In Deadly Deception, the second thrilling installment of the Necromancer Tales series, necromancer Erasmus Boone’s idyllic life takes a chilling turn. While preparing for Halloween, he's thrust into a murder investigation alongside his detective boyfriend, Franklin O'Hare. A mentally unstable necromancer is accused of a crime, and Erasmus’s unique skills are needed to uncover the truth. Their investigation leads them to a small Midwestern town grappling with a sinister secret involving a long-dead bogeyman and multiple victims. Amidst prejudice, attempted assassinations, and a meddling warlock father, Erasmus and Franklin race against time to solve the mystery, facing down a deceptive killer and the supernatural forces at play. This paranormal m/m romance, a spin-off of the Perfect Pixie series, offers a blend of mystery, fantasy, and humor, with a happily-for-now ending.
Review Deadly Deception
Oh my goodness, I just devoured Deadly Deception and I'm still buzzing! This second installment in the Necromancer Tales series completely blew me away. I’ve become a huge fan of MJ May’s writing, and this book is a perfect example of why. The blend of cozy mystery, thrilling supernatural investigation, and heartwarming romance is just masterful.
Erasmus Boone, our delightfully sane necromancer, is such a charming and relatable protagonist. He's not your typical brooding, villainous necromancer; he's just a guy trying to live his life, complete with a loving relationship and a penchant for Halloween. His relationship with Detective Franklin O’Hare is the absolute heart of the book—sweet, supportive, and filled with genuine affection. The way they work together, relying on each other's strengths, is just fantastic. I especially loved the glimpses into their everyday life, the quiet moments that grounded the more fantastical elements.
The mystery itself was gripping. From the initial bloody discovery of a possibly framed necromancer to the unraveling of a plot involving a long-dead bogeyman and several very unhappy souls, I was completely hooked. The pacing was perfect—keeping me on the edge of my seat without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. MJ May expertly weaves in the complexities of prejudice against necromancers into the narrative, highlighting the real-world parallels of marginalization and misjudgment. This adds a layer of depth that really elevates the story beyond a simple fantasy mystery.
Beyond Erasmus and Franklin, the supporting characters are equally compelling. Franklin's family added a nice touch of heartwarming normality, a welcome contrast to the supernatural shenanigans. And the warlock father? Arrogant, yes, but utterly endearing in his overprotective way. Even the villain, whose identity I won't spoil, was deliciously well-crafted. The author manages to create a cast of characters that are both flawed and lovable, making them all the more believable and engaging. Little Fang, the kitten with the plastic bubble, was an unexpected source of pure joy amidst the darker elements of the plot.
The world-building continues to impress. I loved revisiting this world, expanding on the lore established in the Perfect Pixie series while simultaneously making Deadly Deception perfectly accessible as a standalone. The author's knack for creating a vivid and atmospheric setting, from the chilly Chicago streets to the warmth of Erasmus and Franklin’s home, is truly impressive. This book isn't just about solving a murder; it’s about relationships, prejudice, acceptance, and the enduring power of love.
In short, Deadly Deception is a must-read. It’s a page-turner that's both thrilling and heartwarming, leaving you satisfied but eager for more adventures with Erasmus, Franklin, and their quirky world. I'm already impatiently awaiting the next book in this captivating series, and I can wholeheartedly recommend this one to anyone looking for a magical, mysterious, and romantic escape. MJ May has earned a permanent spot on my auto-buy author list – no blurb required!
Information
- Dimensions: 5 x 0.84 x 8 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 332
- Publication date: 2025
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