A fresh and captivating entry into the world of fantasy literature, Rumours of Magic by Les Attridge weaves an enchanting tale of magic, mischief, and the lengths one daughter will go to in order to clear her father’s tarnished name. Set in a world where sorcery meets an industrial revolution, the novel is aimed at readers aged twelve and above and offers a blend of dark intrigue and humour.
At the heart of Rumours of Magic are two wizards: Wimlett, whose life was tragically cut short due to a faulty Life-Timer, and Dennis, a power-hungry sorcerer with ambitions of ultimate control. Wimlett’s premature death leaves his daughter, Eydith, with the daunting task of not only clearing his name but also securing her place at Havrapsor, the prestigious magical university.
Seventeen years after Wimlett’s untimely demise, Eydith embarks on a quest to reveal the truth about her father’s death and thwart Dennis, who is on a dangerous hunt for a powerful artefact that could make him the most powerful wizard in the realm. Wimlett, however, isn’t entirely gone; granted a ghostly form by Death’s assistant as compensation for his early demise, he offers Eydith vital assistance from beyond the grave.
Les Attridge’s richly detailed world, which draws on Arthurian and mythical influences, captivates readers with its seamless blend of machinery and magic. The novel’s intricate plot requires readers to pay close attention, but the effort is richly rewarded with a well-paced, page-turning narrative. Fans of fantasy literature will appreciate the balance of darkness and humour, as well as the imaginative portrayal of Death and his assistants.
Described by readers as both entertaining and funny, Rumours of Magic is perfect for fans of fantasy looking for something unique. The book is available in paperback and Kindle formats through Amazon and major book-stores including Waterstones, Barnes & Noble, and WH Smith.
