The Vanished Mage

<p><strong>A vanished mage... A missing diamond... The game is afoot.</strong></p><p><br></p><p><em>From Broderick Prince of Asconar Earl of Carlshore and Thorn Duke of Wicksborough Baron of Highbury and Warden of Dershanmoor to My Lady Parisan King's Investigator greetings. It has been brought to my attention that a certain Reinwald Master Historian noted Archmagus and tutor to our court in this city of Nemithia has this day failed to report to the duties awaiting him. I do ask you as my father's most loyal servant to seek the cause of this laxity and bring word of the mage to me so that my concerns as to his safety be allayed</em>.</p><p><br></p><p>The herald delivered the message word-perfect to The Lady Parisan Baroness of Orandy Knight of the Diamond Circle and Sworn Paladin to Our Lady of the Sighs. Parisan's companion Foorourow Miar Raar Ramoura Prince of Ilsfacar (Foo to his friends) thought it a rather mundane assignment but nevertheless together they ventured to the Archmagus' imposing home to seek him. It turned out to be the start of an adventure to solve a mystery wrapped in an enigma bound by a conundrum and secured by a puzzle. All because of a missing diamond with a solar system at its core.</p><p><br></p><p>Authors Penelope Hill and J. A. Mortimore have effortlessly melded a Holmesian investigative duo a richly detailed city where they encounter both nobility and seedier denizens swashbuckling action and magic that is palpable and at times awesome.</p><p><br></p><p>Cover art: Penelope Hill</p>