Wife, Mommy, Urban Fantasy Author, Artist, Actress, Director... I'm only as old as I feel and I try to see the good in everyone. I take life one day at a time and focus only on the moment I'm in without fear or worry about the past or the future.
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Love, laughter, and a little kitchen chaos are on the menu in Recipe for Love!
When a sous chef with secrets clashes with a showrunner chasing a viral hit, sparks fly hotter than the stove.
Karmen Artos, a sous chef at Feline Fine Retirement Home, is horrified when two of the residents hijack her kitchen. Worse yet, they’ve created an Internet cooking show that has gone viral. The recipes are revolting, but viewers are wild for ‘Grandma’s Witchin’ Kitchen!’
Devon Winger, a down-on-his-luck showrunner, arrives in Cat’s Paw Cove to convince the eccentric elderly Internet stars to take the show to the next level — a ShowFlix series. The magical stars are tickled at the idea, but Karmen is dead set against revealing the sanctuary for supernaturals to the world.
Can Karmen convince the sexy Devon that the show will be a dud? Or will Devon realize there’s more to the quirky retirement home than meets the camera’s eye?
Sharon Buchbinder has been writing fiction since middle school and has the rejection slips to prove it. A retired RN and professor, she is the author of the Hotel LaBelle Series, the Jinni Hunter Series, and the Obsession Series. She also has seven books in the Cats Paw Cove Series, a magical place where anything can happen–and does! When not writing, she can be found walking her dogs, herding cats, or breaking bread and laughing with family and friends.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
Sometimes, one voice is all it takes to awaken hundreds.
A New Life
Reflections of Michael Book 4
by L.J. Ambrosio
Genre: Contemporary LGBTQ Fiction, Coming of Age
From America to the streets of Paris, A New Life follows two friends as they navigate grief, love, and self-discovery in a city filled with history and hope. A New Life is a story that lingers long after the last page.
What Readers are saying:
“A heartfelt continuation of The Reservoir Man series, taking readers on an emotional journey through friendship, grief, and self-discovery. Set against the evocative backdrop of Paris, this novel follows the touching bond between Ron, a kind and grounded man, and Louie, a young gay man struggling with his sense of self. Ambrosio masterfully portrays the evolving relationship between the two, echoing the mentor-mentee dynamic seen in earlier books. Louie’s vulnerability and innocence shine through, while Ron’s compassion and strength help guide him through confusion and loneliness. Their moments together are filled with laughter, conflict, understanding, and ultimately growth. The emotional depth of this story is its true strength. From joy to sorrow, the book invites readers to feel alongside the characters. The final scene is especially poignant—both heartbreaking and healing.” – Amazon Reviewer
“A New Life continues the journey of familiar characters we’ve come to love, and yes, we still get that charming bookstore setting and Paris, which basically makes this the cozy, wanderlust-y read of the season. Ambrosio knows how to tell a story that pulls you right in and gives you all the feels. Ron and Louie’s friendship gets deeper, there’s a solid dose of personal growth, and just when you think things are on solid ground—bam, a twist. Classic.
If you’re already a fan of the trilogy, definitely keep going with this one. And if you’re new to it all, start from the beginning—you’ll thank me later.” – Amazon Reviewer
Louis J. Ambrosio ran one of the most nurturing bi-coastal talent agencies in Los Angeles and New York. He started his career as a theatrical producer, running two major regional theaters for eight seasons. Ambrosio taught at 7 Universities. Ambrosio also distinguished himself as an award-winning film producer and novelist over the course of his impressive career.
Safina Bello is a dark romance and thriller author who writes stories about obsession, betrayal, and dangerous love. Inspired by suspenseful plots and morally gray characters, she crafts tales where romance is as thrilling as it is risky. When she’s not writing, she’s connecting with readers, she is currently working on her new book “Dear Killer- The murder of Monica Hall”
Follow Safina on Instagram: @_Safinsb
When Obsession Turns Deadly: The Dark Truth Behind “Dear Killer”
I’ve always been drawn to the parts of life that most people are too scared to look at—the shadows, the secrets, the dangers hiding in plain sight. That’s what inspired me to write my upcoming thriller, Dear Killer: Murder of Monica Hall.
