Step into the thrilling world of Simon Hawke’s Wizards series, where modern city streets hum with ancient magic and a bumbling wizard named Wyrdrune stumbles into destiny! This urban fantasy gem blends humor, action, and a touch of the arcane, offering readers a wild ride across nine enchanting novels. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a spell-casting apprentice meets a street-smart thief in a world powered by magic instead of tech, Wizards is your next obsession.
First hitting shelves in 1987, this series by Simon Hawke—born Nicholas Valentin Yermakov—brings a fresh twist to fantasy, proving wizards don’t need dusty towers to shine. With its quirky characters and a futuristic setting where magic reigns supreme, Wizards hooks you from page one and never lets go.
How Wizards Began
Simon Hawke kicked off the Wizards series with a bold vision: what if magic replaced technology after a global collapse? Drawing from his love of sci-fi and fantasy, Hawke unleashed The Wizard of 4th Street in 1987, introducing Wyrdrune, a young wizard with a knack for botching spells, and Kira, a savvy thief with big dreams. Inspired by urban life and classic fantasy tropes, Hawke crafted a world where Merlin’s return sparks a magical renaissance, setting the stage for a saga that’s equal parts witty and wondrous.
Hawke, already known for his Time Wars series, leaned into his knack for blending genres. His diverse background—from motorcycle salesman to writing instructor—infused Wizards with a grounded yet fantastical vibe, making it a standout in the late ‘80s urban fantasy scene.
The Heart of Wizards
The series kicks off with The Wizard of 4th Street, where Wyrdrune and Kira nab mystical rune stones, sparking an epic quest tied to their fates. Next up, The Wizard of Whitechapel (1988) dives into Victorian England’s dark corners, pitting our heroes against supernatural foes. The Samurai Wizard (1991) takes the action to Japan, blending martial arts with magic, while The Last Wizard (1997) wraps up Wyrdrune’s journey with a battle against ancient evils.
At its core, Wizards explores destiny, responsibility, and the clash between old magic and modern life. Set in a 23rd-century world where wizards pilot airships and power cities with spells, the series shines with its playful tone and vivid settings—New York, London, Tokyo, and beyond. Hawke’s knack for humor keeps things light, even as dark forces loom, making every book a page-turner.
Themes of growth resonate throughout, as Wyrdrune evolves from a fumbling apprentice to a hero shouldering cosmic stakes. Alongside Kira and a ragtag crew—including a punk-rock teen possessed by Merlin—Wyrdrune’s adventures weave a tapestry of friendship, courage, and the power of unlikely heroes.
Why Wizards Resonates
Wizards carved a niche in urban fantasy by blending magic with modernity long before it was a trend. Fans adore its quirky charm and Hawke’s imaginative world-building, which influenced later genre hits. Though not as famous as The Dresden Files, its cult following cherishes its offbeat style and heartfelt characters, keeping it alive through word-of-mouth and reprints.
Decades later, Wizards still captivates with its timeless mix of humor and heart. It’s a reminder that even in a chaotic, magic-driven world, it’s the misfits who save the day—making it a hidden treasure for fantasy lovers craving something unique.
Ready to meet Wyrdrune and his spell-slinging squad? Grab The Wizard of 4th Street and dive into Simon Hawke’s magical urban jungle today!