A Captivating Fantasy Debut Full of Heart, Mystery, and Magic
“Aspiring Necromancer” by Alberto Frigerio is the kind of fantasy adventure that pulls you in from the first page and doesn’t let go. With a perfect balance of world-building, emotional depth, and magical intrigue, this first volume of The Void Trilogy sets the stage for an epic coming-of-age journey that’s as heartfelt as it is thrilling.
We follow Albert, a half-elf young man whose near-death experience awakens a fascination with the forbidden art of necromancy. Frigerio gives us a protagonist who feels genuinely human—flawed, determined, and torn between personal calling and family expectations. The relationships—especially with his confident friend Elka and his sharp-tongued kobold roommate Orlik—are lively and believable, adding humor and warmth to a story that also has moments of real tension and darkness.
The world-building is immersive without ever feeling overwhelming. The University of Evocation, with its enchanted courtyards, magical training grounds, and vividly described professors, feels like a living, breathing place. Frigerio’s prose makes the setting jump off the page—whether it’s a forest alive with birdsong or the eerie presence of a forbidden book that all but breathes in your hands.
What truly sets this book apart is its moral complexity. Necromancy isn’t treated as a flat, one-note “evil” magic, but as a nuanced discipline that forces the reader to ask questions about power, purpose, and perception. The inclusion of a mysterious necromancer’s journal is a masterstroke, weaving in philosophical reflections that add weight to Albert’s personal journey.
By the final pages, you’re not just curious about where Albert’s story is headed—you feel invested in it. Aspiring Necromancer is a magical, thought-provoking start to a trilogy that promises big things. If you enjoy richly imagined fantasy with relatable characters and a dash of moral intrigue, this book is a must-read.
Okaaaay! This is a plot that IMMEDIATELY caught my attention. Real fresh and intriguing. There were moments where I WISHED the story had been stretched out a bit more. That said, I’m curious to see where the next book takes things.