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On the Way to Maracanda: The New Dark Saga
A demon cure is finally within reach.
With his pockets brimming with gold after the harrowing quest in Elderstay, and travel papers to the healing isle of Maracanda, Gerome believes his demonic fiend Al may soon be gone for good.
But when a deadly plague shuts down the Grandfall docks and forces him to ship out of a nearby lawless shantytown, he enlists the protection of a senile, elderly bodyguard armed with nothing but a giant axe and a loincloth stuffed with pipeweed. What could possibly go wrong?
Quite a lot, actually. Broderick is hiding something – whether on purpose or because he forgot. Worse still, an ancient evil is stalking their every step, leading them down a path neither can hope to survive.
Bandits. Pirates. Wyverns. Killer swarms, and terrible secrets…
The road to healing might just kill them.
The second installment in The New Dark Saga, On the Way to Maracanda, is a laugh-out-loud dark fantasy full of chaos, terrible choices, and unwise old mentors – perfect for fans of D&D and comedic fantasy.
With his pockets brimming with gold after the harrowing quest in Elderstay, and travel papers to the healing isle of Maracanda, Gerome believes his demonic fiend Al may soon be gone for good.
But when a deadly plague shuts down the Grandfall docks and forces him to ship out of a nearby lawless shantytown, he enlists the protection of a senile, elderly bodyguard armed with nothing but a giant axe and a loincloth stuffed with pipeweed. What could possibly go wrong?
Quite a lot, actually. Broderick is hiding something – whether on purpose or because he forgot. Worse still, an ancient evil is stalking their every step, leading them down a path neither can hope to survive.
Bandits. Pirates. Wyverns. Killer swarms, and terrible secrets…
The road to healing might just kill them.
The second installment in The New Dark Saga, On the Way to Maracanda, is a laugh-out-loud dark fantasy full of chaos, terrible choices, and unwise old mentors – perfect for fans of D&D and comedic fantasy.
397 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 18, 2025
“if it’s some casual fun you’re after, you’ll have to wait. And at least have the decency to buy me a drink first.”
"On the way to Maracanda," Ribbon's second book of The New Dark series follows Gerome the Gnome after His harrowing quest in Elderstay. With the rewards from his previous quest, Gerome embarks on a journey to Maracanda in the hopes of finding a cure for his 'demon problem'.
On the way, Gerome recruits the help of a senile elderly man named Broderick to be his body guard.
Ribbon has really outdone herself with her second book! Ribbon returns with her signature wit and humor that made her first book in the series so endearing. What made this book, 5 star worthy, was Ribbons' style of writing. Her writing is immersive even as she precisely executes the atmosphere and whimsy of a fantasy world. My favourite part of Ribbons writing is the way she can smoothly blend humor and action and heavier topics. I was gasping audibly and gripping my e-reader to a point where I thought it might snap. luckily my pop socket took most of the damage.
The characters: Gerome the Gnome is still the star of the show. very entertaining. A character who will leave a long-lasting impression on readers. small in stature but big on impressions.
Broderick is a fun new character addition and shows you Ribbons' creativity to insert new characters into this world. he comes with a mysterious background and intriguing lore. His dynamic with Gerome provides page-turning entertainment.
Thank you to I. Ribbon for the advance reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! also, thank you again for helping break my slump ! which is also what happened when I read your first book.
"On the way to Maracanda," Ribbon's second book of The New Dark series follows Gerome the Gnome after His harrowing quest in Elderstay. With the rewards from his previous quest, Gerome embarks on a journey to Maracanda in the hopes of finding a cure for his 'demon problem'.
On the way, Gerome recruits the help of a senile elderly man named Broderick to be his body guard.
Ribbon has really outdone herself with her second book! Ribbon returns with her signature wit and humor that made her first book in the series so endearing. What made this book, 5 star worthy, was Ribbons' style of writing. Her writing is immersive even as she precisely executes the atmosphere and whimsy of a fantasy world. My favourite part of Ribbons writing is the way she can smoothly blend humor and action and heavier topics. I was gasping audibly and gripping my e-reader to a point where I thought it might snap. luckily my pop socket took most of the damage.
