Wizards of the Mound

Loved it! 😍 A mystery mixed within a fantasy setting that I found fascinating and refreshing!

I love a fantasy novel that includes a mystery element and this was definitely that. I would say the mystery is a heavier focus than the fantasy and that was something I found very refreshing and new, I found myself almost surprised when fantasy elements would appear because I was so invested in the story as a mystery that I would almost forget. It blended so seamlessly which is a real credit to the author and their talent as a writer and displayed perfectly how sucked into the story I became throughout my read.

The discussions on grief were well handled and thought provoking. I felt a lot of emotions as though I was battling Lazlo's grief with him. Both him and Tansya felt like very well developed and 3D characters that I really enjoyed following. I was actually sad at the end of the novel to have to leave them behind. I enjoyed the snippets of the relationship we saw between him and his mentor, it really helped keep me emotionally invested in discovering what happened.

The author did a great job at dropping hints throughout without over explaining which is a personal pet peeve of mine in mysteries when the reader is treated as though we can't keep up or comprehend what we are reading so I thank the author for allowing us the chance to uncover the truth ourselves with the information and hints provided.

As previously mentioned, the fantasy elements were very well done. I never felt overloaded with information or confused by what was going on, even during the heavier action scenes. I was completely sucked in by every moment and loved every fantastical element we were shown of this world. I didn't think the world building was too much, but what was written was very well done and I think I've discovered more about my fantasy preferences as a result.

Definitely a recommend from me I just wish it had been a little longer as I wanted more from these characters, I miss them already! ★★★★ –Brook Garratt for Reedsy Discovery

It gains a magical recommendation from me. ★★★★★ – Elijah B. for Explore Authors Magazine

As a fantasy fan, I loved this book and hope to read more books set in this world. Highly recommended. ★★★★★ - Pikasho Deka for Readers’ Favorite