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The Rules of Magic #1
Bad Medicine: Rules of Magic, Volume 1
Eddie and the Family are a Group of mages in Southern USA who deal with Supernatural threats like it’s any other Tuesday. Except some Tuesdays should have stayed dead hundreds of years ago… A secret world history. A conflict that began before time. None of these are what Eddie and the Family bargained for as they keep the Rules of magic in Southern US. But when chasing down a local coven of criminal mages, they come up against an ancient Navajo evil and a lord of hell…and that is only the beginning.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 27, 2023
53 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
Lance Horsman
5 books6 followersI studied Journalism at college, then got a degree in English lit and Ancient History and later a Masters degree in Business. I've been writing for ages and have too many other works, books and novellas that need to see the light of day, and finally resolved to make it happen - and escape the clutches of Officetopia and the grey suited sunlight assassins...So here we are.
I also teach Martial arts, run a table-top roleplay group and live in a furrocracy (Where the 4 rescue dogs rule as tyrants from their lofty couch perches). I have a daughter and she's amazing.
I also teach Martial arts, run a table-top roleplay group and live in a furrocracy (Where the 4 rescue dogs rule as tyrants from their lofty couch perches). I have a daughter and she's amazing.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
November 16, 2023
A fun, action packed contemporary fantasy novel in a similar vein to Jim Butcher's Harry Dresdin novels and the Iron Druid series. Loved the first book and very keen to see where the series goes.
April 2, 2024
"Bad Medicine: Rules of Magic" has immersed me in a world where magic and chaos are dangerously intertwined. Eddie, a magician with exceptional abilities, finds himself at the center of a series of dark and deadly events. The part I liked the most is when he must train his new apprentice. It is an interesting and entertaining book.
April 26, 2024
Bad Medicine: Rules of Magic. Vol 1. By Lance Horsman.
My review.
Eddie Burma is the wizard that people come to when they have a problem…but what happens when the problems come looking for him?
Eddie is many things, vet, teacher, friend, mage, Bear..... he is also a good guy, or at least one of the good guys. He is one of a group of mages that fight on the side of right in Southern USA and together they put down supernatural threats. But this time in his own backyard he faces threats worse than ever before. Not only a coven of criminal mages, but a three hundred year old Navajo evil and a Biker gang led by an actual demon Lord of hell! If that wasn't enough he has Mathilda his new sixteen year old apprentice to teach and some how keep alive. He does have help though in the form of Odelia his English Bulldog, who just happens to at will become the biggest were bulldog you are ever likely to see!
This is a debut novel, but you wouldn't know it to read it, there is a confidence to the writing and the story is both fast paced and multilayered, taking in not only concepts of family and friendship, but also forgiveness, morality and sacrifice. The action is hard and fast and there is a lot of it, it is also incredibly well written by someone who obviously knows the mechanics of physical confrontation. It's also nice to see the in-depth inclusion and description of native American culture, beliefs and magic.
The magic system is brilliantly laid out and there are very real consequences to its use, forcing both the wielder and the reader to think about how and when it is used. The author doesn't shy away from showing the terrible things it is capable of in evil hands. That leads us to where this book really shines, the characters! Eddie is a fantastic protagonist, able to channel the spirit of animals, mainly the Bear, but also the Jaguar and the Wolf, when he does so especially with the Bear the author does a bang up job of portraying the sheer physicality of his presence, the brooding violence of a primeval power. But Eddie is loyal and loving and quite possibly his best power is his big heart, Odelia his bulldog is just as loyal and as stubborn as only an English Bulldog can be, but she can back it up with five hundred pounds of muscle should she need to. Mathilda, is a wonderful counterpoint to Eddie's knowledge and experience as although she's powerful she has so very much to learn and I look forward to reading her journey. All the extra characters are extremely well fleshed out and there are some truly unique mage powers in this book, the standout bad guy was definitely the three hundred year old Navajo shaman Shifting Sands, driven by hate and anger he is a cautionary tale of vengeance with no thought and where that can lead. This is book one of what I hope to be a long series and I have already started book two. Definitely worth reading and definitely a five star read.
My review.
Eddie Burma is the wizard that people come to when they have a problem…but what happens when the problems come looking for him?
