A Call to Bones

The Athyziad

Before the Osseomancer unleashed his hordes of undead against the kingdoms of Jenor, there was A Call to Bones. It was quiet and whispered, but it could be heard by those willing to listen…

Huke is a typical teenage boy. He likes girls (although he is too shy to talk to any) and sword fighting. His father is the sheriff of a small village, while his mother recently learned some simple garden-variety magics.

All this changes, however, when the old man rides into town. He has ridden into town before, hollering about hobgoblins and spooks, but never like this.

He has captured a dark evil in his barn. Its magic is above Huke’s knowledge, above his father’s, above even his mother’s. They must alert the proper authorities. They will know what to do, Huke’s father assures him.

But will they? As they bring the new danger to their lord and then their king, both seem to have different ideas of what to do with it — and different motivations beyond simply finding its source.

Soon, as he is thrust into a world of conspiracies, lies, and political intrigue, Huke will learn there are more things to be afraid of than dark magic. Can he navigate this new world to reveal the true source of this danger before it is too late, or will others’ ambitions get in the way? And will he be able to protect both himself and his parents…

A Call to Bones is a standalone novel set before The Council of Athyzia. It tells a new story in the world of Jenor. However, there are many Athyzian references to enjoy for the careful listener.

©2025 D.H. Hoskins (P)2026 D.H. Hoskins

Excellent Audiobook!

I had no idea what I was jumping into with this book and I loved it! I've been meaning to read The Council of Athyzia for a while, but when I heard of this prequel, I figured it was a great place to start!

The main character, Huke, is like most teenage boys. But when an evil is captured in his town, his family takes on the responsibility of alerting the proper authorities. Will this kingdom be able to overcome this evil, or will long brewing deciet be their undoing?

I was immediately immersed in this world and loved the writing style. There was so much well-thought out world building that made it seem natural and exciting. I loved the character agency and development! It shows so many sides of humanity and I'm excited to dive into the first book of the series. I'm sure there are references I missed because I haven't read the first book, but I think it will be exciting to have this background knowledge when enjoying the next book in the world.

I listened to the audiobook and it was very well done! I would highly recommend this series and think most fantasy lovers would enjoy it!