Way of the Argosi

This was so good. It had a completely different vibe to it initially, in comparison to the Spellslinger series yet finishes with a similar feel. I say feel because it still felt unique but reminded you of the series - it also leaves enough room for growth, allowing you to feasible imagine her growth into the character we love. This was so sad watching all Ferius has gone through and makes you marvel at her strength of character. This books shows the strengths of Castell as an author as he manages to write a book completely different to his other works and yet links to both, through Sir Rosarite and Sir Gervais and Chitra the squirrel cat. Hats off to such an incredible author who continues to wow with every project.

Sebastien de Castell writes the books I wish I was writing. They're full of clever twists, bravado, and flawed heroes who say the right things at the right moments. He's writing the books that fall right into the legacy Alexandre Dumas, Russell Thorndike, and Rafael Sabatini started. I loved his Greatcoats series, and the Spellslinger series was great.

This book is the origin of Ferius Parfax, easily the most intriguing character in the Spellslinger series. As with all of de Castell's books, there is plenty of attitude, gumption, and a central character who can't catch a break.

However, while the glimpse at young Ferius is appreciated and fascinating, I kind of liked Ferius because of who she was in Spellslinger, not necessarily who she was before she learned to walk the Path of the Wild Daisies.

In a way, it feels a lot like seeing young Boba Fett in those Star Wars movies. It's neat, I guess...but it's not the character I grew to love in her later years, and that disconnect is throwing me.

But, it's still a grand de Castell adventure, and worthy of being read. Looking forward to more.