Where to Start with C.M. Waggoner
C.M. Waggoner has carved out a unique space in modern fantasy by crafting character-driven stories filled with sharp wit, cozy elements, and subverted tropes. Because almost all of her books operate as standalone stories, you have plenty of flexibility in where to start. However, readers generally split her work into two categories: her connected gaslamp fantasy universe and her standalone cozy/fairytale stories.
For the best experience, we recommend starting with Unnatural Magic. This debut novel provides the foundational world-building for her connected gaslamp fantasy setting, making it the perfect gateway to her style.
The Gaslamp Fantasy Universe (Unnatural Magic)
Though they feature different casts of characters and independent storylines, Waggoner's first two novels are set in the same Victorian-inspired, queernormative secondary world where humans and trolls coexist. While you can read them out of order, starting with the first book helps ground you in the rules of the magic system and the culture of Hexos.
1. Unnatural Magic (2019)
Waggoner's debut introduces Onna Gebowa, a brilliant young woman who understands the mathematical and scientific underpinnings of magic better than anyone, but is barred from formal education because of her gender. Her path collides with Tsira, a troll woman hiding from her clan's expectations. Together, they find themselves investigating a series of mysterious murders targeting wizards. The book lays the groundwork for the setting's magic system and explores themes of class, gender, and found family.
2. The Ruthless Lady's Guide to Wizardry (2021)
Returning to the same gaslamp world, this novel follows Dellaria "Delly" Wells, a poor fire witch and petty thief scraping by in the city of Hexos. Desperate for money, she joins a cohort of female wizards hired to protect a wealthy young lady from assassins. What starts as a simple bodyguard gig quickly spiraling into a conspiracy involving necromancy and reanimated mice. While set in the same world as Unnatural Magic, this is a distinct story focusing on a sapphic romance and a different set of societal margins.
Cozy Supernatural and Fairytale Standalones
Waggoner has also branched out into other subgenres of fantasy, focusing on cozy elements and playful genre parodies. These books are completely self-contained and require no prior reading.
The Village Library Demon-Hunting Society (2024)
Set in the quiet village of Winesap, New York, this novel is a cozy supernatural mystery that reads like Murder, She Wrote meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The protagonist, Sherry Pinkwhistle, is a librarian who has noticed that her small town suffers an impossibly high murder rate. When a close friend is killed and her cat, Lord Thomas Cromwell, becomes possessed by an ancient demon, Sherry forms a makeshift demon-hunting society to clean up the town's supernatural infestation.
The Somewhat Wicked Witch of Brigandale (2026)
Released in March 2026, this cozy fairytale fantasy follows a practical witch who must actively sabotage her own son's bid to ascend the throne. It is a lighthearted, low-stakes adventure that plays with classic fairy tale tropes while offering subtle, humorous commentary on democracy and governance.
C.M. Waggoner Books in Publication Order
If you prefer to read Waggoner's bibliography in the order she wrote and released them, follow this list:
- Unnatural Magic (2019)
- The Ruthless Lady's Guide to Wizardry (2021)
- The Village Library Demon-Hunting Society (2024)
- The Somewhat Wicked Witch of Brigandale (2026)
What to Know Before You Start
Waggoner's writing style is heavily influenced by classic fantasy and comedic authors like Tamora Pierce, Terry Pratchett, and P.G. Wodehouse. Rather than epic, world-ending stakes, she focuses on intimate, character-driven narratives, snappy dialogue, and unique slang. Her books are also celebrated for their casual inclusivity and focus on queer relationships, making them a fantastic fit for readers who enjoy cozy, lighthearted, yet emotionally resonant speculative fiction.