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Mezmatl #1
Blood of Mezmatl
WILD. MYSTICAL. HAUNTED. THE RAINFOREST CALLS.
When Lyrus Cafferly swore his knightly vows, he never knew he’d end up somewhere like Mezmatl.
Mezmatl is a rainforest soaked in wild magic. It blooms with bioluminescence, teems with animated plants, and crawls with vicious creatures. But Lyrus’s sister has fallen ill with a strange disease—and the cure lies with the Zumari people, who live deep within the wilds.
He crosses paths with Ketza, a ranger turned vigilante. She’s on the hunt for Mezmatl’s most wanted criminal. Known as the Blind Shaman, he has raided villages and stolen valuable supplies, including the cure for Lyrus’s sister.
Lyrus and Ketza team up to find the Blind Shaman, embarking on an adventure that takes them from overgrown ruins to an illustrious, imperial capital. But the journey threatens more than Lyrus’s life.
He must choose between honor and survival. Between his duty and his feelings for Ketza. Between saving his sister and breaking his vows.
He must choose—or Mezmatl will choose for him.
When Lyrus Cafferly swore his knightly vows, he never knew he’d end up somewhere like Mezmatl.
Mezmatl is a rainforest soaked in wild magic. It blooms with bioluminescence, teems with animated plants, and crawls with vicious creatures. But Lyrus’s sister has fallen ill with a strange disease—and the cure lies with the Zumari people, who live deep within the wilds.
He crosses paths with Ketza, a ranger turned vigilante. She’s on the hunt for Mezmatl’s most wanted criminal. Known as the Blind Shaman, he has raided villages and stolen valuable supplies, including the cure for Lyrus’s sister.
Lyrus and Ketza team up to find the Blind Shaman, embarking on an adventure that takes them from overgrown ruins to an illustrious, imperial capital. But the journey threatens more than Lyrus’s life.
He must choose between honor and survival. Between his duty and his feelings for Ketza. Between saving his sister and breaking his vows.
He must choose—or Mezmatl will choose for him.
474 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 23, 2026
About the author
J.D. Kinzel
1 book5 followersJ.D. Kinzel is an author based in Colorado. With a childhood in Japan and a year working abroad in Australia, he has developed a strong passion for travel, much of which inspires his writing. He is an avid (board/video/tabletop) gamer, as well as a restless foodie. On weekends, he is often found hiking in the mountains with his wife, golden retriever, and corgi.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
September 24, 2026
Made me cry [2x] ✅️ cool world building / MAGICAL CREATURES! ✅️ interesting / complex characters with belivable motivations ✅️ made me laugh ✅️ invokes deep thoughts about our own world ✅️ I didnt hate the romance [a rare experience for me] ✅️ looking foward to book 2 ✅️
September 20, 2026
There is so much to love about this novel. The main characters were given interesting and impactful arcs, the world is impressively well developed, and I was very engaged by the story.
I’ll start with the characters. We follow a knight named Lyrus, a man self-governed by strict vows. He holds the title of Balancer, and chief among his responsibilities is to defend his people against magic. He and his people however, a civilization of refugees, have been forced to set up home within a magical rainforest. I found this to be a very engaging catalyst for this story.
The heart of this book lies in Lyrus’s relationships with our cast of side characters. Namely his brother, sister, parents, and a resident of the rainforest he meets early in the novel—a woman named Ketza.
The rainforest itself, Mezmatl, is an incredibly well-developed world. Kinzel’s world-building prowess is on full display and blew me away as I was reading. I’m not much of a fantasy reader myself, and a part of that is because I find it difficult to get invested in different worlds—learning and memorizing all the rules and lore. I did not have that problem with this novel. In the best way possible, I always wanted to know more. The world-building felt effortless. I never once felt lost or overwhelmed. Kinzel’s ability to develop a setting from scratch is truly top-notch.
Kinzel wastes no time diving into the story, and I was hooked immediately. We follow Lyrus and his brother Blane on their quest into Mezmatl to save their sister from a mysterious illness. Right off the bat, Lyrus is forced to contend with his vows as a Balancer. He’s faced with a difficult question: What if the only way to save his sister is through magical means? It leads to a complex and emotional journey for Lyrus, and I found it endlessly engaging.
