When Howard Sykes returns home to find a peculiar stranger, known simply as the Goon, occupying his kitchen, his life veers into the unexpected. The Goon, an enforcer for the mysterious Archer, demands a bizarre ransom: 2,000 words from Howard's father, a seemingly ordinary author. This peculiar request plunges the Sykes family into the heart of a fantastical power struggle among seven wizard siblings, each ruling a segment of the town yet confined within it, all desperate for the words that could grant them ultimate freedom. As Howard delves deeper, he uncovers a maze of secrets, betrayals, and magical intrigue, where every wizard harbors their own motives and none can be trusted. "Diana Wynne Jones crafts a mesmerizing tale in 'Archer's Goon,' weaving a narrative rich with whimsy, mystery, and suspense. The story navigates through the complexities of magic, power, and family with a deft hand, leading readers on a breathless journey through the peculiar and the profound. With its clever plot twists and deeply drawn characters, this book stands as a testament to the enduring power of imagination. 'Archer's Goon' is not merely a story about magical battles for supremacy; it is a heartening exploration of the unexpected ways in which courage, loyalty, and a willingness to question the status quo can shape our destinies."