Book Review: The Guard in the Garden by Z.S. Diamanti

Reviewed: September 6th, 2025
Released: March 4th, 2025
Genre: Cozy Fantasy

Embark on a wholesome journey of healing and self-discovery. A cozy fantasy tale of forging new friendships and overcoming fears. A quiet quest of family bonds and budding romance.

From dragon fire to garden flowers …

Felton Holdum spent his entire life training to become one of Galium’s elite dwarven warriors. When a bloody battle leaves him injured, he has no choice but to move into his eccentric twin aunts’ quaint home in the town’s quiet Garome District.

With his life of military service seemingly over, the captain of the city guard gives Felton his only chance at a fresh start in the new life he never wanted.

But when a human woman barges through his front door, the grumpy dwarf starts to wonder if there is more to life than war. The sunshine woman invites him to visit her garden, where Felton gains a new nemesis and a new purpose in life.

Take a walk through the garden and see what magic awaits.

Come enjoy the hospitality of the whimsical Garome District. Meet new friends as you sample new breads at the bakery, play a game of Castle Brick at the tavern, and taste homemade pies during the annual pie baking contest at the Fall Festival.

Helen’s Thoughts: 4/5

A wonderful, heartwarming story about a warrior who suffered terrible injury and loss, and his journey to to appreciate that he can still have a purpose and there is still much he can do to help the people around him.

A gentle story introducing you to the painful path of accepting that your life has changed from what you thought it would be, with many heartfelt words of advice.

The garden is a wonderful reflection of how the seasons change and Felton’s journey of recovery and discovery. The Marigold ladies are lovely, and Tem is an interesting denizen of the gardens.

An enjoyable cozy fantasy, set in a lovely village filled with people you’d want for neighbours.



Purchase The Guard in the Garden

Link to book on Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback

Link to book on Amazon US: eBook | Paperback

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If you enjoy fantasy books then you will love my epic fantasy Sentinal series or the Romantic Fantasy SoulMist series and now Harmony, a dystopian science fantasy.

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