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The Reanimator Mysteries #2
The Reanimator's Soul
An autistic necromancer, his undead lover, and the case that could destroy everything.
When a necromancer turns up dead, Oliver and Felipe think it will be the perfect, straightforward case for their new partnership. That is, until it leads them to a clinic promising a cure for magic, but they aren’t the only ones investigating the Institute for the Betterment of the Soul. Oliver’s ex, Ansley, is in town, and he’s certain the clinic isn’t the paragon of righteousness it claims to be.
Forced to help Ansley infiltrate the institute, Oliver fears he is out of his depth in his work and in love as old wounds and bad habits resurface. But Oliver isn’t the only one struggling. Pulled between his cases, Oliver, and his daughter returning home for the summer, Felipe is drowning. Just when he thinks he finally has everything under control, a new reminder of his untimely demise threatens to throw his life into a tailspin once more.
Between festering wounds and secrets, Oliver and Felipe’s lives stand upon a knife’s edge. To face the evil lurking behind the clinic’s genteel smiles, they must stand together or face the destruction of the place they call home.
When a necromancer turns up dead, Oliver and Felipe think it will be the perfect, straightforward case for their new partnership. That is, until it leads them to a clinic promising a cure for magic, but they aren’t the only ones investigating the Institute for the Betterment of the Soul. Oliver’s ex, Ansley, is in town, and he’s certain the clinic isn’t the paragon of righteousness it claims to be.
Forced to help Ansley infiltrate the institute, Oliver fears he is out of his depth in his work and in love as old wounds and bad habits resurface. But Oliver isn’t the only one struggling. Pulled between his cases, Oliver, and his daughter returning home for the summer, Felipe is drowning. Just when he thinks he finally has everything under control, a new reminder of his untimely demise threatens to throw his life into a tailspin once more.
Between festering wounds and secrets, Oliver and Felipe’s lives stand upon a knife’s edge. To face the evil lurking behind the clinic’s genteel smiles, they must stand together or face the destruction of the place they call home.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2023
37 people are currently reading
422 people want to read
About the author
Kara Jorgensen
21 books202 followersKara Jorgensen (they/them) is a queer, nonbinary oddball with a penchant for all things antiquated, morbid, or just plain strange. While in college, they realized they no longer wanted to be Victor Frankenstein but instead wanted to write like Mary Shelley and thus abandoned their future career in science for writing. Kara melds their passions through their books and graduated with an MFA in Creative and Professional Writing in 2016. When not writing, they can be found hanging out with their dogs watching period dramas or trying to convince their students to cite their sources.
To find out more about their books go to https://karajorgensen.com
Sign-up for their newsletter and get a free sapphic novella: eepurl.com/bfJTW9
Historical Fantasy/Steampunk Novels
The Ingenious Mechanical Devices:
The Earl of Brass (IMD #1)
The Winter Garden (IMD #2)
"An Oxford Holiday" (short story)
The Earl and the Artificer (IMD #3)
"The Errant Earl" (short story)
Dead Magic (IMD #4)
Selkie Cove (IMD #5)
The Wolf Witch (IMD #6)
The Reanimator Mysteries
The Reanimator's Heart (TRM #1)
"An Unexpected Valentine" (TRM #1.5)
The Reanimator's Soul (TRM #2)
"An Unexpected Question" (TRM #2.5)
The Reanimator's Remains (TRM #3 FORTHCOMING 2024)
A Paranormal Society Romance
Kinship and Kindness (PSR #1)
Trousers and Trouble (PSR #2) (FORTHCOMING)
Tempests and Temptation (PSR#3) (FORTHCOMING)
Untitled (PSR #4) (FORTHCOMING)
To find out more about their books go to https://karajorgensen.com
Sign-up for their newsletter and get a free sapphic novella: eepurl.com/bfJTW9
Historical Fantasy/Steampunk Novels
The Ingenious Mechanical Devices:
The Earl of Brass (IMD #1)
The Winter Garden (IMD #2)
"An Oxford Holiday" (short story)
The Earl and the Artificer (IMD #3)
"The Errant Earl" (short story)
Dead Magic (IMD #4)
Selkie Cove (IMD #5)
The Wolf Witch (IMD #6)
The Reanimator Mysteries
The Reanimator's Heart (TRM #1)
"An Unexpected Valentine" (TRM #1.5)
The Reanimator's Soul (TRM #2)
"An Unexpected Question" (TRM #2.5)
The Reanimator's Remains (TRM #3 FORTHCOMING 2024)
A Paranormal Society Romance
Kinship and Kindness (PSR #1)
Trousers and Trouble (PSR #2) (FORTHCOMING)
Tempests and Temptation (PSR#3) (FORTHCOMING)
Untitled (PSR #4) (FORTHCOMING)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
June 9, 2024
Kara Jorgensen delivers a new dark historical murder mystery filled with sinister paranormal mayhem, even more wholesome (and steamy) queer love, and the most brutal gut punches in The Reanimator's Soul, the spectacular second instalment in the The Reanimator Mysteries series.
Oh how I adored reuniting with my favourite autistic necromancer and his undead lover in this sequel! After all the craziness these two went through in book 1, I was wishing for more peace for them, but alas... life at the Paranormal Society is anything but peaceful, and a brand-new murder plus a petty ex-lover come bringing chaos.
While I really enjoyed The Reanimator's Heart, I think there is no denying that Jorgensen stepped up their game in this sequel. Now that the relationship between Oliver and Felipe is fully established, I feel like the other aspects of this series got more time to shine alongside the continued development of their healthy, supportive, and heartwarming romance. And oh yes, shine they did!
The main mystery investigation in The Reanimator's Soul felt much more in-depth and suspenseful compared to what we got in the first book, and I really enjoyed how the magical aspects came more to the forefront in this instalment. Both the subtle and blatant parallels between queerness and having magical abilities become even stronger here, especially with the harrowing yet powerful commentary on the conversion therapy for magic users at the Institute for the Betterment of the Soul that lies at the core of this instalment’s mystery.
But still, ultimately I am just all here for the characters and their beautifully messy relationships, and Jorgensen delivered. I'll admit that I was nervous to see Oliver's petty and obnoxious ex entering the picture, but I loved that the bond between Oliver and Felipe was already so strong that there was little to no conflict between the two because of Ansley's prodding and pestering.
