Advocate

The Warden, Book 3

By: Daniel M. Ford

Narrated by: Lindsey Dorcus

"Omigosh! I've just found an author to put on my list of I've got to read everything they ever wrote! The Warden is a gem of the first order. Aelis is my hero."—Glen Cook, author of The Black Company

"These books are addictive and I can’t wait to see what Aelis and the gang get up to next.”—C.L. Clark, author of The Unbroken

Aelis de Lenti is back on her home turf, but it's not quite as welcoming as she remembered…

Recalled from Lone Pine to investigate claims of murder by magic against her mentor—legendary Warden Bardun Jacques—Aelis takes to the streets of the grand city of Lascenise, and plumbs the deepest secrets of the Lyceum to clear his name. Certain of her success, she doesn't count on thieves, subterranean labyrinths, or the assassins that dog her steps from the moment she leaves her tower.

Behind all of it lurks a ring of unknown wizards who can seemingly reach anyone with their magic. Without knowing who she can trust, Aelis must gather what allies she can to unravel the web of intrigue, murder, smuggling, and theft originating in the halls of magic power. With an old friend from her college days, a war-haunted gnome thief-catcher, and the advice of her imprisoned advisor, Aelis races to save lives and expose a conspiracy that seeks to change the face of the world.

©2025 Daniel M. Ford (P)2025 Dreamscape Media

Voice Acting, Action, Magic, Mystery, Romance, World Building

This was an absolute treat. I really am excited to see what comes next. I really enjoyed the character interactions and dynamics. Very strong scene building and combat writing. I feel like this is a really strong foundation to build on. I also enjoy listening to the characters talk about culture, languages, races, and magic. Please write more 10/10

necromancy, shadow cults and bears oh my!

I read this series too fast! I didnt want it to end, but I couldnt help but want to know what happens next. The characters are so well written and you see them grow and change and learn from their experiences. I have one complaint.... where's the next book?! I need more of this world and the characters! Great read :)

My new favorite series!

They say an author should show not tell in their writing. I can’t remember the last time I’ve read a series that put me so deeply into the world and mind of a main character that I was so immersed it went beyond being shown. I could feel their failures, their growth, and their successes. As if that isn’t impressive enough, Daniel Ford manages to do it with an entire cast of amazing and diverse characters with their own interests codes and creeds through the eyes of said main character. The dialogue is natural, the setting is immersive, and all are laid out so perfectly that every twist and turn in the plot feels natural while still holding all the tension and shock value that makes not just an amazing story, but a perfect fantasy mystery.

The ending (no spoilers) of each book on the series wraps up just enough loose ends to bring it to a satisfying end, while perfectly setting up the next book. I was lucky enough to find this series a week before Advocate came out, and binged the first two books. Getting to read the third one fresh off the presses is a giddy feeling, but now it’s time to join those who are anxiously waiting for the next book in this series.