It’s not just a story. It’s a confession, a warning, and a nightmare all rolled into one.
“If you’re reading this; it means he killed me…”
Those are Monica Hall’s last words to the world, written like a diary and a death sentence all at once. For years, she lived in the shadow of a man whose love was nothing but a slow poison. He was patient. He was obsessed. And to him, Monica was his forever—even in death.
When her body is finally found, it looks like the tragic end of a life spent running from him. But nothing is ever that simple. Monica wasn’t just a victim. She was a master of lies, a manipulator, and a murderer. The further the investigation goes, the clearer it becomes that Monica’s death was not the end of her story… it was only the beginning of a new nightmare.
Writing Dear Killer forced me to confront a chilling truth:
People like Monica exist.
I’ve seen pieces of her in real life—the ones who hide behind charm, who destroy everything they touch, and who have families willing to cover their darkness just to protect a last name. That realization haunted me. It still does.
We often imagine monsters as strangers lurking in the dark. But the worst monsters? They’re the ones smiling in family photos.
Dear Killer is more than a thriller. It’s a look at love twisted into obsession, at secrets buried too deep to stay hidden, and at the terrifying ways the past always catches up to us.
This book scarred me as much as it thrilled me to write. But that’s the kind of story I live for—the kind that keeps you awake at night, staring into the dark, wondering how well you really know the people you love.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
In the heart of a small town, love finds its home.
Sweetheart Wedding
Cranberry Bay Book 5
by Mindy Hardwick
Genre: Contemporary Small Town Romance
Determined to start her life over after a failed engagement, Gracie has built her boutique inn into a successful Cranberry Bay business.
Meanwhile, youngest Shuster brother, Adam, loves helping his friends and family while working as a park ranger.
Devastated after a tragic accident, Adam guards his heart and is happy to have Gracie’s friendship. Both swear off love. But when Adam and Gracie are tossed together to help plan a Cranberry Bay wedding, they find their resolve not to fall in love crumbling.
And when Adam loses his Oregon State Parks job and takes a new job in Montana, both will have to decide whether to make the commitment to love each other and leave Cranberry Bay behind for a new life.
Mindy Hardwick holds an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College. Her published contemporary small-town heartwarming romance includes her Cranberry Bay Series: Sweetheart Cottage, Sweetheart Summer, Sweetheart Christmas and Sweetheart Santa. She has also published a young adult romance, Weaving Magic and a young adult novella, Erin’s Choice. Mindy’s middle grade books include: The World is a Sniff, Stained Glass Summer, Some Stories Are Not Seen, and Seymour’s Secret. Mindy facilitated a poetry workshop for teens at Denney Juvenile Justice Center and wrote about the experience in her memoir, Kids in Orange: Voices from Juvenile Detention. Mindy can often be found walking on the north Oregon Coast beaches.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
Heroes and villains from myth, legend, and history converge in this saga set in the vast ancient forests, treacherous bogs, snow-capped mountains, and mysterious lochs of Scotland some four hundred years before the birth of Christ.
Over four hundred years before the birth of Christ, the island of Ériu is a patchwork of feuding kingdoms, vast plains, and frozen bogs. Battle, intrigue, betrayals, and courage are part of life for the Celts who call Ériu home.
At the same time, from their underground halls, the mysterious demi-goddesses of the Aes Sídhe seduce brave warriors, turning men into kings and binding them with fearsome geis.
Conall Mac Gabhann is content with his apprenticeship with the local blacksmith. Content, that is, until he finds his family slaughtered in their home. Two men share responsibility for the massacre: a mad Irish king and a dissolute Roman. Conall will have his vengeance or die in the attempt.