The characters: Gerome the Gnome is still the star of the show. very entertaining. A character who will leave a long-lasting impression on readers. small in stature but big on impressions.
Broderick is a fun new character addition and shows you Ribbons' creativity to insert new characters into this world. he comes with a mysterious background and intriguing lore. His dynamic with Gerome provides page-turning entertainment.
Thank you to I. Ribbon for the advance reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! also, thank you again for helping break my slump ! which is also what happened when I read your first book.
November 3, 2025
"People stop thinking about you the moment they turn a corner. In a stranger’s memories, you’re a fart in the wind. Unpleasant but quick to disperse. The only ones that matter are your friends."
I would like to thank Book Sirens and I. Ribbon for an e-ARC for one of the funniest adventure I have read in recent times.
Expected Publication Date: December 1, 2025
I have enjoyed the The Demon of Elderstay and this second instalment ups the ante.
First of all, I loved the cover art. Carson Lowmiller did a lovely job just like the one from the book one. Additionally, this cover art reminded me of summer trips where all the funny mishaps had happened with me.
Due to the unique narration style, I was completely hooked up right from the Prologue. Every time a new chapter came, I never guessed it correctly on what is going to happen even though there were a lot of clues were given. Eventually, it resulted in a super entertaining package for me. And that's where I admire Ms. Ribbon's apt and effective writing style.
There were at least 10-15 moments where I had laughed out loud at midnight and my dog stared at me as if I had been possessed by Al.
Oh! I missed Al a bit in this book. Yes, he is there but is popping in and out. Yet, I was satisfied with his role without giving any spoilers. As usual, our Gerome the gnome is the superstar and ably supported by Roderick. Roderick is a curious character with whom I never knew what to expect. Hence, it was fun to read whenever he was on the page.
Overall, an action packed adventure with a lot ofdirty doodle humour and I am looking forward to read The Seer of hopper-Tikker.
I would like to thank Book Sirens and I. Ribbon for an e-ARC for one of the funniest adventure I have read in recent times.
Expected Publication Date: December 1, 2025
I have enjoyed the The Demon of Elderstay and this second instalment ups the ante.
First of all, I loved the cover art. Carson Lowmiller did a lovely job just like the one from the book one. Additionally, this cover art reminded me of summer trips where all the funny mishaps had happened with me.
Due to the unique narration style, I was completely hooked up right from the Prologue. Every time a new chapter came, I never guessed it correctly on what is going to happen even though there were a lot of clues were given. Eventually, it resulted in a super entertaining package for me. And that's where I admire Ms. Ribbon's apt and effective writing style.
“You still haven’t told me what you need to go to Maracanda for.”
“It’s private.”
“You can tell me if it’s—”
“It’s not my doodle. It’s…my sinuses.”
My doodle had played a significant part in my demon story. It’s where all my good sense had been when I accidentally broke the fabric of reality and allowed the New Dark’s harbinger to slip into our world. I’ve since sworn to leave my doodle out of all major life decisions.
There were at least 10-15 moments where I had laughed out loud at midnight and my dog stared at me as if I had been possessed by Al.
Oh! I missed Al a bit in this book. Yes, he is there but is popping in and out. Yet, I was satisfied with his role without giving any spoilers. As usual, our Gerome the gnome is the superstar and ably supported by Roderick. Roderick is a curious character with whom I never knew what to expect. Hence, it was fun to read whenever he was on the page.
Overall, an action packed adventure with a lot of
September 12, 2025
Incredible, INCREDIBLE, book.
Ira Ribbon knows just how to test my D&D knowledge, have me cackling, concerned, and questioning my own morals- I knew this from The Demon of Elderstay.
But this time, she bought a new shiny trinket to the table. FEELINGS. On the Way to Maracanda had me so deep in my feelings that I had runny eyeballs, and I’m not sure if this is a uniquely me experience, but the tale of friendship woven into this novel was exceptional and beautifully written.
Incredible, INCREDIBLE, book.