Eddie is many things, vet, teacher, friend, mage, Bear..... he is also a good guy, or at least one of the good guys. He is one of a group of mages that fight on the side of right in Southern USA and together they put down supernatural threats. But this time in his own backyard he faces threats worse than ever before. Not only a coven of criminal mages, but a three hundred year old Navajo evil and a Biker gang led by an actual demon Lord of hell! If that wasn't enough he has Mathilda his new sixteen year old apprentice to teach and some how keep alive. He does have help though in the form of Odelia his English Bulldog, who just happens to at will become the biggest were bulldog you are ever likely to see!
This is a debut novel, but you wouldn't know it to read it, there is a confidence to the writing and the story is both fast paced and multilayered, taking in not only concepts of family and friendship, but also forgiveness, morality and sacrifice. The action is hard and fast and there is a lot of it, it is also incredibly well written by someone who obviously knows the mechanics of physical confrontation. It's also nice to see the in-depth inclusion and description of native American culture, beliefs and magic.
The magic system is brilliantly laid out and there are very real consequences to its use, forcing both the wielder and the reader to think about how and when it is used. The author doesn't shy away from showing the terrible things it is capable of in evil hands. That leads us to where this book really shines, the characters! Eddie is a fantastic protagonist, able to channel the spirit of animals, mainly the Bear, but also the Jaguar and the Wolf, when he does so especially with the Bear the author does a bang up job of portraying the sheer physicality of his presence, the brooding violence of a primeval power. But Eddie is loyal and loving and quite possibly his best power is his big heart, Odelia his bulldog is just as loyal and as stubborn as only an English Bulldog can be, but she can back it up with five hundred pounds of muscle should she need to. Mathilda, is a wonderful counterpoint to Eddie's knowledge and experience as although she's powerful she has so very much to learn and I look forward to reading her journey. All the extra characters are extremely well fleshed out and there are some truly unique mage powers in this book, the standout bad guy was definitely the three hundred year old Navajo shaman Shifting Sands, driven by hate and anger he is a cautionary tale of vengeance with no thought and where that can lead. This is book one of what I hope to be a long series and I have already started book two. Definitely worth reading and definitely a five star read.
August 20, 2024
"Bad Medicine" by Lance Horsman skillfully combines American Indian magic with contemporary technology, making for an intriguing and captivating read. The introduction of Mathilda, an apprentice to Eddie's veterinarian who is also a bear mage, immediately pulls readers into the story. The character of Ophelia, a typical bulldog by day and a werebulldog by night, adds a delightful layer of complexity as she battles alongside her magical humans against malevolent mages and magic users. While the flashbacks to the 1300s initially seem disconnected, they add an element of mystery, leaving readers eager for future stories to clarify their relevance.
When Eddie's small town faces the threat of a life-stealing Navajo shaman and his coven, the story unfolds into a gripping adventure that pits him against an array of formidable foes, including a Demonic lord of torment, evil mages, gunslingers, and ancient spirits. The narrative is a wild ride from start to finish, making it nearly impossible to put down.
"Bad Medicine" stands out as a gem in the Fantasy Noir genre, blending thrilling tension, humor, and a diverse cast of characters with finesse. Fans of Mike Carey, Glenn Cook, or Jim Butcher will find this book particularly enjoyable. A quirky, unorthodox, and thoroughly absorbing page-turner, this novel is highly recommended for anyone looking for an engaging and unique reading experience.
When Eddie's small town faces the threat of a life-stealing Navajo shaman and his coven, the story unfolds into a gripping adventure that pits him against an array of formidable foes, including a Demonic lord of torment, evil mages, gunslingers, and ancient spirits. The narrative is a wild ride from start to finish, making it nearly impossible to put down.
"Bad Medicine" stands out as a gem in the Fantasy Noir genre, blending thrilling tension, humor, and a diverse cast of characters with finesse. Fans of Mike Carey, Glenn Cook, or Jim Butcher will find this book particularly enjoyable. A quirky, unorthodox, and thoroughly absorbing page-turner, this novel is highly recommended for anyone looking for an engaging and unique reading experience.
April 6, 2024
A spellbinding urban fantasy adventure...
