The Elemental Mages and The Fire Rose by Mercedes Lackey

Now I know these books are not exactly in the same series, but they could be considered sister-kin. The Fire Rose was published before The Elemental Mages books were, almost like a prequel to the series. The Fire Rose take place in San Francisco during the heyday of train barons and prior to the San Francisco fire and earthquake. The Elemental Mages takes place in Victorian England during the time of the womens' rights movement in the late 1800's/ early 1900's. The basic concept is the same despite the differing locations; the idea that humans could be gifted in a way to control (or work in harmony with) the basic elements of our world, wether it be Earth, Air, Water, or Fire. On second glance you will also find splendid retellings of beloved fairytales; Beauty and the Beast (The Fire Rose), Snow White and the Seven Dwarves (The Serpent's Shadow), Sleeping Beauty (The Gates of Sleep), and Cinderella (Phoenix and Ashes, the latest realease). Ms. Lackey has taken familiar tales and revitalized them by mixing in known history and presenting us with new treats for our guilty indulgence. Recommended for history buffs and fantasy fans alike, check your local library for these modern fairytales.