Gerome, as usual brings nothing but chaos on his own noggin. Mycelium or no, he’s got one big problem he needs to fix and will stop at nothing to find a cure, and no it’s not his ✨doodle✨ thank you very much!
Broderick will forever hold a special place in my heart. I’ve never loved a half naked, axe wielding, senile old man so much in my life. His entire character is impeccable, I’ll be accepting no criticism, only offerings of ale and loincloth appreciation.
Incredible, INCREDIBLE, book. Wait, did I say that already? IS MEMORY LOSS CONTAGIOUS?!
A special mention to Worm, who I truly hope gets to live the rest of their life in peace- though to be fair, is there ever any peace when the New Dark is approaching? 👀
Oh yeah! The ending almost made me commit myself for voluntary eyeball removal so I can pretend I didn’t read it, because if I didn’t see it it didn’t happen. Right? Right. Glad we’re on the same page.
Thank you so much Ira for the ARC, I’m beyond excited for the next book, and I already know I’ll be doing a re read of this many, many times in the future 🥹
Incredible, INCREDIBLE, book.
Ira Ribbon knows just how to test my D&D knowledge, have me cackling, concerned, and questioning my own morals- I knew this from The Demon of Elderstay.
But this time, she bought a new shiny trinket to the table. FEELINGS. On the Way to Maracanda had me so deep in my feelings that I had runny eyeballs, and I’m not sure if this is a uniquely me experience, but the tale of friendship woven into this novel was exceptional and beautifully written.
Incredible, INCREDIBLE, book.
Gerome, as usual brings nothing but chaos on his own noggin. Mycelium or no, he’s got one big problem he needs to fix and will stop at nothing to find a cure, and no it’s not his ✨doodle✨ thank you very much!
Broderick will forever hold a special place in my heart. I’ve never loved a half naked, axe wielding, senile old man so much in my life. His entire character is impeccable, I’ll be accepting no criticism, only offerings of ale and loincloth appreciation.
Incredible, INCREDIBLE, book. Wait, did I say that already? IS MEMORY LOSS CONTAGIOUS?!
A special mention to Worm, who I truly hope gets to live the rest of their life in peace- though to be fair, is there ever any peace when the New Dark is approaching? 👀
Oh yeah! The ending almost made me commit myself for voluntary eyeball removal so I can pretend I didn’t read it, because if I didn’t see it it didn’t happen. Right? Right. Glad we’re on the same page.
Thank you so much Ira for the ARC, I’m beyond excited for the next book, and I already know I’ll be doing a re read of this many, many times in the future 🥹
Incredible, INCREDIBLE, book.
November 26, 2025
Gerome the gnome is back and better than ever!
I absolutely loved the first book of this series (The Demon of Elderstay) and couldn't wait to read the sequel, and I. Ribbon did not disappoint!
I love Gerome and all his shenanigans, and was so pleased to see many callbacks to the original story and the beloved (or not so beloved) characters that clearly made an impact on Gerome. I also really loved the new characters, especially Broderick! I am a girl who tends to have a soft spot for protective, slightly unhinged (but in the best way) old men in stories, and Broderick totally fits the brief.
You have to read this book, I promise you won't regret it!
Disclaimer: Thank you to I. Ribbon for this e-ARC. I was provided this ARC for review only, I was not paid for this review. All opinions are my own.
I absolutely loved the first book of this series (The Demon of Elderstay) and couldn't wait to read the sequel, and I. Ribbon did not disappoint!
I love Gerome and all his shenanigans, and was so pleased to see many callbacks to the original story and the beloved (or not so beloved) characters that clearly made an impact on Gerome. I also really loved the new characters, especially Broderick! I am a girl who tends to have a soft spot for protective, slightly unhinged (but in the best way) old men in stories, and Broderick totally fits the brief.
You have to read this book, I promise you won't regret it!
Disclaimer: Thank you to I. Ribbon for this e-ARC. I was provided this ARC for review only, I was not paid for this review. All opinions are my own.
September 14, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy of this. I really enjoyed this follow up to The Demon of Elderstay.
