers a gritty and action-packed tale of necromantic gunslingers. Set in a Wild West infused with dark magic, the story follows a skilled gunslinger who discovers his ability to control the dead. With his newfound powers, he becomes embroiled in a high-stakes conflict between rival factions, all vying for control over supernatural forces. Marquitz’s vivid descriptions and pulse-pounding action create a riveting narrative that blends elements of horror, Western, and dark fantasy, delivering a thrilling ride through a world where the line between life and death is blurred.

19. “The Corpse Candle” by Brian Lumley

    • Brian Lumley’s “The Corpse Candle” takes readers on a dark and atmospheric journey to an English village haunted by a sinister secret. In this tale of ancient curses and necromantic rituals, a skeptical investigator is drawn into the supernatural mysteries surrounding the village’s past. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a malevolent force that threatens to consume everything in its path. Lumley’s expert pacing and richly detailed descriptions create a sense of mounting dread, culminating in a climactic confrontation between the forces of life and death.

20. “The Necromancer of the Marshes” by Marcel Aymé

    • Marcel Aymé’s “The Necromancer of the Marshes” transports readers to a desolate and eerie landscape where a recluse necromancer practices his forbidden craft. As he harnesses the powers of the dead, he becomes entangled in a web of supernatural intrigue. Aymé’s atmospheric prose paints a haunting portrait of a man consumed by his powers, exploring themes of isolation, morality, and the profound consequences of tampering with the balance of life and death.

21. “The Emperor’s Soul” by Brandon Sanderson

    • In Brandon Sanderson’s “The Emperor’s Soul,” readers are introduced to Shai, a talented thief and master of the magical art of forgery. When she is tasked with the impossible challenge of creating a new soul for the Emperor, Shai’s skills as a necromancer become paramount. As she delves into the intricacies of soul-stamping, she unravels secrets that challenge her perception of art, identity, and the power of creation. Sanderson’s intricate world-building and compelling characters make this novella a captivating exploration of the human spirit and the lengths one will go to preserve their essence.

22. “The Dark Monk” by Oliver Pötzsch

    • Oliver Pötzsch’s “The Dark Monk” transports readers to medieval Germany, where a series of gruesome murders plague a remote monastery. As rumors of necromancy and witchcraft circulate, an unlikely trio of investigators sets out to uncover the truth. With the Inquisition closing in and a malevolent force at work, they must navigate treacherous terrain and confront their own beliefs. Pötzsch’s meticulous historical detail and expertly crafted suspense make this a gripping tale of mystery and supernatural intrigue.

23. “The Necromancer’s House” by Christopher Buehlman

    • Christopher Buehlman’s “The Necromancer’s House” introduces readers to Andrew Blankenship, a powerful necromancer with a dark past. Set in contemporary America, this story follows Andrew as he confronts a malevolent presence that threatens his sanity and the safety of his loved ones. As he unravels the mysteries of his ancestral home and delves into necromantic arts, Andrew’s journey becomes a heart-pounding race against time. Buehlman’s vivid descriptions and nuanced characters create a modern-day tale of horror and redemption.

24. “The Mortal Bone” by Marjorie M. Liu

    • Marjorie M. Liu’s “The Mortal Bone” immerses readers in a world where necromancers wield forbidden powers. In this installment of the Hunter Kiss series, Maxine Kiss, a half-human, half-demon warrior, discovers that her abilities to control the dead are in jeopardy. With an ancient evil threatening to consume everything she holds dear, Maxine must uncover the truth about her origins and embrace her destiny as a powerful necromancer. Liu’s evocative prose and dynamic characters make this urban fantasy a thrilling and emotionally charged read.

25. “The Summoner” by Gail Z. Martin

    • Gail Z. Martin’s “The Summoner” introduces readers to Tris Drayke, a young nobleman who discovers his latent necromantic powers after the brutal murder of his family. As Tris navigates a world rife with political intrigue and magical conflicts, he must come to terms with his abilities and learn to harness them to fight against a looming darkness. Martin’s engrossing storytelling and vivid world-building make this epic fantasy novel a thrilling exploration of power, destiny, and the lengths one will go to seek justice.

