Books matching: magic and technology
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Magic Bites is a punchy, clever urban fantasy starter that gets better as you go - expect gritty action, smart-mouthed characters, and a wild magical world, but be ready for a learning curve and a slow-burn story. Worth sticking with if you like tough heroines and urban fantasy with bite!
In "Magic Bites" by Ilona Andrews, readers are introduced to Kate Daniels, a strong and tough mercenary living in a post-apocalyptic Atlanta where magic and technology alternate in dominance. Kate's investigations lead her to battle psychotic creatures, navigate complex power dynamics between different supernatural factions, and uncover dark mysteries that threaten the fragile balance of her world. The writing style is described as dark and intense, with detailed world-building that seamlessly blends elements of magic and technology, creating a unique and captivating urban fantasy setting.
The plot follows Kate as she delves into a series of gruesome killings, facing necromancers, werewolves, vampires, and other mystical beings along the way. The story moves at a fast pace, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with thrilling action scenes and unexpected twists. Kate's character is praised for her strength, wit, and relatability, adding depth to the narrative as she navigates the challenges of her dangerous and unpredictable environment.
I SAT AT A TABLE IN MY SHADOWY KITCHEN, STARING down a bottle of Boone’s Farm Hard Lemonade, when a magic fluctuation hit. My wards shivered and died, leaving my home stripped of its defenses. The TV...2007•317 pages - #2
A Big Ship at the Edge of the Universe is a rollicking space romp packed with heart, explosions, and just enough magic to keep sci-fi purists arguing. Great fun if you’re craving a popcorn read with attitude and a lively crew!
A Big Ship at the Edge of the Universe follows an ensemble cast in a space opera setting, featuring treasure hunting, salvaging, and heisty moments. The plot revolves around a super warship that disappeared during a previous conflict, with protagonists being hunted by mysterious assailants and being drawn into a crew on a quest to uncover the truth behind the powerful ship. The writing style combines elements of space opera, magic systems, and action-packed sequences to create an exciting and engaging adventure.
The straight opened before the two race cars: an oily river, speckled yellow by the evening sun. They shot down the tarmac in succession like sapphire fish, streamers of wild magic billowing from thei...June 2018•479 pages - #3
A lively, imaginative urban fantasy romp bursting with magic, mystery, and a quirky setting. Not flawless, but a ton of fun - especially if you’re craving something fresh and fast-paced in the genre.
In Minimum Wage Magic, Opal Yong-ae, a Cleaner in the Detroit Free Zone (DFZ), finds herself in a desperate situation as she struggles to repay a massive debt while living in hiding. Despite her magical abilities, she works as a Cleaner bidding on apartments to make money. When she stumbles upon a mysterious spell and a dead body in one of the units, she embarks on a risky journey to solve the mystery and find a magical treasure. Teaming up with another Cleaner, Nik, Opal navigates the lawless and ever-changing world of DFZ, facing mercenaries, unexpected allies, and betrayals along the way.
The book blends urban fantasy with elements of near-future science fiction, creating a world where gods, dragons, magic, and cyborgs coexist in a contemporary setting. The story follows Opal's quest for survival and freedom in a city that is alive and constantly shifting, offering a unique backdrop for a fast-paced and engaging adventure.
It was in a sub-subbasement, twenty feet below street level down a wobbly flight of metal stairs so steep they were practically a ladder. The light at the bottom was burned out, of course, so the land...November 2018•289 pages - #4
A fast-paced, classic sword-and-sorcery adventure with a uniquely post-apocalyptic twist. It’s a must-read for fantasy history buffs, D&D fans, and anyone craving a blend of magic and mysterious machines.
The Broken Lands is the first novel in the Empire of the East series, following the adventures of Rolf, a sixteen-year-old peasant boy, as he navigates a post-apocalyptic world filled with magic and technology remnants from a bygone era. The story unfolds as Rolf's peaceful life is shattered by the arrival of Castle soldiers, leading him to join a resistance group, encounter mysterious characters like the peddler Mewick, and uncover secrets about the ancient world of Ardneh and the Elephant. The narrative is rich in vivid details, showcasing a blend of sorcery and swordplay that captivates readers with its clear and breezy writing style.
The Satrap Ekuman’s difficulties with his aged prisoner had only begun when he got the fellow down into the dungeon under the Castle and tried to begin a serious interrogation. The problem was not, as...December 1968•193 pages - #5
A fast-paced, queer, sci-fi/fantasy adventure with heart, humor, and lots of feels - perfect for fans of found family, magic tech, and LGBTQ+ rep. Not flawless, but a total blast!