The banter between Gerome and Al is already funny enough, but throw in a new character named Broderick, whose memory is that of a goldfish and whose solitary item of clothing is a tardis disguised as a loincloth, and you’ve got scene after scene of quick wit and hilarity.
This had adventure, danger, good vs evil, humor, magic, fighting, pirates, demonic possession, swarms of evil insects, found family, and a testament to true friendship.
The banter between Gerome and Al is already funny enough, but throw in a new character named Broderick, whose memory is that of a goldfish and whose solitary item of clothing is a tardis disguised as a loincloth, and you’ve got scene after scene of quick wit and hilarity.
This had adventure, danger, good vs evil, humor, magic, fighting, pirates, demonic possession, swarms of evil insects, found family, and a testament to true friendship.
Read
October 5, 2025The second installment to the New dark Saga follows Gerome travelling to the island of Maracanda in search of his cure- and getting pulled along by an appointed 'bodyguard' on an adventure of dangerous twists and turns. I really enjoyed learning a bit more of he 'lore' attached to this fantasy world- along with a bit more backstory of our main character, the gnome wizard Gerome.
Overall a really fun, low-stakes read. Thanks again for the ARC copy! :0)
Overall a really fun, low-stakes read. Thanks again for the ARC copy! :0)
September 7, 2025
What a lovely second installment! Beautiful fantasy setting reminds me of a dnd campaign I have recently played! Gerome's rolls must have been horrible though...
All of the things that I was a fan of in the first book were built upon in the second. If the first story felt like a delicious taste of what was to come, the second delivered a full meal rich with humour, wit, queer sass and a healthy dose of emotion that builds up to deliver some deep punches that you genuinely aren't expecting. I actually teared up at one point while reading.
The story takes you on a wild journey in ways you definitely do not expect with some twists and turns that keep you guessing, deepened by the mysterious evil that lurks behind the scenes and drives the story to a thrilling climax.
10/10 and am re-reading a second time.
Note: I recieved this book as an arc and this is my honest review
All of the things that I was a fan of in the first book were built upon in the second. If the first story felt like a delicious taste of what was to come, the second delivered a full meal rich with humour, wit, queer sass and a healthy dose of emotion that builds up to deliver some deep punches that you genuinely aren't expecting. I actually teared up at one point while reading.
The story takes you on a wild journey in ways you definitely do not expect with some twists and turns that keep you guessing, deepened by the mysterious evil that lurks behind the scenes and drives the story to a thrilling climax.
10/10 and am re-reading a second time.
Note: I recieved this book as an arc and this is my honest review
September 7, 2025
"Friends don't forget"
With his reward from Elderstay safely stored away, Gerome is all set to journey to Maracanda to "fix" his resident demon problem, Al (otherwise known as Harbinger of the New Dark). However in typical Gerome fashion, nothing is ever as easy as it seems. An assortment of dangers and diversions will appear throughout his journey to Maracanda. From plagues to pirates and most dangerous of all, Broderick, his newly "hired" bodyguard (not that you would know it by just looking at him). All this and more waits Gerome on the way to Maracanda....
This was a brilliant second instalment in the The New Dark Saga series! Ribbon writes another exciting tale of (mis)adventure staring my favourite gnome, Gerome the gnome (yes he is well aware of how that sounds). Gerome's POV was fantastic as always, full of wit and humour, making for a very entertaining read. Ribbon does a great job of balancing the humour with some more emotional moments that occur through this haphazard filled journey.
Its a entirely new side cast this time round, with Broderick being Gerome's main travelling companion (although at times I'm sure Gerome wished this wasn't the case). I enjoyed the addition of Broderick and slowly learning about the greater mystery they were tied too.
Ribbon is able to take the best parts about a D&D session (the interesting characters, crazy situations they find themselves in and perfect balance of handling multiple different tones throughout) and perfectly wraps it in up this book form, leading to a extremely enjoyable read for anyone who enjoys fantasy books.
I look forward to seeing what trouble Gerome the gnome gets up to next!
