Step into the spellbinding world of Alex Verus, where a London shopkeeper with the gift of foresight battles dark forces in a gritty urban fantasy saga! Benedict Jacka’s Alex Verus series blends magical intrigue, sharp wit, and moral complexity, following Alex, a diviner who sees possible futures but must outsmart powerful mages to survive. Set in modern London’s hidden magical underbelly, this series is a must-read for fans of Jim Butcher and Ben Aaronovitch.
With 12 books packed with action and heart, Alex’s journey from reluctant hero to supernatural power player captivates readers. Whether dodging fireballs or unraveling conspiracies, his story is a thrilling ride through a world where magic and danger lurk around every corner.
How Alex Verus Began
Benedict Jacka, a Cambridge-educated former bouncer and teacher, stumbled into writing almost by accident. In 2008, he penned a novel that evolved into Fated, the first Alex Verus book, published in 2012. Originally a children’s fantasy, Jacka reworked it into urban fantasy at his editor’s suggestion, grounding Alex’s adventures in London’s vibrant Camden Town. This shift gave the series its distinctive blend of real-world grit and magical flair, drawing readers into a fresh take on the genre.
The Heart of Alex Verus
The series kicks off with Fated (2012), where Alex, a diviner running a magic shop, is hired to retrieve a powerful artifact, thrusting him into a deadly game with ruthless mages. Cursed (2012) deepens the stakes as Alex protects a mysterious woman and uncovers forbidden rituals. In Chosen (2013), his dark past with his former master, Richard Drakh, resurfaces, forcing tough moral choices. The finale, Risen (2021), sees Alex facing his ultimate battle to save his lover Anne and stop a magical catastrophe.
Jacka’s London is a character itself, with Camden’s bustling markets hiding portals and supernatural societies. Themes of power, morality, and redemption shine through Alex’s struggles. Unlike flashy elemental mages, his divination magic—seeing probable futures—makes him a strategic underdog, relying on cunning over brute force. The series’ hard magic system and morally gray factions, split between Light and Dark mages, add depth, while Alex’s first-person narrative keeps the tone sharp and relatable.
The series balances fast-paced action with emotional weight, exploring how choices shape destiny. Alex’s growth from a loner to a leader, alongside his bonds with allies like Luna and Anne, grounds the high-stakes plot in human connection, making each book a page-turner.
Why Alex Verus Resonates
The Alex Verus series has carved a niche in urban fantasy, praised for its tight pacing and complex characters. Fans on Goodreads and Reddit compare it favorably to The Dresden Files, noting its darker tone and lack of Dresden’s humor, which suits its noir-esque vibe. With over a million copies sold, Jacka’s work has built a loyal following, inspiring fan discussions about its intricate magic system and moral dilemmas.
Its legacy lies in proving urban fantasy can thrive without overpowered heroes. Alex’s vulnerability and strategic mind make him relatable, while London’s magical underbelly offers endless storytelling potential. The series’ completion in 2021 left fans satisfied yet craving more, cementing its place as a modern classic.
- Publication Years: 2012–2021
- Number of Books: 12
- Setting: Modern London, Camden Town
- Author: Benedict Jacka
Grab Fated and dive into Alex Verus’s magical London! Whether you’re a fantasy veteran or new to urban fantasy, this series promises a thrilling adventure you won’t forget.