Step into the spellbinding universe of Starship’s Mage, where starships soar through galaxies not with engines, but with the raw power of magic! This science-fantasy series by Glynn Stewart blends the high-stakes adventure of space opera with the mystique of magical systems, following Damien Montgomery, a young Jump-Mage who teleports ships across vast interstellar distances. It’s a thrilling ride that’s hooked fans with its unique mix of technology and sorcery.
In a future where humanity’s colonies are united under the Protectorate of the Mage King of Mars, magic is the key to faster-than-light travel. Damien, a freshly graduated mage with no connections, lands a job on the freighter Blue Jay, only to find himself entangled in pirate attacks, political conspiracies, and cosmic battles. Ready to explore a galaxy where magic fuels the stars?
How Starship’s Mage Began
Glynn Stewart, a former accountant turned prolific author, launched Starship’s Mage in 2014 with a bold vision: to merge the structured wonder of magic with the boundless possibilities of sci-fi. Initially released as five serialized novellas, the series was later compiled into the Starship’s Mage Omnibus, a move that cemented its popularity. Stewart’s inspiration drew from blending hard sci-fi’s realism with fantasy’s creativity, creating a universe where mages are as vital as starship engines.
Stewart’s knack for world-building and fast-paced storytelling turned this debut into a bestseller. His Southern Ontario home, shared with his partner and cats, became the backdrop for crafting a saga that’s now spanned over a decade. The series’ episodic origins give it a pulpy, adventurous charm, reminiscent of classic sci-fi serials.
The Heart of Starship’s Mage
The series kicks off with Starship’s Mage (2014), where Damien’s quick thinking saves the Blue Jay from pirates by rewriting magical runes—an act that’s both illegal and groundbreaking. This sets off a chain of events, making him a fugitive and a hero. Hand of Mars (2015) sees Damien as a Hand of the Mage-King, tackling a civil war with his growing powers. Voice of Mars (2016) dives deeper into interstellar politics, while Mountain of Mars (2020) escalates the stakes with royal intrigue and alien mysteries.
Themes of duty, loyalty, and the cost of power weave through the series’ fabric. Stewart balances hard sci-fi’s focus on realistic space travel with a well-defined magical system, where Jump-Mages teleport ships using runes, limited to one light-year per jump. The setting—a galaxy ruled by a magical monarchy—feels both futuristic and feudal, with space battles, political intrigue, and magical duels driving the action. Fans love the series’ accessible prose and Damien’s relatable journey from underdog to powerhouse.
The Red Falcon trilogy, a spin-off, follows Captain David Rice and his crew, adding depth to the universe without losing the main series’ momentum. With 17 books and counting, the series keeps expanding, each novel blending action, mystery, and character-driven drama.
Why Starship’s Mage Resonates
Starship’s Mage has carved a niche in the science-fantasy genre, earning praise from authors like Jason M. Hough for its seamless blend of magic and science. Its serialized roots make it a binge-worthy escape, often compared to The Dresden Files for its pacing and Star Wars for its epic scope. Fans on platforms like Goodreads and Reddit rave about its world-building and Damien’s ethical dilemmas, though some note a dip in focus after book nine.
The series’ lasting appeal lies in its ability to evolve—new arcs, like the UnArcana Rebellions, introduce fresh characters while keeping the universe cohesive. Stewart’s commitment to revising early books for the 10th anniversary in 2024 shows his dedication to quality, ensuring the series remains a fan favorite.
- Publication Start: 2014
- Books in Series: 17 (as of 2025)
- Spin-Off: Red Falcon trilogy
- Narrator: Jeffrey Kafer (audiobooks)
Grab Starship’s Mage and blast off into a galaxy where magic powers the stars and adventure awaits at every jump!