Overview

Rumors are swirling in the northlands about a curse in Westcliff. People are being driven mad by the touch of angry ghosts during the full moon, in a village already haunted by a brutal murder from decades ago.

Growing up as an orphan, Genshai always expected his life would be the same as the other warriors of the abbey: learning the ways of the Iron Style, and training his mind and body toward Illumination. But, at the start of his fifteenth year the boy is shocked when the abbot names him the new laymonk, and he is sent to learn the ways of the world from his predecessor, an old man named Taisan.

Soon, Genshai receives firsthand lessons in ways that he never imagined— from fighting for his life, to defending the innocent, and even striding between two worlds, into the ethereal Veil. And just as Genshai is beginning to learn how to keep the Still Mind in the presence of spirits, the laymonks are sent to Westcliff to break an old curse, and to confront an unfathomable evil.

By taking up the staff of the laymonk, will Genshai uncover the truth about himself? Or will the madness spread, causing his greatest fears to be revealed on the night the Lotus is in Bloom?

"Author M.A.B. Wyman has crafted a superb work of fantasy that weaves a lot of classic heroics into an innovative new storyline celebrating the ways of monkhood, martial arts, and spirit realms beyond our imagination. I really liked the sense of harmony and balance that runs through the book as a central dynamic, from the two worlds that Genshai must walk to the duality of the emotional battle he faces within his own heart, mind, and soul. The good versus evil trope is well-managed here to craft a mature tale with a lot of introspection, and the work is layered with vivid, cinematic descriptions of nightmarish curses, psychological horrors, and tests of strength as they come to life before our eyes. Overall, Mountainroot is an accomplished and sophisticated fantasy epic that will please fans of original fiction that still pays homage to tradition, and I can't wait to see what else this exciting series has in store." --- K.C. Finn for Reader's Favorite

"Mountainroot drew me in with its intricately-woven tale of Genshai, a young warrior turned laymonk, who navigates his path of self-discovery, spirituality, and growth in a world fraught with danger and steeped in supernatural intrigue.

From the moment Genshai embarked on his unexpected journey, I was hooked. His endearing character, resilience, and his ability to adapt quickly to new social cues and situations, combined with his potential to become a warrior monk, added depth to this fascinating saga.

The author's vivid descriptions of food throughout the book created a sensory feast that left me hungry for more, adding a unique and wholesome touch to the narrative. The bond between Genshai and Ysma was another highlight of the story, painting a tender and exciting promise of what their future might hold.

Taisan, a monk warrior, is another standout character in this tale, and his exploration as a gay man in a time and culture where this would have been taboo was handled thoughtfully, adding another layer to the story's complexity.

The intriguing prologue sets the stage for a deeper narrative that I'm eagerly anticipating to unfold in subsequent books. Despite a few minor issues, "Mountainroot" captivated me from start to finish, delivering a compelling read that goes beyond the usual fantasy narrative.

Get ready to embark on an immersive journey filled with character growth, supernatural elements, and the promise of an epic saga that leaves you wanting more." Review by Lindsey A. from Goodeads.

"Amidst the haunting presence of angry ghosts and a decades-old murder , Genshai's journey takes a gripping turn as the laymonks are called upon to break the ancient curse and confront an unimaginable evil in Westcliff. As he wields the laymonk's staff, Genshai finds himself on a quest that holds the potential to unravel his own identity and fears.

M.A.B. Wyman skillfully weaves a captivating tale, blending elements of fantasy, suspense, and introspection. The narrative is rich with vivid descriptions that bring the world of Mountainroot to life, immersing readers in its atmospheric setting. The author's ability to create engaging characters, particularly Genshai, adds depth to the story, as readers witness his growth and inner turmoil.

Mountainroot is a promising start to the Saga of the Laymonk series, leaving readers eager to uncover the truth alongside Genshai. Wyman's storytelling prowess shines as he expertly balances action-packed scenes with introspective moments, creating a seamless reading experience.

For fans of fantasy and coming-of-age tales intertwined with mysticism, Mountainroot offers an enthralling blend of adventure and self-discovery. Prepare to be drawn into a world where curses and ethereal forces collide, where the night of the Lotus in Bloom holds both answers and revelations for our young protagonist." Review by Shellie from Goodreads

Malkam is an aspiring author living in Three Oaks, MI, brewing beer by day and writing novels by night. Born and raised in Kalamazoo, Malkam is proud to be a child of deaf adults (CODA), and a graduate of Western Michigan University with a Bachelor in Fine Arts. He is a dedicated student of martial arts and has studied Taiji and Kung Fu for twenty years. Malkam is an avid reader of literature and poetry, and has been participating in storytelling and performance art with Indigan Storyteller Workshops since 2013.