Moreover, we got to spend a lot more time with Felipe's unconventional but loveable family, and I absolutely adored the dynamic between him and his daughter. I am so curious to see what her role in the future instalments of this series is going to be, because she absolutely stole the show during the intensely stressful final chapters here.
And you better believe I was stressed for large parts of this book, especially as the stakes just got higher and higher. Though as dark and disturbing as things got here, I still consider these books to just be absolute cosy comfort reads. Felipe and Oliver just have my entire heart, and I loved seeing them continue to fall in love even more in this instalment. Also, Jorgensen knows how to spice things up, holy smokes!
Even though each of these instalments tells a beautiful self-contained story, I am just left hungering for more in the best way possible. If you like the sound of a diverse, magical, romantic, and delightfully queer historical mystery series, then I can’t recommend The Reanimator Mysteries highly enough!
Oh how I adored reuniting with my favourite autistic necromancer and his undead lover in this sequel! After all the craziness these two went through in book 1, I was wishing for more peace for them, but alas... life at the Paranormal Society is anything but peaceful, and a brand-new murder plus a petty ex-lover come bringing chaos.
While I really enjoyed The Reanimator's Heart, I think there is no denying that Jorgensen stepped up their game in this sequel. Now that the relationship between Oliver and Felipe is fully established, I feel like the other aspects of this series got more time to shine alongside the continued development of their healthy, supportive, and heartwarming romance. And oh yes, shine they did!
The main mystery investigation in The Reanimator's Soul felt much more in-depth and suspenseful compared to what we got in the first book, and I really enjoyed how the magical aspects came more to the forefront in this instalment. Both the subtle and blatant parallels between queerness and having magical abilities become even stronger here, especially with the harrowing yet powerful commentary on the conversion therapy for magic users at the Institute for the Betterment of the Soul that lies at the core of this instalment’s mystery.
But still, ultimately I am just all here for the characters and their beautifully messy relationships, and Jorgensen delivered. I'll admit that I was nervous to see Oliver's petty and obnoxious ex entering the picture, but I loved that the bond between Oliver and Felipe was already so strong that there was little to no conflict between the two because of Ansley's prodding and pestering.
Moreover, we got to spend a lot more time with Felipe's unconventional but loveable family, and I absolutely adored the dynamic between him and his daughter. I am so curious to see what her role in the future instalments of this series is going to be, because she absolutely stole the show during the intensely stressful final chapters here.
And you better believe I was stressed for large parts of this book, especially as the stakes just got higher and higher. Though as dark and disturbing as things got here, I still consider these books to just be absolute cosy comfort reads. Felipe and Oliver just have my entire heart, and I loved seeing them continue to fall in love even more in this instalment. Also, Jorgensen knows how to spice things up, holy smokes!
Even though each of these instalments tells a beautiful self-contained story, I am just left hungering for more in the best way possible. If you like the sound of a diverse, magical, romantic, and delightfully queer historical mystery series, then I can’t recommend The Reanimator Mysteries highly enough!
November 7, 2023
This series is such a great find. I love the take on how magic and society work.
The first book was a great surprise, and the second book is even better.
The MCs are complex characters with a lot of depth and their own insecurities and challenges.
I love how they work together and help each other out.
The secondary characters enrich the story, and I am happy to get to know Felipes family better. Loved the glimpse into Glen and the Head inspector.
The author also doesn't look for easy ways regarding the story. It was complex, interesting, and very well written.
I am so looking forward to the next book
The first book was a great surprise, and the second book is even better.
The MCs are complex characters with a lot of depth and their own insecurities and challenges.
I love how they work together and help each other out.
The secondary characters enrich the story, and I am happy to get to know Felipes family better. Loved the glimpse into Glen and the Head inspector.
The author also doesn't look for easy ways regarding the story. It was complex, interesting, and very well written.
I am so looking forward to the next book
December 29, 2025
This review was originally posted on Queen's Book Asylum!
Actual rating: 4.5👑
It wasn’t that long ago that The Reanimator’s Heart caught me by total surprise. There never was any question that I’ll continue reading the series, and Kara Jorgensen kindly provided me with an audiobook. But as I (very smartly…) decided to listen during my Glasgow stay for WorldCon, I eventually decided to reread it, for which I used the audiobook and ebook copies to fasten the process. In all honesty, I wasn’t all that upset that I had to read it twice within a month. What upsets me is that I need to wait for book 3.
Now, before we get to the review, I need to warn you all that this review might contain spoilers for book 1, so proceed with caution.
A couple of months passed since the ending in The Reanimator’s Heart, and Felipe and Oliver are still adjusting to their new circumstances. They are not only work and life partners, but they also have the bond of a reanimator and a reanimated, which can complicate things quite a bit. Especially when they are trying to keep things from each other. While Felipe needs to come to terms with his new deceased existence, Oliver is trying his best to be the partner he thinks Felipe wants. Teresa’s demands, a new murder investigation, and the appearance of Oliver’s old lover certainly don’t help matters.
Similarly to the previous book, The Reanimator’s Soul focuses mainly on Felipe and Oliver’s lives, and their relationships both with each other and the people around them. And while I still have more or less the same complaints – I wanted more of the investigation, for example – I can now see that there is a bigger story arc here spanning the series so I’m definitely interested to see where things will be going.
As for Oliver and Felipe, I still love how their relationship is building up. I still can identify with Oliver a lot (not that surprisingly) and I wish I had a Felipe in my life. But as much as Felipe cares for his needs and makes sure he feels secure and safe, Oliver does the same. This is a true partnership, and some of the moments between them are truly heartbreaking. Not just because of the emotions running high (and some of the heavy topics this book is covering such as non-consensual sex (off page), the fear of failing our loved ones, child-parent relationships, etc.), but also the way they can be vulnerable in front of each other. I love how complex these characters are and it’s kind of disgusting how invested I am in their relationship. Like, I’m not even above begging to get my hands on any book with these two in it.
