Stories with heart. Power with consequences.
Aoi Neko Publishing is an independent fantasy imprint created to tell stories that put character first. These are worlds where magic is powerful but costly, choices matter, and growth is earned rather than granted.
I’m Michael Irwin, an indie fantasy author and the creator of the Wild Magic series. I write the kind of stories I’ve always wanted to read: character-driven, emotionally grounded, and willing to let actions have lasting consequences.
My background is rooted in long-form storytelling and worldbuilding, and I approach novels the same way— by living in the characters’ headspace and letting the story unfold naturally from who they are.
- Fantasy focused on character and consequence
- Magic that feels powerful, dangerous, and costly
- Worldbuilding that supports the story instead of overshadowing it
- Relationships shaped by choice, not destiny
“Aoi Neko” means blue cat in Japanese. The name is a quiet nod to the Japanese stories, animation, and music that helped shape my love of storytelling—and to a personal fondness for cats.