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
With his reward from Elderstay safely stored away, Gerome is all set to journey to Maracanda to "fix" his resident demon problem, Al (otherwise known as Harbinger of the New Dark). However in typical Gerome fashion, nothing is ever as easy as it seems. An assortment of dangers and diversions will appear throughout his journey to Maracanda. From plagues to pirates and most dangerous of all, Broderick, his newly "hired" bodyguard (not that you would know it by just looking at him). All this and more waits Gerome on the way to Maracanda....
This was a brilliant second instalment in the The New Dark Saga series! Ribbon writes another exciting tale of (mis)adventure staring my favourite gnome, Gerome the gnome (yes he is well aware of how that sounds). Gerome's POV was fantastic as always, full of wit and humour, making for a very entertaining read. Ribbon does a great job of balancing the humour with some more emotional moments that occur through this haphazard filled journey.
Its a entirely new side cast this time round, with Broderick being Gerome's main travelling companion (although at times I'm sure Gerome wished this wasn't the case). I enjoyed the addition of Broderick and slowly learning about the greater mystery they were tied too.
Ribbon is able to take the best parts about a D&D session (the interesting characters, crazy situations they find themselves in and perfect balance of handling multiple different tones throughout) and perfectly wraps it in up this book form, leading to a extremely enjoyable read for anyone who enjoys fantasy books.
I look forward to seeing what trouble Gerome the gnome gets up to next!
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 6, 2025
Ribbon has outdone herself again! The New Dark Saga series is shaping up to be my all time favourite series. The writing is clever, humorous, unique and filled with so much heart.
On the way to Maracanda is book two in The New Dark Saga series. It begins shortly after the events of Elderstay. Our main character Gerome is about to start on a new quest to Maracanda, where it is rumoured to have healers, healers who could potentially help with a cure for Gerome's demon problem.
The plot was exciting and engaging right from the beginning. The world building and character development was in depth. I like that it flowed so seamlessly in the story, I didn't feel like I was getting bogged down with the details at any point.
Aside from Gerome, we are introduced to a new cast of characters all of whom add so much to the story. Ribbon has an amazing ability to write such complex and diverse characters whilst also giving them heart. Even the baddies you kind of love to hate them.
I feel like my review doesn't do this series justice, if you want a fantasy story that is unique and has a sense of humour I'd like to encourage anyone to give this a try.
On the way to Maracanda is book two in The New Dark Saga series. It begins shortly after the events of Elderstay. Our main character Gerome is about to start on a new quest to Maracanda, where it is rumoured to have healers, healers who could potentially help with a cure for Gerome's demon problem.
The plot was exciting and engaging right from the beginning. The world building and character development was in depth. I like that it flowed so seamlessly in the story, I didn't feel like I was getting bogged down with the details at any point.
Aside from Gerome, we are introduced to a new cast of characters all of whom add so much to the story. Ribbon has an amazing ability to write such complex and diverse characters whilst also giving them heart. Even the baddies you kind of love to hate them.
I feel like my review doesn't do this series justice, if you want a fantasy story that is unique and has a sense of humour I'd like to encourage anyone to give this a try.
September 13, 2025
On the Way to Maracanda by I. Ribbon is an absolute triumph and a more than worthy successor to the first book. If you loved book 1 prepare to be even more impressed by this read. I was so excited to dive back into the world of Gerome and his ongoing quest to rid himself of his demon. The introduction of his new companion Broderick shakes up the journey, sending the plot in delightfully unpredictable directions. This book never lets up, and I found myself completely engrossed in every new twist and turn of their adventure.
What I loved most was the blend of humor and darkness, a combination Ira handles with incredible skill. The witty dialogue and funny moments are perfectly balanced by a slightly dark and compelling plot, creating a unique tone that feels both fresh and engaging. I was genuinely invested in the story from start to finish. The plot is cleverly constructed and delivers on all fronts. I highly recommend reading this series. I'm already eager for whatever comes next in this brilliant series.
What I loved most was the blend of humor and darkness, a combination Ira handles with incredible skill. The witty dialogue and funny moments are perfectly balanced by a slightly dark and compelling plot, creating a unique tone that feels both fresh and engaging. I was genuinely invested in the story from start to finish. The plot is cleverly constructed and delivers on all fronts. I highly recommend reading this series. I'm already eager for whatever comes next in this brilliant series.
