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Assassin in the Alehouse: A Cozy Fantasy
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Expected 2 Jun 26Win a free kindle copy of this book!
12 days and 20:09:19
100 copies available
U.S. only
Embark on a cozy fantasy tale of found family and quiet mysteries. A quaint quest to find the place that feels like home and the ones who make it so. A journey filled with self-discovery and new romance.
From cloaks and daggers to mugs and flagons …
Hazkul Bern spent years in the shadows, becoming Kelvur’s most prominent assassin. When his notorious guild is torn apart in a war with a wicked sorcerer, he has no choice but to retreat into hiding in the seaside town of Lornash Point.
With his life as an assassin seemingly over, a local alehouse brewer gives Hazkul a chance at a fresh start in a new life he never wanted.
But when an ominous note is pinned to the bar top, threatening his new friends, the elf assassin wonders if he’ll ever escape his past mistakes.
Take a seat at the table and see what magic awaits.
Come enjoy the hospitality of the seaside town of Lornash Point. Meet new friends as you sample amber ale at a local tavern, uncover mysteries in the shadows, and taste pub comfort food prepared by a culinary wizard.
Read this heartwarming, feel-good fantasy today.
From cloaks and daggers to mugs and flagons …
Hazkul Bern spent years in the shadows, becoming Kelvur’s most prominent assassin. When his notorious guild is torn apart in a war with a wicked sorcerer, he has no choice but to retreat into hiding in the seaside town of Lornash Point.
With his life as an assassin seemingly over, a local alehouse brewer gives Hazkul a chance at a fresh start in a new life he never wanted.
But when an ominous note is pinned to the bar top, threatening his new friends, the elf assassin wonders if he’ll ever escape his past mistakes.
Take a seat at the table and see what magic awaits.
Come enjoy the hospitality of the seaside town of Lornash Point. Meet new friends as you sample amber ale at a local tavern, uncover mysteries in the shadows, and taste pub comfort food prepared by a culinary wizard.
Read this heartwarming, feel-good fantasy today.
- GenresCozy FantasyFantasy
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 2, 2026
About the author
Z.S. Diamanti
16 books590 followersZ.S. Diamanti is the award-winning author of the Stone & Sky series, an epic fantasy adventure and the result of his great passion for fun and fantastical stories. He went to college forever and has too many pieces of paper on his wall. He is a USAF veteran of OEF and worked in ministry for over 10 years. He and his wife reside in Colorado with their four children where they enjoy hikes and tabletop games.
Connect with him on social media: @zsdiamanti
You can get a FREE series of his stories at zsdiamanti.com
Connect with him on social media: @zsdiamanti
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
May 11, 2026
Assassin in the Alehouse was phenomenal!! Once again Z.S. Diamanti had taken us on fantastical and magical adventure to Finlestia. Full of found family and self-discovery, Assassin in the Alehouse is a great story about second chances and using our gifts to make the world a better place.
After giving up the life he’s always known as an assassin, Hazkul must face his past and figure out what he wants next. Will he keep running away? Or will he finally find a reason to stay?
Hazkul’s journey is rough, but there’s a lot of fun, fellowship, and festivities as well. The cast of characters he finds himself surrounded by are all fantastic. And they all treat him in a way he didn’t know was possible. I loved the great connection he had with Inara. They acted like an old married couple from the very beginning, which was a lot of fun. Inara, along with friends like Roak, Verlin, Ander, and an owl named Whitli, shows Hazkul that he is not alone and his past does not define him. It’s what he chooses to do next that matters.
"We've all made bad choices. No one is excluded from that. But what matters is how we learn from those choices and move forward.”
While the story itself is fun and interesting, it’s the world building that continues to amaze me. Z.S. Diamanti’s writing has a way of beautifully capturing all the little details; the sights, sounds, and smells of Finlestia. He paints each town and each character in such a vivid way that you can’t help but be captivated.
