Step into the magical, mischief-filled world of Raine Benares, where an elven sorceress with a knack for trouble navigates a whirlwind of danger and destiny! Lisa Shearin’s Raine Benares series, a gem in urban fantasy, follows Raine, a 30-year-old seeker whose life spirals when she bonds with the Saghred, a soul-stealing amulet. Packed with wit, action, and a touch of romance, this six-book saga spans just three chaotic months, captivating readers with its fast-paced charm since its 2007 debut.
With a sharp tongue and a reluctant hero’s heart, Raine battles power-hungry mages, demons, and her own amplified abilities in the vibrant fantasy realm of Rheskilia. Fans of snarky heroines and magical adventures will find Raine’s journey irresistible—think Buffy with elven flair!
How Raine Benares Began
Lisa Shearin, a New York Times bestselling author, crafted Raine Benares from her love of fantasy and adventure. Before becoming a full-time writer, Shearin worked in advertising, honing her knack for storytelling. Inspired by classic fantasy and urban paranormal vibes, she envisioned Raine as a grounded, sarcastic heroine—a seeker turned reluctant savior. Launched with Magic Lost, Trouble Found in 2007, the series blended high-stakes magic with Shearin’s signature humor, earning praise for its fresh take on fantasy tropes.
The Heart of Raine Benares
The series kicks off with Magic Lost, Trouble Found, where Raine, hired to guard a friend, accidentally bonds with the Saghred, amplifying her modest sorcery and drawing deadly foes. In Armed & Magical, she heads to the Isle of Mid, a mage-filled hub, to unravel the amulet’s secrets, only to face disappearing students and growing enemies. The Trouble with Demons ramps up the chaos with a demon infestation and Raine’s magical bond to two opposing men—a dark mage and a paladin. By All Spell Breaks Loose, Raine, now magic-less, leads a ragtag crew to the goblin capital to destroy the Saghred and thwart a dark mage’s world-domination plot.
Set in the richly imagined Rheskilia, the series blends urban fantasy’s gritty edge with high fantasy’s epic stakes. Themes of identity, power, and family—both blood and chosen—run deep, as Raine grapples with her amplified abilities and her pirate clan’s legacy. Shearin’s comedic style, laced with Raine’s quips, keeps the tone light despite dark threats, making each book a page-turner. The Isle of Mid, with its sorcery school and political intrigue, feels alive, grounding the series’ magical chaos in a vivid world.
Why Raine Benares Resonates
Raine Benares has carved a niche in urban fantasy for its blend of humor, heart, and high-octane action. Fans on Goodreads praise Raine’s relatable grit and the series’ ability to balance romance with adventure, avoiding paranormal romance clichés. Night Owl Reviews called it “one of the best fantasy series on the market,” highlighting its broad appeal. Though not a cultural juggernaut, the series’ loyal following and Shearin’s shift to the SPI Files show her knack for crafting immersive worlds. Raine’s journey—embracing her power while staying true to herself—inspires readers who crave heroines with agency and attitude.
- First Book: Magic Lost, Trouble Found (2007)
- Total Books: 6 main novels, plus novellas
- Setting: Rheskilia, a magical fantasy world
- Author: Lisa Shearin, New York Times bestseller
Ready to join Raine’s wild ride? Grab Magic Lost, Trouble Found and dive into a world of magic, mayhem, and elven sass!