Accompanied by his childhood love—the beautiful but dark-spirited—Mórrígan, and the veteran warrior Fearghal, Conall’s quest takes him northward through unfriendly kingdoms to a confrontation beyond the ancient earthworks of the Black Pig’s Dyke.
Along the way, Conall and Mórrígan will gather an army and come under the influence of the Aes Sídhe. If Conall desires, an apprentice blacksmith will become a king. Who knows what Mórrígan will become?
The Conall Series contains scenes of sex and violence and language appropriate to the period (400 B.C.) it is set in. It is not recommended for those under 14 without parental consent.
Conall II: The Raven’s Flight continues to chronicle the story of Conall and Mórrígan and the epic journey of the warriors from Ériu (Ireland).
Conall and his brooding queen, Mórrígan, lead over two thousand warriors with their followers across the narrow sea separating Ériu from Albu (Britain). Their quest: the capture of Cassius Fabius Scaeva, the dissolute Roman held responsible for the slaughter of their families.
The Ériu encounter human, natural, and supernatural foes and friends. At the mercy of the Aes Sídhe, a race of demi-goddesses who demand that he fulfil his geis, Conall is named the Hand of the Goddess and given the instrument that will crush the Na Daoine Tùrsach—a tribe of fanatical, blood-lusting priests.
They battle fierce northern tribes: the Forest People’s one-eyed king, Drostan Ruadh, opposes their presence, as do the Na Mèadaidh, led by the sly Finnean Mac Sèitheach. Yet, not all are enemies. The Raven People offer their support, although it too comes at a price.
Heroes and villains from myth, legend, and history converge in this saga set in the vast ancient forests, frozen bogs, snow-capped mountains, and mysterious lochs of Scotland some four hundred years before the birth of Christ.
It is 406 B.C. The Gaels tramp battle through the vast forests of Northern Albu and cross the brooding moors and marshes to reach the grain fields of Southern Albu. The majestic stone brochs, crannags and dùin of the north give way to the great hillforts of the South.
The Sisters is the third book of the series. In this tale, the fearsome women surrounding Conall take centre stage.
A malevolent queen bent on conquering Northern Albu launches an invasion and kidnaps the twin daughters of Conall and Mórrígan. The king’s and queen’s blood oath promises no mercy until the young twins are returned.
A merciless assassin stalks the community, and Tadhg is given the unenviable task of tracking the killer down. His mission worsens when the signs point to one of the women close to Conall, and he becomes the target.
Which partners are loyal to their hand-fasting oaths, and who will betray them? Will honour be redeemed on the battlefield?
Amid the battles, betrayals and intrigue, Mòrag, a tall beauty and fearsome warrior, desires Conall at any cost. A clash with Conall’s queen, also known as The Dark Huntress, is inevitable.
“Butter-gold and cruelly hooked, the beak ripped a ragged gash across the newborn’s throat.”
Blacksmith’s son, Conall Mac Gabhann’s only desire was to follow in his father’s footsteps and enjoy a long life with his childhood love, Mórrígan. The slaughter of their parents dashed those dreams. Fuelled by vengeance, both embark on the dark path of retribution.
From the ancient forest, two great eagles take wing. With amber-gold eyes, Fate and the Goddess watch, ready to guide and meddle in human lives.
Conall, now Clann Ui Flaithimh’s ‘king over kings’, must complete his geis—at any cost. He takes another stride closer to Rome and a reckoning with Marcus Fabius Ambustus. Flat-bottomed biremes carry Conall’s army across the Muir nIocht to crash on the shingle beaches of Northwestern Gaul. New enemies and uneasy alliances flourish. Assassins, treason, and betrayal thrive.
Above all, Conall values loyalty. Thus, treason within the tribe sours his belly. Mercy will have no part in his response.
The fourth novel in the Conall series, Conall IV: A Brace of Eagles, is a rousing epic of Celtic heroes and villains, bloody battles, political intrigue, honour, betrayal, tragedy and forbidden love.
“Witch!” Tullus gasped. “You are not that fortunate, Roman,” came the menacing reply.”
