Field Guide for the Formerly Villainous is a cozy fantasy therapy session! This book has an intriguing story of farm life, magic, and healing from your past. Oaklin Nettlewood is running from their previous life by way of purchasing a new farm, but a granny ghost interrupts their plans, forcing them to face their fear, their trauma, and find their magic again. I quite enjoyed the plot of this novel. As a cozy fantasy reader, I really enjoyed many elements in this book, including a unique magic system, diversity, and found family. I would have loved to see even more unique magic throughout the novel; however, the plot highlights the deeper themes of anxiety, ptsd, and the healing journey. The author treats these topics with great care. Many times, traumatic themes are depicted in a therapy-type aspect, which beautifully blends with Oaklin’s healing journey. Toward the end, the novel felt like it could have been shortened somewhat to make the story more concise. However, the story is beautiful overall. Thank you to the Sourcebooks Audio Influencer Program for the opportunity to listen to and enjoy this novel via audio from Libro.fm. I found the narrator's voice to be kind, gentle, and soothing, which worked very well for this story. I especially liked the way the narrator voiced the granny character. Certain themes are very heavy, and readers should check trigger warnings. I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy slow-burn stories about conquering fears, overcoming evil, and finding love after trauma.

This is now one of my top cozy fantasy reads ever! Z.S. Diamanti seamlessly blends deep trauma themes, with cozy elements in an incredible story of found family and love. It’s the kind of story that can be relatable to anyone who has gone though tough situations in life. This is probably the most quotable cozy fantasy story I have ever read! I found myself teary-eyed as I highlighted true gems of wisdom in almost every chapter. Ones that I will most likely put on sticky notes to read again and again each day. This book is full of affirmations! Each and every character made this story better and added to the wisdom of why a community must rely on one another. Most notable for me were the Marigold ladies, the Dwarven Aunties, Tullen, and of course Tem!! But there are so many more important and unforgettable characters! I came for the cozy, alliterative title, but I stayed for the main character’s journey to find healing for his injuries and his mind. Guard in the Garden is an absolutely masterful mix of a cozy world, real-world trauma, and the slow, beautiful journey to find healing. This is not a story I will soon forget! I know I will be recommending this book every person I can!