Does this book belong to a larger series or universe?

This novel is the first entry in the Arcane Ascension series, which is part of a shared universe that includes other series by the same author, such as The War of Broken Mirrors and Weapons and Wielders. While these series can be read independently, they feature interweaving narratives and character crossovers that become more prominent as the stories progress.

Is there a recommended reading order for the author's connected works?

The author provides multiple reading paths depending on whether you prefer to follow a specific series or experience the world's connections as they unfold. Starting with this book is widely considered the most common entry point for new readers, though some choose to read the author's other series first to catch earlier references.

Sufficiently Advanced Magic

Epic Fantasy Fantasy

Pages: 625
Published: 2017
Language: English

Synopsis

Corin Cadence's older brother walked into the Serpent Spire five years ago and never came out. The spire is an enormous tower whose rooms keep shifting and whose floors are full of traps and monsters. Now Corin is going in after him.

Those who live through the tower's trials leave with an attunement, a mark on the body that gives its bearer magical powers. Legend says that anyone who reaches the top is granted a boon by the goddess of the spire. Corin's aim is the top floor and a meeting with her, because he wants his brother back.

Earning an attunement will not be enough to keep him alive on the higher levels. He will need training, allies and a good deal of improvisation, with no shortcut on offer.

This is fantasy built around a dungeon-like tower, with a single young protagonist and a clear goal. The setting works like a series of challenges, so the book reads as an adventure that moves from one dangerous floor to the next, with the search for a lost family member driving it.