Needless to say, I highly recommend this novel, even if you are not typically a fantasy reader. The characters and setting have stuck with me ever since I read it, and I’m very much looking forward to the sequel.
I’ll start with the characters. We follow a knight named Lyrus, a man self-governed by strict vows. He holds the title of Balancer, and chief among his responsibilities is to defend his people against magic. He and his people however, a civilization of refugees, have been forced to set up home within a magical rainforest. I found this to be a very engaging catalyst for this story.
The heart of this book lies in Lyrus’s relationships with our cast of side characters. Namely his brother, sister, parents, and a resident of the rainforest he meets early in the novel—a woman named Ketza.
The rainforest itself, Mezmatl, is an incredibly well-developed world. Kinzel’s world-building prowess is on full display and blew me away as I was reading. I’m not much of a fantasy reader myself, and a part of that is because I find it difficult to get invested in different worlds—learning and memorizing all the rules and lore. I did not have that problem with this novel. In the best way possible, I always wanted to know more. The world-building felt effortless. I never once felt lost or overwhelmed. Kinzel’s ability to develop a setting from scratch is truly top-notch.
Kinzel wastes no time diving into the story, and I was hooked immediately. We follow Lyrus and his brother Blane on their quest into Mezmatl to save their sister from a mysterious illness. Right off the bat, Lyrus is forced to contend with his vows as a Balancer. He’s faced with a difficult question: What if the only way to save his sister is through magical means? It leads to a complex and emotional journey for Lyrus, and I found it endlessly engaging.
Needless to say, I highly recommend this novel, even if you are not typically a fantasy reader. The characters and setting have stuck with me ever since I read it, and I’m very much looking forward to the sequel.
September 3, 2026
Read this book. It’s that simple.
J.D. Kinzel’s blends of nostalgic wonder, old-school knightly fantasy, and modern style a creates something truly special. From the most lavish descriptions of Mezmatl, to the smallest bickering between Lyrus and Blaine, Blood of Mezmatl is a book that knows what it is doing, and does it well. JD's voice is distinct throughout the entire book. Its story is both familiar and timeless. Its characters are as deep as the Rainforest. Read the book, it’s that simple. Read it. Love it. Cry because the sequel isn’t already out.
J.D. Kinzel’s blends of nostalgic wonder, old-school knightly fantasy, and modern style a creates something truly special. From the most lavish descriptions of Mezmatl, to the smallest bickering between Lyrus and Blaine, Blood of Mezmatl is a book that knows what it is doing, and does it well. JD's voice is distinct throughout the entire book. Its story is both familiar and timeless. Its characters are as deep as the Rainforest. Read the book, it’s that simple. Read it. Love it. Cry because the sequel isn’t already out.
August 23, 2026
ARC Review -
Blood of Mezmatl was such a surprising read! I did not expect to love it like I do! It has been a long time since I've read a book like this! It had me hooked from the start! Mezmatl is such a unique story and world. We have Lyrus who follows sacred vows as a Balancer. Blane -his independent, wild, free-thinking brother. And Ketza, a Yigzar or moldhunter. They team up on the search for a cure for Lyrus and Blane's sister. All while trampling through a deadly, magical forest. There is romance, action, adventure, magic, and wilderness.
I love the authors writing style, how he explains his world through the story. His characters felt so real. His descriptions of the world and the people...I could shut my eyes and see what he wrote.
Absolutely loved this.
Blood of Mezmatl was such a surprising read! I did not expect to love it like I do! It has been a long time since I've read a book like this! It had me hooked from the start! Mezmatl is such a unique story and world. We have Lyrus who follows sacred vows as a Balancer. Blane -his independent, wild, free-thinking brother. And Ketza, a Yigzar or moldhunter. They team up on the search for a cure for Lyrus and Blane's sister. All while trampling through a deadly, magical forest. There is romance, action, adventure, magic, and wilderness.
I love the authors writing style, how he explains his world through the story. His characters felt so real. His descriptions of the world and the people...I could shut my eyes and see what he wrote.