September 25, 2025
Gerome the gnome is at it again and, dare I say it, I think I loved this book even better than the first.
This book is hilarious and had me giggling constantly, but I also shed tears- and not just from laughing so much. I absolutely adore Gerome’s character growth from book 1 in this series to book 2, and beyond that, the new characters we meet in this leg of Gerome’s adventures were great as well.
Broderick is a gem and I never knew what he was going to say or do next as this unlikely duo trek ever on to Maracanda.
On the Way to Maracanda has everything I wanted and more- dry, witty humor that had my husband side eyeing my audible cackles; interesting characters with intriguing (and some puzzling) motivations; edge-of-your-seat action; and emotional story arcs that had me deeply invested the whole way through.
I. Ribbon is a brilliant writer and I will continue to eat up everything she has to offer. I can’t wait to continue on with this journey and see where Gerome’s antics lead us next.
This book is hilarious and had me giggling constantly, but I also shed tears- and not just from laughing so much. I absolutely adore Gerome’s character growth from book 1 in this series to book 2, and beyond that, the new characters we meet in this leg of Gerome’s adventures were great as well.
Broderick is a gem and I never knew what he was going to say or do next as this unlikely duo trek ever on to Maracanda.
On the Way to Maracanda has everything I wanted and more- dry, witty humor that had my husband side eyeing my audible cackles; interesting characters with intriguing (and some puzzling) motivations; edge-of-your-seat action; and emotional story arcs that had me deeply invested the whole way through.
I. Ribbon is a brilliant writer and I will continue to eat up everything she has to offer. I can’t wait to continue on with this journey and see where Gerome’s antics lead us next.
November 19, 2025
On the Way to Maracanda by I. Ribbon is the second book in The New Dark Saga. Gerome is back with another epic adventure! This Dark Fantasy story is filled with magical creatures, found family, morally grey characters, and a sense of humor.
I loved reading this book. I really enjoy I. Ribbon’s writing style. I love all of the elements of this story. The plot twists were very unexpected, but perfect. I didn’t expect any of them at all. There was so much emotion in certain parts of this story, and I definitely shed a tear or two while reading!
I 100% recommend this book. Especially if you love fantasy adventures with humor and banter. This story is recommended 16+ by the author. There are some content warnings, so definitely read them before reading! But I believe that anyone who likes fantasy adventures needs to read this series.
I loved reading this book. I really enjoy I. Ribbon’s writing style. I love all of the elements of this story. The plot twists were very unexpected, but perfect. I didn’t expect any of them at all. There was so much emotion in certain parts of this story, and I definitely shed a tear or two while reading!
I 100% recommend this book. Especially if you love fantasy adventures with humor and banter. This story is recommended 16+ by the author. There are some content warnings, so definitely read them before reading! But I believe that anyone who likes fantasy adventures needs to read this series.
October 5, 2025
Girl, I— 😭
Why was this so sad?! Maybe heart-wrenching is a better term. This shit was so emotional and it has zero romance. The pure love borne of friendship in this story is so gutting. In the best way. I cried a few different times, all for various friendship-based reasons.
It’s such a beautiful book with layered relationships, plot twists and humor that I couldn’t put it down. The dynamics are so authentic and well-written, I loved this continuation of Gerome the Gnome’s tale so, so much.
Thank you I. Ribbon for the chance to arc read, but also pls I need the next book 😂😩🩷 that cliff hanger was done so well that it felt like less of a cliff hanger and more of an opening left for the next instalment. Truly, so well-crafted.
Why was this so sad?! Maybe heart-wrenching is a better term. This shit was so emotional and it has zero romance. The pure love borne of friendship in this story is so gutting. In the best way. I cried a few different times, all for various friendship-based reasons.
It’s such a beautiful book with layered relationships, plot twists and humor that I couldn’t put it down. The dynamics are so authentic and well-written, I loved this continuation of Gerome the Gnome’s tale so, so much.
