Hell Spike becomes quite effective on level 4 or 5. Meteor Strike can be cast very fast, and has a bit of a stunning effect, even on level 1. Survivor's Curse is better than the mage's version, since it can not be resisted. Elven Sight is much more effective than Ranger Sight.
If you want to build a battle mage then melee is fine, otherwise I would suggest a combination of magic with a bow.
Mage spell books can be bought, and some warrior / survivor skills can be given as quest rewards;
Free skills, and spell books you can buy (spoilers)
Kaan's Mage Guide (spoilers)
Playing a mage character... (spoilers)
The Locus Inn - Skill System (individual paths, and a skill table for each class)
differences between classes (minor spoilers)
Early Starter Tips (NON-Spoiler Version) (contains much of the information in the above topic).
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