Absolutely loved this.
September 26, 2026
This book is a great reminder of why I adore the fantasy genre. The world-building, the complex characters, and just how easy it is to fully immerse yourself in a read.
The world-building is beautifully set in a rainforest. The imagery is written well and can easily see the setting surrounding the characters. I also really like the characters themselves. We see so much focused on family dynamics. Family can be complicated and is depicted well here and very relatable. Following Lyrus and his brother, Blane, they acted like siblings despite the crazy world around them. It was sweet how much they love their sister and begrudgingly had to work together to help her.
However, Ketza stole the show. She's a bit mysterious, talented, snarky, and just overall amazing. It's no wonder that she is a romantic interest and would love to get to know her even more in this world!
I enjoyed this read and will say the ending is bittersweet. I grew attached to these characters and can't wait to see more of the world and learn more about them in their journey.
The world-building is beautifully set in a rainforest. The imagery is written well and can easily see the setting surrounding the characters. I also really like the characters themselves. We see so much focused on family dynamics. Family can be complicated and is depicted well here and very relatable. Following Lyrus and his brother, Blane, they acted like siblings despite the crazy world around them. It was sweet how much they love their sister and begrudgingly had to work together to help her.
However, Ketza stole the show. She's a bit mysterious, talented, snarky, and just overall amazing. It's no wonder that she is a romantic interest and would love to get to know her even more in this world!
I enjoyed this read and will say the ending is bittersweet. I grew attached to these characters and can't wait to see more of the world and learn more about them in their journey.
August 27, 2026
3.5/5
My thoughts are a bit all over the place. On one hand, I adore the story and love the culture and lessons taught throughout. On the other hand, I'm so dang annoyed at the long winded chapters and the slog that was the middle. It took forever to get to the point. Add on Blane and Lyrus annoyed the ever living crap out of me, I wanted to throw the book. But, the story is so good. At the end of the day, it's two brothers trying to save their sister and learning that their way of life isnt the only one. Its a lesson I think everyone, especially in today's society, we all need to take to heart.
My thoughts are a bit all over the place. On one hand, I adore the story and love the culture and lessons taught throughout. On the other hand, I'm so dang annoyed at the long winded chapters and the slog that was the middle. It took forever to get to the point. Add on Blane and Lyrus annoyed the ever living crap out of me, I wanted to throw the book. But, the story is so good. At the end of the day, it's two brothers trying to save their sister and learning that their way of life isnt the only one. Its a lesson I think everyone, especially in today's society, we all need to take to heart.
September 20, 2026
This book gave me definite Avatar (James Cameron version), Dinotopia, and Fern Gully vibes, and had some parallels to both story: a quest, settlers starting over in a new place, and cultural conflict between the settlers and the indigineous people of the land they've settled in. From that, the story takes its own route in a highly imaginative and unique jungle world.
The writing in this book is extremely descriptive and there is extensive world building in this book - so if you are a reader who appreciates those elements in a novel, this book is perfect for you! In this jungle world, there's glow-in-the dark flora, unique fauna, poisonous plants - and most all of them are dangerous. The story, told from two perspectives, Lyrus, the protector/knight of the Leodan settlement, and Juline, his mother, makes it clear that this people have transplanted their own culture and values into a new land with rules and dynamics that clash with them and the growing understanding of at least one of the characters of different culture and way of life. At the outset of the quest, the dynamic between the characters Blane, Lyrus and Ketza reminded me a bit of Homeward Bound, in the best way.
This book would make an excellent movie, especially with how descriptive it is of the setting, the Zumarian civilization and culture. The book does sometimes get lost in the writing and didn't keep me engaged because it did feel overly descriptive, but I think that's just how I am as a reader - I prefer for the author to let me imagine things instead of describing everything. The descriptive writing did contribute to a lull in the middle third of the book for me; the descriptions toward the end were horrifying and gross and made me feel like I was actually there in the scene (shudder), but I did enjoy the last third of the book because it was full of action, and it had a VERY satisfying ending. I've been frustrated with fantasy books that have a conclusion that leaves the reader wanting, but I definitely relished the time the author spent tying up the story after its climax and in the resolution.
