Conundrum
Overview
Conundrum tells the story of a gnome inventor named—fittingly—Conundrum, who embarks on a grand and somewhat bumbling quest to find the mythical lost city of Cylth and prove that gnomes can be heroes too. Like many gnomes from Mount Nevermind, he’s full of wild ideas and eccentric inventions, but he also possesses a rare and endearing level of courage and heart.
The novel leans heavily into themes of identity, courage, belonging, and self-worth, using humor and adventure to deliver a surprisingly heartfelt narrative.
Main Characters
Conundrum – A gnome inventor who believes he’s destined for greatness. He’s unusually reflective for a gnome and somewhat clumsy, but full of determination. He’s an outlier in a society where success is measured by inventions that explode less often.
Bibble – A kender who joins Conundrum on his journey. Bibble provides comic relief and classic kender curiosity but also shows depth as a companion and friend.
Princess Enid – A dwarven princess who initially comes across as haughty and distant but slowly reveals her own insecurities and complexities. She is on a quest of her own.
Various side characters – Along the journey, Conundrum encounters dragons, knights, mysterious sorcerers, and ancient guardians who help (or hinder) his quest in surprising ways.
Plot Summary
The story begins in Mount Nevermind, the gnome homeland filled with bizarre and often explosive inventions. Conundrum, feeling unfulfilled and yearning for more than the endless tinkering of gnome society, discovers a cryptic reference to Cylth, an ancient city said to hold forgotten knowledge and power. Driven by curiosity and a desire to be recognized as more than just another failed inventor, he sets off to find it.
Along the way, he’s joined by Bibble the kender, who brings chaos and lightness to the journey, and Princess Enid, who seeks to escape her own royal constraints. The trio forms an unlikely band of adventurers, constantly finding themselves in dangerous or absurd situations—from being captured by giants to navigating ancient magical ruins.
Throughout the quest, Conundrum is forced to confront what heroism really means. It’s not about glory or proving oneself to others, but about doing what’s right despite fear or failure. As the group finally reaches the legendary city, they uncover truths that change the way they see themselves and their world.
The ending is both triumphant and humble. Conundrum does not return with treasure or universal acclaim—but with wisdom, friendship, and a deeper sense of self-worth, which ultimately proves more valuable.
Themes
Identity & Self-Discovery – Conundrum’s journey is as much internal as it is external. He starts as an insecure gnome trying to prove something and ends as someone who has truly found his place.
The Nature of Heroism – The novel questions the conventional fantasy ideal of a “hero.” Conundrum’s brand of heroism is quiet, awkward, and kind-hearted.
Belonging vs. Individuality – Gnome society is a caricature of rigid communal identity. Conundrum’s struggle is about carving his own path while still honoring his roots.
Humor and Heart – Despite some heavy moments, the book is full of Dragonlance-style humor, especially through the presence of the kender Bibble and the endless misfires of gnomish technology.
Tone & Style
Crook writes with a whimsical and witty tone, full of quirky inventions and absurd scenarios that feel right at home in the Dragonlance universe. However, there is real emotional depth beneath the surface. The pacing is light and fast, and while the stakes are smaller compared to continent-shaking Dragonlance events, the personal journey is deeply meaningful.
Reception
While Conundrum isn’t among the most well-known Dragonlance novels, it is appreciated by fans for its charming protagonist, offbeat humor, and character-focused narrative. It’s especially beloved by readers who enjoy stories about underdogs finding their strength in unexpected ways.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an emotionally satisfying, funny, and unconventional tale in the Dragonlance setting—without needing to know the entire saga—Conundrum is a great pick. It’s a light-hearted yet poignant addition to the lore, reminding us that heroes come in all shapes, sizes, and levels of clumsiness.
