Galaphile

Bestselling Brooks’s (The Last Druid) latest is an absorbing exploration of the lifelong quest of Galaphile, a figure whose journey begins when he is recruited into an elite camp of magic-wielders and warriors. In a world ravaged by lawlessness and conflict, Galaphile’s mission transcends mere survival, because he seeks to restore peace and order to the Four Lands. His path is fraught with hardship—massacres, lost loves, the endless clash between races—and the threat of a dangerous foe looms. Yet, driven by his longing for family and fellowship, his resolve never falters. Brooks’s ability to seamlessly blend an ancient postapocalyptic landscape with traditional high-fantasy elements is particularly evident in this early tale set in the Four Lands. The druids have always played a pivotal role in the overarching story of this epic world, and Galaphile stands as a complex embodiment of wisdom, mystery, and admirable ambition. His character-driven crusade is accessible and easy to read while still offering depth and sophistication.