On the HahaFiction shelf

A Wizard's Guide to Defensive Baking

Mona is fourteen, works in her aunt's bakery and can do magic with bread. Finding a body at work is well outside her usual responsibilities. When someone begins hunting the city's magic users, the young baker has to find ways to protect herself.

Fantasy Dry wit

From the publisher’s blurb

“Her familiar is a sourdough starter and her magic only works on bread.”

Read the full description at Publisher description, Argyll Productions

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What makes it funny?

Mona explains supernatural nuisances with a baker's practicality. Undead things in the canals are part of city life; excessive spice can make gingerbread men dance inappropriately. Her world has hazards that require remarkably specific kitchen advice.

The comedy at work

Kingfisher gives the narration to someone who understands dough better than danger. Mona uses familiar baking knowledge to describe the frightening things around her, keeping a dry, practical voice even when events overwhelm her experience.

Try this if…

A resourceful young heroine and carefully limited magic give readers of different ages something to enjoy. Consider this if you like seeing a character solve problems with an unusual, concrete skill.