My Father's Ghost

Author: A. C. Wilson
Genre: Fantasy
Series: Gwambi Tetraology #2
Pages: 480
Release Date: November 1, 2023
Publisher: Wise Path Books

​"What is a ghost? It is a demon, cursed to live immortally in mortal flesh.”

Haeli can handle anything. She has to. She has spent her whole life wedged between the inexorable power of the Company and the chaotic politics of the indigenous nymph tribes. Her family’s wisdom and her faith in God guide her. And she loves her life. That was until her Da gave her the Gwambi keys... and told her to run. Is her family’s wisdom and her ancestral faith enough to protect her from two pirate crews, a vengeful griffin, and a sorcerer? Ella can’t help her either: she’s too busy dealing with the fallout of the increasingly violent labor strikes. And that was before she awakened the ghost...

The swashbuckling tale of “My Father’s Land” continues in this thrilling sequel, bringing more of A C Wilson’s unique world-building, and faith-based, character-driven fantasy.

With a focus on immersive world-building that features fully developed fantasy races, deeply religious colonists, and labor riots, “My Father’s Land” draws as much from JRR Tolkien and Indiana Jones as it does from Charles Dickens. “The Gwambi Tetralogy” borders on magical realism, and is a faith-based and character-driven spin on the fantasy genre.

Includes 10 hand-drawn illustrations of the highest quality by Shelby Elizabeth.

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Reviewer: Trinity Caver

The second installment in A.C. Wilson's Gwambi Trilogy did not disappoint. Despite not reading the first book in the series, I found myself immediately pulled into this fantastic fantasy world. The book does a splendid job of setting up an enticing universe with different races such as men, dwarves, imps, and nymphs, creating a sense of diverse, thriving life throughout.

The story weaves Christian themes subtly throughout its plot without overwhelming the narrative or making it preachy, a characteristic I deeply appreciate. Wilson's focus is always on entertaining the reader, but he also has a clear, uplifting message about God, presented enough to give the story depth and life.

The character arcs of Ernest and Haeli in this novel are deeply engrossing and thought-provoking. They embody different ways people deal with faith and their relationship with God. The characters grapple with faith, doubts, tragedies, and mysteries in a way that is relatable to many readers, even if the specifics of their stories differ greatly from the readers' experiences.

Ernest starts the book somewhat disinterested in spiritual matters, not having any personal understanding or relationship with God. Yet, over the course of the book, he grows and develops in ways that are moving and meaningful, ending up with a transformative change.

Haeli, on the other hand, starts the story as a faith-filled and joyful character. Her life seems guided by her unwavering faith in Jesus, providing her with a comforting anchor. But when faced with adversity and mysterious keys, her journey becomes filled with tension and conflicting emotions.

Despite the heaviness of the iron keys that she physically carries, it is the metaphorical weight of her unfolding actions and doubts that feel even heavier to her. Her storyline explores how personal tragedies can shift perspectives and lead individuals on a path of questioning their faith and previous ways of life.

Through these characters' storylines, the novel provides a rich and complex exploration of faith and how it interacts with personal trials, victories, tragedies, and life-changing events. This allows readers to emotionally connect with and root for the characters, all while exploring their spiritual journey alongside them.

What intrigued me the most about this book were the small mysteries and unpredictable developments, particularly those involving the iron keys Haeli received. The unexplained weight of these keys and their ultimate purpose keep you flipping through the pages.

Overall, Wilson's second book in the Gwambi series is an engaging blend of thrilling mystery, fantasy adventure, and spiritual discovery. The series is shaping up to be a worthy addition to the pantheon of great fantasy series. I'm eagerly looking forward to the next books, hoping to get further insights into this fantastical world, its fascinating characters, and the mysterious iron keys.

I received a complimentary copy from the author through Interviews & Reviews, for my honest opinion.

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Reviewer: Elizabeth Rucker

My Father's Ghost reminds me a lot of Tolkien's writing. This book is going to make you think when you read it. This isn’t a bad thing, but if you’re a moody reader like me, then you might want to wait to read this book in a better mood.

The language confused me even with the glossary in the back. I find it fascinating when a writer decides to change language, although it takes a lot of thinking for my brain. Sometimes I just want to read and not have to think about it, if that makes sense. 

I am very fond of the cover and how he used God within the world. The world in this book is very magnificent and complex. I am impressed with the writer’s intricate detail.

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Wise Path Books through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.

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