26. “Necroscope” by Brian Lumley

    • Brian Lumley’s “Necroscope” is the first book in a series that blends horror, espionage, and the supernatural. Harry Keogh, a gifted necromancer, becomes embroiled in a secret war against a group of powerful vampires. With the ability to communicate with the dead, Harry must tap into his powers to uncover their secrets and protect humanity. Lumley’s captivating narrative and imaginative world-building create a dark and atmospheric tale that explores the complexities of life, death, and the paranormal.

27. “Death Warmed Over” by Kevin J. Anderson

    • In Kevin J. Anderson’s “Death Warmed Over,” readers are introduced to Dan Chambeaux, a private investigator in a world where the dead have risen. As a zombie himself, Dan uses his unique perspective to solve mysteries and navigate a society filled with supernatural beings. When a case leads him to a sinister conspiracy, Dan must confront powerful necromancers and face his own mortality. Anderson’s blend of humor, mystery, and urban fantasy creates a delightful and fast-paced story that reimagines the concept of necromancy in a unique and entertaining way.

28. “Nightside series” by Simon R. Green

    • Simon R. Green’s “Nightside” series follows John Taylor, a detective with supernatural abilities who operates in the hidden heart of London. In this dark and gritty urban fantasy world, necromancers are among the many strange and dangerous creatures lurking in the shadows. As John uncovers secrets and battles powerful foes, he becomes entangled in a web of necromantic schemes that threaten the balance between life and death. Green’s imaginative world-building, witty dialogue, and relentless action make this series a thrilling and addictive exploration of the supernatural underworld.

29. “The Vagrant” by Peter Newman

    • Peter Newman’s “The Vagrant” takes readers on a post-apocalyptic journey where necromancers and demonic forces roam the land. The story follows a lone wanderer known only as the Vagrant, who carries a powerful relic and seeks to protect a newborn child. As the Vagrant confronts relentless enemies and faces the moral dilemmas of a ravaged world, his path intersects with necromancers who wield their powers for both good and ill. Newman’s poetic prose and unconventional storytelling create a haunting and thought-provoking tale of sacrifice, redemption, and the blurred boundaries between life and death.

30. “The Bone Witch” by Rin Chupeco

    • Rin Chupeco’s “The Bone Witch” introduces readers to Tea, a young girl who discovers her necromantic powers when she accidentally raises her brother from the dead. In a world where magic is feared and misunderstood, Tea is taken under the wing of an older necromancer who teaches her to harness her abilities. As she grapples with her identity and seeks revenge for her fallen family, Tea delves into the complex politics of her world and discovers the true extent of her powers. Chupeco’s lush prose and intricate world-building create a mesmerizing story that explores themes of identity, loss, and the price of wielding necromantic magic.

31. “Necromancer Chronicles” by Amanda Downum

    • Amanda Downum’s “Necromancer Chronicles” is a dark and captivating fantasy series that follows the necromancer Isyllt Iskaldur. Set in a world inspired by ancient Egypt, Isyllt navigates a treacherous political landscape and confronts necromantic powers that threaten to unravel the fabric of society. With intricate world-building, complex characters, and a richly detailed magic system, Downum weaves a tale of political intrigue, cultural clashes, and the blurred lines between life and death.

32. “A Lush and Seething Hell” by John Hornor Jacobs

    • “A Lush and Seething Hell” by John Hornor Jacobs is a collection of two interconnected novellas that delve into the themes of necromancy, horror, and cosmic terror. In “The Sea Dreams It Is the Sky,” a necromancer becomes entangled in a dangerous ritual that unlocks unimaginable horrors. In “My Heart Struck Sorrow,” a folklorist investigates a mysterious recording that carries a haunting and supernatural power. Jacobs’ atmospheric prose and masterful storytelling create a sense of dread and unease, making this collection a chilling exploration of the macabre.

33. “The Gilda Stories” by Jewelle Gomez

    • “The Gilda Stories” by Jewelle Gomez presents a unique take on necromancy through the lens of an immortal vampire named Gilda. Set across different time periods and locations, Gilda’s journey spans centuries as she navigates love, loss, and the complexities of her existence. Gomez’s evocative prose and exploration of themes such as identity, sexuality, and the power dynamics of the undead make this collection a compelling and thought-provoking read.