Finlestia is just one of those worlds that you want to live in and enjoy for as long as you’re able to. Diamanti has created a world where you can feel the warmth of the hearth and smell the delicious baked goods. A world where you know the characters are going to have some problems and obstacles to face, but are never gonna give up. The entire series is a breath of fresh air and this book in particular was a great reminder that we’re worth more than we think. Even when it feels like we don’t have much to offer, we do.
After giving up the life he’s always known as an assassin, Hazkul must face his past and figure out what he wants next. Will he keep running away? Or will he finally find a reason to stay?
Hazkul’s journey is rough, but there’s a lot of fun, fellowship, and festivities as well. The cast of characters he finds himself surrounded by are all fantastic. And they all treat him in a way he didn’t know was possible. I loved the great connection he had with Inara. They acted like an old married couple from the very beginning, which was a lot of fun. Inara, along with friends like Roak, Verlin, Ander, and an owl named Whitli, shows Hazkul that he is not alone and his past does not define him. It’s what he chooses to do next that matters.
"We've all made bad choices. No one is excluded from that. But what matters is how we learn from those choices and move forward.”
While the story itself is fun and interesting, it’s the world building that continues to amaze me. Z.S. Diamanti’s writing has a way of beautifully capturing all the little details; the sights, sounds, and smells of Finlestia. He paints each town and each character in such a vivid way that you can’t help but be captivated.
Finlestia is just one of those worlds that you want to live in and enjoy for as long as you’re able to. Diamanti has created a world where you can feel the warmth of the hearth and smell the delicious baked goods. A world where you know the characters are going to have some problems and obstacles to face, but are never gonna give up. The entire series is a breath of fresh air and this book in particular was a great reminder that we’re worth more than we think. Even when it feels like we don’t have much to offer, we do.
Review of advance copy
I want to first express my gratitude for being able to be a part of the arc reading team for this and look forward to sharing my honest review.
This book came into my life at exactly the right time, I am absolutely convinced fate had a hand in this. Our MMC Harkul is struggling and trying to escape his past and finds himself working at an alehouse, meeting some interesting characters who help him on his way into this new life he’s found himself. To be sure it isn’t without its own struggles and challenges, but seeing him navigate all this and see how those characters aid him was just incredibly well done.
The worldbuilding was great, we got a nice snap shot of the town bit by bit, without it getting overwhelming or a large exposition dump, it happened organically as the story needed. I adored the unique characters from the minotaur to dwarves, and especially the goblins (shout out to Josi, my almost-name twin). It wasn’t something that was made a big deal, it’s just a part of who those characters were and added a bit of fantasy flair.
The characters themselves were incredible, hands down my favorite part of this story. I felt like I had just sat down and started watching a movie with how smoothly things went between characters, nothing felt awkward or stiff in the dialogue or interactions. With the characters being so well done it made it so easy to connect with them and find so many aspects of each relatable. The advice some of the characters imparted are going to be kernels of wisdom I save for myself. My favorite thing that got brought up is that, we have seasons in our lives and each season brings something new, new gifts, new challenges, and new opportunities and it’s up to us to decide how we will go into these new seasons, what will we get out of them? As someone who is currently going through a big life change and having some difficult times with adjusting as well as other hiccups along the way, this story gave me some amazing insight and advice.
The story itself was well done, the plot never lagged, it moved along with a steady space with a good amount of breathing room between the higher tension parts. How it all wrapped up was satisfying and I wasn’t left wondering what or why something happened. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to see things and how they developed after the main conflict. I feel like not enough cozy stories give us a look into the ‘after’ portion.
Overall this was a wonderful story, though it’s a cozy fantasy it doesn’t fall into the trap of being too slow or too low stakes. The writing is well done and is thoughtful especially when concerning the dialogue and character interactions.
