The Lord of Misrule: The hilarious first book in the new fantasy series Castle Blackwood by TikTok book awards 2024 shortlisted author M.A.Knights

Martin Knights delivers a dark folkloric fantasy in The Lord of Misrule, the inaugural volume of the Castle Blackwood series. The narrative centers on the Duke of Blackwood, a reluctant ruler burdened by intrusive voices and an unwillingness to wield power. His quiet life shatters when a rogue wizard stalks the rain-soaked town of Upton Myzzle, forcing him into action against hostile ancient forests and forgotten gods. The story explores the tension between the Duke’s stubborn father and his trouble-seeking daughter, who mirrors her late mother’s talents. As a strange new star appears above the rooftops, religious unrest brews among the townspeople. Knights blends mythic unease with dry humor to examine inheritance and the consequences of ignoring ancient rules. This work suits readers who appreciate British mythology and understated wit within supernatural settings. It may not appeal to those seeking high-octane action or bright, uplifting tones. Knights, a TikTok Book Awards 2024 shortlisted author, grounds his tale in specific traditions of old bargains and forgotten deities. The narrative structure follows the Duke’s forced engagement with these forces rather than a traditional hero’s journey. Readers looking for a slow-burn mystery involving political unrest and magical threats will find this volume engaging. Those preferring fast-paced combat or clear moral binaries might find the nuanced approach to power and responsibility less satisfying.