Thank you to the author for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own. Also a big thank you to the author for sending me another copy of this book after the copy I downloaded from NetGalley was corrupted, I’m delighted I got to read this wonderful book.

This book follows the story of Haron Val Toric, necromancer and many other things besides. In the Kingdom of Respar male spellcasters are valued and female spellcasters are treated as unstable and less than. Haron refuses to conform and fit in the narrow boxes that society dictates. After Haron discovers and begins investigating the gruesome death of a noblewoman, she comes into contact with Crown Prince Irin Gailish and he enlists her into helping investigate the mysterious death of his father. Irin is captivated by Haron and is torn between duty and his attraction to her. Meanwhile outside forces are plotting to bring ruin on them both.

I loved this book, I loved the world building, the plot, the characters, the magic system, everything. I loved Haron from the get go as she was so feisty, such a strong character and Irin was the perfect compliment to Haron. I love how gender fluidity is introduced in this book, it was dealt with very sensitively and is a pivotal part of the story, nicely done by the author. The twist in the story I worked this out from the Easter Eggs at the beginning of each chapter, these are important so take note but when the twist came I hadn’t figured everything out so still was surprised. If you like he falls first, shape shifting, magic, danger, romance then book is for you. I can’t rate this book highly enough and I really loved it. 5+ stars from me.

Thank you for net galley and the author for the sec of this book.

I enjoyed a lot about this book the magic and necromancy especially. I also loved that in a kingdom where men are held in higher regard that it’s a woman who’s the best necromancer. The FMC is a total badass. Her growth definitely sets her apart from other books. FMC and MMC magical abilities are really interesting and I liked how he wasn’t above it to “beg” for what he wants (Haron). I enjoyed the world building but as the book went on I realised I wanted more details of past events. I think this would have helped a lot with the plot

Unfortunately this book wasn’t for me, I couldn’t get past this first chapter as it simply didn’t make any sense to me, I’m not sure if this is the actual writing or the format this has arrived to my kindle in. Lots of numbers in between words, some words not full words, lots of gaps in the middle of sentences. Sentences not starting with capital letters but capital letters in the middle of words.

Unique World-Building: The juxtaposition of past and present in Respar creates a layered setting that feels both familiar and novel.
Refreshing Take on Magic: The portrayal of magical guilds and necromancy offers a fresh perspective within the fantasy genre.
Engaging Tropes: Elements like lost royalty, wolf shifters, and friends-to-lovers dynamics add depth and appeal. 
Some plot points, particularly those related to the kingdom’s history, could have been more thoroughly developed to enhance the narrative’s cohesion. Character Development: While Haron’s defiance of patriarchal norms is compelling, her motivations could have been explored more deeply to provide greater emotional resonance. 
Earth Mover offers a satisfying read for fans of dark fantasy and romantic elements. Its strengths lie in its imaginative world and the protagonist’s challenging of societal expectations. While there are areas that could benefit from further development, the novel’s unique approach to magic and gender roles makes it a noteworthy addition to the genre

Thanks to Victory and NetGalley for the ARC!

This was an entertaining read! The world building and the necromancy were so interesting and not something I have read a lot of in other stories. The twist, while semi predictable, was still fun to see unfold. I enjoyed the characters and how they grew throughout the story and the ending of the book left me wanting me more! I wish there were some details on certain events, but it really did not negatively my time reading the book. If you like a good dark romantasy I think this is a book you should check out!

I really liked this. The world is uniquely unveiled past and present together. It was somewhat predictable. I loved the angst from the FMC and the MMC’d responses to it. I do feel I could have used some more explaining of the plot at the beginning, more details as to why the FMC suspected what she did. Overall an entertaining read.

thank you so much to NetGalley for the eARC of this book!!!

3.5 ⭐️

I was unsure when I started this book how I felt, I struggled with getting into the story, the sexual aspects caught me off guard!!
However, once I got into it I really really enjoyed the plot. Haron was such a strong female lead who took no sh*t from anyone which I really enjoyed!! The plot speaks to the sexism and injustices within the magic system which I felt was really well done and resonated.
The relationship between Haron and Irin wasn’t my favourite but that man GROVELLED which I was totally here for.
Morette is an absolute badass and I can’t wait to see where their story goes.

This was super fun fantasy read. It gained pace throughout!!

I appreciate the opportunity but unfortunately will not be finishing it. I was intrigued by the premise but don't think it was the story for me.

Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for an eARC!

- Dark Romantasy
- Friends-to-Lovers
- Opposites Attract


Overall, <i>Earth Mover</i> was a solid read, easily devourable in a handful of reading sessions. I will admit that I was a bit surprised within the first chapter with references to sex and a fair bit of cursing (as I typically am not interested) but was glad I persevered as the underlining story was worth it.

The major twist towards the last 30% wasn't difficult to predict, knowing the general tropes of the genre. What was refreshing was the world-building of the past-vs-present kingdoms and the magic guilds. The main character is a literal firecracker, railing against the injustice of patriarchy in very unsubtle ways.

Some plot points that shaped the current state of things seemed a bit left behind in that more attention could have fleshed these points out to build up everything that is currently happening within the story.

<b>What I Liked:</b>
- World-building of the past vs present state
- Refreshing take on magical guilds
- Necromancy!

<b>What I Wish Were Better:</b>
- Lacking details of pre-story events mentioned then discarded for the major plot lines
- MC Haron going hardcore in her thoughts on bucking against patriarchal ideas (a revelation toward the last 20% of the book gives explanation)

(Same review posted on 05/04/2025 on GoodReads)

3.5/5 stars

Earth Mover by J.C. Murphey was a solid and enjoyable read! It had a nice blend of romantic dark fantasy with just enough intrigue to keep me turning the pages. The tropes were definitely a highlight—lost royalty, a wolf shifter, friends to lovers, opposites attract, and even a “happy for now” ending, which made the journey feel complete but left room for more. If you enjoy Dark Romantasy, I say give this book a go!