This book came into my life at exactly the right time, I am absolutely convinced fate had a hand in this. Our MMC Harkul is struggling and trying to escape his past and finds himself working at an alehouse, meeting some interesting characters who help him on his way into this new life he’s found himself. To be sure it isn’t without its own struggles and challenges, but seeing him navigate all this and see how those characters aid him was just incredibly well done.
The worldbuilding was great, we got a nice snap shot of the town bit by bit, without it getting overwhelming or a large exposition dump, it happened organically as the story needed. I adored the unique characters from the minotaur to dwarves, and especially the goblins (shout out to Josi, my almost-name twin). It wasn’t something that was made a big deal, it’s just a part of who those characters were and added a bit of fantasy flair.
The characters themselves were incredible, hands down my favorite part of this story. I felt like I had just sat down and started watching a movie with how smoothly things went between characters, nothing felt awkward or stiff in the dialogue or interactions. With the characters being so well done it made it so easy to connect with them and find so many aspects of each relatable. The advice some of the characters imparted are going to be kernels of wisdom I save for myself. My favorite thing that got brought up is that, we have seasons in our lives and each season brings something new, new gifts, new challenges, and new opportunities and it’s up to us to decide how we will go into these new seasons, what will we get out of them? As someone who is currently going through a big life change and having some difficult times with adjusting as well as other hiccups along the way, this story gave me some amazing insight and advice.
The story itself was well done, the plot never lagged, it moved along with a steady space with a good amount of breathing room between the higher tension parts. How it all wrapped up was satisfying and I wasn’t left wondering what or why something happened. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to see things and how they developed after the main conflict. I feel like not enough cozy stories give us a look into the ‘after’ portion.
Overall this was a wonderful story, though it’s a cozy fantasy it doesn’t fall into the trap of being too slow or too low stakes. The writing is well done and is thoughtful especially when concerning the dialogue and character interactions.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Z.S. Diamanti, and the team at Golden Griffin Press for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
There’s something quietly compelling about watching a man built for violence try to learn how to live gently again.
Assassin in the Alehouse takes the familiar fantasy archetype of the legendary assassin and strips away the glamour usually attached to it. Hazkul Bern isn’t hunting kings or chasing glory. He’s hiding. Exhausted. Haunted. Trying to disappear into the warmth of a seaside tavern after the collapse of the only life he’s ever known.
And honestly? That’s where this book shines.
The alehouse itself becomes the emotional center of the story. Between mugs of amber ale, pub meals prepared by a culinary wizard, and conversations shared among newfound companions, the novel creates a sense of comfort that feels genuine rather than manufactured. Lornash Point doesn’t exist simply as a fantasy backdrop. It feels lived in. Welcoming. The kind of place readers wish they could step into after a long day.
What surprised me most was how effective the quieter moments were. This isn’t a story driven by massive battles or endless lore dumps. It’s a story about belonging. About learning how to trust people again after a life spent in shadows. The mystery surrounding the threatening note pinned to the tavern bar adds enough tension to keep the pages turning, but the real heart of the novel is watching Hazkul slowly realize that surviving and truly living are not the same thing.
Diamanti’s prose is approachable and easy to settle into, making this a fantasy novel that feels accessible even for readers who don’t normally gravitate toward the genre. Fans of cozy fantasy will absolutely find a home here, especially readers who enjoy warmth and comfort with just enough danger lurking beneath the surface.
Not every fantasy story needs to save the world to matter. Sometimes the smaller stories leave the strongest impression.
And sometimes the best fantasy setting isn’t a throne room.
It’s a tavern.
There’s something quietly compelling about watching a man built for violence try to learn how to live gently again.
Assassin in the Alehouse takes the familiar fantasy archetype of the legendary assassin and strips away the glamour usually attached to it. Hazkul Bern isn’t hunting kings or chasing glory. He’s hiding. Exhausted. Haunted. Trying to disappear into the warmth of a seaside tavern after the collapse of the only life he’s ever known.
And honestly? That’s where this book shines.