It was good to see some new characters coming into the story, even if I didn’t like them much. Ansley certainly didn’t endear himself with his attitude, and Teresa was just a selfish little brat, but I still have hope for her. And I think Jorgensen has some big plans coming for her and we might see more of her. On the other hand, I was sorely missing Gwen! She didn’t get as much page time this time around, and that’s a travesty, if you ask me.
The Reanimator’s Soul, while it’s not perfect, it definitely deepens one’s addiction to Kara Jorgensen‘s series. I dare you to prove me wrong.
Actual rating: 4.5👑
It wasn’t that long ago that The Reanimator’s Heart caught me by total surprise. There never was any question that I’ll continue reading the series, and Kara Jorgensen kindly provided me with an audiobook. But as I (very smartly…) decided to listen during my Glasgow stay for WorldCon, I eventually decided to reread it, for which I used the audiobook and ebook copies to fasten the process. In all honesty, I wasn’t all that upset that I had to read it twice within a month. What upsets me is that I need to wait for book 3.
Now, before we get to the review, I need to warn you all that this review might contain spoilers for book 1, so proceed with caution.
A couple of months passed since the ending in The Reanimator’s Heart, and Felipe and Oliver are still adjusting to their new circumstances. They are not only work and life partners, but they also have the bond of a reanimator and a reanimated, which can complicate things quite a bit. Especially when they are trying to keep things from each other. While Felipe needs to come to terms with his new deceased existence, Oliver is trying his best to be the partner he thinks Felipe wants. Teresa’s demands, a new murder investigation, and the appearance of Oliver’s old lover certainly don’t help matters.
Similarly to the previous book, The Reanimator’s Soul focuses mainly on Felipe and Oliver’s lives, and their relationships both with each other and the people around them. And while I still have more or less the same complaints – I wanted more of the investigation, for example – I can now see that there is a bigger story arc here spanning the series so I’m definitely interested to see where things will be going.
As for Oliver and Felipe, I still love how their relationship is building up. I still can identify with Oliver a lot (not that surprisingly) and I wish I had a Felipe in my life. But as much as Felipe cares for his needs and makes sure he feels secure and safe, Oliver does the same. This is a true partnership, and some of the moments between them are truly heartbreaking. Not just because of the emotions running high (and some of the heavy topics this book is covering such as non-consensual sex (off page), the fear of failing our loved ones, child-parent relationships, etc.), but also the way they can be vulnerable in front of each other. I love how complex these characters are and it’s kind of disgusting how invested I am in their relationship. Like, I’m not even above begging to get my hands on any book with these two in it.
It was good to see some new characters coming into the story, even if I didn’t like them much. Ansley certainly didn’t endear himself with his attitude, and Teresa was just a selfish little brat, but I still have hope for her. And I think Jorgensen has some big plans coming for her and we might see more of her. On the other hand, I was sorely missing Gwen! She didn’t get as much page time this time around, and that’s a travesty, if you ask me.
The Reanimator’s Soul, while it’s not perfect, it definitely deepens one’s addiction to Kara Jorgensen‘s series. I dare you to prove me wrong.
Want to read
September 24, 2023CWs: Gore, blood, violence, murder, descriptions of dead bodies/autopsies, on page sexual content, ableism toward autistic people, discussion of past sexual assault, period specific homophobia and language, medical abuse, conversion therapy, panic attacks, implied and briefly depicted child abuse
(cws posted before release are subject to change/expansion)
(cws posted before release are subject to change/expansion)
October 24, 2023
I loved the opportunity to read another book in this series during spooky season. As a queer and neurodivergent reader, I relate so much to Oliver, and find it a warm and welcoming experience to return to this world. There are some nice steamy scenes, plenty of action-packed mystery moments, but what I love most is the dialogue and the well-developed cast of characters. The conversations flow so well and added to my enjoyment of the story.
In addition to the steam, we get a chance to see Oliver and Felipe’s relationship grow and mature with plenty of emotional intimacy, too. I love a romance that balances spicy content and sweet, gentle moments, and Jorgensen does this so well with Oliver and Felipe. There is a lot of vulnerability here, and the honesty of it is so refreshing and relatable.
Thank you to the author for an eARC. This is my honest review.
In addition to the steam, we get a chance to see Oliver and Felipe’s relationship grow and mature with plenty of emotional intimacy, too. I love a romance that balances spicy content and sweet, gentle moments, and Jorgensen does this so well with Oliver and Felipe. There is a lot of vulnerability here, and the honesty of it is so refreshing and relatable.
Thank you to the author for an eARC. This is my honest review.
January 4, 2025
Update reread: I still LOVE love this story
AND FUCK ANSLEY
HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY 🥳
IM SO SAD IVE FINISHED IT. I TRIED TO SAVOR IT. but damn I had to read.
Review to come when I have slept for more than 4 hours 🫡
Update: I have slept so. Review time.
The author send me an arc in exchange of an honest review !
Well. To no one surprise I loved The reanimator’s soul. If you know me, you know how much I love the first instalment ( that I’ve already read 3 times since last year.)
The reanimator’s soul take place few months after the events of the first book and we’re left with Oliver and Felipe navigating their new life together. Seeing them together and not in in life threatening situation was refreshing. Give me all the domestic Felipe and Oliver, pls and thanks.
Felipe is struggling to adapt to his new condition and like someone with a cronic illness he have to find new ways around it. I loved how his whole narrative arc was about this. It helped understanding him better. He was always the reliable one and now he has to learn how to open up and accept that he’s not infaillible.
Oliver is trying hard to accommodate to Felipe in fear of losing him. And it was heartbreaking being in Oliver’s head and seeing how he believed he was the reason for all his last failed relationship. Spoiler alert he was not, people are just selfish assholes who deserves to be roast in hell.
This book introduces my new personal nemesis: ANSLEY. Oliver’s ex boyfriend and a petty asshole who need to be in control of everything all the time. I have strong feelings about him. 🥰
The new case is about an institution whose goal is to cure people from their power: yes it’s about conversion therapy and it’s the worst. It made me sick to my stomach reading about this. It felt really close to us sadly.
Oliver and Felipe case ends up meeting with Ansley’s, and everyone had to be an adult and obviously some were better at it. Their investigation lead them to Joe. Sweet summer angel whomst I love. And together they will try to pierce everything together and solve the murder of Joe’s friend while trying to close the institution.