34. “Necromancer” by Lish McBride

    • Lish McBride’s “Necromancer” follows the story of Sam, a teenage boy with the ability to raise and control the dead. When his powers catch the attention of a secret society of necromancers, Sam is thrust into a world of magic, danger, and supernatural politics. With a balance of humor, action, and heartfelt moments, McBride crafts an engaging coming-of-age tale that explores friendship, loyalty, and the challenges of embracing one’s true self.

35. “The Grim Company” by Luke Scull

    • “The Grim Company” by Luke Scull is a gritty and dark fantasy novel that features a wide array of characters, including a necromancer named Brodar Kayne. In a war-torn world where gods have fallen and magic is fading, Brodar finds himself drawn into a conflict that could shape the fate of nations. Scull’s intricate world-building, complex characters, and brutal battles make this a thrilling and immersive read.

36. “Necromancer’s Gambit” by Nicolas Wilson

    • In “Necromancer’s Gambit” by Nicolas Wilson, readers follow the story of Luthair, a necromancer on a quest for vengeance in a world where magic is outlawed. With his powers suppressed and hunted by authorities, Luthair must navigate a dangerous landscape and confront powerful enemies to achieve his goal. Wilson’s vivid descriptions, morally complex characters, and high-stakes plot make this a gripping tale of survival, redemption, and the consequences of wielding forbidden magic.

37. “The Deathless” by Peter Newman

    • Peter Newman’s “The Deathless” presents a dystopian world ruled by immortal necromancers known as the Deathless. The story follows the journey of a young sorcerer named Jella who seeks to free humanity from the oppressive rule of the Deathless. As she battles against dark magic and formidable enemies, Jella uncovers the secrets of her own past and the true nature of the Deathless. Newman’s imaginative world-building and morally ambiguous characters create a captivating narrative that explores themes of power, sacrifice, and the price of immortality.

38. “The Bone Conjurer” by Alex Archer

    • “The Bone Conjurer” by Alex Archer is part of the Rogue Angel series, which follows the adventures of archaeologist and adventurer Annja Creed. In this installment, Annja discovers a centuries-old manuscript that leads her on a quest to uncover the secrets of a necromancer’s power. As she delves into ancient tombs and faces off against formidable adversaries, Annja must use her wits, combat skills, and the mystical sword she wields to prevent the necromancer’s dark ambitions. Archer’s blend of action, archaeology, and supernatural elements creates a thrilling and fast-paced tale.

39. “Nights of Villjamur” by Mark Charan Newton

    • “Nights of Villjamur” by Mark Charan Newton is the first book in the Legends of the Red Sun series, which presents a richly imaginative world on the brink of catastrophe. In this epic fantasy, necromancy plays a significant role as the city of Villjamur faces a rising threat that includes undead creatures and the secrets of ancient magic. As political tensions mount and darkness spreads, a diverse cast of characters must navigate treacherous plots and confront their own demons. Newton’s lush prose, intricate world-building, and morally gray characters make this a compelling and immersive read.

40. “The Corpse-Rat King” by Lee Battersby

    • Lee Battersby’s “The Corpse-Rat King” follows the misadventures of Marius, a lowly thief who finds himself accidentally crowned as the king of the dead. With the ability to speak to corpses, Marius becomes embroiled in a quest to save his own life and unravel a sinister plot. Battersby’s dark humor, fast-paced storytelling, and unlikely hero make this a unique and entertaining necromantic tale.

41. “The Black Company” by Glen Cook

    • “The Black Company” by Glen Cook is the first book in a series that follows a mercenary unit known as the Black Company. Set in a grim and war-torn world, the story features a necromancer named Silent, who wields dark magic and commands legions of the undead. As the Black Company becomes embroiled in epic conflicts and political machinations, Silent’s powers and loyalties are tested. Cook’s gritty storytelling, morally ambiguous characters, and intricate military fantasy create a captivating narrative that explores the blurred boundaries between good and evil.

42. “A Taste for Necromancy” by Jake Bible

    • In “A Taste for Necromancy” by Jake Bible, readers are introduced to a world where necromancers serve as crime scene investigators. The story follows Agent Kristin Greene, a gifted necromancer who uses her abilities to solve supernatural mysteries. When a series of gruesome murders occurs, Kristin must confront a powerful necromancer and unravel a conspiracy that threatens her city. Bible’s fast-paced narrative, intriguing premise, and strong-willed protagonist make this urban fantasy a thrilling and engaging read.

