The Magicians

Let me admit that I first read this book in an old paperback when I was 11. It was a favorite of mine,so I cannot guarantee that everyone will enjoy it as much, but I think many would get a good deal of pleasure out of this perfect little story.The conceit is to take a private eye adventure, turn it into a story about witchcraft, which in turn is revealed to be a tale of a new science based on mathematics and incantations. Casey is hired by a little old lady to spy out a Convention, no, make that Covention, to find out the True Name of one Solomon Magus. He discovers himself in a world of boring receptions and thaumaturgy. This society has rediscovered sorcery. The laconic hard boiled detective tone suits the material, and the fancy of working magic with tensor analysis as a controlling factor is well worked out. It certainly got me interested in advanced math at a young age! Although they are fairly conventional characters, the detective, the young and pretty witch and the old professor are all well done. Even their familiarity works in their favor instead of weakening the story.A note about history and versions. This tale first appeared as "Sine of the Magus" in the the early '50's. It was reprinted, in a slightly expanded version under the title "The Magicians". In the late '70's it was further expanded and (slightly) updated-- look for the warlock in the leisure suit-- with a number of added scenes and a much heavier satanic/sexual slant. I do not know which edition is for sale here, but be aware that there are differences. Whatever edition you buy, it is good fun. One of the sad things about scifi and fantasy is that much good work goes out of print and is forgotten. This is a good story and a fun concept, recommended for those who like their magic to have rules and be set against a naturalistic background. Enjoy!