To this you can add interpersonal drama between Felipe and his daughter Teresa and between Oliver and Ansley.
I just loved it. The story was well paced, the mystery super intriguing and well crafted and I wanted nothing more than to punch Ansley’s smug face 🥰.
They relationship between Oliver and Felipe was just so good, yes they had some miscommunication problems but they tried their best for their couple and for their partnership and tbh it was just so good. I just love established people in love. Give me more.
Once again thank to the author for the arc, and if you haven’t read the reanimator’s heart, pls do yourself a favour, pick it up and meet Oliver and Felipe !!!
AND FUCK ANSLEY
HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY 🥳
IM SO SAD IVE FINISHED IT. I TRIED TO SAVOR IT. but damn I had to read.
Review to come when I have slept for more than 4 hours 🫡
Update: I have slept so. Review time.
The author send me an arc in exchange of an honest review !
Well. To no one surprise I loved The reanimator’s soul. If you know me, you know how much I love the first instalment ( that I’ve already read 3 times since last year.)
The reanimator’s soul take place few months after the events of the first book and we’re left with Oliver and Felipe navigating their new life together. Seeing them together and not in in life threatening situation was refreshing. Give me all the domestic Felipe and Oliver, pls and thanks.
Felipe is struggling to adapt to his new condition and like someone with a cronic illness he have to find new ways around it. I loved how his whole narrative arc was about this. It helped understanding him better. He was always the reliable one and now he has to learn how to open up and accept that he’s not infaillible.
Oliver is trying hard to accommodate to Felipe in fear of losing him. And it was heartbreaking being in Oliver’s head and seeing how he believed he was the reason for all his last failed relationship. Spoiler alert he was not, people are just selfish assholes who deserves to be roast in hell.
This book introduces my new personal nemesis: ANSLEY. Oliver’s ex boyfriend and a petty asshole who need to be in control of everything all the time. I have strong feelings about him. 🥰
The new case is about an institution whose goal is to cure people from their power: yes it’s about conversion therapy and it’s the worst. It made me sick to my stomach reading about this. It felt really close to us sadly.
Oliver and Felipe case ends up meeting with Ansley’s, and everyone had to be an adult and obviously some were better at it. Their investigation lead them to Joe. Sweet summer angel whomst I love. And together they will try to pierce everything together and solve the murder of Joe’s friend while trying to close the institution.
To this you can add interpersonal drama between Felipe and his daughter Teresa and between Oliver and Ansley.
I just loved it. The story was well paced, the mystery super intriguing and well crafted and I wanted nothing more than to punch Ansley’s smug face 🥰.
They relationship between Oliver and Felipe was just so good, yes they had some miscommunication problems but they tried their best for their couple and for their partnership and tbh it was just so good. I just love established people in love. Give me more.
Once again thank to the author for the arc, and if you haven’t read the reanimator’s heart, pls do yourself a favour, pick it up and meet Oliver and Felipe !!!
November 24, 2023
The Reanimator’s Soul is the second book in Kara Jorgensen’s queer fantasy noir series The Reanimator Mysteries. It has been six months since necromancer Oliver accidentally reanimated Felipe whose own powers tied them together. Now, their new partnership (both personal and professional) is tested by a case of a dead necromancer linked to a healing institute that claims to cure magic that is also being investigated by Oliver’s ex.
As much as I liked The Reanimator’s Heart, I LOVED The Reanimator’s Soul. There is just something so raw and authentic about how Oliver and Felipe’s relationship is portrayed as they deal with their struggles in both professional and personal capacities. Tied together emotionally and physically, they must learn to compromise as Felipe’s need for closer ties to his family clashes with Oliver’s neurodivergence and social anxiety. As Oliver tries to be the best partner he can be, Felipe is realizing the realities of who he is now that he is *technically* undead. But with all that, the love between these two men is just always apparent.
While the previous book had obvious ties to a separate series that is just in the background, this one feels more like it is standing on its own now that the world has been established. The book is also a lot better written/edited with none of the errors and mistakes I noticed in the first one. The mystery aspect is more twisty and exciting, and the villain is not as obvious.
The Reanimator’s Soul improves on every aspect of The Reanimator’s Heart and I loved every page of it.
As much as I liked The Reanimator’s Heart, I LOVED The Reanimator’s Soul. There is just something so raw and authentic about how Oliver and Felipe’s relationship is portrayed as they deal with their struggles in both professional and personal capacities. Tied together emotionally and physically, they must learn to compromise as Felipe’s need for closer ties to his family clashes with Oliver’s neurodivergence and social anxiety. As Oliver tries to be the best partner he can be, Felipe is realizing the realities of who he is now that he is *technically* undead. But with all that, the love between these two men is just always apparent.
While the previous book had obvious ties to a separate series that is just in the background, this one feels more like it is standing on its own now that the world has been established. The book is also a lot better written/edited with none of the errors and mistakes I noticed in the first one. The mystery aspect is more twisty and exciting, and the villain is not as obvious.
The Reanimator’s Soul improves on every aspect of The Reanimator’s Heart and I loved every page of it.
February 24, 2024
Enjoyable sequel in what I believe will ultimately be a trilogy following the same couple--you definitely need to read book 1 before this one! I continued to like both of the MCs and the other people in their lives, and I appreciated that all of the tension points felt very believable and reasonable, and don't necessarily have easy solutions, but it's clear they both really care about one another and want to do their best to make things work. I did think the "evil ex" trope was a little unnecessary here--there was plenty else to go on without adding that into the mix and I don't really think it actually enhanced anything personally. Very much looking forward to the next (final?) installment!
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December 18, 2023
Took me a little bit to get into the rhythm of things, but this was another fun installment! I wasn't that big a fan of the additional external conflict of the entire Ansley situation, though. The mystery plot did manage to balance that out a bit and I veeeeery much enjoyed Oliver and Felipe's character journeys here. I do think I'm satisfying with this series, however, and am not sure I'll continue reading it.