The alehouse itself becomes the emotional center of the story. Between mugs of amber ale, pub meals prepared by a culinary wizard, and conversations shared among newfound companions, the novel creates a sense of comfort that feels genuine rather than manufactured. Lornash Point doesn’t exist simply as a fantasy backdrop. It feels lived in. Welcoming. The kind of place readers wish they could step into after a long day.
What surprised me most was how effective the quieter moments were. This isn’t a story driven by massive battles or endless lore dumps. It’s a story about belonging. About learning how to trust people again after a life spent in shadows. The mystery surrounding the threatening note pinned to the tavern bar adds enough tension to keep the pages turning, but the real heart of the novel is watching Hazkul slowly realize that surviving and truly living are not the same thing.
Diamanti’s prose is approachable and easy to settle into, making this a fantasy novel that feels accessible even for readers who don’t normally gravitate toward the genre. Fans of cozy fantasy will absolutely find a home here, especially readers who enjoy warmth and comfort with just enough danger lurking beneath the surface.
Not every fantasy story needs to save the world to matter. Sometimes the smaller stories leave the strongest impression.
And sometimes the best fantasy setting isn’t a throne room.
It’s a tavern.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t even know how to explain how attached I became to these characters. This author has such a talent for creating characters who feel real enough that you miss them when the book is over. I'm actually mad that I can't somehow transport to The Angry Angler and hang out.... and never come back!
I flew through this book in mere days (even read while I am supposed to be working... oops!) because I simply did not want to stop reading. I laughed out loud multiple times, got a bit emotional near the end, and somehow still wanted more when it was finished. Leaving Finlestia is the hardest part of any of these books.
I’m usually the kind of reader who tries to predict every twist or figure out the reveal before it happens, and this story still managed to surprise me. The twists felt natural instead of shocking just for the sake of it, which made them hit even harder. I guess I should also note that I was too wrapped up in reading to really try to figure it out. It's usually pretty clear that there is more to each and every character than what is being told. You'll have your guesses... but are you actually right about it? I didn't want to overthink, I just wanted to keep reading to find out.
The Finlestia series, underneath the fantasy and adventure, always has something deeply human at the center of it. The characters are constantly learning how to survive grief, loss, change, and becoming someone new after difficult experiences. Some of the reflective moments went on a little longer than I personally needed, but the emotional honesty behind them made it worth it.
This world keeps pulling me back in, but honestly, it’s the characters that make these books unforgettable for me. I absolutely cannot wait to wander back into Finlestia again. Hopefully soon!
Thank you to Z.S. Diamanti and everyone behind the scenes for allowing me to be a part of the incredible ARC team!
I flew through this book in mere days (even read while I am supposed to be working... oops!) because I simply did not want to stop reading. I laughed out loud multiple times, got a bit emotional near the end, and somehow still wanted more when it was finished. Leaving Finlestia is the hardest part of any of these books.
I’m usually the kind of reader who tries to predict every twist or figure out the reveal before it happens, and this story still managed to surprise me. The twists felt natural instead of shocking just for the sake of it, which made them hit even harder. I guess I should also note that I was too wrapped up in reading to really try to figure it out. It's usually pretty clear that there is more to each and every character than what is being told. You'll have your guesses... but are you actually right about it? I didn't want to overthink, I just wanted to keep reading to find out.
The Finlestia series, underneath the fantasy and adventure, always has something deeply human at the center of it. The characters are constantly learning how to survive grief, loss, change, and becoming someone new after difficult experiences. Some of the reflective moments went on a little longer than I personally needed, but the emotional honesty behind them made it worth it.
This world keeps pulling me back in, but honestly, it’s the characters that make these books unforgettable for me. I absolutely cannot wait to wander back into Finlestia again. Hopefully soon!
Thank you to Z.S. Diamanti and everyone behind the scenes for allowing me to be a part of the incredible ARC team!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Z.S. Diamanti has become my go-to author for cozy fantasy. Assassin in the Alehouse is his third cozy fantasy following Guard in the Garden and Wagons & Wyverns. They take place in the world of Finlestia from his earlier Stone & Sky series (which is more in the epic fantasy genre). The cozy fantasies make some references to events from previous books but you don't need to have read any of the previous books to enjoy this one.
