The Library at Mount Char is the story of Carolyn, who was taken in by a man she calls Father, along with other kids after their parents died back when Carolyn was 8. They were raised according to Father's ancient customs and taught secrets of his power — each kid with their own specific catalog of knowledge (i.e., medicine, war, death, and language) in a literal out-of-this-world space called The Library. Now in their 30s, Carolyn and her siblings are working to solve the mystery of Father's sudden disappearance, which has resulted in the Library becoming inaccessible to them. The Library he guarded holds the secrets to control all of creation, and to prepare for the upcoming battle against fierce competitors with superior powers, Carolyn must gather the necessary resources.

Full of unforgettable characters, and a plot that readers will find both fascinatingly horrific and sardonically amusing, The Library at Mount Char delivered in spades. What struck me most about this fantasy novel was the dry wit and playful narrative. Despite the sometimes gruesome events, the tone remained higher and almost lighthearted.

This book completely lives up to its hype — though some people would emphasize the violence, that's hard for me to stay focused on. For one thing, that's not out of the ordinary for a fantasy book, so it just doesn't register. (That would be like saying, "There are a lot of jump scares in this slasher movie.") For another, I am, if I may use a pop culture reference, way more of a Harry Burns than a Sally Albright —though I have my own Sally-ness to me, depending on the occasion.