January 12, 2025
Tags: Mystery, historical sort of magical steam punk, solid ND / autism rep, extremely healthy relationship
August 13, 2025
3.5 stars
Though the name of the series has "Mysteries" in it, but I am going to be honest that I didn't really care about the mystery. Similar to book #1, it seemed that the "villain" was obvious, so it wasn't about finding out the perpetrator but more on discovering the motive. Oh, this time Oliver and Felipe were working out what evil things happened behind the doors of Institute for the Betterment of the Soul.
There were more development of Oliver and Felipe's relationship. First, I was SO GLAD that Felipe . I thought this would REALLY HELP them in the long run, if the family could get behind them. Second, It seemed that Felipe had new power now that his previous healing power was weaker than before he was dead (and animated). I would be wondering how it would turn out for the two of them.
On to book #3 I guess - I read the blurb a bit and we may finally learn more of Oliver's family!
PS:
There's a freebie short novella after this one in which
Though the name of the series has "Mysteries" in it, but I am going to be honest that I didn't really care about the mystery. Similar to book #1, it seemed that the "villain" was obvious, so it wasn't about finding out the perpetrator but more on discovering the motive. Oh, this time Oliver and Felipe were working out what evil things happened behind the doors of Institute for the Betterment of the Soul.
There were more development of Oliver and Felipe's relationship. First, I was SO GLAD that Felipe . I thought this would REALLY HELP them in the long run, if the family could get behind them. Second, It seemed that Felipe had new power now that his previous healing power was weaker than before he was dead (and animated). I would be wondering how it would turn out for the two of them.
On to book #3 I guess - I read the blurb a bit and we may finally learn more of Oliver's family!
PS:
There's a freebie short novella after this one in which
December 6, 2024
I liked this book a lot more than the first one. I did enjoy the first one, but something was missing for me (hence the 3 stars). While I loved the world-building and mystery, I wasn’t completely convinced by the romance or the writing. But this second book in the series was TOTALLY different for me.
The mystery was, once again, really well done. I love how the procedural elements blend so seamlessly with the magical aspects. Sometimes, in these fantasy-heavy mystery stories, the mystery itself takes a backseat to world-building, but that’s definitely not the case here.
I have to admit, I didn’t really like Felipe in the first book. I could see the potential between him and Oliver, but I just wasn’t charmed by Felipe. For a while, I thought he was a bit inconsiderate and, at times, selfish. But I realize now I might’ve been too harsh on him—he can’t really help his impulsiveness and forgetfulness. In this book, he truly proves how considerate and sweet he can be. I totally fell in love with him... and with his relationship with Oliver. They’re actually perfect for each other 🥹🫀Oliver, I already loved very much. I recognize a lot of myself in him, and that’s really meaningful to me.
I’m really glad I didn’t give up on this after the first book. This one totally won me over, and I’m definitely excited to see what happens next with Felipe and Oliver ♡
The mystery was, once again, really well done. I love how the procedural elements blend so seamlessly with the magical aspects. Sometimes, in these fantasy-heavy mystery stories, the mystery itself takes a backseat to world-building, but that’s definitely not the case here.
I have to admit, I didn’t really like Felipe in the first book. I could see the potential between him and Oliver, but I just wasn’t charmed by Felipe. For a while, I thought he was a bit inconsiderate and, at times, selfish. But I realize now I might’ve been too harsh on him—he can’t really help his impulsiveness and forgetfulness. In this book, he truly proves how considerate and sweet he can be. I totally fell in love with him... and with his relationship with Oliver. They’re actually perfect for each other 🥹🫀Oliver, I already loved very much. I recognize a lot of myself in him, and that’s really meaningful to me.
I’m really glad I didn’t give up on this after the first book. This one totally won me over, and I’m definitely excited to see what happens next with Felipe and Oliver ♡
October 3, 2023
My heart has been ripped out, stabbed, patched up, and put back. Only Oliver could do such a neat job.
Longer review to come.
Longer review to come.
November 18, 2023
The Reanimator's Soul delivers an engaging mystery and a loveable main couple.
This time, necromancer/ medical examinaer Oliver and undead investigator Felipe find themselves investigating a medical institute targeting people with magical powers to 'fix' them.
As this series is set in a kind of alternative Victorian-era New York, the Institute for the Betterment of the Soul is clearly based on the pseudo-medicine and real asylums of that time period, and Jorgensen really captures that sinister vibe.
However, whilst the mystery is interesting, it's Felipe and Oliver that are the core of this book. Both themselves and their relationship are tested in this story, in particular by the appearance of two very different characters, Oliver's ex and Felipe's daughter. This allows a deeper delve into both of their pasts and insecurities, and it was great to see them communicate and care for each other throughout.
With Oliver, Jorgensen writes a compassionate portrayal of autism, showing how it affects him and can at times be disabling to him, whilst emphasising that it does not make him unlovable or unreasonable, and also showing the sides of it that bring him contentment.
My investment in these characters and the mystery meant I flew through the final third, anxiously reading on due to my concern for the characters (including a side characters I really wanted to make it out alright!)
Overall, a great sequel that I highly recommend to anyone wanting a queer historical fantasy!
This time, necromancer/ medical examinaer Oliver and undead investigator Felipe find themselves investigating a medical institute targeting people with magical powers to 'fix' them.
As this series is set in a kind of alternative Victorian-era New York, the Institute for the Betterment of the Soul is clearly based on the pseudo-medicine and real asylums of that time period, and Jorgensen really captures that sinister vibe.
However, whilst the mystery is interesting, it's Felipe and Oliver that are the core of this book. Both themselves and their relationship are tested in this story, in particular by the appearance of two very different characters, Oliver's ex and Felipe's daughter. This allows a deeper delve into both of their pasts and insecurities, and it was great to see them communicate and care for each other throughout.
With Oliver, Jorgensen writes a compassionate portrayal of autism, showing how it affects him and can at times be disabling to him, whilst emphasising that it does not make him unlovable or unreasonable, and also showing the sides of it that bring him contentment.
My investment in these characters and the mystery meant I flew through the final third, anxiously reading on due to my concern for the characters (including a side characters I really wanted to make it out alright!)
Overall, a great sequel that I highly recommend to anyone wanting a queer historical fantasy!
November 6, 2023
Rarely do I give a book 5* but I believe this one fully deserved full marks!!
