Guard in the Garden follows a wounded dwarven guard who trades dragon fire for garden paths, where he discovers that tending friendships, grief, and love may be the bravest quest he’s ever faced. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

When I first got out of the military, I really struggled to figure out what my new mission and purpose in life were. It took me about 10 years to figure it out. It was a real struggle. And I know I’m not the only veteran who has gone through that experience. So, I thought it would make an excellent story to share, even if it was in a fantasy world.

Felton’s healing feels very incremental and grounded. How did you approach writing recovery in a fantasy setting?

A lot of what Felton goes through, I have experienced myself. Therefore, I was really able to tap into the emotion through reminiscing on my own experiences.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

Some of the most important themes in Guard in the Garden are finding purpose in unexpected circumstances and hope at the end of the day.

Where does the next book in the series take the characters?

Funny enough, Guard in the Garden is in a series called the Fables of Finlestia that explores stand-alone stories in the same world. Even cooler, there are a lot of character crossovers, easter eggs, and cameos between this series and my Stone & Sky series, which also takes place in the world of Finlestia.

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Embark on a wholesome journey of healing and self-discovery. A cozy fantasy tale of forging new friendships and overcoming fears. A quiet quest of family bonds and budding romance.

From dragon fire to garden flowers …

Felton Holdum spent his entire life training to become one of Galium’s elite dwarven warriors. When a bloody battle leaves him injured, he has no choice but to move into his eccentric twin aunts’ quaint home in the town’s quiet Garome District.

With his life of military service seemingly over, the captain of the city guard gives Felton his only chance at a fresh start in the new life he never wanted.

But when a human woman barges through his front door, the grumpy dwarf starts to wonder if there is more to life than war. The sunshine woman invites him to visit her garden, where Felton gains a new nemesis and a new purpose in life.

Take a walk through the garden and see what magic awaits.

Come enjoy the hospitality of the whimsical Garome District. Meet new friends as you sample new breads at the bakery, play a game of Castle Brick at the tavern, and taste homemade pies during the annual pie baking contest at the Fall Festival.