Blood has purchased a fragile peace for Conall and Mórrígan and the close circle of friends they call family. However, allies and enemies alike wonder if the king and queen have lost the thirst for vengeance on those who slaughtered their families. Alarmed, gods, kings, and despots conspire to poke the slumbering fire.
Brennus of the Senones smarts at his defeat at Conall’s hands and covets his lands and wealth. Will a bruised ego and hubris overrule the Gaulish king’s typical pragmatism?
The Gaiscedach want revenge for the defeat and execution of their queen. In the dead of night, like cockroaches, they scuttle over the walls of Lugudunon.
Marcus Fabius Ambustus tolerates no challenge to his plan to be the Dictator of Rome. But has arrogance blinded him to the enemy he has nurtured?
The gates of Rome and retribution draw closer. But Conall needs his enemies as much as his friends. Still, who are enemies and who are friends? It is a time of schisms and rebuilding, of loved ones endangered, and assassins and spies revealed.
Yet, there has always been one constant: only the foolish doubt that Conall and Mórrígan will show mercy to those who threaten their family.
Conall V: Retribution is the final novel in the Conall series.
The Conall Series contains scenes of sex, violence, and language appropriate to the period (400 B.C.) in which it is set. It is not recommended for those under 14 without parental consent.
Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, internationally published and award-winning author David H. Millar is the founder, owner, and author-in-residence of A Wee Publishing Company—a business formed to promote Celtic authors and literature.
David is the author of the five-volume, ancient Celtic-based Conall series and the spin-offs The Dog Roses, The Dog Roses: Resolution, The Blood Queen and Brianag: A Blood Queen Novel.
David resides in Houston, Texas, with his family and two recent family members, tuxedos Beau and Stiletto.
Urban fantasy is a genre that has captivated readers for decades, blending the magic and mystery of fantastical realms with the grit and realism of modern-day settings. With its unique mix of supernatural elements and everyday life, urban fantasy has evolved over the years, shifting in themes, character archetypes, and world-building. From the early works of beloved authors like Jim Butcher and Laurell K. Hamilton to the newer voices emerging today, the genre has undergone a significant transformation.
In this article, we’ll explore the evolution of urban fantasy, from its classic roots to contemporary works that continue to shape the genre.
At its core, classic urban fantasy is defined by the juxtaposition of the ordinary and the extraordinary. The protagonist is often a lone wolf, a tough, morally gray character with a special set of skills who faces dark and supernatural forces lurking beneath the surface of everyday life. This version of urban fantasy was steeped in noir influences, where the main character’s inner struggle mirrored the chaos and danger in the world around them.
Jim Butcher’s The Dresden Files, which began in 2000, is one of the definitive examples of early urban fantasy. The series follows Harry Dresden, a private investigator and wizard in modern-day Chicago. Butcher’s blend of hard-boiled detective tropes with magical elements created a blueprint for many urban fantasy works that followed. His world is gritty, often dangerous, and filled with powerful supernatural beings, from fae to vampires. The detective noir influence is evident in Dresden’s constant struggle between good and evil, with every book pushing him deeper into morally ambiguous situations.
Meanwhile, Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake series, which began in 1993, took the genre in a more erotic and dark direction. Anita Blake, a necromancer and vampire executioner, finds herself caught in a web of supernatural politics, power struggles, and dangerous romantic entanglements. Hamilton’s work often explored themes of power, sexuality, and identity, pushing the boundaries of what urban fantasy could tackle in terms of personal relationships and societal issues. As the series progressed, the focus shifted more toward the complexities of Anita’s supernatural world and her growing powers, with heavy emphasis on eroticism and romantic relationships.
The Shift in Themes and Character Archetypes
As the genre grew in popularity, urban fantasy began to evolve in response to changing reader expectations and cultural shifts. The early emphasis on gritty, morally complex protagonists began to make room for more diverse voices and a broader range of themes.