I was provided an e-ARC of this book via Fable by the author and I appreciate the vulnerability of putting one's own work out into the world as an indie author and asking reviewers to read and offer their thoughts on it. I think this book is an excellent first foray into fantasy writing, and if you liked any of the aformentioned books or movies I've mentioned in this review, appreciate descriptive writing that feels like a movie, and want a book that provides a unique fantasy experience outside of Eurocentric folklore and well-worn fantasy writing tropes, this book is worth a read!
The writing in this book is extremely descriptive and there is extensive world building in this book - so if you are a reader who appreciates those elements in a novel, this book is perfect for you! In this jungle world, there's glow-in-the dark flora, unique fauna, poisonous plants - and most all of them are dangerous. The story, told from two perspectives, Lyrus, the protector/knight of the Leodan settlement, and Juline, his mother, makes it clear that this people have transplanted their own culture and values into a new land with rules and dynamics that clash with them and the growing understanding of at least one of the characters of different culture and way of life. At the outset of the quest, the dynamic between the characters Blane, Lyrus and Ketza reminded me a bit of Homeward Bound, in the best way.
This book would make an excellent movie, especially with how descriptive it is of the setting, the Zumarian civilization and culture. The book does sometimes get lost in the writing and didn't keep me engaged because it did feel overly descriptive, but I think that's just how I am as a reader - I prefer for the author to let me imagine things instead of describing everything. The descriptive writing did contribute to a lull in the middle third of the book for me; the descriptions toward the end were horrifying and gross and made me feel like I was actually there in the scene (shudder), but I did enjoy the last third of the book because it was full of action, and it had a VERY satisfying ending. I've been frustrated with fantasy books that have a conclusion that leaves the reader wanting, but I definitely relished the time the author spent tying up the story after its climax and in the resolution.
I was provided an e-ARC of this book via Fable by the author and I appreciate the vulnerability of putting one's own work out into the world as an indie author and asking reviewers to read and offer their thoughts on it. I think this book is an excellent first foray into fantasy writing, and if you liked any of the aformentioned books or movies I've mentioned in this review, appreciate descriptive writing that feels like a movie, and want a book that provides a unique fantasy experience outside of Eurocentric folklore and well-worn fantasy writing tropes, this book is worth a read!
August 26, 2026
This was a fantastic debut fantasy novel!
Blood of Mezmatl was a great fantasy novel. It had just enough world building without being confusing or overwhelming at all - it is a wonderful world that I felt fully immersed in.
The story is about two brothers that have to venture outside of their community to find a cure for their sister that has become horribly ill. The older brother, Lyrus, has taken vows to defend against and condemn those that practice magic - but to find a cure for his sister he finds himself seeking help from people who live a life absolutely surrounded by magic - including from the rainforest itself.
He finds himself at a crossroads - can he balance his vows, saving his sister, and unexpected attachment and feelings, or will he question and go against everything that he has been taught?
I enjoyed this one a lot - like, to the point that I was talking to my parents about it and they asked if they can borrow the book. The story is told via multiple POVs, including the mother of the family - I think her storyline was my favorite. If you want action, magic, beautiful world building, a little bit of love, loss, and plenty of brotherly squabbling - this book is for you.
Blood of Mezmatl was a great fantasy novel. It had just enough world building without being confusing or overwhelming at all - it is a wonderful world that I felt fully immersed in.
The story is about two brothers that have to venture outside of their community to find a cure for their sister that has become horribly ill. The older brother, Lyrus, has taken vows to defend against and condemn those that practice magic - but to find a cure for his sister he finds himself seeking help from people who live a life absolutely surrounded by magic - including from the rainforest itself.
He finds himself at a crossroads - can he balance his vows, saving his sister, and unexpected attachment and feelings, or will he question and go against everything that he has been taught?
I enjoyed this one a lot - like, to the point that I was talking to my parents about it and they asked if they can borrow the book. The story is told via multiple POVs, including the mother of the family - I think her storyline was my favorite. If you want action, magic, beautiful world building, a little bit of love, loss, and plenty of brotherly squabbling - this book is for you.