Having read the first book in this series, The Reanimator's Heart and thoroughly enjoyed it. So much so, that I read it in less than a day. I have to admit that the second instalment was even better.
It was an opportunity to delve more into the main characters and find out personal details about both Oliver and Felipe. Their lives and their pasts. Their fears and their hopes.
Ansley, while not a main antagonist, certainly made his presence felt. He was an expertly written character. I despised him from the moment he appeared, which just goes to show how well the author has developed the character through dialogue and description alone. It was masterfully done.
Oliver and Felipe's relationship was thoughtful and well done. It made me think that if only all people could be so understanding to each other then it would be a far better world we live in.
I took a little longer to read this book as I wanted to savour the writing and the characters.
I was pleased to note that there will be a third book in the series and eagerly await the next instalment.
Having read the first book in this series, The Reanimator's Heart and thoroughly enjoyed it. So much so, that I read it in less than a day. I have to admit that the second instalment was even better.
It was an opportunity to delve more into the main characters and find out personal details about both Oliver and Felipe. Their lives and their pasts. Their fears and their hopes.
Ansley, while not a main antagonist, certainly made his presence felt. He was an expertly written character. I despised him from the moment he appeared, which just goes to show how well the author has developed the character through dialogue and description alone. It was masterfully done.
Oliver and Felipe's relationship was thoughtful and well done. It made me think that if only all people could be so understanding to each other then it would be a far better world we live in.
I took a little longer to read this book as I wanted to savour the writing and the characters.
I was pleased to note that there will be a third book in the series and eagerly await the next instalment.
January 27, 2025
Very good sequel to the first book; relationships deepen and the world expands just enough to be intriguing but not over extended.
I did struggle with similar issues as the first novel, although to a much lesser degree. There's some out of place idiosyncratic language ("shit show" et. al) but the more consistent struggle was with most of the space and action descriptions. I often lost track of the general dimensions of where people where and whether people were standing then suddenly sitting then far apart. Without the descriptive connectors to let me know how they got there/what changed, I was consistently unclear about some very basic dynamics. The character conversations were excellent and the story is well-developed, I just often found myself confused literally about who was talking, where they were, and where they were in proximity to their listener. I ended up just releasing those details and trying to stick close to the dialogue, though the shifting POV was also tricky throughout. Just felt like I was missing key sentences or descriptions the whole time.
But I appreciate these characters and this world enough to definitely stick around for book three.
I did struggle with similar issues as the first novel, although to a much lesser degree. There's some out of place idiosyncratic language ("shit show" et. al) but the more consistent struggle was with most of the space and action descriptions. I often lost track of the general dimensions of where people where and whether people were standing then suddenly sitting then far apart. Without the descriptive connectors to let me know how they got there/what changed, I was consistently unclear about some very basic dynamics. The character conversations were excellent and the story is well-developed, I just often found myself confused literally about who was talking, where they were, and where they were in proximity to their listener. I ended up just releasing those details and trying to stick close to the dialogue, though the shifting POV was also tricky throughout. Just felt like I was missing key sentences or descriptions the whole time.
But I appreciate these characters and this world enough to definitely stick around for book three.
September 28, 2023
This was one of my most anticipated books for the year purely because of how much I adored the first one and it didn't disappoint.
Oliver and Felipe have my heart and I was thrilled to see them again especially getting to learn a little more of Oliver's backstory from small hints of his childhood to the introduction of his ex (I will kick Ansley if he upsets my boy Oliver one more time). As someone who's main priority when reading books is the characters, I loved that it focused a good portion of the story on the interpersonal relationships of the characters but was also further spiced up with an engaging mystery. I was just as eager for Felipe to finally tell his family he had died as I was for them to find the murderer.
With a touch of the macabre it was a perfect read for spooky season while also being incredibly sweet. I already can't wait for book three.
Oliver and Felipe have my heart and I was thrilled to see them again especially getting to learn a little more of Oliver's backstory from small hints of his childhood to the introduction of his ex (I will kick Ansley if he upsets my boy Oliver one more time). As someone who's main priority when reading books is the characters, I loved that it focused a good portion of the story on the interpersonal relationships of the characters but was also further spiced up with an engaging mystery. I was just as eager for Felipe to finally tell his family he had died as I was for them to find the murderer.
With a touch of the macabre it was a perfect read for spooky season while also being incredibly sweet. I already can't wait for book three.
July 1, 2025
This is a 3,75 for me. I lost interest about halfway through as is evident from the reading time on this, but managed to pick it back up, thankfully!
First and foremost, let me make clear that this is a good and fun read for those of who enjoy queer steampunky urban magic mystery - my issue with this particular book and the reason I lost interest, is that it preeeeetty much follows the formular of the first book, which made it a little dull for me because it became somewhat predictive; lots of investigating and then during the last 15% of the story it all culminates in a big showdown to take down the bad guy with no back-up.
The winning point of this book is the characters and their continued growth and development. I’m interested to see how Kara Jorgensen wraps the overall plot up in the final book!
First and foremost, let me make clear that this is a good and fun read for those of who enjoy queer steampunky urban magic mystery - my issue with this particular book and the reason I lost interest, is that it preeeeetty much follows the formular of the first book, which made it a little dull for me because it became somewhat predictive; lots of investigating and then during the last 15% of the story it all culminates in a big showdown to take down the bad guy with no back-up.
The winning point of this book is the characters and their continued growth and development. I’m interested to see how Kara Jorgensen wraps the overall plot up in the final book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2025
I was afraid that I wasn't going to enjoy this one as much as the previous one due to what I thiught the plot would be but it was actually so much more than I expected and I loved every second of it 😍
I love Felipe and Oliver, their relationship and their communication as well as their willingness to work on themselves. I'm loving this series so much
I love Felipe and Oliver, their relationship and their communication as well as their willingness to work on themselves. I'm loving this series so much
January 14, 2024
This was a significant improvement over the first one. Kudos to Kara Jorgensen.
March 25, 2024
The second book is just as good as the first. Felipe and Oliver are the most wholesome, healthy couple I've ever read and I adore them.
July 16, 2024
Review coming later this month!
October 24, 2023
This was so good! I was excited to get back to Oliver and Felipe and see how things were going for our heroes.
