Step into the fog-draped streets of Victorian London with the Ministry of Curiosities, a historical fantasy series by C.J. Archer that weaves necromancy, mystery, and a dash of slow-burn romance. Follow Charlotte 'Charlie' Holloway, a young woman with the rare ability to raise the dead, as she joins a secret organization unraveling supernatural enigmas. This thrilling saga captures the imagination with its blend of gaslamp fantasy and gritty intrigue, perfect for fans of paranormal adventures.
With ten books brimming with plot twists and quirky characters, the series invites readers into a reimagined 19th-century England where magic lurks in the shadows. Whether you’re drawn to feisty heroines or secret societies, the Ministry of Curiosities promises a page-turning escape.
How Ministry of Curiosities Began
C.J. Archer, an Australian author with a passion for history and fantasy, launched the Ministry of Curiosities in 2015 with The Last Necromancer. Inspired by her love for Victorian England’s blend of elegance and grit, Archer crafted a world where supernatural beings coexist with corsets and carriages. The series, linked to her earlier Freak House books through a short story, Strange Horizons, was designed as a standalone adventure, welcoming new readers with its accessible yet richly detailed setting.
Archer’s knack for blending genres—historical fiction, paranormal mystery, and romance—set the stage for a series that feels both familiar and fresh. Her goal was to create a heroine like Charlie, whose resilience and wit shine against a backdrop of danger and deception.
The Heart of Ministry of Curiosities
The series kicks off with The Last Necromancer (2015), where Charlie, disguised as a boy in London’s slums, is captured by Lincoln Fitzroy, leader of the Ministry of Curiosities. Tasked with stopping a madman using necromancy for monstrous creations, Charlie’s journey is packed with suspense and unexpected allies. Her Majesty’s Necromancer (2015) deepens the mystery as missing bodies spark investigations, while Charlie probes Lincoln’s secretive past.
Beyond the Grave (2015) escalates the stakes with murders tied to supernatural forces, testing Charlie’s loyalty to the Ministry. By From the Ashes (2016), Charlie’s return to Lichfield Towers reignites her complex dynamic with Lincoln, weaving loyalty, honor, and subtle romance into the paranormal plot. Themes of identity, trust, and resilience shine through, set against a Victorian backdrop where gaslamps cast eerie shadows and séances hide dark truths.
Archer’s writing is smooth and engaging, balancing gritty street scenes with the opulence of high society. The slow-burn romance between Charlie and the stoic Lincoln keeps readers hooked, while secondary characters like Gus and Seth add humor and heart. The series’ gaslamp fantasy style—blending historical accuracy with subtle magic—makes it a standout in the genre.
Why Ministry of Curiosities Resonates
The Ministry of Curiosities has carved a niche among fans of historical fantasy and paranormal romance, earning praise for its immersive world and compelling characters. Reviews highlight its addictive quality, with readers devouring the series for its blend of mystery and emotional depth. Archer’s ability to craft a strong, multifaceted heroine like Charlie resonates with those seeking stories of empowerment and adventure.
Its lasting appeal lies in its accessibility—appropriate for teens yet rich enough for adults—and its vivid reimagining of Victorian London as a playground for the supernatural. The series’ cult following continues to grow, fueled by Archer’s knack for delivering heart-pounding twists and heartfelt moments.
- Publication Years: 2015–2018
- Number of Books: 10
- Key Genres: Historical Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Gaslamp Fantasy
Grab The Last Necromancer and dive into the Ministry of Curiosities’s spellbinding world of necromancy and secrets today!