Hey Nimue! I don't have anything valuable to contribute to your search compared to the experts that have already weighed in (aside from being patient to find that right fit), but I did want to shout out as another D&D player! That bard flavor was definitely a factor in getting me started on mandolin and pursuing my first bowlback, which I adore.

They have a really special sound, I think, and the technical nuances of handling them are fun to tackle, in my humble opinion. I hope you'll let us know what you land on, and how your mandolin journey progresses!