Step into the enchanting world of the Mithermages series, where ancient gods are real, magic crackles in the air, and a young hero holds the key to two worlds! Written by Orson Scott Card, the mastermind behind Ender’s Game, this contemporary fantasy saga blends mythology, coming-of-age drama, and interdimensional intrigue. Follow Danny North, a seemingly ordinary teen who discovers he’s a Gatemage with the power to create portals, as he navigates a hidden world of exiled mages and ancient prophecies.
With its unique spin on Norse, Greek, and Egyptian myths—reimagined as mages from the planet Westil—the Mithermages series offers a fresh take on urban fantasy. It’s a tale of power, responsibility, and the courage to forge your own path, perfect for readers craving a magical adventure with depth and heart.
How Mithermages Began
Orson Scott Card, a titan of science fiction and fantasy, conceived the Mithermages series decades ago, but the rise of urban fantasy in the 21st century gave it the perfect stage. Published by Tor Books, the series kicked off in 2011 with The Lost Gate, born from Card’s fascination with mythology and the idea that gods were once humans with extraordinary powers. His knack for crafting complex magic systems and relatable characters shines through, creating a world where ancient lore meets modern-day struggles.
The Heart of Mithermages
The Mithermages series unfolds across three main novels, each building on Danny North’s journey as a Gatemage. In The Lost Gate (2011), Danny, raised in a secretive mage family in Virginia, discovers his forbidden portal-making ability and flees to survive, forging friendships and unlocking his potential. The Gate Thief (2013) ramps up the stakes as Danny battles Loki, a trickster stealing Gatemage powers, while grappling with the exiled Westil families’ schemes. Gatefather (2015) concludes the trilogy, diving into metaphysical questions as Danny faces a cosmic enemy threatening Earth and Westil.
Card’s magic system, rooted in a symbiotic bond between mages and their elements, is a standout, weaving themes of power and sacrifice. The series explores identity, as Danny matures from a scared teen to a world-shaping hero, and reimagines gods like Thor and Zeus as mages whose legends echo through time. Set in a modern world with hidden magical enclaves, the story balances teenage banter with profound moral dilemmas, though some fans note the final book’s slower pace and unresolved threads.
Why Mithermages Resonates
The Mithermages series captivates with its bold reimagining of mythology as a magical diaspora, appealing to fans of urban fantasy and epic sagas alike. Card’s ability to blend witty dialogue, intricate world-building, and poignant human insights—seen in moments of loss and connection—gives the series emotional weight. While not as universally celebrated as Ender’s Game, it has a dedicated following for its innovative magic and Danny’s relatable growth, inspiring readers to ponder their own hidden potential.
- About Mithermages
- Publication Years: 2011–2015
- Books: 3 novels (The Lost Gate, The Gate Thief, Gatefather), plus a novella (Stonefather)
- Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
- Author: Orson Scott Card
Ready to portal into a world of magic and myth? Grab The Lost Gate and dive into the Mithermages series’ spellbinding adventure!