In "Assassin in the Alehouse" we follow the story of Hazkul, a former assassin elf trying to figure out what to do with his life and how to reckon with trauma from his past. He finds himself working at an alehouse with some interesting characters who have no knowledge of his former life (or do they?).
What I love about Diamanti's cozy fantasies is that they don't shy away from real mental health issues like anxiety and PTSD, while keeping romance a fairly small part of the plot. The stakes feel personal rather than epic. There are no world-ending villains or sweeping battles, but very real stakes for Hazkul as he navigates his new life.
I would say this book isn't quite at the level of Guard in the Garden, which remains my favorite of Z.S. Diamanti's, but it was very enjoyable and easy to read. I look forward to his future books!
In "Assassin in the Alehouse" we follow the story of Hazkul, a former assassin elf trying to figure out what to do with his life and how to reckon with trauma from his past. He finds himself working at an alehouse with some interesting characters who have no knowledge of his former life (or do they?).
What I love about Diamanti's cozy fantasies is that they don't shy away from real mental health issues like anxiety and PTSD, while keeping romance a fairly small part of the plot. The stakes feel personal rather than epic. There are no world-ending villains or sweeping battles, but very real stakes for Hazkul as he navigates his new life.
I would say this book isn't quite at the level of Guard in the Garden, which remains my favorite of Z.S. Diamanti's, but it was very enjoyable and easy to read. I look forward to his future books!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Starting this off with saying that I am not usually a cozy fantasy person…I like my books with a heavy dose of battles and bloodshed and puzzle pieces. So I was so pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed reading Assassin in the Alehouse. It was a quick read, which I loved, but was packed with emotional depth, so much mental health representation, enough action to keep me entertained and a few mysteries to keep me puzzling. The characters were a joy, Verlin especially just gives you all the warm hug vibes and I would very much like to be his friend. I really enjoyed the love story, it felt sweet and easy. I loved that there was no miscommunication between the two and I loved seeing the way they both supported each other during difficult moments. The story was fast paced and moved along easily while keeping my attention and not glossing over anything.
This was the first of Z.S Diamanti’ s books that I have read and I’m very excited to dive into more of his work. As someone who has not read his previous books, I did not have any trouble diving into the world of this book and it can absolutely stand on its own. I am however, looking forward to learning more about the world through his other work.
This is a perfect little cozy, quick fantasy and I’m really glad I decided to stray from my usually niche and give this a try.
This was the first of Z.S Diamanti’ s books that I have read and I’m very excited to dive into more of his work. As someone who has not read his previous books, I did not have any trouble diving into the world of this book and it can absolutely stand on its own. I am however, looking forward to learning more about the world through his other work.
This is a perfect little cozy, quick fantasy and I’m really glad I decided to stray from my usually niche and give this a try.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Grab your favorite drink, find a comfortable seat and settle in for the newest installment of Z.S. Diamanti's Fables of Finlestia. Assassin in the Alehouse is a delightful blend of fantasy, mystery and adventure. The colorful characters of The Angry Angler quickly draw readers into their world of found family, second chances and forgiveness.
While hiding from his old life, Hazkul Bern finds new purpose in the community of Lornash Point and The Angry Angler. From the wisdom of Verlin to the chemistry with Inara, Hazkul learns a new meaning of family and that a person is not defined by their past choices. Hazkul must decide if he is ready to stop running from his past. Will he find peace or will he continue to let his demons dictate his choices?
The land of Finlestia is much more than a setting for a cozy fantasy. It is a fictional reminder for all readers that every person is worthy of a second chance. That each person has a unique gift to share with the world. That it's ok to reach out and ask for help. Z.S. Diamanti's storytelling is thought provoking, emotional and refreshing. I cannot help being drawn into the fictional world of his stories time and again. I will anxiously be waiting for the next trip to Finlestia!!