As most mysteries begin, we start with a dead body. Oliver, recently allowed to return to full work after the events of the first novel, and Felipe, newly half-retired, are given the case. But things are more complicated than an unclaimed corpse. Soon they find themselves working with Oliver's ex and diving deeper into an "anti-vice" institute.
The mystery in this one was good. I yelled at the book at one reveal and enjoyed watching the pieces come together. I wish the resolution would have been drawn out a bit more, but overall it was satisfying.
The main strength of this book is the relationship between Oliver and Felipe. At this point they have only been a couple for five months, following some pretty harrowing events from the first book. My favorite part is that while they have a deep love for each other, things are not perfect for them all the time. They are both older, established adults trying to build a life together- on top of the trauma from the first book! There are going to be difficulties, insecurities, doubts. And the author does not shy away from them. I found this to be incredibly realistic.
Also, the way they are there for each other and support one another when they are hurting is beautiful.
The continued building of the world and Oliver's magic is fascinating. I'm excited to see where things go as more books in the series come out.
Thank you to the author for an ARC copy.
As most mysteries begin, we start with a dead body. Oliver, recently allowed to return to full work after the events of the first novel, and Felipe, newly half-retired, are given the case. But things are more complicated than an unclaimed corpse. Soon they find themselves working with Oliver's ex and diving deeper into an "anti-vice" institute.
The mystery in this one was good. I yelled at the book at one reveal and enjoyed watching the pieces come together. I wish the resolution would have been drawn out a bit more, but overall it was satisfying.
The main strength of this book is the relationship between Oliver and Felipe. At this point they have only been a couple for five months, following some pretty harrowing events from the first book. My favorite part is that while they have a deep love for each other, things are not perfect for them all the time. They are both older, established adults trying to build a life together- on top of the trauma from the first book! There are going to be difficulties, insecurities, doubts. And the author does not shy away from them. I found this to be incredibly realistic.
Also, the way they are there for each other and support one another when they are hurting is beautiful.
The continued building of the world and Oliver's magic is fascinating. I'm excited to see where things go as more books in the series come out.
Thank you to the author for an ARC copy.
October 29, 2023
After the first book in this series hit a lot of my soft spots, I am glad to say I liked the second one as well! I’m still giving it 4*, even though I definitely enjoyed the first one more - I wish that this one hadn’t ended so quickly after the final showdown. Still, I especially love Oliver, so no matter what happens next, I am gonna jump on the third instalment in this series once it comes out. If you like paranormal content, autistic main characters and quite a bit of angst and anticipation, this series is for you.
October 18, 2023
4.8
I absolutely adored Reanimator's Heart, and was VIBRATING waiting for this sequel. And boy oh boy, did it deliver!
As a queer person with various and sundry neurodivergence, I love being able to trust an author to write said neurodivergence thoughtfully, and Mx. Jorgensen does so every time.
We got a delicious amount of Felipe/Oliver figuring themselves and their relationship out. Oliver, increasingly haunted by bad experiences with his newly returned ex, and Felipe, reckoning with the side effects of his recent undeath, grow both individually and together. I left this book more in love with Felipe than ever. I was ecstatic to see more of Felipe's family, especially Teresa; and we got a lot more depth to his character that was really moving. I can't wait to learn more about his family history in the next one.
The conflicts felt REAL and SCARY. (I was gripping my phone so tightly during the final scene that my hand fully cramped lol). The way Mx. Jorgensen writes action scenes has me at the edge of my seat every time. They have also earned my trust as a reader, so I was able to temper that fear with the knowledge that whatever happened, it would serve the narrative. (And it did 🫡)
Much like the first one, I was left with a hunger to learn more about the world and the way it works. That is probably the only thing this book left me wanting. Every time we got a bit of knowledge about the relics, about the villains, about the society, about how magic works left me clawing at the pages to learn more. I can only hope that we get more world building in the next book!
(Also, I frickin love Joe and dream of a spin-off series for him. Joe sequel, author? Joe sequel??👀)
If you're an historical queer romance fan or just hungry for good neurodivergent representation, this series is an absolute MUST. Cozy, exciting, heartfelt, and intriguing, Reanimator's Soul was easily one of my favorite reads of the year.
**I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review**
I absolutely adored Reanimator's Heart, and was VIBRATING waiting for this sequel. And boy oh boy, did it deliver!
As a queer person with various and sundry neurodivergence, I love being able to trust an author to write said neurodivergence thoughtfully, and Mx. Jorgensen does so every time.
We got a delicious amount of Felipe/Oliver figuring themselves and their relationship out. Oliver, increasingly haunted by bad experiences with his newly returned ex, and Felipe, reckoning with the side effects of his recent undeath, grow both individually and together. I left this book more in love with Felipe than ever. I was ecstatic to see more of Felipe's family, especially Teresa; and we got a lot more depth to his character that was really moving. I can't wait to learn more about his family history in the next one.
The conflicts felt REAL and SCARY. (I was gripping my phone so tightly during the final scene that my hand fully cramped lol). The way Mx. Jorgensen writes action scenes has me at the edge of my seat every time. They have also earned my trust as a reader, so I was able to temper that fear with the knowledge that whatever happened, it would serve the narrative. (And it did 🫡)
Much like the first one, I was left with a hunger to learn more about the world and the way it works. That is probably the only thing this book left me wanting. Every time we got a bit of knowledge about the relics, about the villains, about the society, about how magic works left me clawing at the pages to learn more. I can only hope that we get more world building in the next book!
(Also, I frickin love Joe and dream of a spin-off series for him. Joe sequel, author? Joe sequel??👀)
If you're an historical queer romance fan or just hungry for good neurodivergent representation, this series is an absolute MUST. Cozy, exciting, heartfelt, and intriguing, Reanimator's Soul was easily one of my favorite reads of the year.
**I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review**
January 10, 2024
The Reanimator's Soul brings such a depth of complicated human emotions to a world full of common politics and uncommon magics. In addition to Oliver and Felipe's burgeoning relationship, family problems, and the new murder mystery that falls in their laps, this book also introduces Oliver's infamous ex. There's so much going in this story. It's smart. It's complex. And it's so good.
