A failed mage learns that just because he's not the chosen one it doesn't mean he can't be a hero in the fifth book of an adventure fantasy series from Sebastien de Castell.

Kellen Argos is an outlaw spellslinger with a bad reputation, a long list of enemies, and zero luck. When he accidently smears blood on the Daroman flag, he's dragged before the queen to be executed for his act of treason.

Face-to-face with the young monarch, Kellen is offered a chance to save himself. If he can defeat the queen at a game of cards, he'll walk free...if not, his life is forfeit. But what begins as a game reveals a conspiracy against the queen's life. And now, Kellen is not only playing for his own freedom, but also for the future of an empire.

Spellslinger Series Spellslinger Shadowblack Charmcaster Soulbinder Queenslayer
For more from Sebastien de Castell, check out:

The Greatcoats Quartet Traitor's Blade Saint's Blood Knight's Shadow Tyrant's Throne

Review

"Told with the conviction of Ursula Le Guin and the dash of Alexandre Dumas"― * New Statesman (UK) on *Spellslinger**

Spellslinger is the start of something truly special. Sebastien de Castell is a master of breakneck pacing, dagger-sharp dialogue, and twists you didn't see coming--and this series has it all."― Nicholas Eames, author of Kings of the Wyld on Spellslinger**

"A fast, fun, often funny fantasy series"― * *B &N Sci-Fi and Fantasy Blog**

"Exotic, original and gripping from the get-go, Spellslinger is a must-read"― Jonathan Stroud, author of the Lockwood and Co series on Spellslinger**

"An intriguing system of magic, wry humor, and a twisting plot make for an entertaining series debut."― * Kirkus on *Spellslinger**

"A bucket-load of tension is offset with humour, power struggles, lots of magic and some great characters. Fantasy junkies will devour with relish."― * Guardian (UK) on *Spellslinger**

"Hugely enjoyable - fast-paced, compassionate, wise and with terrific characters."― Amanda Craig, author of Hearts and Minds on Spellslinger**

"A fun, fast-moving adventure, with surprising depth and insight."― Hugo Award winning author Jim C. Hines on Spellslinger**

"A tremendously fun read full of wit and action."― James Islington, author of The Shadow of What Was Lost on Spellslinger**

"Written with such obvious joy and brio that it demands to be read."― RJ Barker, author of Age of Assassins on Spellslinger**

About the Author

Sebastien de Castell is the author of the acclaimed swashbuckling fantasy series, The Greatcoats and the Carnegie Medal-nominated Spellslinger. His debut novel, Traitor's Blade , was shortlisted for both the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Fantasy and the Gemmell Morningstar Award, the Prix Imaginales for Best Foreign Work, and the John W. Campbell Award for Best New Writer. He spends his time writing, traveling, and going on adventures. Visit him at www.decastell.com