One significant shift was the increasing focus on female protagonists. While classic urban fantasy had often centered around male characters like Harry Dresden, more recent works have seen a shift toward strong, empowered women at the forefront of the story. Authors began to explore themes of empowerment, self-discovery, and the intersection of personal and supernatural challenges in deeper, more nuanced ways. This shift not only made the genre more inclusive but also allowed for a broader exploration of issues like gender, identity, and family.
In these contemporary works, the protagonist often faces both external supernatural threats and internal personal struggles. Their journeys are no longer just about surviving dangerous magical forces but also about grappling with personal growth, moral dilemmas, and relationships. These themes provide a more holistic and relatable narrative, where magic is just one element of a much larger and more complex human experience.
This focus on personal growth and inner conflict has become a hallmark of contemporary urban fantasy, with protagonists often battling not only external supernatural forces but also their own personal demons. This allows for more diverse and relatable characters, which has resonated with modern readers.
World-Building: From Classic Tropes to Contemporary Complexity
In the earlier days of urban fantasy, world-building often focused on introducing the magical or supernatural elements and the tension between them and the human world. The worlds were often gritty and dark, with a heavy emphasis on danger and mystery. In many cases, the rules governing magic were somewhat vague, allowing for flexibility in storytelling.
However, contemporary urban fantasy has become more complex in its approach to world-building. Authors now often create elaborate systems of magic, politics, and supernatural races, with intricate rules and histories that mirror our own world’s political, cultural, and societal dynamics. The supernatural is no longer just a hidden world; it’s intricately woven into the fabric of society, often influencing everything from politics to economics.
This expansion of world-building has led to stories where the supernatural is no longer just a secret lurking behind the curtain, but an active part of everyday life. Different supernatural races and cultures, often with their own set of rules, ethics, and political systems, interact within the world’s broader society. As a result, urban fantasy worlds now feel as fleshed out and intricate as our own, with supernatural powers having real-world consequences.
The Rise of New Voices and Diverse Narratives
One of the most exciting developments in contemporary urban fantasy is the influx of new voices and diverse perspectives. While earlier works were often centered around Western tropes and characters, modern urban fantasy is increasingly global in scope, with stories drawing on mythology and folklore from a wide range of cultures. Authors from different backgrounds are infusing the genre with fresh perspectives, creating rich, diverse worlds that reflect a broader range of human experiences.
Urban fantasy now explores a wider array of characters, from diverse cultural backgrounds to varying sexual orientations, challenging the genre’s traditional boundaries. These stories go beyond the typical white male or female protagonists and bring new perspectives on power, identity, and the supernatural. By incorporating diverse characters, authors have enriched the genre, allowing it to better reflect the world we live in today.
This expansion of the genre’s boundaries has opened up new possibilities for storytelling, allowing authors to explore themes of identity, belonging, and societal change in ways that resonate with modern readers. Urban fantasy has become a vehicle for cultural exchange, blending the traditional elements of magic and mystery with deeper explorations of societal issues, relationships, and personal struggles.
Conclusion: The Ongoing Evolution of Urban Fantasy
From its gritty, noir-inspired roots to the vibrant, diverse world-building of today, urban fantasy has undergone a profound transformation. While early works like The Dresden Files and Anita Blake established the genre’s foundation, contemporary voices have helped to push the genre in exciting new directions, embracing complex characters, intricate world-building, and diverse narratives.
As urban fantasy continues to evolve, one thing is certain: it will remain a genre that blends the magic of the fantastical with the reality of everyday life, creating worlds that are as engaging as they are magical. Whether you’re drawn to classic tales of supernatural sleuths or the bold, new voices redefining the genre, urban fantasy offers something for every reader. The genre is far from static—it’s alive and ever-changing, just as the world it mirrors.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
The future is grim. Seven human women, trained in survival and negotiation are being permitted to land on Planet Sanos with one goal: secure a future for the humans of Earth… at any cost.