Lance Horsman's "Bad Medicine: Rules of Magic, Volume 1" is a thrilling urban fantasy thriller that immerses readers in a world of magic, peril, and mystery. Eddie Burma, the go-to wizard for issue solutions, becomes involved in a web of catastrophe when old pals are murdered and criminal forces resurface in his peaceful community. As Eddie navigates assassination attempts, demonic bikers, and ancient ghosts, he must also train a determined young apprentice. With the corpse count growing, Eddie faces his most difficult struggle yet: confronting a soul-sucking shaman in order to defend himself and the people he cares about. Horsman's novel is an exciting blend of action, magic, and suspense, making it a must-read for readers of urban fantasy. Highly recommended.
Lance Horsman's "Bad Medicine: Rules of Magic, Volume 1" is a thrilling urban fantasy thriller that immerses readers in a world of magic, peril, and mystery. Eddie Burma, the go-to wizard for issue solutions, becomes involved in a web of catastrophe when old pals are murdered and criminal forces resurface in his peaceful community. As Eddie navigates assassination attempts, demonic bikers, and ancient ghosts, he must also train a determined young apprentice. With the corpse count growing, Eddie faces his most difficult struggle yet: confronting a soul-sucking shaman in order to defend himself and the people he cares about. Horsman's novel is an exciting blend of action, magic, and suspense, making it a must-read for readers of urban fantasy. Highly recommended.
October 19, 2025
amazing unique urban fantasy!
What a unique writing style portraying a new twist on the Urban Fantasy genre. With the vast majority of Urban Fantasy told from the first person, which I thoroughly enjoy, the depth of one character's thoughts and emotions; Lance Horsman spins this tale from the Narrator perspective, yet a Narrator that knows the inner workings of the hearts and minds of these characters. This allows us readers to delve deep into all these wonderful characters' stories. And, what a wonderful blend of magic and Native Ritual, with a sprinkling of humor! Superbly thought up, and based in so much real Native and Historical concepts that us readers are left scratching our heads, wondering if Lance is actually an ancient shaman sharing real secrets from his Tribe... Outstanding! Read This Book!
What a unique writing style portraying a new twist on the Urban Fantasy genre. With the vast majority of Urban Fantasy told from the first person, which I thoroughly enjoy, the depth of one character's thoughts and emotions; Lance Horsman spins this tale from the Narrator perspective, yet a Narrator that knows the inner workings of the hearts and minds of these characters. This allows us readers to delve deep into all these wonderful characters' stories. And, what a wonderful blend of magic and Native Ritual, with a sprinkling of humor! Superbly thought up, and based in so much real Native and Historical concepts that us readers are left scratching our heads, wondering if Lance is actually an ancient shaman sharing real secrets from his Tribe... Outstanding! Read This Book!
July 10, 2024
Action packed, lovable characters, solid plot
This was an exciting read.
Our hero Eddie felt like a more emotionally healthy, responsible, kind Harry Dresden. Definitely a main character you want to back.
Interesting magic systems, some I'd not come across before.
If you are interested in Native American culture and spiritualism this is jam packed. I learnt a lot and was thoroughly entertained.
Great side characters with depth and personality. Plus a rescue bulldog with attitude and sass, what more could a person want?
Definitely worth the read.
This was an exciting read.
Our hero Eddie felt like a more emotionally healthy, responsible, kind Harry Dresden. Definitely a main character you want to back.
Interesting magic systems, some I'd not come across before.
If you are interested in Native American culture and spiritualism this is jam packed. I learnt a lot and was thoroughly entertained.
Great side characters with depth and personality. Plus a rescue bulldog with attitude and sass, what more could a person want?
Definitely worth the read.
January 1, 2024
They have been dealing with the supernatural for centuries and yet something that was supposed to stay dead. Yet they are about to resurface and giving them problems. How can it be stopped? What will stop them? Can they stop it? See how they will get on
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
December 8, 2023
Really enjoyed this book! I love myths, fables, folklore, and their intertwining magic - especially those myths and legends of which I'm less familiar.
This book was well written and very fast paced.
This book was well written and very fast paced.
December 30, 2023
Thanks for the arc
March 5, 2025
Liked the concept of it. Loved the main character. Probably won’t read the rest of the series as this one felt rushed, but worth a pickup for modern fantasy enjoyers.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews