Field Guide for the Formerly Villainous

What happens to all the mind-controlled minions when the evil villain is finally vanquished? They move to the country, become farmers, fall in love...and finally find a safe place to heal.

When Oaklin Nettlewood accidentally joined an evil world-ending cult, mind control magic forced them to do unspeakable things. Years later, the realm's heroes have finally saved the day, defeated the villain, and shattered the last remnants of the spell...leaving destruction in their wake. And so, with a spell-damaged memory and a whole bushel of trauma, Oaklin escapes to a small farm on the edge of Mossley’s Rest and swears an oath: After all the things they were forced to do with their magic, they will never use it again. Ever.

The no-nonsense ghost granny who lives in Oaklin’s house has other ideas. As she coaxes Oaklin out of their shell and back into the world, they find companionship (a grumpy horse and a very good dog), friendship (a local bard and magical baker who should just kiss already), and tentative romance (a paladin-librarian who makes Oaklin's heart come alive for the first time in ages). Magic even seems possible again―though strictly for foraging magical mushrooms and protecting the farm from bugs.

Healing comes in gentle waves, and Oaklin doesn't have to do it alone. So what does it mean when an inquisitor comes to town to hunt former cultists just as Oaklin begins to think that maybe, just maybe, they deserve a happy ending after all?

This delightful cosy fantasy about healing, redemption, and the subtle magic of simple living is perfect for fans of Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea and The Spellshop.

Welcome home, weary traveller.

Tropes
Cosy Fantasy
Queer Romantasy
Magical Countryside
LGBTQIA+