Thank you to Z.S. Diamanti and the Golden Griffin Press team for giving me the privilege to participate on the ARC team.
While hiding from his old life, Hazkul Bern finds new purpose in the community of Lornash Point and The Angry Angler. From the wisdom of Verlin to the chemistry with Inara, Hazkul learns a new meaning of family and that a person is not defined by their past choices. Hazkul must decide if he is ready to stop running from his past. Will he find peace or will he continue to let his demons dictate his choices?
The land of Finlestia is much more than a setting for a cozy fantasy. It is a fictional reminder for all readers that every person is worthy of a second chance. That each person has a unique gift to share with the world. That it's ok to reach out and ask for help. Z.S. Diamanti's storytelling is thought provoking, emotional and refreshing. I cannot help being drawn into the fictional world of his stories time and again. I will anxiously be waiting for the next trip to Finlestia!!
Thank you to Z.S. Diamanti and the Golden Griffin Press team for giving me the privilege to participate on the ARC team.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ultimately this is probably my favorite of the Fables of Finlestia. What does it for me here is the balance between cozy and elevated stakes. Assassin in the Alehouse follows the former leader of an Assassins Guild after he lost his grip over the group and flees for safety. Taken in by the proprietor of an Alehouse, Hazkul, tries to live a quiet life until rumors of an assassin- or rather a serial killer- reach his ears.
As Hazkul tries to leave his days of contract killing behind him, he fears for the worst - that he may be the intended target of this killer.
What proceeds is a story with cozy food and ale components, and an exciting mystery that promises action.
At the heart of this story are questions about second chances and finding a place to belong when you feel like youre constantly on the run.
I will be completely honest, there is one aspect to this book that just did not work for me- and it probably bothered me more than it should have. That being said, I did not let it get in the way of my good time. And no, I cannot tell you what it is as it is kind of a spoiler.
In the end, if you ever had apprehension over getting into cozy fantasy because of the diminished stakes, slice of life levels of action Assassin the Alehouse might just be a great starting point for you.
I was given an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
As Hazkul tries to leave his days of contract killing behind him, he fears for the worst - that he may be the intended target of this killer.
What proceeds is a story with cozy food and ale components, and an exciting mystery that promises action.
At the heart of this story are questions about second chances and finding a place to belong when you feel like youre constantly on the run.
I will be completely honest, there is one aspect to this book that just did not work for me- and it probably bothered me more than it should have. That being said, I did not let it get in the way of my good time. And no, I cannot tell you what it is as it is kind of a spoiler.
In the end, if you ever had apprehension over getting into cozy fantasy because of the diminished stakes, slice of life levels of action Assassin the Alehouse might just be a great starting point for you.
I was given an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Z.S. Diamanti and BookFunnel for providing an ARC for early review.
While Assassin in the Alehouse was good, it was not great. It is a very cozy story about a former assassin finding a new life as a dishwasher in an alehouse. There is a minimal romance with no spice, but there was nothing exciting about the romance. The story was fine, and while I saw the twist ending coming, the final chapter was absolutely lovely. My biggest issue was with the background of the main character himself. He was a world class assassin, even ran his own assassin group, but something big happened and he had to leave the world of assassins behind. But the story never truly tells us what that something big was. It is alluded to over and over and over (annoyingly so), but then the big reveal was just that he saw a scary dragon? It doesn't explain his lack of memories or what happened in the aftermath. That was frustrating to me--not just the repeated allusions to the incident, but the fact that we never actually learned what happened.
At the end of the day, Assassin in the Alehouse is a fine cozy fantasy that makes for a good pallet cleanser between heavier books, but has no real depth.