August 31, 2026
I love this book, it’s one of the most unique fantasy stories I have read in a very long time.
The relationship between Lyrus and Blane at times made me laugh, at times made me cry (chapter 32, if you know, you know).
I also love how dogs are treated in this story, not just as furry sidekicks, but real characters. I can’t wait to see how Doubt’s character develops throughout the series.
Side note: I’m so here for Ketza’s “touch him and die” energy.
I can’t wait for book 2!
The relationship between Lyrus and Blane at times made me laugh, at times made me cry (chapter 32, if you know, you know).
I also love how dogs are treated in this story, not just as furry sidekicks, but real characters. I can’t wait to see how Doubt’s character develops throughout the series.
Side note: I’m so here for Ketza’s “touch him and die” energy.
I can’t wait for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Reader Review – Goodreads
As an ARC reader, this has to be one of the most creative and imaginative stories I’ve read in a long time. From the very beginning, I felt like I was exploring an entirely new world filled with magical creatures, unexpected dangers, and evils that aren’t always as black and white as they seem. In this world, the line between good and evil is beautifully blurred into shades of grey.
Once I started reading, this book was incredibly hard to put down. It’s a constant page-turner that kept me on the edge of my seat, with twists, surprises, and new discoveries around every corner.
Lyrus Cafferly is a sworn Balancer dedicated to protecting his people from magic and evil. But after moving to a new and unfamiliar land, he is forced to question everything he has been taught about magic and whether it is truly evil. When his sister falls ill, Lyrus and his brother, Blane, set out to find a cure. Their journey takes them deep into the magical and dangerous Brain Forest of Mezmatl.
Along the way, they meet Ketza, a young Yigzar (a mold hunter), who crosses paths with the brothers and joins them on their journey to Zumar in the hope of finding the cure that could save their sister.
I loved watching these characters challenge their beliefs and open themselves up to new ideas. Their determination, love, and compassion for one another help them face seemingly impossible odds and dangers they could never have imagined.
The story is packed with incredible twists and turns, fascinating world-building, and some truly amazing creatures. There are so many unique animals that I found myself wishing I could step into this world myself. Personally, I would absolutely love the chance to ride a Hizzikar!
There is also a wonderful slow-burn romance woven into the story, and while it definitely makes you wait, I think it is well worth it.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves epic adventures, imaginative fantasy worlds, magical creatures, unexpected heroes, and plenty of twists and turns. If you enjoy stories where the characters are challenged to question everything they believe, this is definitely one to add to your TBR.
As an ARC reader, this has to be one of the most creative and imaginative stories I’ve read in a long time. From the very beginning, I felt like I was exploring an entirely new world filled with magical creatures, unexpected dangers, and evils that aren’t always as black and white as they seem. In this world, the line between good and evil is beautifully blurred into shades of grey.
Once I started reading, this book was incredibly hard to put down. It’s a constant page-turner that kept me on the edge of my seat, with twists, surprises, and new discoveries around every corner.
Lyrus Cafferly is a sworn Balancer dedicated to protecting his people from magic and evil. But after moving to a new and unfamiliar land, he is forced to question everything he has been taught about magic and whether it is truly evil. When his sister falls ill, Lyrus and his brother, Blane, set out to find a cure. Their journey takes them deep into the magical and dangerous Brain Forest of Mezmatl.
Along the way, they meet Ketza, a young Yigzar (a mold hunter), who crosses paths with the brothers and joins them on their journey to Zumar in the hope of finding the cure that could save their sister.
I loved watching these characters challenge their beliefs and open themselves up to new ideas. Their determination, love, and compassion for one another help them face seemingly impossible odds and dangers they could never have imagined.
The story is packed with incredible twists and turns, fascinating world-building, and some truly amazing creatures. There are so many unique animals that I found myself wishing I could step into this world myself. Personally, I would absolutely love the chance to ride a Hizzikar!
There is also a wonderful slow-burn romance woven into the story, and while it definitely makes you wait, I think it is well worth it.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves epic adventures, imaginative fantasy worlds, magical creatures, unexpected heroes, and plenty of twists and turns. If you enjoy stories where the characters are challenged to question everything they believe, this is definitely one to add to your TBR.