Thank you I. Ribbon for the chance to arc read, but also pls I need the next book 😂😩🩷 that cliff hanger was done so well that it felt like less of a cliff hanger and more of an opening left for the next instalment. Truly, so well-crafted.
October 14, 2025
I love a good adventure between unlikely friends and On the Way to Maracanda gives you everything one asks for in a fun, unexpected turns of events type of way. Think Legolas and Gimli (one of my favorite unlikely pairs) 😉, I could hear stories about these main characters over and over again.
This book was exactly what I wanted and didn’t know I needed. I’m not a big one for crying over moments in books but at 2am on a Wednesday morning this story filled my heart right to the brim, and the tears were flowing in the best way.
I’m deeply invested in this series now and waiting like a kid on Christmas morning for the third book.
This book was exactly what I wanted and didn’t know I needed. I’m not a big one for crying over moments in books but at 2am on a Wednesday morning this story filled my heart right to the brim, and the tears were flowing in the best way.
I’m deeply invested in this series now and waiting like a kid on Christmas morning for the third book.
October 25, 2025
I loved this book! I.Ribbon really knows how to add Dnd knowledge into her books! I really enjoyed book one and getting introduced to Gerome and Al and I find book two does such a great job expanding on the story! I was hooked on the story from the first few chapters and with characters like Broderick it's hard not to be intrigued right away! I really enjoyed learning more of the backstories of our characters and seeing them get out of their unfortunate circumstances they kept getting into, and I also really enjoyed the interactions between Gerome and Broderick. I'm excited to see where this story goes and I'm looking forward to book 3 especially after how book 2 ended!
September 21, 2025
Fuck. Yes.
This was so good. Even better than book one. I started cackling a few pages in and then just devoured the entire book in one afternoon. The series continues to deliver a wonderful blend of comedy and occasional blood-curdling horror with its rollicking adventure. Awesome D&D vibes.
Ribbon really seems to be finding their feet as an author. The writing feels stronger and the characters are delightful. I have a new favourite character and I really hope they will come back in book three! Looking forward to the next installment, for sure!
This was so good. Even better than book one. I started cackling a few pages in and then just devoured the entire book in one afternoon. The series continues to deliver a wonderful blend of comedy and occasional blood-curdling horror with its rollicking adventure. Awesome D&D vibes.
Ribbon really seems to be finding their feet as an author. The writing feels stronger and the characters are delightful. I have a new favourite character and I really hope they will come back in book three! Looking forward to the next installment, for sure!
October 31, 2025
I. Ribbon has a strong writing style and was glad I read this. This was a strong sequel in the New Dark Saga series, it had that dark fantasy element that I was looking for and enjoyed from the previous book. The overall storyline worked well and was glad I got to read this, it continued the storyline perfectly. The characters were everything that I was hoping for and enjoyed about the first book, they had that element that I was wanting and could see the Dungeons & Dragons element to them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 5, 2026
I’m kind of glad I don’t have to travel with Gerome the Gnome even though he is quite the entertaining fellow, because he has epically bad luck. Or perhaps is simply on the road to a glorious fate…Both he & I can hope that for him, at least. But in this book, Book #2 in The New Dark series, he faces numerous misfortunes as he attempts to reach his long-sought after goal, healing in the distant island of Maracanda. For once, most of the challenges aren’t his own fault, but linked to his curious traveling companion, his elderly bodyguard who only wears a loin cloth—and uses it to store items. (Yes, Gerome is as horrified by this as we, the readers, are.)
This book made me laugh and even cry, which is saying something for a dark comedic fantasy. It also left off on a bit of a cliffhanger, so I am MOST eager for Book #3 in the series. I am very impressed with this author who walks such a fine line between comedy and horror and does it so very well.
This book made me laugh and even cry, which is saying something for a dark comedic fantasy. It also left off on a bit of a cliffhanger, so I am MOST eager for Book #3 in the series. I am very impressed with this author who walks such a fine line between comedy and horror and does it so very well.
November 26, 2025
The second instalment in The New Dark Saga, I. Ribbon has given us a phenomenal second quest with Gerome the gnome.
