The Jack of Magic

Everyone knows their role in the kingdom of Haulstatt, from the lowest chamber maid to the queen herself. Even the mages magic in approved ways. But twelve-year-old Portia steals for a living, taking from society rather than living within its rules.

Everyone knows their role in the kingdom of Haulstatt, from the lowest chamber maid to the queen herself. Even the mages magic in approved ways. But Portia steals for a living, taking from society rather than living within its rules. And unknown to Portia, her differences matter more than she could possibly realize. Red Jack focuses on Portia’s discovery of her unique abilities and exotic heritage. 

The queen supports the Magic Academy and its students. But Portia struggles with her hard-won place in it. And the most important magic lesson waits far outside its walls. Portia steps up to the role that only she can fulfill in Moss Gate.

Portia’s initial magic attempt fails so spectacularly that debris and ashes rain down, injuring her ancient teacher and sole practitioner of the holy magic. The chosen one not only failed, but dangerously so. It is far worse to do the magic badly than to not do it at all.

Portia hides in the foul sewers of the foreign invader city to avoid capture. A poor situation for the most powerful mage of her home world. Can she fight her way back and defend her people before it’s too late? Or will her kin and countrymen live out short enslaved lives?

The capital city lay in ruins. Portia helps rebuild it, one smashed building at time. But it’s not enough. She cannot forget those trapped on the other side of the closed portal.