The Last Wizard taps into the conventions of the fantasy genre in a clever and refreshing way.
In Alex Mizgailo’s first entry in his Land of Amun saga, he describes a world decimated by apocalyptic conflict, a place where hidden, underground dungeons house mystical relics and a host of monstrous creatures to guard them.

In this setting, three brave adventurers – a dwarf, elf and young human warrior – embark on a quest that brings them straight into the heart of this peril, thanks in part to the guidance of the titular wizard. This mysterious magician – a bodiless presence – plays his unseen part from the narrative wings.

The book begins with the trio arriving in the small town of Springdale, and the initial action is centered in its tavern, as the heroes meet villagers and wade through rural conflicts. The action eventually shifts underground, to the dungeons that hold unspeakable horrors, including necromancers, spider queens and the undead.

The progress from small-town conflicts to epic battles with minions of the underworld is fashioned with an unusual plot structure resembling the feel of a Dungeon and Dragons campaign; Mizgailo relies on the dynamic of a role-playing tabletop or video game to build tension and raise stakes. While this plot approach sometimes feels a bit predictable, the author’s storytelling talent keeps readers engaged.

Mizgailo offers plenty of depth to the characters as they move up the gauntlet of danger. Human, dwarf, elf and wizard all become fully fleshed out over the novel’s course, as do satyrs, healers and other allies of the main characters.

In this mystical world full of monsters, magic and the familiar menu of fantasy creatures, The Last Wizard delivers humor, friendship and the wry viewpoint of an author who is lovingly steeped in the genre.