Review of advance copy
Blood of Mezmatl is a really strong fantasy debut that surprised me with how much it blends together. At its core, it's a story about two brothers trying to save their younger sister who has been struck by a mysterious illness. Their search for a healer takes them deep into the deadly rainforest of Mezmatl, where magic, monsters, and ancient dangers lurk around, and under, every corner
The story follows Lyrus, a Balancer sworn to oppose magic, and his younger brother Blane, who has never quite fit into the life expected of him. Their journey eventually leads them to Ketza, a woman hunting a powerful Shaman, and from there the scope of the story grows into something much larger than a simple mission. I warn you here, dear reader, there will be emotional damage.
What stood out most to me was Kinzel's ability to blend genres. While this is undeniably an epic fantasy novel, it also dips into horror, romance, and even some fairy tale-like moments. The rainforest setting feels alive and dangerous, and the worldbuilding around the people and cultures of Mezmatl was one of my favorite parts of the book.
Beyond the adventure, the novel explores themes of faith, pride, cultural understanding, redemption, and the need to challenge long-held beliefs. At its heart, this is a story about accepting change and finding the courage to grow beyond what you've been taught.
Overall, Blood of Mezmatl is an impressive debut with a unique setting, memorable characters, and a lot of heart. If you enjoy fantasy with rich worldbuilding, dark undertones, and strong themes of growth and self-discovery, this one is worth checking out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story follows Lyrus, a Balancer sworn to oppose magic, and his younger brother Blane, who has never quite fit into the life expected of him. Their journey eventually leads them to Ketza, a woman hunting a powerful Shaman, and from there the scope of the story grows into something much larger than a simple mission. I warn you here, dear reader, there will be emotional damage.
What stood out most to me was Kinzel's ability to blend genres. While this is undeniably an epic fantasy novel, it also dips into horror, romance, and even some fairy tale-like moments. The rainforest setting feels alive and dangerous, and the worldbuilding around the people and cultures of Mezmatl was one of my favorite parts of the book.
Beyond the adventure, the novel explores themes of faith, pride, cultural understanding, redemption, and the need to challenge long-held beliefs. At its heart, this is a story about accepting change and finding the courage to grow beyond what you've been taught.
Overall, Blood of Mezmatl is an impressive debut with a unique setting, memorable characters, and a lot of heart. If you enjoy fantasy with rich worldbuilding, dark undertones, and strong themes of growth and self-discovery, this one is worth checking out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I honestly had no idea what to expect from this book, I am not even sure how I found it. It definitely exceeded all expectations, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The author's writing was so beautiful and descriptive. I love the world he built, the mystic rainforest is absolutely beautiful, the flora, the fauna, the creatures. The night glow, the waterfalls, all of it. His descriptions make it so easy to visualize the beauty, and I so wish I could draw or paint to get those visuals on paper. And it isn't just one kind of rainforest, but so many different ecosystems within the whole. Giant mushrooms, healing pools, trees with roots that hold whole caverns. As someone who grew up studying them and wanting to go, I love it all.
His characters are very human. Dealing with issues that we all deal with. Right and wrong, promises, societal pressures, faith. He did a great job at dealing with these issues in a very human way, not just pushing them aside because it's a fantasy. It was also a good commentary on the rigidity of organized religion and the inability of many to see outside of their small beliefs, regardless of what the outside world shows them.
I know a lot of readers don't want the main point point of view to be the MMC, but it was fantastic in this book, and I definitely recommend picking it up and letting yourself dive in.
His characters are very human. Dealing with issues that we all deal with. Right and wrong, promises, societal pressures, faith. He did a great job at dealing with these issues in a very human way, not just pushing them aside because it's a fantasy. It was also a good commentary on the rigidity of organized religion and the inability of many to see outside of their small beliefs, regardless of what the outside world shows them.
I know a lot of readers don't want the main point point of view to be the MMC, but it was fantastic in this book, and I definitely recommend picking it up and letting yourself dive in.
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