Fantasy Tropes, Themes, and Structure in Magic in the Shadows (Fleck Series)
Cozy Fantasy Meets High-Stakes Magic
When I began writing Magic in the Shadows, I didn’t set out to follow a trend or chase a trope. I had the character of Fleck in mind, and I simply followed her around—meeting others as they arrived on the page. As I mentioned in my “Flow Writing” blog, “For me, having a writing style that’s not overly controlled allows the novel to unfold with a natural, unforced flow of events—making the story feel less contrived and (I hope) more true to the characters’ traits, tendencies, and motivations.” 
I enjoyed blending relatable characters with sweeping magical stakes—inviting readers into a world where leadership is earned through loyalty, and power is shaped not by ego or dominance, but by trust, emotional intelligence, and integrity. The series begins quietly, with Fleck and her younger brother Quinn living simple, overlooked lives—but the story quickly deepens into a layered narrative of transformation, sacrifice, and moral complexity.
My marketer describes the Fleck Series as emotionally grounded epic fantasy with quiet power that escalates into magical conflict. It’s ideal for mature young adults and adult readers alike. Perfect for those who crave immersive worldbuilding, introspective protagonists, and magic that feels both mythic and deeply human, the series balances the warmth of found family and enchanted forests with the weight of ancient curses and political unrest.
It’s a story of reluctant leadership and fiercely earned autonomy—anchored in loyalty, harmony, and the choices we make in the space between fear and courage.
Core Themes in Magic in the Shadows
Redemption and Forgiveness
Fleck’s journey is marked by an introspective quest for redemption, as she navigates the complexities of her relationships and the magical world around her. Redemption also drives the Sisters Three, who rage against the curse that binds them—desperate to reclaim their freedom. When Hectare finally reaches the height of his magical power, the triumph rings hollow. His ambitions shift toward inclusion, revealing the emptiness and isolation born from a life built on controlling others rather than collaborating with them.
Friendship and Loyalty
The bond between Fleck and her friend Maple, as well as her brother Quinn, underscores the importance of friendship and loyalty in overcoming societal judgment and magical injustice.
The Sisters Three unwavering loyalty to one-another prompted a hasty long ago colluding of frightened girls, unaware of the full cost of their devising. They pressed forward, having little perception of the sorrows their actions would impose on those with whom they were not yet entangled. Loyal to the end – the Sisters Three remain captive to the folly of their younger selves.
At first glance, the wizard Hectare appears loyal only to his ambitions. Disappointment and boredom prompt him to mimic kindness, shaping a selfish form of loyalty toward Fleck. His devotion hinges on her successive triumphs, haunted by the realization that resistance may exile him from all things magical—leaving him stranded among the dull, non-magical, nattering humans he so deeply disdains.
Power and Betrayal
The narrative delves into the themes of power dynamics and betrayal, particularly through the scheming Wizard Hectare and the conspiring Sisters Three interference and counter-curse.
Love and Sacrifice
Characters in the novel endure impossible choices—where love doesn’t make the decisions easier, it makes the cost harder to bear. The story reveals the complexities of love through the ill-conceived sacrifices of the Sisters Three, the void of care beneath Hectare’s ambition, and the quiet tug of devotion that pulls Fleck from her social apathy.
Tropes in Magic in the Shadows
Reluctant Hero
Fleck embodies the Reluctant Hero trope. She values safety and quiet over power or prophecy. She’s compelled to rescue her younger brother, Quinn—not as a hero, but as an older sister anxious for his wellbeing. Fleck resists the roles imposed on her by the magical creatures of the Mystic Circle, especially the crown, which she sees as a burden rather than an honour. Her hesitation isn’t fear—it’s rebellion: an enduring refusal to allow any claim against her freedom. Her reluctance to step from the shadows into the spotlight becomes a quiet expression of strength—and of autonomy.
Magical Mentor
The character of Hectare in Magic in the Shadows serves as a dark twist on the ‘Magical Mentor’ trope. While traditionally a mentor guides the protagonist, Hectare’s sinister nature and manipulation of magic present a challenge that Fleck must overcome, forcing her to learn and grow through adversity rather than guidance.
Sibling Adventure
The Sibling Adventure trope shines in Fleck’s relationship with her younger brother Quinn. His belief, her protection, and their shared vulnerability drive the plot forward, anchoring the fantasy in the fierce loyalty between siblings.
The Chosen One
Magic in the Shadows avoids prophecy clichés, but Fleck is undeniably chosen—by circumstance, by power, and by those around her. Her ability to assess and respond to threats with measured, adaptable judgment serves a deeper aim: her relentless pursuit of safety—for herself and for those she loves.
Ragtag Bunch of Misfits
Fleck’s alliances—with her beloved friend Maple, her younger brother Quinn, and the fractured Sisters Three—form a ragtag band bound not by harmony but by shared opposition to Hectare’s pursuit of power. Yet beneath this unity lies the danger of assumed alliance: Fleck trusts Calla and Arum to stand with her, unaware that their deeper loyalty to Nerine ultimately runs counter to her needs. Their wavering bond underscores themes of duplicity, redemption, and the fragile lines between friend and foe amid rising magical threats.
Start your journey with Magic in the Shadows, where reluctant heroes rise, misfits unite, and loyalty becomes the fiercest kind of magic.