While Assassin in the Alehouse was good, it was not great. It is a very cozy story about a former assassin finding a new life as a dishwasher in an alehouse. There is a minimal romance with no spice, but there was nothing exciting about the romance. The story was fine, and while I saw the twist ending coming, the final chapter was absolutely lovely. My biggest issue was with the background of the main character himself. He was a world class assassin, even ran his own assassin group, but something big happened and he had to leave the world of assassins behind. But the story never truly tells us what that something big was. It is alluded to over and over and over (annoyingly so), but then the big reveal was just that he saw a scary dragon? It doesn't explain his lack of memories or what happened in the aftermath. That was frustrating to me--not just the repeated allusions to the incident, but the fact that we never actually learned what happened.
At the end of the day, Assassin in the Alehouse is a fine cozy fantasy that makes for a good pallet cleanser between heavier books, but has no real depth.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow. 5 stars. My new favorite book by Z.S., HANDS DOWN!
Hazkul and his banter wouldn’t let go of me until I FINISHED this read, so I stayed up until 1 a.m. to finish it. The romance subplot was so amazing. The coziness of the pub was delightful. I fell in love with the little town just the same as Hazkul did. In a way, we were both thrown into it and learned to love it.
I live with C-PTSD, so watching Hazkul navigate the journey of “How do I let people in?” and “How do I let go enough to experience being loved too?” was not only beautiful, but also heartbreaking. Truly perfectly executed.
This book had everything: action, mystery, banter, romance, and found family. Perfect for any reader.
Now I have to figure out how to teleport and traverse dimensions so I can get to the Ornery Orchard. Thanks a lot, Z.S. 🙄
All in all, thank you to the author for the fabulous e-ARC. As for the reader of this review, if you haven’t read this book yet, what are you waiting for? Have an ale for me and BUY THIS BOOK ALREADY.
Hazkul and his banter wouldn’t let go of me until I FINISHED this read, so I stayed up until 1 a.m. to finish it. The romance subplot was so amazing. The coziness of the pub was delightful. I fell in love with the little town just the same as Hazkul did. In a way, we were both thrown into it and learned to love it.
I live with C-PTSD, so watching Hazkul navigate the journey of “How do I let people in?” and “How do I let go enough to experience being loved too?” was not only beautiful, but also heartbreaking. Truly perfectly executed.
This book had everything: action, mystery, banter, romance, and found family. Perfect for any reader.
Now I have to figure out how to teleport and traverse dimensions so I can get to the Ornery Orchard. Thanks a lot, Z.S. 🙄
All in all, thank you to the author for the fabulous e-ARC. As for the reader of this review, if you haven’t read this book yet, what are you waiting for? Have an ale for me and BUY THIS BOOK ALREADY.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a solid An enjoyable installment in the fables of Finlestia serie. All the books in this series can be read as stand-alones you don't need to have read the Stone and Sky series to enjoy them but you will definitely get more out of it if you have. Not going to give you any spoilers here but we follow An elf Who is a former assassin On his journey To move on and better his life. This is a story of Forgiveness and redemption and Learning to have faith in yourself. It's a low stakes family friendly adventure with very little violence But there is some tension as we wonder exactly what's going on with a little bit of a mystery that is given to us to solve. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and look forward to the next installment The author does a great job of making you feel empathetic Towards the main character. So if you like cozy fantasies about elves,dwarves,orcs and goblins Coexisting together This is for you.
May 16, 2026
I really enjoyed Assassin in the Alehouse. This is my second Z.S. Diamanti book, and I’m honestly loving the warmth and positivity he brings to his characters. Just like Guard in the Garden, this one left me wanting a little more time in the cozy world he’s created.
I especially loved how animals play into Hazkul’s healing. Those moments felt real and meaningful, and they added such a soft touch to his journey. Watching Hazkul slowly open up and build real friendships was so satisfying, and his connection with Verlin was a highlight for me.
Overall, it’s a comforting, character‑focused fantasy with gentle growth, found‑family vibes, and a hint of mystery. It left me feeling lighter — in the best way.
