The release date for the English version of 'Dark Lord of Derkholm' by
Diana Wynne Jones is Aug 2003. If you enjoy this novel, it is available for buy as a paperback from Barnes & Noble or Indigo, as an ebook on the Amazon Kindle store, or as an audiobook on Audible.
The world's next-door neighbors, Mr. Chesney's Pilgrim Parties, are annoying everyone, including wizards, warriors, farmers, elves, dragons, kings, and queens. Every year, large numbers of people go there to do the Grand Tour. They anticipate an enormous fantasy adventure complete with the Evil Enchantress, Wizard Guides, Dark Lord, Winged Minions, and everything else. Additionally, new actors are selected each year to fulfill these roles. However, they've had enough; the Oracles have spoken, even if Mr. Chesney is supported by a very strong demon. Now, to preserve the world from Mr. Chesney's ravages, it is up to Wizard Derk and his son Blade, this year's Dark Lord and Wizard Guide, in addition to Blade's griffin siblings.