I am thinking about adding some form of magic, though it will undoubtedly be called something else, to my new fantasy novel, which I will be starting New Year's Day. I am not by any means a Harry Potter fan! I am, however, a Lord of the Rings fan! (Going to see The Hobbit this Saturday night. )
Anyway, there are wizards, and then there are sorcerers. The wizards didn't use to call themselves wizards, but because of their ability to utilize "Shadow", the people began to call them wizards. The sorcerers, though, are the bad guys that use Shadow for their own gain, and to destroy good.
Anyway, what is your opinion about this? Do you think I should go ahead with this part of the story-line?

Basically you've described a faction in your modern fantasy book, but have only given a world-name for their actions. What exactly are their powers?

Generally, powerful evil always spices up a story. Is there a particular reason you are hesitating with proceeding with them?

Their powers depend upon the type of wizard they are. (Think Gandalf the Grey, and Radagast the Brown)
Different wizards go different routes in their training.

I hesitate because I am a Christian, and I've never written wizards in my stories as the "good guys". I suppose this matter is a personal choice. I shall likely move ahead with the story.

Ah.

I refer you to the Theology forum.

My personal view is that only portraying real-life "magic" practices as good is a problem. No palm-reading, seances, satanic rituals, etc. All else belongs to the rules of your own world. There are many threads on specific issues in Theology, and I'd be shocked if there isn't a general thread, but my cursory glances didn't spot one. Perhaps a member more familiar with the forum could give a specific thread link?

The Magic and Cobha forum has quite a few threads where people discussed whether or not it's okay for Christians to have "good magic" in their stories.

Linkies:

http://www.holyworlds.org/fantasy/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=3906
http://www.holyworlds.org/fantasy/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=88
http://www.holyworlds.org/fantasy/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=3105
http://www.holyworlds.org/fantasy/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=126
http://www.holyworlds.org/fantasy/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=34

I haven't actually read through all of these, but they all relate to similar topics at least, and I hope you find them helpful.

I obviously need to re-familiarize myself with where things are located. Thanks, Lea.

No problem. Theology was a good idea, honestly, since "is it okay to have magic" would easily fit, but apparently all such threads stayed here.

I thank you all very much for sharing your opinions and providing me with links so I can see others' opinions. Thank you.

Soooo...Did you start it yet?

Yes, I have started it! I'm 14,000 words into it! I'm loving it so far!

Good work.