Step into the enchanting world of the Summoner series, where demons, magic, and epic battles collide in a thrilling young adult fantasy adventure! Written by Taran Matharu, this New York Times bestselling series follows Fletcher, an orphaned blacksmith’s apprentice who discovers his rare ability to summon demons from another realm. With a vibe that blends the magical camaraderie of Harry Potter, the epic scope of Lord of the Rings, and the creature-collecting charm of Pokemon, Summoner captivates readers with its richly imagined world and heart-pounding stakes.
Set in the Hominum Empire, where tensions brew between humans, elves, dwarves, and orcs, the series weaves a tale of friendship, prejudice, and the timeless struggle between good and evil. Whether you’re a fantasy fanatic or new to the genre, Summoner’s fast-paced storytelling and relatable characters make it a must-read.
How Summoner Began
Taran Matharu, a London-born author with Brazilian and Indian roots, kicked off the Summoner series in 2013 at age 22. Inspired by his love for fantasy novels, video games, and his multicultural heritage, Matharu began writing The Novice during NaNoWriMo, posting daily updates on Wattpad. The story exploded, racking up over 3 million reads in six months, catching the eye of publishers. By 2015, The Novice hit shelves, launching Matharu’s career as a full-time author and earning a spot on the New York Times bestseller list.
The Heart of Summoner
The Summoner series spans four books: The Novice (2015), The Inquisition (2016), The Battlemage (2017), and the prequel The Outcast (2018). In The Novice, Fletcher accidentally summons a salamander demon named Ignatius and is whisked to Vocans Academy to train as a battlemage. The Inquisition sees Fletcher navigating political intrigue and a dangerous quest, while The Battlemage delivers an epic conclusion amid a war-torn ether. The Outcast explores the backstory of Fletcher’s mentor, Arcturus, diving into themes of class and identity.
Matharu’s world is a melting pot of classic fantasy races—elves, dwarves, orcs—paired with a unique demon-summoning system that feels like Pokemon with a darker edge. The series tackles heavy themes like racial and class prejudice, particularly through characters like Othello, a dwarf facing discrimination. Friendship and loyalty shine as Fletcher bonds with his demon and allies, while the constant threat of betrayal keeps readers on edge. The vivid setting, from Vocans’ halls to the orc-infested jungles, immerses readers in a world both familiar and fresh.
Why Summoner Resonates
The Summoner series has left a mark on young adult fantasy, praised for its accessible yet intricate world-building and diverse cast. Fans on platforms like Goodreads and Reddit rave about its binge-worthy pacing and emotional depth, with some calling it a gateway to fantasy for reluctant readers. Matharu’s ability to weave social commentary into a thrilling narrative has sparked discussions about real-world issues like inequality, making the series resonate beyond its magical trappings.
Its Wattpad origins also highlight its unique journey, inspiring aspiring writers to share their work online. While not as globally iconic as Harry Potter, Summoner’s dedicated fanbase and million-plus sales in English cement its place as a beloved modern fantasy staple.
- First Published: May 5, 2015 (The Novice)
- Number of Books: 4
- Languages: Translated into 15 languages
- Awards: New York Times bestseller status
Grab The Novice and dive into Summoner’s spellbinding world of demons, battles, and unbreakable bonds!