43. “The Spirit Eater” by Rachel Aaron

    • “The Spirit Eater” by Rachel Aaron is the third book in the Legend of Eli Monpress series, which follows the adventures of a charming thief and his companions. In this installment, Eli Monpress faces a deadly necromancer who seeks to control an ancient and dangerous spirit. As Eli and his friends race against time to stop the necromancer’s nefarious plan, they encounter powerful magical beings and confront their own personal demons. Aaron’s blend of action, humor, and intricate world-building creates a delightful and enchanting tale of fantasy and necromantic intrigue.

44. “Necromancy and You” by Liv Olteano

    • Liv Olteano’s “Necromancy and You” is a delightful urban fantasy novella that follows a necromancer named Merleau who works for the Magical Bureau of Investigators. When a murder case becomes entangled with dark magic and a missing grimoire, Merleau must use his necromantic powers and investigative skills to unravel the mystery. Olteano’s witty dialogue, lovable characters, and intriguing magical world make this a fun and engaging read for fans of urban fantasy and light-hearted necromantic tales.

45. “The Witch’s Betrayal” by David J. Normoyle

    • “The Witch’s Betrayal” by David J. Normoyle is the first book in the Witch’s Path series, which follows a young necromancer named Joe. As Joe grapples with his newfound powers and the secrets of his past, he becomes embroiled in a war between witches and necromancers. With twists, betrayals, and epic battles, Normoyle crafts a fast-paced and action-packed story that explores themes of destiny, loyalty, and the thin line between good and evil.

46. “The Book of Lost Souls” by Michelle Muto

    • “The Book of Lost Souls” by Michelle Muto introduces readers to Ivy, a teenager who can see spirits and communicate with the dead. When a necromancer targets Ivy and attempts to harness her powers, she must confront her fears and embrace her abilities to save herself and those she loves. Muto’s blend of paranormal romance, suspense, and necromantic elements creates an emotionally charged and thrilling tale.

47. “The Necromancer’s House” by Christopher Buehlman

    • “The Necromancer’s House” by Christopher Buehlman is a haunting and atmospheric novel that follows Andrew Blankenship, a powerful necromancer who seeks to protect his family from a vengeful ghost. Set in the isolated woods of rural New York, the story combines elements of horror, dark fantasy, and family drama. Buehlman’s evocative prose, complex characters, and exploration of the blurred lines between life and death make this a chilling and thought-provoking read.

48. “Necropolis” by Dan Abnett

    • “Necropolis” by Dan Abnett is a part of the Gaunt’s Ghosts series, which takes place in the grim darkness of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. In this military science fiction novel, the necromancer known as Cardinal Xaphan unleashes an undead horde upon the city of Vervunhive. As the Imperial Guard battles against overwhelming odds, readers are immersed in a thrilling and brutal conflict that showcases Abnett’s talent for action-packed storytelling and dark world-building.

49. “The Necromancer’s Dance” by S.J. Himes

    • “The Necromancer’s Dance” by S.J. Himes follows the story of Angel, a necromancer with a troubled past who is thrust into a world of magic, danger, and forbidden romance. When a series of murders targets supernatural creatures, Angel must use his necromantic powers to unravel the mystery and protect those he cares about. Himes’ blend of paranormal romance, mystery, and action creates a captivating and emotionally charged narrative that explores themes of love, acceptance, and the consequences of wielding dark magic.

50. “The Emperor’s Soul” by Brandon Sanderson

    • “The Emperor’s Soul” by Brandon Sanderson is a novella set in the Cosmere universe and features the art of Forgery, a form of magic that allows objects and souls to be altered. When a renowned Forger named Shai is tasked with restoring the soul of an injured emperor, she finds herself caught in a web of political intrigue and powerful opponents. Sanderson’s intricate world-building, fascinating magic system, and compelling characters make this a standout necromantic tale that explores themes of identity, power, and the nature of art.

Conclusion

Novels and stories featuring necromancers open the gateway to a world filled with darkness, mystique, and uncharted territories. From the classic masterpiece “Frankenstein” to contemporary gems like “Ninth House” and the chilling tales of Johannes Cabal, these literary works explore the intricate and ethically complex nature of necromancy. Whether readers seek tales of fantasy, horror, or philosophical introspection, these stories provide an enthralling and unforgettable experience. So, embark on a thrilling journey and immerse yourself in the captivating world of necromancers in literature.