Awakened mage by Karen Miller

The second book in the series of two.

Whereas The Innocent Mage had a more lighthearted tone, The Awakened Mage
is much darker. Things go from bad to worse; to even worse, and when
redemption finally dawns, the reader will be glad of it. But this does
make for some great reading as we wonder just how Gar and Asher will
find their way out of this mess and ultimately defeat the evil magician
Morg.

Innocent mage by Karen Miller

1st book in a series of two.

written well enough that I had to go out and get the second book, but nevertheless predictable.
The Innocent Mage is full of vibrant characters and a decent
plot. Ms. Miller effortlessly weaves each character’s perspective into
the story, each voice unique and solid. You spend a lot of time getting
to know the players and that only serves to make them more life like.