C. Dale Brittain

  • 5

    Catalog books

  • 5

    Works

  • 1991 to 1996

    Strongest span

Who This Author Is

C. Dale Brittain introduces a wry, character-driven take on fantasy in Bad Spell In Yurt. The novel follows an academic and pragmatic approach to magic, blending classroom wit, procedural problem-solving, and warm ensemble dynamics to upend common quest-driven tropes with steady humor and careful worldbuilding.

Brittain’s story emphasizes consequence and craft: spells have rules, institutions shape outcomes, and relationships carry emotional weight. Readers who enjoy intelligent, dialogue-rich fantasy with a focus on teaching, ritual, and the messy realities of practicing magic will find this debut deliberate, humane, and quietly clever.

Best Place To Start

Bad Spell In Yurt

Pocket Books • 1991 • standard commitment

It helps anchor a specific period of this author’s publishing run instead of blending into the undated shelf clutter.

Author At A Glance

Best known for: Humorous fantasy with academic wizards • Fast-paced episodic adventures • Warm, character-driven tone

Genres and themes: Comic fantasy • School of magic setting • Friendship and mentorship

Who this author is best for: Great for readers who enjoy witty, character-focused fantasy with light stakes and cozy worldbuilding.

Start with Bad Spell in Yurt to meet the cast and get the series' tone before exploring sequels and short fiction.

Top Books To Start With

  1. Bad Spell In Yurt

    Pocket Books • 1991 • standard commitment

    UPB note: one of the most common used-copy publishers for this author • year signal: 1991 • 314 pages.

  2. Daughter of Magic

    Pocket Books • 1996 • longer commitment

    UPB note: one of the most common used-copy publishers for this author • year signal: 1996 • 352 pages.

  3. The WITCH & THE CATHEDRAL

    Pocket Books • 1995 • longer commitment

    UPB note: one of the most common used-copy publishers for this author • year signal: 1995 • 352 pages.

  4. Mage Quest

    Pocket Books • 1993 • longer commitment

    UPB note: one of the most common used-copy publishers for this author • year signal: 1993 • 353 pages.

  5. Wood Nymph and the Cranky Saint

    Pocket Books • 1993 • standard commitment

    UPB note: one of the most common used-copy publishers for this author • year signal: 1993 • 320 pages.

How The Picks Compare

  • Bad Spell In Yurt is the easier short commitment, while Daughter of Magic asks for more reading time up front.
  • Bad Spell In Yurt gives you an earlier look at this author’s shelf, while Daughter of Magic leans later in the catalog.

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