Spellhacker by M.K. England is a fast-paced sci-fi fantasy novel set in a world where magic and technology are intertwined. The story follows a group of rebellious teen thieves who steal magic, known as 'maz,' from a powerful corporation controlling the magical substance. As they inadvertently uncover a conspiracy that threatens their society, the characters navigate complex relationships, high-stakes heists, and a planet recovering from a devastating spellplague. The writing style immerses readers in a world filled with diverse characters, found family dynamics, and a unique magic system that blends elements of science fiction and fantasy.
Cornered? Please. She knows I’m up here, but she doesn’t know where. It’s only a matter of time, though. And isn’t air support a bit overkill? The officer sweeps her gaze over the rooftop, pulling thr...January 2020•416 pages - #6
A classic '80s fantasy that does some intriguing things with its magic-versus-technology theme, but the slow pacing and uneven characters may not be for everyone. Worth a try for die-hard fantasy/Weis & Hickman fans or those looking for something a little different.
In a world where nearly everyone possesses magical powers, the crown prince, born without magic, faces a prophecy of the world's destruction and is sentenced to death. The story follows Joram, a dead baby smuggled out by his mother, as he embarks on a journey through this magical realm. The book explores themes of magic, prophecy, societal norms, and the struggle between magical abilities and technological advancements. The plot is filled with intrigue, unique world-building, and complex characters like Joram and Saryon, set against a backdrop of a society dominated by magic and religious oppression.
All of the wizards, magi, and archmagi who floated in a shimmering circle above the marble floor, the shade of which had been changed hastily the previous night from radiant white to a proper shade of...1987•412 pages - #7
A clever, imaginative mashup of classic mystery and alternate history fantasy that’s charming and fun - even if it’s more about brainy sleuthing than emotional depth. Great for fans of magical detectives and cozy mysteries!
Murder and Magic by Randall Garrett is a collection of Lord Darcy stories set in an alternate universe where King Richard the Lionheart is alive and magic is a part of everyday life. Lord Darcy, the Chief Forensic Investigator for the Duke of Normandy, solves crimes and untangles international intrigues with the help of forensic sorcerer Sean O' Lochlainn. The stories combine elements of mystery and fantasy, with a blend of medieval and Victorian England, elevators and guns coexisting with sorcery and swordplay.
The book features four short stories that involve cases such as a supposed suicide, mistaken identities, blackmail, and a plot by the King of Poland to disrupt Atlantic trade. The writing style is a mix of mystery, fantasy, and alternative history, with well-developed characters and intricate plots that keep the reader engaged from start to finish.
Sir Pierre Morlaix, Chevalier of the Angevin Empire, Knight of the Golden Leopard, and secretary-in-private to my lord, the Count D’Evreux, pushed back the lace at his cuff for a glance at his wrist w...1981•266 pages - #8
A fast, entertaining romp across worlds blending sci-fi and fantasy, best enjoyed by Zahn enthusiasts and fans of genre mashups - just don’t expect groundbreaking depth or flawless characters.
Despite mixed opinions on character development and magic systems, "Triplet" by Timothy Zahn is praised for its imaginative world-building and blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements. The plot revolves around interplanetary adventures, spirits, demons, and a unique mix of magic and technology. The story follows characters Ravagin, Danae, and Hart as they navigate through different worlds with gates between them, facing challenges while unraveling mysteries and dealing with magical forces.
August 1987•397 pages - #9
A wildly entertaining urban fantasy romp with dragons, magic, and a main character you can’t help but cheer for - perfect when you need a feel-good escape.
In "Nice Dragons Finish Last," readers are introduced to Julius Heartstriker, the smallest dragon in his clan who prefers to keep to himself and play online games rather than embrace his draconic nature of domination and manipulation. When his mother, Bethesda, forces him into human form and banishes him to Detroit with a mission to prove himself as a dragon, Julius teams up with a human mage named Marci to navigate a world where magic has returned, dragons rule territories, and danger lurks at every corner. The book combines elements of urban fantasy and science fiction, offering a unique world filled with mythical creatures, intrigue, and humor.
Julius woke with a jump, toppling off the slick modern couch. He landed face down on hard white carpet, smacking his knee painfully on the corner of his sister’s abstract coffee table in the process....July 2014•301 pages - #10
Surprisingly addictive spin-off with a memorable enemies-to-allies pairing and buckets of action - best appreciated after the Kate Daniels series, but a solid urban fantasy read for those who enjoy tough characters with even tougher choices.
'Iron and Magic' is a captivating urban fantasy novel that delves into the world of Hugh and Elara, set between books 9 and 10 of the Kate Daniels series. The story follows Hugh and Elara as they enter a marriage of convenience to protect their people, leading to battles against common enemies. The writing style is filled with humor, action, and a touch of romance, creating a dynamic narrative that explores complex feelings and relationships amidst magic and tech in the Kate Daniels world.
Black Fire Stables spread across twenty acres about a two-hour horse ride east of Charlotte. The large, solid house sat in the middle of the lawn, on a rolling hillside, with stables to one side and a...