There are a lot of things I enjoy about this story, but at the forefront of all of them is how real Oliver and Felipe feel as people - their emotions, their anxieties, their needs, and their struggles to balance life and work. They’re fully structured characters, not only in the present, but with pasts that haunt them.
While this story progressed Oliver and Felipe’s interpersonal relationship beautifully, it also built upon the characters individually from the first book and gave us growth and more insight into relationships outside of their bubble, all while handling a complicated case that shows off more of the magical community and of prejudices both inside and outside that community.
There’s so much packed into The Reanimator’s Soul that I haven’t even glossed over in this review, that the book feels much longer than it is - in the best way possible. It’s loaded with questions and answers, pain and comfort, buried pasts and stoking futures, and frankly, it’s a whole lot of bang for your buck. To me, it’s a book to sit down with and savor, consume with a mug of your favorite hot beverage and slip into this magical past where two men struggle to solve a crime much bigger than it seems while dealing with past lovers, present family drama, and their feelings for each other.
It’s a great, well-written book that honors what was created in the first novel builds upon it. I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys a lush, urban fantasy murder mystery with a queer romance, especially if you’re looking for an autistic main character. This won’t disappoint.
There are a lot of things I enjoy about this story, but at the forefront of all of them is how real Oliver and Felipe feel as people - their emotions, their anxieties, their needs, and their struggles to balance life and work. They’re fully structured characters, not only in the present, but with pasts that haunt them.
While this story progressed Oliver and Felipe’s interpersonal relationship beautifully, it also built upon the characters individually from the first book and gave us growth and more insight into relationships outside of their bubble, all while handling a complicated case that shows off more of the magical community and of prejudices both inside and outside that community.
There’s so much packed into The Reanimator’s Soul that I haven’t even glossed over in this review, that the book feels much longer than it is - in the best way possible. It’s loaded with questions and answers, pain and comfort, buried pasts and stoking futures, and frankly, it’s a whole lot of bang for your buck. To me, it’s a book to sit down with and savor, consume with a mug of your favorite hot beverage and slip into this magical past where two men struggle to solve a crime much bigger than it seems while dealing with past lovers, present family drama, and their feelings for each other.
It’s a great, well-written book that honors what was created in the first novel builds upon it. I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys a lush, urban fantasy murder mystery with a queer romance, especially if you’re looking for an autistic main character. This won’t disappoint.
July 22, 2024
As with the first book, this was a fun and easy read. Oliver and Felipe have the chance to investigate the murder of a necromancer who was employed at a hospital that seemingly 'cures' magical people of their magical abilities, because such abilities are frowned upon by God. Oliver wants to find who did this because he himself has felt like an outsider his whole life, even in the magic world, because necromancy is frowned upon by even his fellow magic users.
I continue to adore Oliver. We are introduced to an ex of his, Ansley, in this book and I thought he was overall handled well. It could have been really played up for drama and been tedious but Ansley's antagonism towards Oliver lead to great moments of character development and the story didn't dwell on the past too much. We learned more about Felipe's family too and got to see his internal struggle of spending time with them while keeping the big secret that he can't be too far from Oliver because of their bond keeping him 'alive'. Oliver has to continue to compromise for Felipe and spend time out in public when he would much rather be in his room and Felipe is beginning to feel different due to being a reanimated corpse, but there is never resentment between the men and they communicate really well. I have a theory about Felipe and I want to be correct and I suppose we'll see in book 3.
The plot again is pretty light, but it did feel creepier than the first book. Any hospital fronting as place to heal people but is actually murdering its patients is truly creepy. What the bad guy is doing and why made more sense in this book and the overall murder mystery felt stronger than in the first book. The climax again comes and goes pretty quickly, I think it would have been more satisfying if the resolution had been a bit drawn out. The appeal of this book is definitely the characters and the developing relationship between Oliver and Felipe. The plot is simple and a bit predictable, but enjoyable.
I continue to adore Oliver. We are introduced to an ex of his, Ansley, in this book and I thought he was overall handled well. It could have been really played up for drama and been tedious but Ansley's antagonism towards Oliver lead to great moments of character development and the story didn't dwell on the past too much. We learned more about Felipe's family too and got to see his internal struggle of spending time with them while keeping the big secret that he can't be too far from Oliver because of their bond keeping him 'alive'. Oliver has to continue to compromise for Felipe and spend time out in public when he would much rather be in his room and Felipe is beginning to feel different due to being a reanimated corpse, but there is never resentment between the men and they communicate really well. I have a theory about Felipe and I want to be correct and I suppose we'll see in book 3.
The plot again is pretty light, but it did feel creepier than the first book. Any hospital fronting as place to heal people but is actually murdering its patients is truly creepy. What the bad guy is doing and why made more sense in this book and the overall murder mystery felt stronger than in the first book. The climax again comes and goes pretty quickly, I think it would have been more satisfying if the resolution had been a bit drawn out. The appeal of this book is definitely the characters and the developing relationship between Oliver and Felipe. The plot is simple and a bit predictable, but enjoyable.
October 28, 2024
The Reanimator Mysteries has become one of my favourite book series, and that opinion was cemented by just how much I loved this second book in the series which sees Oliver and Felipe trying to solve the murder of a necromancer while dealing with the sudden reappearance of Oliver's (rather unsavoury) ex and still trying to hide Felipe's secret from his family. I just love this couple and want nothing but happiness for both of them so seeing them struggle in this book definitely tugged at my heart strings, but through it all I loved how deeply they cared for each other. This book is definitely a little steamier than the first book, which makes sense given the deepening of the relationship, but it is beautifully handled. It is not just the relationship between the central characters that has developed, I think the actual mystery that they are trying to solve in this book is much stronger and more developed too. I do love a mystery set in a hospital /asylum with an evil doctor and this book definitely delivers on that in spades. I also appreciated seeing a glimpse of an over arcing storyline with the events towards the end of this book. Once again the secondary characters are also given time to shine, and I loved that we got to spend more time with Felipe's daughter and see that relationship too, she is definitely a character with a lot of potential and one I hope to see even more of as the series continues. I loved the first book but I loved this one even more and I am so glad that I do not have long to wait before the next in the series is published.
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