Tales From Planet Sanos
A Multi-Author Science Fiction Romance Omnibus
with stories by
Celia Kyle, Chloe Graves, Elin Wyn, Holly Hanzo,
Lara Roth, Mary Ashe, Robin O’Connor
The future is grim. The Earth’s oceans are poison to humans, and pure water, untainted by the generations of pollution, is scarce and coveted. Our only hope—Earth’s only hope—rests in the landing capsule gradually descending from the generational spaceship, the USS Legacy. Seven human women, trained in survival and negotiation are being permitted to land on Planet Sanos with one goal: secure a future for the humans of Earth… at any cost.
This SPECIAL EDITION print omnibus has a glossy cover, printed edges, digital signatures, and custom artwork throughout. It contains the following Planet Sanos shared world novellas:
Taken by the Alien Merking by Celia Kyle Taken by the Siren King by Chloe Graves Taken by the Storm King by Elin Wyn Taken by the Alien Kraken King by Holly Hanzo Taken by the Leviathan King by Lara Roth Taken by the Merrow King by Mary Ashe Taken by the Alien Triton King by Robin O’Connor
Ex-dance teacher, former accountant and erstwhile collectible doll salesperson, Celia Kyle now writes paranormal and science fiction romances as well as urban fantasy. It goes without saying that there’s always a happily-ever-after for her characters, even if there are a few road bumps along the way. Today she lives in central Florida and writes full-time with the support of her loving husband and two finicky cats.
Enter to win a $50 Amazon gift card or a print copy of the Special Edition – open WW (anywhere that Amazon will ship) – 1 winner each!Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. That means, when you purchase a book using an Amazon link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission. All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
Meet Tansy Shackleton. She’s just the witch to finish what her ancestors started.
Scare Thee Well
Laurel Haven Witches Book 2
by ReGina Welling
Genre: Paranormal Women’s Fiction
Three hundred years ago, one witch had to live with her mistakes. Today, another might have to die for them.
Tansy Shackleton has spent her entire life carrying the guilt of her family’s legacy. If not for her ancestor’s mistake, good witches might not be trapped in the coastal town of Laurel Haven, Maine. But no matter how hard she tries to make amends, she can’t stop seeing the stain on her soul. Not even at the cost of her marriage.
Connor Shackleton has tried everything he can think of to get his wife to see that she’s not to blame for the unwitting actions of a long-dead witch. At his wit’s end and unable to watch Tansy work herself into the ground for something that wasn’t even her fault, he proposes they take a break for a few days, just to get some perspective.
He should have known Tansy would martyr both their happiness on the alter of guilt, but he didn’t. He wanted her back almost from the minute he walked away, but she’s shut him out of her life as firmly as the door she closed behind him.
The problem is, life and death in Laurel Haven go hand in hand for witches of the blood, and just like Tansy, Connor’s one of them. The only way to move forward is to turn and face the past head-on. Together with her new coven, Tansy will have to put all of Laurel Haven’s ghosts to rest or die trying.
ReGina Welling prefers not to talk about herself in the third person so…
I live in Maine with my husband, a silly flufferpup named Dash, and a crazy cat named Cricket. I write full time and also create mixed media artwork when I get the chance.
When I was three, my mom brought home a new book and when she went to read it to me, I read it to her instead. That was when she realized I’d learned to read. Since then I couldn’t even estimate the number of books I’ve read. It’s a lot!
I love talking to other readers so please visit me in any one of these various places and don’t forget to let me know you stopped by!
One of the key elements that defines urban fantasy is the integration of magical elements into the modern world. Whether it’s a hidden society of magical beings, a world where spells and supernatural creatures roam the streets, or the exploration of a character’s newfound magical powers, the magic system in an urban fantasy setting must feel both extraordinary and plausible. Readers need to believe that magic can exist within the framework of their everyday lives without shattering the suspension of disbelief. But how do you create a magical system that feels authentic while staying grounded in the real world?
In this post, I’ll take you through an in-depth guide to building unique and believable magic systems in urban fantasy. We’ll discuss the importance of internal consistency, the balance between magic and real-world rules, and how to keep your readers hooked without losing their trust in the world you’ve created.
