For years I've heard complaints about a lack of Occult fiction portraying Witches realistically in an up to date setting. And it is true. As a Wiccan and novelist writing Occult fiction, I'm just as much a fan of the style as any reader. However, I've discovered should you search fastidiously, there are dazzling gems awaiting discovery, novels that should be part of your contemporary Occult fiction collection.

To seek out these novels I have narrowed my search criteria to dark urban fantasy novels set in modern instances or in the close to future. Not less than half the rituals, magick, or sorcery utilized by the principle character must be based mostly on actual magickal principles. The principle character should be human, and the plot not overshadowed by trendy leagues of vampires.

Having set those tips, I wish to present my first advice for must-learn Occult fiction. All I can say is for those who've never learn Lilith Saintcrow's "Dante Valentine" collection you're in for a deal with!

Saintcrow is best known for her paranormal romance novels, the "Watcher" series, that includes elemental Witches and their handsome guardians. However, Dante Valentine was created from a completely totally different minimize of fabric!

There are 5 novels in the series. The first two, "Working for the Devil" and "Lifeless Man Rising" have already been published. The final three novels are scheduled for publication in 2007 and 2008.

Dante Valentine is a Neocromance, who works for legal professionals, raising the spirits of the useless when wills come into question. She additionally takes a couple of bounty searching jobs on the side to help pay her mortgage. "Danny" is a clever-cracking whirlwind of energy with a haunting previous that will not quit. Devoted to the Egyptian god Anubis, she entertains Pagan readers with loads of rituals, spells, and magick.

The series takes place in the close to future, as the plot races from one excessive to the subsequent at lightning speed. That is up to date Occult fiction at its finest, the sort of book you may't put down till you finish it. And one you will nonetheless be thinking about months later.

Saintcrow is a grasp at creating memorable characters and deftly plotted novels. If you've been looking for awesome Occult fiction so as to add to your private assortment, this needs to be the first series on your list. You will not be upset!