Cosa Nostradamus F.A.Q.

What is the Cosa Nostradamus?

It's the name given to the entire magical community – Human Talent and non-human 'fatae.'  Also the all-encompassing name for the books set in the world of the Cosa Nostradamus.

What are fatae?

The fatae are any creatures of supernatural origins, specifically those who are made of or utilize magic in some way.  Most people assume it simply refers to the Fates, but the term "Fairies" (fate or fata) comes from the Latin fatae -- which in the wider use of the word simply meant supernatural creatures with nature-associations.  The Fates (in English) were merely one aspect of that supernatural world (and they were actually "Moiare" in Greek, and "Parcae" in Roman mythology, I think).  The Italian tradition of the fairy tale is one of the oldest, and had the added advantage (to me) of not being Celtic. I wanted to stay away from the Anglo interpretations of mythology, since the point of the Cosa Nostradamus is that it is worldwide, and ancient. 

How many books are in the Cosa Nostradamus universe, and do you need to read them in order?

There are currently five books published (STAYING DEAD, CURSE THE DARK, BRING IT ON, BURNING BRIDGES and FREE FALL), all featuring Wren Valere, the Retriever, and her cohorts Sergei Didier and the demon P.B.  The sixth book, BLOOD FROM STONE, will be out in 2009.  After that, there are three books under contract featuring Bonnie, the paranormal investigator introduced in the Retriever novels, the firs one being hard magic (May 2010).

It's not necessary to read the books in order, but I generally suggest that you do, in order to get a real sense for the growth of the characters.  Also, I do refer back to events in previous books.  You can start with either series, once they're out; they are independent of each other.  The short stories can be read in any order.

Short stories?

There are two short stories featuring Wren and Sergei -- "Overrush" [Murder by Magic] and "Palimpsest" [Powers of Detection]. "Overrush" deals with wizzarts . "Palimpsest" is about what happens when someone tries to double-cross a Retriever.   "Illumination" [Unusual Suspects] features Bonnie and her mentor, Joseph.

You can find them in the named anthologies, or download them individually from http://www.fictionwise.com

Are there any vampires in the Cosa Nostradamus?

No.  I reserve the right to have something exist on blood, but there are no vampires as such.  Why?  Because there aren't.  There are lycanthropes, though.   

How do you feel about fanfiction?

I think that fanfiction is a wonderful thing, an expression of affection on the part of the fan-writer.  I also think that anyone writing Cosa fan fiction should never show it to me, or tell me about it, for various technical and legal reasons.  Also?  Being demon, PB doesn't have a sex drive.  Sorry, folks.

Is there ever going to be a plush version of P.B.?

As soon as I find someone ho can make me a reasonable prototype, you betcha!

Questions for the FAQ?