The novel Wickhills follows Ferec, an experienced secret agent with an encyclopedic knowledge of his home city, the titular Wickhills. His job is a dangerous one, but one he’s good at and well suited to. But when his handler involves Ferec in a clandestine smuggling case, things begin to unravel quickly. Ferec has always prided himself on his observation and independence, his skills as a field agent, but as his latest case progresses it becomes clear that all his training, connections, and suspicions may not be enough.

In this interview Mohamed describes her growing interest in spy fiction and its influence on the novel. We discuss the history of cities, which sources are and aren’t remembered, and creative novel structures. We also chat about the use of different fantasy creatures in the novel, the differences between different spy networks, and the fine line between technology and magic in fantasy.

Wickhills is a rich, layered novel full of wonder and violence. It is a thoughtful meditation on the nature of espionage and an interesting examination of a weird and magical city. It was so much fun getting to discuss it with the author.

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A Song of Legends Lost (Saga Press, 2025) is the first, highly praised instalment in the Invoker Series. Set in a world offering an unique combination of an African inspired culture and a fallen tech-based empire at war, the novel feels at once epic and deeply personal. M. H. Ayinde deftly creates an entire, well-imagined society with a minimum of distracting exposition. Her clear prose and astute characterization leave the reader intrigued but never confused.

Onto the story itself—it begins with two protagonists from very different backgrounds who find themselves involved in momentous events. Both are overwhelmed by the unexpected powers they now wield. Jinao, a noble who has failed repeatedly to magically bond with an ancestor, suddenly succeeds, but continues to be plagued by indecision. Temi, a baker from the slums of Nine Lords, hosts a mysterious presence after she is cursed by a witch. From the initial setup, the book widens in scope, introducing a traumatized captain — Elari, a ruthless monk — Boleo, and a penniless girl — Runt.

The world of the Nine Lands, ruled over by the royal Ahiki Clan, who have fought the tech creatures they call grey bloods for generations, has enough war for all of them.

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