For years I've heard complaints about a lack of Occult fiction portraying Witches realistically in a contemporary setting. And it's true. As a Wiccan and novelist writing Occult fiction, I'm just as much a fan of the genre as any reader. However, I have found if you search carefully, there are dazzling gems awaiting discovery, novels that should be a part of your contemporary Occult fiction collection.
To find these novels I have narrowed my search criteria to dark urban fantasy novels set in contemporary times or in the near future. At least half the rituals, magick, or sorcery used by the main character must be based on real magickal principles. The main character must be human, and the plot not overshadowed by trendy leagues of vampires.
Having set those guidelines, I want to present my first recommendation for must-read Occult fiction. All I can say is if you've never read Lilith Saintcrow's "Dante Valentine" series you are in for a treat!
Saintcrow is best known for her paranormal romance novels, the "Watcher" series, featuring elemental Witches and their handsome guardians. However, Dante Valentine was created from an entirely different cut of cloth.
There are five novels in the series. The first two, "Working for the Devil" and "Dead Man Rising" have already been published. The last three novels are scheduled for publication in 2007 and 2008.
Dante Valentine is a Necromance, who works for lawyers, raising the spirits of the dead when wills come into question. She also takes a few bounty hunting jobs on the side to help pay her mortgage. "Danny" is a wise-cracking whirlwind of energy with a haunting past that won't quit. Devoted to the Egyptian god Anubis, she entertains Pagan readers with plenty of rituals, spells, and magick.
The series takes place in the near future, as the plot races from one high to the next at lightning speed. This is contemporary Occult fiction at its finest, the kind of book you can't put down until you finish it. And one you'll still be thinking about months later.
Saintcrow is a master at creating memorable characters and deftly plotted novels. If you've been searching for awesome Occult fiction to add to your personal collection, this should be the first series on your list. You won't be disappointed!
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