Picking up a short while after The Demon of Elderstay, Gerome is making plans for his next steps. Flush with his reward money from the Elderstay quest, Gerome decides to head to Maracanda to assist with his, uh, .... "sinus" problem (NOT his doodle, thankyouverymuch!).
Unlike in Elderstay, Gerome embarks on this quest with just him, and his new bodyguard - a seemingly frail, senile old man named Broderick. How on earth is this man going to protect Gerome?!
Ira continues to blend D&D, humour, and fantastic storytelling into this whimsical and action-packed tale. I never knew what the next page would hold, and was left both gasping in surprise, and laughing out loud at the interactions between the characters. I especially loved the continued, ah, "relationship" between Gerome and Al. What a duo! I was also very pleased to see callbacks to the original questers and Elderstay.
Ira's writing will draw you in immediately, weaving the whimsy with the serious, the humour with the emotion, and will leave you wanting more.
I will be getting both books as gifts for multiple people in my life, and wait with bated breath for MORE.
Thank you so much to I Ribbon for the eARC! My opinions are my own.
Picking up a short while after The Demon of Elderstay, Gerome is making plans for his next steps. Flush with his reward money from the Elderstay quest, Gerome decides to head to Maracanda to assist with his, uh, .... "sinus" problem (NOT his doodle, thankyouverymuch!).
Unlike in Elderstay, Gerome embarks on this quest with just him, and his new bodyguard - a seemingly frail, senile old man named Broderick. How on earth is this man going to protect Gerome?!
Ira continues to blend D&D, humour, and fantastic storytelling into this whimsical and action-packed tale. I never knew what the next page would hold, and was left both gasping in surprise, and laughing out loud at the interactions between the characters. I especially loved the continued, ah, "relationship" between Gerome and Al. What a duo! I was also very pleased to see callbacks to the original questers and Elderstay.
Ira's writing will draw you in immediately, weaving the whimsy with the serious, the humour with the emotion, and will leave you wanting more.
I will be getting both books as gifts for multiple people in my life, and wait with bated breath for MORE.
Thank you so much to I Ribbon for the eARC! My opinions are my own.
November 25, 2025
Even better then book 2!
I was already chuckling at the very witty and immediately addictive beginning of the story, and I flew through it in a matter of days!
I really enjoyed learning and reading more about gerome and he never fails to make me laugh and kick my feet!
You can really tell the author outdid herself on this one! It’s so much better then book 1 and booo 1 already was a 5 star read.
Can’t wait to see what this series bring next!
I was already chuckling at the very witty and immediately addictive beginning of the story, and I flew through it in a matter of days!
I really enjoyed learning and reading more about gerome and he never fails to make me laugh and kick my feet!
You can really tell the author outdid herself on this one! It’s so much better then book 1 and booo 1 already was a 5 star read.
Can’t wait to see what this series bring next!
April 14, 2026
Equally engaging as the first book. The hilarity ensues as the relationship between Gerome and Al take on new challenges. I enjoyed the journey and our naked old man body guard. Gerome is relatable. I love his quick wit reasoning and his powers of observation. Besides the rollercoaster plot and memorable characters, there are golden lines of wisdom tucked in these pages. A fast and worthy read. Definitely something to say to your collection.
November 26, 2025
I loved returning to the world of Gerome the Gnome in the second instalment of the New Dark Saga. Like the first book On the Way to Marcanda is full of witty humor, fantastical beings and just an overall fast paced fun adventure. I recommend this book for all fantasy lovers.
December 31, 2025
4.5
I had such a great time getting back into this world.
There were such fascinating connections between characters across the board, an interesting mystery and the same entertaining, witty writing that I love from I. Ribbon.
I can't wait to see where the New Dark saga takes us next!
I had such a great time getting back into this world.
There were such fascinating connections between characters across the board, an interesting mystery and the same entertaining, witty writing that I love from I. Ribbon.
I can't wait to see where the New Dark saga takes us next!
October 7, 2025
Deeper themes and Pery's sweetness make this book better than the first one ♥️
May 22, 2026
I loved being back in this world! Gerome is hilarious as always. Im excited for book 3 already.
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