Step into the enchanting world of Mage Errant, where misfit mages, a labyrinthine magic school, and a richly crafted universe await! John Bierce’s spellbinding fantasy series, set in the vibrant world of Anastis, follows Hugh of Emblin and his found family of friends as they navigate magical challenges, personal growth, and epic adventures. Perfect for fans of progression fantasy and heartfelt coming-of-age tales, Mage Errant is a hidden gem that’s captured readers with its intricate magic system and lovable characters.
From the towering halls of Skyhold Academy to the perilous deserts of the Endless Erg, this young adult series blends high-stakes action with themes of friendship, resilience, and self-discovery. Ready to uncover why this series is a must-read? Let’s dive into its origins, stories, and lasting charm!
How Mage Errant Began
John Bierce, a history buff and self-proclaimed dork with a knack for world-building, launched Mage Errant with Into the Labyrinth in 2018. Inspired by his love for fantasy, science fiction, and the complexities of ancient civilizations, Bierce crafted Anastis as a world brimming with diverse cultures, magical creatures, and a hard magic system rooted in ecological and geological principles. His background in earth sciences shines through, making the series’ settings—like the labyrinth beneath Skyhold or the desert city of Theras Tel—feel vividly real. Bierce’s journey from a grocery store greeter to a bestselling fantasy author adds a layer of grit to his underdog story, mirroring the struggles of his protagonist, Hugh.
The Heart of Mage Errant
The series kicks off with Into the Labyrinth, where Hugh, a shy and anxious student at Skyhold Academy, believes he’s the worst mage ever. Chosen unexpectedly as an apprentice by the eccentric Librarian Errant Alustin, Hugh joins forces with fellow misfits Sabae, Talia, and Godrick. Together, they face the terrifying labyrinth below Skyhold, forging unbreakable bonds. Jewel of the Endless Erg takes the crew to a dragon-ruled desert city, entangled in a conspiracy filled with sandship battles. A Traitor in Skyhold ramps up the stakes as the group hunts a traitor within Skyhold’s council, blending school life with espionage. The Lost City of Ithos explores a banished city’s return, pitting Hugh and friends against warlocks, sea monsters, and a man-eating tiger.
Mage Errant is a standout in progression fantasy, a subgenre where characters grow stronger over time. Its magic system, based on affinities like dreams, fire, or bone, is detailed yet accessible, with creative spellwork that keeps battles dynamic. Themes of found family, overcoming self-doubt, and embracing diversity— including characters with body dysmorphia, autism, and varied sexualities—resonate deeply. The series’ YA tone, paired with its expansive world of sphinxes, liches, and sentient storms, appeals to readers craving both heart and adventure.
Why Mage Errant Resonates
Mage Errant has carved a niche in the fantasy community, praised for its relatable characters and meticulous world-building. Fans on platforms like Reddit and Goodreads rave about its “mushy found family vibes” and Bierce’s ability to subvert tropes, making familiar elements like mage schools feel fresh. The series’ inclusive representation, woven naturally into the narrative, has earned it a loyal following, with Bierce playfully noting he makes the series “gayer” in response to complaints. Its impact lies in its balance of cozy, character-driven moments and epic, multiverse-spanning stakes, setting the stage for Bierce’s broader Aetheriad universe.
- Publication Years: 2018–2023
- Number of Books: 7
- Setting: Anastis, a magical world with Skyhold Academy
- Genre: YA Progression Fantasy
Grab Into the Labyrinth and dive into Mage Errant’s thrilling world of magic, friendship, and adventure! Whether you’re a fantasy veteran or a newbie, Hugh and his crew will cast a spell you won’t soon forget.