1. Establishing Rules for Magic
The first step in crafting a believable magic system is setting clear rules for how magic works in your world. While magic allows for immense creativity and wonder, it also requires structure. Without established rules, magic becomes too arbitrary and unpredictable, making it difficult for readers to connect with the world you’ve built.
Why Rules Matter:
Internal Consistency: A magic system must adhere to its own logic. If magic behaves differently without explanation, it risks confusing or frustrating readers. The moment magic becomes a convenient plot device that appears without proper foreshadowing, you lose the trust of your audience.
Limits and Costs: Every magic system should have limitations. Power without limitations feels contrived. Magic should come with costs, whether it’s physical tolls on the user, restrictions on its use, or even social consequences. For instance, maybe casting a spell drains a person’s energy, risks the safety of a loved one, or only works at a certain time of day. These limitations make magic feel earned and give characters something to struggle with.
Think about Jim Butcher’s The Dresden Files, where Harry Dresden’s magic is often limited by the amount of energy he can draw from the world, the danger it poses to him personally, and the rules of the White Council. Dresden’s magic is consistent but not unlimited, and he is always mindful of the cost of each spell.
2. Make Magic a Part of the World’s Framework
In urban fantasy, magic doesn’t just exist in isolation—it interacts with the real world. For your magic system to feel believable, it should be integrated into society, politics, culture, and even economy, as though it’s always been a part of the world. That is, unless the magic of your world is held in secret among only those in the know… say an underground world of witches like in my Blood Angel Series, for example.
Creating a Magical Ecosystem:
Hidden vs. Known Magic: Is magic something that society is aware of, or is it hidden from the public? In many urban fantasy stories, magic is concealed from the general public, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue. However, even in these worlds, magic should still have an impact on the economy, government, or society. Maybe magical beings run secretive industries, or powerful witches control the black market of enchanted items.
Magical Institutions and Regulations: Think about how magic would be regulated, if at all. Are there organizations that oversee magical activities? Is magic illegal for certain people or in certain areas? How does the magical community interact with the mundane world—do they cooperate, conflict, or hide from each other? Exploring these societal dynamics can help ground your magic system in reality and avoid making it seem like an arbitrary addition to the plot.
For example, Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake: Vampire Hunter series presents a world where vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural creatures are not only known but have legal rights and recognition, with the government regulating these creatures’ activities. The existence of supernatural beings is integral to society’s politics, and the magic in the world reflects that integration.
3. Determine the Source of Magic
One of the most important decisions when creating a magic system is determining where the magic comes from. Magic can be drawn from a variety of sources—nature, gods, emotions, the mind, or even technology. The source of magic will significantly shape how it functions and is understood in your world.
Common Sources of Magic:
Elemental Forces: Magic that taps into the natural world, such as fire, water, or earth, is a common source of power. This can create a connection between magic and the environment, adding depth to the system. For instance, a fire mage might have to be near a flame or rely on natural heat sources to use their powers, making the system more tangible and grounded.
Bloodlines or Heritage: Magic might be passed down through generations or tied to specific bloodlines. This can create tension within societies, with some families hoarding power, others struggling to access their abilities, or even forbidden forms of magic associated with certain ancestries.
Energy or Willpower: Magic could be powered by an individual’s physical, mental, or emotional energy. A magic user might have to tap into their own life force, willpower, or emotions like anger, sadness, or love to fuel their spells. This can create complex inner conflict, as characters may hesitate to use magic for fear of personal loss.
Technology and Science: Some urban fantasy systems blend technology and magic, where magic is not a mystical force but a scientific one, often with technological advancements enabling magical phenomena. Think of how techno-magic systems like those in the Shadowrun series blend cybernetics with spellcasting or enchanted machines.
By establishing where your magic originates, you not only create more specific rules for your system but also provide readers with a clearer understanding of its limitations and potential.
4. Incorporate Magic into Character Development
The use of magic in urban fantasy often plays a central role in character development. A character’s relationship with magic can reveal a lot about their personality, values, and struggles. This is where character-driven conflict can shine—especially if magic isn’t simply a tool, but something that challenges or alters the character’s life.