I especially loved how animals play into Hazkul’s healing. Those moments felt real and meaningful, and they added such a soft touch to his journey. Watching Hazkul slowly open up and build real friendships was so satisfying, and his connection with Verlin was a highlight for me.
Overall, it’s a comforting, character‑focused fantasy with gentle growth, found‑family vibes, and a hint of mystery. It left me feeling lighter — in the best way.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this book in return for a fair review.
I enjoyed Assassin in the Alehouse. It was a simple, quick read that brought forward a sense of nostalgia for some of the earlier fantasy novels that I read back in the day.
The storyline was straightforward, and though a bit predictable, it did not lessen the experience. By the end of the book I felt decently connected to the characters, though I would have loved some more in-depth background.
I especially enjoyed the froglin character named Roak. C...Roak? I had a good chuckle.
All in all, I would recommend this book for someone looking for a light hearted read or someone looking for an easy entry into the fantasy genre. I think the author's works will only grow stronger.
I enjoyed Assassin in the Alehouse. It was a simple, quick read that brought forward a sense of nostalgia for some of the earlier fantasy novels that I read back in the day.
The storyline was straightforward, and though a bit predictable, it did not lessen the experience. By the end of the book I felt decently connected to the characters, though I would have loved some more in-depth background.
I especially enjoyed the froglin character named Roak. C...Roak? I had a good chuckle.
All in all, I would recommend this book for someone looking for a light hearted read or someone looking for an easy entry into the fantasy genre. I think the author's works will only grow stronger.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I needed this book in my life! If you are looking for a fast paced, cozy fantasy with mystery and a hint of romance, look no further!
These characters were so lovable and relatable all the while being entertaining and the story, though predictable at times, was so heart warming. The story isn't too deep where it drags you down into an existential crisis, but it does make you appreciate and think about those in your life that make you feel at home.
This is the second book from Diamanti that I have read, the first being Guard in the Gardern (read it!), and he is now one of my favorite authors for cozy reads.
These characters were so lovable and relatable all the while being entertaining and the story, though predictable at times, was so heart warming. The story isn't too deep where it drags you down into an existential crisis, but it does make you appreciate and think about those in your life that make you feel at home.
This is the second book from Diamanti that I have read, the first being Guard in the Gardern (read it!), and he is now one of my favorite authors for cozy reads.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thanks for the arc to review early! I loved this story. It was so touching and engaging. I could not out this down. Our story focuses on an elf assassin seeking to flee his past and make a new life and inadvertently helped by locals who make him part of their family. There are themes of ptsd, grief, and found family as well as second chances. The story is engaging and emotional with character I was invested in seeing through to the end. I haven’t read his other cozy stories but can’t wait to get it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
As someone who just discovered cozy fantasy, I have been looking for more books to read. This is the first of Z.S. Diamanti that I have read. Honestly, I can't wait to read all the others. I couldn't get it out of my head and I ended up finishing the book a lot quicker than I expected! I highly recommend it for anyone who likes found family and discovering who you can be, not conforming to what you were.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Z.S. Diamanti does not disappoint in this heartwarming tale of Assassin Hazkul. From the moment I started reading I was hooked by the storytelling and then quickly fell in love with the lovable characters.
If you are looking for a cozy assassin mystery with heartfelt lessons and a playful romance on the side this is a must read.
If you are looking for a cozy assassin mystery with heartfelt lessons and a playful romance on the side this is a must read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was a delight for me. The collection of main characters were a highlight, each delightful, and felt like home.
Verlin was truly my favorite, exactly the kind of boss I would want, if I worked at an alehouse.
If you want a brief escape into fantasy, grab an apple and dive into this delightful cozy mystery.
Verlin was truly my favorite, exactly the kind of boss I would want, if I worked at an alehouse.
If you want a brief escape into fantasy, grab an apple and dive into this delightful cozy mystery.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Good plot and character development, and I love the found family aspect! Nice fun and easy read.
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