Examples of Magic and Character Development:
Moral Dilemmas: A character might have access to immense magical power but must choose whether to use it for good, evil, or for personal gain. This inner conflict can shape their journey. In The Dresden Files, Harry Dresden’s magic comes with deep moral consequences. His choices, especially when using darker forms of magic, define who he is as a person and affect his relationships.
Physical or Emotional Limitations: Magic could come with a physical toll, such as the deterioration of the user’s health or mind. Alternatively, magic might amplify a character’s emotional state. This can add depth to characters, making their struggles more relatable and the magic itself a more integral part of the narrative. For instance, a character might be too emotionally unstable to control their magic, creating tension and stakes.
Identity and Belonging: If magic is tied to heritage or bloodlines, a character may feel the weight of their ancestry, the pressure of expectation, or even a sense of loss if they cannot access their magical heritage. How they grapple with their magical identity can be central to their character arc.
5. Use Magic to Enhance the Story, Not Dominate It
While magic is an essential component of urban fantasy, it should never overpower the story. The best urban fantasy integrates magic in ways that enhance the plot, drive character development, and add intrigue to the world—without allowing magic to solve all the problems instantly.
Balance Between Magic and the Mundane:
The magical and mundane worlds should interact, not just coexist. Often, the challenges in urban fantasy arise from the friction between these two realms. Magic might make life more complicated rather than easier. This keeps the stakes high and forces characters to think creatively and make tough choices.
Magic should be a tool, not a crutch. It can help drive the plot forward, but it shouldn’t remove all challenges. There needs to be an element of danger, uncertainty, and complexity even in magical situations. For example, perhaps magic is unreliable in certain circumstances, or the protagonist’s power might not be enough to overcome an adversary without sacrifice.
Crafting a believable magic system in urban fantasy is an exciting challenge, but it requires careful thought and structure. The magic must be consistent, integrated into the world, and tied to real-world consequences to maintain the suspension of disbelief. By establishing rules, creating a system that fits the world, and using magic as a tool for character development, you can create a magical system that feels grounded, logical, and, most importantly, immersive. When done well, magic becomes more than just a fantastical element; it becomes an integral part of the world, deepening both the stakes of the story and the richness of the characters within it.
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Have fun adventures with Evie Able’s multicultural children’s fantasy books!
The Bad Little Fairy by Evie Able Genre: Multicultural Children’s Fantasy
Jenny is a bad little fairy. She knows how to play and have fun. She’s far too busy to learn the joy of being considerate. Thankfully, curiosity is the fairy of invention. With numerous full page color illustrations and rhyming text, The Bad Little Fairy will engage pre-readers of all cultures to imagine the magic of kindness.
The Bad Fairy Baker by Evie Able Genre: Multicultural Children’s Fantasy
Jenny wants to bake muffins. Baking isn’t easy, but patience wins the day. Take a kitchen journey with the bad little fairy and bake grain-free muffins with your kids with the recipe at the back!
Hiding Dragons by Evie Able Genre: Multicultural Children’s Fantasy
There is a boy, a curious boy, who just moved to the hood. If you watch close, and books aren’t near, he will be misunderstood. Some friendships begin with discovering hidden treasures. Learn the magic of making new friends in Hiding Dragons.
A Story by Evie Able Genre: Multicultural Children’s Fantasy
Winner of the 2025 Golden Wizard Book Prize Award!
Stories are for everyone. Follow this story through the African rain forest and out to the Sahara as animals of all kinds discover the power one story has. For 6 months and older.
Evie Able is the author of the Bad Little Fairy, Hiding Dragons and Phoenix Ashe books series and winner of the Kroger Award for Excellence in Creative Writing. Able Focuses on interweaving paranormal elements into multicultural children’s and young adult stories, creating unique worlds which re-conceptualize how we learn to be good people. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and the Authors Guild.
Nina Soden 